New Dept of Energy Grants Available to K-12 Schools

This week, the Department of Energy kicked off an $80 million grant program for critical energy upgrades in America’s highest-need K-12 school facilities. Titled Renew America's Schools, this substantial investment under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) will target infrastructural investments in key project areas to reduce utilities costs, improve energy performance, reduce carbon emissions, and create safer and healthier learning spaces for students and teachers. Examples of eligible projects include new HVAC and ventilation systems, building envelope and lighting projects, and alternative fuel and renewable energy technologies.

The focus of the program is to concentrate funds in rural and high-poverty school districts to lower utilities costs, reduce carbon emissions, and build healthier learning environments for students and teachers. DOE anticipates making approximately 20-100 awards under this first grant competition. Individual awards may vary between $500,000 and $15,000,000. DOE is hosting a webinar on December 6th where you can learn more. Register here. If you’re interested in applying, they recommend submitting a “concept paper” expressing interest in the program by January 26.