Best Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits

The Strategic Economic Development Program, led by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), aims to enhance electric vehicle component manufacturing. Eligible applicants must have a current agreement with DCEO under the REV Tier 1 program. This grant supports capital improvements for fiscal years 2025-2027, covering up to 50% of expenses. DCEO will reimburse approved costs, ensuring Illinois remains a leader in economic growth and innovation, particularly in the clean energy sector.

The Solar for Non-Profits and Public Libraries Grant aims to promote solar energy adoption among Delaware's nonprofit organizations. Funding is available for eligible 501(c) nonprofits to install solar panels, covering installation costs and necessary system components. This initiative supports sustainable energy practices while ensuring quality proposals through a competitive procurement process. Interested organizations should confirm eligibility with local electric utilities, as some areas may have restrictions on solar installations.

The Electric School Bus Grant Program in New Jersey aims to transition the state's school bus fleets to electric, addressing the health impacts of fossil fuel-powered buses. With a funding limit of $15 million annually for three years, the program supports individual school districts and contractors in acquiring electric buses and charging infrastructure. Eligible applicants include school districts and bus contractors, with a focus on those serving Overburdened Communities. The program also offers reimbursement options for upfront costs of new buses and chargers.

The Small Building Re-tuning - Workforce Development Project aims to train participants in conducting re-tuning analyses and implementing energy conservation measures for buildings between 10,000 and 50,000 ft². This initiative, funded by the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment with a budget of $450,000, supports compliance with the District's Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) and promotes energy efficiency in urban environments.

The INDIGO Program and FPIP are initiatives designed to support industrial decarbonization and improve grid operations while ensuring food production sustainability. These programs focus on funding projects that enhance electrical grid reliability, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and comply with state energy goals. They specifically target eligible industrial and food production facilities, promoting innovative solutions for environmental impact and operational efficiency.

The Climate Service Corps Grant, offered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), aims to support organizations that provide training and career opportunities in energy efficiency and clean heating for youth ages 18-24, particularly from underserved communities. This grant offers funding of up to $375,000 over two years for implementation and planning of workforce development programs, promoting the growth of the clean energy sector and advancing Massachusetts' climate goals.

The Energy Efficiency and Clean Technology Training program by NYSERDA aims to enhance New York's clean energy workforce through technical training and job placement services. Proposals are invited to build training infrastructure that meets industry demands, focusing on equity and inclusivity. Special consideration will be given to projects led by certified Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOBs). Concept Papers are due by November 18, 2025.

The California Energy Commission's GFO-25-302 initiative, known as CHOIR, aims to advance virtual power plants that effectively coordinate inverter-based resources like solar, batteries, and electric vehicles. This program is crucial for enhancing power quality, mitigating grid congestion, and promoting clean energy within disadvantaged communities in California. By fostering innovation in energy management, CHOIR supports the state's transition to a sustainable energy future, aligning with goals for carbon neutrality and energy efficiency.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

This Request for Information (RFI) seeks input on the urgent need for gigawatt-scale electricity generation and transmission due to rapid demand growth from data centers and advanced manufacturing. The U.S. electric grid faces significant challenges, including limited capacity and aging infrastructure, which could hinder timely interconnection of new energy sources. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on overcoming regulatory and operational barriers to meet this escalating demand.

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in Pennsylvania enhances home energy efficiency, reducing costs and increasing comfort while prioritizing health and safety. This program offers on-site energy audits to identify cost-effective measures, including air sealing, insulation installation, and heating system modifications. Clients receive education on maintaining these improvements and reducing energy waste. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, WAP aims to foster a resilient economy and community.

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) Fund 1.5, funded by the California Employment Training Panel, offers up to $934,702 to enhance the skills of electricians in installing electric vehicle charging equipment. This initiative aims to certify electricians through specialized training, ensuring they meet industry standards. Eligible participants must possess a current General Electrician Certification issued by the California Department of Industrial Relations. This program reflects California's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle infrastructure.

The GFO-25-901 program, administered by the California Energy Commission, aims to enhance the workforce for residential building electrification and efficiency training. This initiative supports long-term market transformation by funding contractor training projects, which ultimately reduce training costs and provide necessary certifications. As California transitions to 100% clean energy, such efforts are vital for combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable energy future.

The Development Partnership Grants, offered by the Minnesota Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation, fund initiatives aimed at fostering long-term economic growth in northeastern Minnesota. Applications are open from July 1, 2025, until May 29, 2026, or until funds are allocated. These grants support research, planning, and education projects that align with community development goals, helping to strengthen the region's economy and enhance local resources.

The Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Host Organization Grant, offered by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, aims to enhance public engagement in environmental restoration through a structured program. This initiative places young adults (ages 18-25) with various nonprofit organizations or government agencies for a year of stipend-supported service. Participants gain valuable experience and training in areas such as environmental education and sustainable practices, fostering the next generation of environmental leaders.

The Illinois Climate Pollution Reduction Grant's Community Geothermal Planning and Pilots Phase One Grants aim to accelerate the deployment of community-scale geothermal energy systems. The initiative focuses on reducing carbon pollution by over 15,000 metric tons by 2030 and serving 1,100 households. With funding for planning and design of projects, this program seeks to create replicable and cost-effective geothermal solutions that contribute to significant greenhouse gas reductions, fostering sustainable energy practices in Illinois.

The Southeast Equitable Energy through Community-Driven Solutions (SEEDS) program, initiated by the Georgia Municipal Association, aims to assist low-income households by providing targeted marketing and case management for energy efficiency and home repair programs. This collaborative effort seeks to improve access to vital resources, empowering communities and enhancing their ability to undertake home rehabilitation projects. Multiple partners can join in these initiatives, fostering a community-driven approach to energy solutions.

California Energy Commission

As the state’s primary energy policy and planning agency, the California Energy Commission (CEC) plays a critical role in creating the energy system of the future—one that is clean, modern, and ensures the fifth largest economy in the world continues to thrive. Combating climate change is fundamental to maintaining California’s future. The agency’s research, programs and policies remain crucial today as the state plans for 100% clean energy and carbon neutrality by mid-century. CEC is helping create the energy system of California’s future through activities such as Planning and Policy Development, Renewable Energy Growth; Energy Efficiency; Energy Innovation; Cleaner Transportation; and Responsible Electricity Infrastructure.

California’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program – Solicitation 3

Purpose of Solicitation

This is a competitive grant solicitation. The California Energy Commission (CEC) announces the availability of up to $79,000,000 in grant funds for projects that will strategically deploy electric vehicle (EV) charging stations with publicly accessible, high-powered, direct current fast chargers (DCFCs) to support lightduty EV travel along major corridors as required under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) formula program.

About the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)

The CPUC regulates privately owned electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, railroad, rail transit, and passenger transportation companies, in addition to authorizing video franchises.

Our five Governor-appointed Commissioners, as well as our staff, are dedicated to ensuring that consumers have safe, reliable utility service at reasonable rates, protecting against fraud, and promoting the health of California's economy.

Clean Energy Access (Phase 2): LA County TECH (CEA-LAT) Grant

Purpose

The CEA-LAT Grant will provide up to $200,000 in funding to Community Based Organizations (CBOs) in Los Angeles County that perform outreach and education on the Technology for Equipment and Clean Heating Clean Initiative (TECH Clean CA). It focuses on building decarbonization, healthy homes, electrification technologies, and health-related impacts.

CEA-LAT Grant projects must be in LA County, and priority will be given to organizations located in the Aliso Canyon Disaster Area and/or the San Fernando Valley. Successful applicants for the CEA-LAT Grant will have a demonstrated background in advocating for their chosen target community in these areas. 

Examples of Eligible Activities

• Outreach and Education
• Evaluating Impact of Strategic Outreach and Education
• Staff Training
• Collaboration with Existing Program Implementer
• Program Participant Support

Berks County Community Foundation

Berks County Community Foundation was founded in 1994 to help individuals, families, organizations and businesses achieve their charitable objectives. Since that time, the foundation has grown to manage hundreds of charitable funds. Each year, the funds distribute millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to support local students and nonprofit organizations and causes.

Met-Ed Sustainable Energy Fund

The Met-Ed/Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund will make grants to fund a variety of energy efficiency projects to nonprofits, government entities, and small-businesses within the Met-Ed utility area. Funding is only available to existing buildings (not new construction) and to organizations that own their buildings (not lease). A preliminary energy assessment must be completed to be considered for funding. If you have not had an energy assessment completed, contact fund staff to be connected with technical assistance.

Bucks County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Annually, Bucks County receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program focuses on benefiting low- and moderate-income persons, aiding in the prevention or elimination of slums and blight, and/or meeting community urgent needs. Eligible activities include acquisition of real property, demolition and rehabilitation of structures, construction of public facilities, provision of handicap access, historic preservation, community planning, and energy conservation.

Oil and Gas Research Program Grant 

North Dakota's Oil and Gas Research Program (OGRP) is a state/industry program designed to demonstrate to the general public the importance of the state oil and gas exploration and production industry, to encourage and promote the wise and efficient use of energy, to promote environmentally sound exploration and production methods and technologies, to develop the state's oil and gas resources, and to support research and educational activities concerning the oil and natural gas exploration and production industry. The Oil and Gas Research Council (OGRC), among other powers, has the authority to make grants or loans and enter into contracts for the purpose of promoting the growth of the oil and gas industry through research and education. 

North Dakota's Oil and Gas Research Program (OGRP), established by the Legislature in 2003, is a state/industry program designed to demonstrate to the general public the importance of the state oil and gas exploration and production industry, to encourage and promote the wise and efficient use of energy, to promote environmentally sound exploration and production methods and technologies, to develop the state's oil and gas resources, and to support research and educational activities concerning the oil and natural gas exploration and production industry. The Program is funded from the state's share of the oil and gas production tax and oil extraction tax. Two percent of the state's share of the oil and gas gross production tax and oil extraction tax revenues, up to $10 million, is available to the OGRP each biennium.

Energy Upgrade California®

Energy Upgrade California® is a statewide initiative committed to helping Californians be more energy efficient, utilize more sustainable natural resources, reduce demand on the energy grid and make informed choices about their energy use at home and at work.

The Energy Upgrade California Community is the online home for organizations throughout California that have joined the movement. Each organization, business, and group is united in its commitment to support California as we work together to use more clean energy and reduce the strain on the electric grid. 

We’re an alliance of the California Public Utilities Commission, The California Energy Commission, electric power companies, regional energy networks, local governments, community choice aggregators, businesses, and nonprofit organizations – all united under a common goal: using more clean energy and reducing strain on the energy grid.

Flex Alert Grant Program

Executive Summary

The Flex Alert Grant Program provides grants to Community-Based Organizations (501(c)(3) non-profits) to educate Californians about Flex Alerts and motivate them to take action by reducing their energy use when one is called. Community outreach and education for the fourmonth program begins in July and ends in October. The Flex Alert Grant Program is funded by the California Public Utilities Commission. 

CBOs with a robust network, excellent outreach capabilities, and extensive experience engaging with their communities are encouraged to consider this grant program. Outreach must only be conducted to residential customers in Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric territories. Click here for a comprehensive list of cities and counties where outreach cannot be conducted

The Core Customer Groups (CCGs) for the Flex Alerts Grant Program are:

• Low-Income Residents
• Multicultural Residents
• Residents with Disabilities
• Rural Residents
• Senior Residents

California’s Flex Alert Program

A Flex Alert is a call for utility customers to voluntarily reduce electricity use when there is an anticipated shortage of energy supply. Flex Alerts are most often called during extreme heatwaves when Californians use more energy than usual to stay cool. When utility customers reduce electricity use during a Flex Alert, they can help ease strain on the grid. 

GFO-25-303 - Improving Net Load Forecasting Models by Integrating Data on Behind-the-Meter Resources

Purpose

The purpose of this solicitation is to fund research that improves the accuracy and operational value of tools used to forecast Behind-the-Meter (BtM) resources. These improvements will enable grid operators and electricity market participants to more effectively plan their generation reserves, capacity, and real-time operations, supporting a more reliable, efficient, cleaner, and cost-effective energy system for California ratepayers.

Columbia Basin Trust

The Trust was created in 1995 to support efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin—the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty.

Mission: The Trust supports efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being and to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations.

Non-profit SMART Grants

Non-Profit SMART Grants support Basin non-profits and First Nations to increase their energy efficiency, generate renewable energy, adapt to the impacts of climate change, and/or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

There are two streams for this grant: Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations; and Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations

This stream supports the purchase of one new electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle for use in Basin communities, and/or up to two charging stations.

Columbia Basin Trust

The Trust was created in 1995 to support efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin—the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty.

Mission: The Trust supports efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being and to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations.

Non-profit SMART Grants

Non-Profit SMART Grants support Basin non-profits and First Nations to increase their energy efficiency, generate renewable energy, adapt to the impacts of climate change, and/or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

There are two streams for this grant: Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations; and Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

This stream supports solar photovoltaic arrays, energy efficiency retrofits or other building improvements to structures or property.

Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation's mission is to help ensure that Montana's land and water resources provide benefits for present and future generations.

Under the leadership of the Director, the Department is managed by four Divisions which offer a variety of programs and services and carry out mandated regulatory and land management responsibilities. Additionally, six commission are administratively attached to the Department.

Conservation District Administrative Grant

The Montana Legislature provides Montana conservation districts with coal severance tax monies for any purpose they are authorized to perform pursuant to MCA, Title 76, Chapter 15, Part.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) Conservation Resource Development Division (CARDD) administers this funding through Conservation District (CD) Administrative Grants. 

Under state law, conservation districts must first fully utilize their regular mill levy authority for operational costs before becoming eligible for state financial assistance. This requirement applies only to regular mill levies and does not limit the use of permissive mill authority, which remains available for its specific statutory purposes.