Best Renewable Energy Grants in Massachusetts

Massachusetts and other New England 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, fiscally sponsored projects, and public agencies working on renewable energy, clean mobility, or climate resilience can access funding through Barr Foundation. Grants prioritize equity-centered, often POC-led efforts that cut greenhouse gas emissions, build climate-resilient communities, and strengthen an inclusive climate movement in the Northeast.

Nonprofit and public-entity building owners in Massachusetts can receive portfolio-wide electrification and decarbonization planning services to advance toward zero-emissions buildings. Focused on building decarbonization, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center invites eligible organizations to join its BETA: Roadmaps pilot for custom multi-year roadmaps, implementation support, and financing analysis that can complement renewable and sustainable energy efforts.

Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits running renewable or sustainable energy, environmental stewardship, or related community programs can access funding through Eversource Energy Foundation, with typical awards of US $1,000 - US $10,000. Eligible organizations must be within Eversource’s service territory and may also propose projects in education, basic needs, wellness, workforce, or community development.

Nonprofit and NGO programs using technology for climate resilience, crisis response, education, or economic empowerment in Massachusetts and beyond can seek up to US $100,000 to scale innovative solutions. Grants from Cisco Systems Foundation help organizations serving mostly economically underserved communities, including those advancing clean energy, green jobs, or other regenerative, low-carbon initiatives.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Public K-12 schools, districts, and educational collaboratives in Massachusetts can receive up to US $250,000 in low- or no-cost technical assistance for decarbonization planning and energy-efficient school facilities. The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center supports renewable and sustainable energy upgrades through comprehensive building assessments, decarbonization roadmaps, focused studies, and renewable energy feasibility and REC analyses.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million, including those in Massachusetts, can apply for the Hearst Foundations’ Culture Grant; awards more than US $100,000 for arts and science programming. Funding supports impactful programs, capital projects, and limited general or endowment support, with emphasis on youth engagement, arts education, STEM/STEAM, and artist development.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts seeking support for charitable, educational, scientific, or medical work may be eligible for this U.S.-focused funding. Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help tax-exempt organizations with broadly beneficial programs, which can include renewable or sustainable energy initiatives that advance general welfare within the country.

Nonprofit organizations running renewable energy and broader sustainability projects in Massachusetts and other eligible states can apply for US $50,000 - US $400,000 in funding from Green Mountain Energy’s Sun Club Sustainability Grant. Focus areas include rooftop solar, energy efficiency, clean transportation, education, resource conservation, and sustainable agriculture, with awards based on environmental, social, and financial impact.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on renewable energy, climate change, or related environmental initiatives in Massachusetts, especially Southeastern coastal communities, may be eligible for operating or project support. Grants from Island Foundation help Massachusetts groups link climate change and regional planning, support sustainable fisheries and agriculture, and advance environmental justice and community health in coastal areas.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Grants: Climate Leader Communities Decarbonization Accelerator Grant Program 

The Climate Leader Communities Decarbonization Accelerator Grant provides funding to certified Massachusetts Climate Leader Communities for projects that significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from municipal operations. Eligible projects must align with the community's Climate Leader Municipal Decarbonization Roadmap and prioritize reducing fossil fuel combustion, energy use, and costs. Potential funding areas include renewable energy projects such as solar and heat pumps, energy storage, and other projects that support decarbonization efforts. DOER anticipates supporting decarbonization projects under this PON that cannot be fully funded through other sources. 

Massachusetts renewable energy developers and other commercial, industrial, institutional, nonprofit, or public entities can access funding to modernize small hydropower and conduit facilities through the Commonwealth Hydropower Grant. Massachusetts Clean Energy Center offers up to US $300,000 for feasibility studies or construction that increase MA RPS-qualified hydropower output and benefit Massachusetts entities or workers.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Grants: DOER Regional School District Decarbonization Grant Program

The DOER Regional School District (RSD) Decarbonization Grant Program (Program) aims to assist RSDs in their transition from fossil fuel equipment to efficient electric alternatives at existing facilities. The grant Program focuses on the preemptive avoidance of in-kind replacement of fossil fuel-based systems and equipment by providing the necessary funding to deploy efficient electrified solutions. This includes but is not limited to financial support for the deployment of renewable thermal technologies for space conditioning, efficient electric water heating, battery-powered facilities maintenance equipment (BPFME), and electric commercial kitchen equipment, where that equipment is replacing a gas-powered alternative.

There are four primary categories for electrification funding under this Program: space heating, water heating, battery-powered facilities maintenance equipment, and commercial kitchen equipment.

Qualified technology consultants or firms in Massachusetts can apply for Massachusetts Clean Energy Center’s three-phase engagement to assess, modernize, host, and support its Production Tracking System for renewable energy programs. This contract-style opportunity funds diagnostics, migration, and long-term operations for systems supporting RPS, SREC, Renewable Thermal, Alternative Energy, and Clean Peak Standard compliance.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Competitive Grant Program

Bi-annual funding for designated Green Communities in good standing. Applicants must complete the Annual Report and close prior grants with final reports and site inspections before applying. Supports energy‑saving municipal projects under the Green Communities Program.

Three Pathways

This Program Opportunity Notice (PON) is offering funding through three pathways: Prescriptive Measures, Traditional Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs), and Building Decarbonization; which are further defined in subsequent sections.

Eligible Green Communities may submit a grant application to fund all, or a portion, of the costs of constructing and implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Building Decarbonization Projects

Applications will be accepted from municipalities seeking funding for comprehensive building decarbonization projects that extend beyond the typical grant in implementation time and cost and are ready for immediate implementation.

Full fossil-fuel replacement projects are prioritized. Other system types will only be considered when accompanied by a clear justification. Municipalities considering applying for building decarbonization projects are highly encouraged to contact their Green Communities Regional Coordinator to discuss potential proposals with DOER staff. 

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Competitive Grant Program

Bi-annual funding for designated Green Communities in good standing. Applicants must complete the Annual Report and close prior grants with final reports and site inspections before applying. Supports energy‑saving municipal projects under the Green Communities Program.

Three Pathways

This Program Opportunity Notice (PON) is offering funding through three pathways: Prescriptive Measures, Traditional Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs), and Building Decarbonization; which are further defined in subsequent sections.

Eligible Green Communities may submit a grant application to fund all, or a portion, of the costs of constructing and implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Prescriptive Measures

Prescriptive measures are fixed grants awarded per unit. Please use the savings methodology noted under each measure to calculate the energy savings on the grant table. DOER is offering prescriptive grants for the following project types: a) Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs); b) Walk-in Refrigeration Controls; c) Door and Window Weather-Stripping; d) Window Replacements; e) Workforce Development; f) Light-duty Hybrid (HEVs) or Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVs); g) Light-duty Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs); h) Medium- or Heavy-duty BEVs; i) Electric Vehicle Charging Stations;  j) Battery-powered Lawn Care & Landscaping Equipment; k) LED Lighting; l) LED Streetlights.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Competitive Grant Program

Bi-annual funding for designated Green Communities in good standing. Applicants must complete the Annual Report and close prior grants with final reports and site inspections before applying. Supports energy‑saving municipal projects under the Green Communities Program.

Three Pathways

This Program Opportunity Notice (PON) is offering funding through three pathways: Prescriptive Measures, Traditional Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs), and Building Decarbonization; which are further defined in subsequent sections.

Eligible Green Communities may submit a grant application to fund all, or a portion, of the costs of constructing and implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Traditional Energy Conservation Measures

Energy Conservation Measures (ECMS) in Existing Buildings

Eligible Green Communities can apply for one or more ECMs for buildings included in their Baseline and Energy Reduction Plan. ECMs that are commonly applied for in Green Community Competitive Grants:  a) Building Envelope Improvements; b) Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Equipment; c) Water Heaters; d) Building Controls Systems; e) Retro-commissioning; f) Pumps, Motors, and Drives; g) Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS); h) Repairs to Existing Renewable Energy Systems; i) Commercial Refrigeration; j) Other Energy Efficiency Projects

Please check with your DOER Green Communities Regional Coordinator for questions on the project categories.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

501(c)(3) organizations active over three years that serve communities in the Southern U.S. can seek Robinson Foundation support for programs, not capital projects. Funding may benefit Massachusetts partners working on renewable or sustainable energy when projects address areas like poverty relief, education, disaster relief, health, veterans, families, animal welfare, or conservation.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Grants: Municipal Energy Technical Assistance (META) Grant

Program Opportunity Notice Funding Objectives

The Municipal Energy Technical Assistance (META) grant provides funding for municipalities, regional school districts, and water/wastewater districts to retain independent third parties for technical services, like the study, negotiation, development, and/or management of clean energy projects.

Eligible Massachusetts state entities planning to replace fossil-fuel systems with efficient electric or renewable thermal equipment can apply for the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources’ Public Entity Decarbonization Grant, with awards up to US $2,450,000. Funding supports heating, cooling, water heating, maintenance, landscaping, and commercial kitchen electrification projects at existing state facilities, including those advancing renewable and sustainable energy goals.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Grants: Climate Leader Communities Decarbonization Technical Support 

The Climate Leader Communities Decarbonization Technical Support (Program) is designed to assist certified Massachusetts’ Climate Leader Communities by offering funding for technical support that generates both recommendations and engineering design documents to implement projects that align with the applicant's Climate Leader Communities Municipal Decarbonization Roadmap.

Applications will be accepted for technical support in both new and existing facilities that have been identified in the municipality’s Climate Leader Community municipal operations decarbonization roadmap as approved by the DOER. 

The applicant must be an existing, certified Climate Leader Community to apply for this grant award. One award per community will be made via this PON.

Dudley T Dougherty Foundation provides Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits with funding for community services, environmental conservation, and peacebuilding projects. Organizations advancing environmental or renewable energy efforts may be eligible if they align with the foundation’s broad mission to respect life, people, and the environment and create positive, forward-looking change.

Nonprofit organizations, public schools, and local government entities can seek funding for education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment projects in Massachusetts communities near Georgia-Pacific facilities. Focused on strengthening local well-being, Georgia-Pacific Foundation invites eligible applicants to propose programs that align with its mission and may complement renewable and sustainable energy efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office can seek funding for basic needs, youth education, workforce readiness, and safety from domestic violence. The TJX Foundation supports programs helping vulnerable families and children access resources and opportunities to build better futures.