july 17,  2024

Get ready to apply:

Application materials now available for Energy Efficiency Retrofits Grants

Commerce will begin accepting applications on Aug. 26, 2024 for more than $14 million in Energy Efficiency Retrofits grants.

All materials are available now to begin preparing your application.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024.

Applicants must be public entities in the state of Washington:

• Local agencies, including any city, town, county, special district, municipal corporation, agency, port district or authority
• Public higher education institutions
• K-12 public school districts
• State agencies
• Federally-recognized tribe within Washington

Key changes from the last round of Energy Efficiency grants:

1. Grant cap increased to $1 million, with minimum project size $100,000.
2. Matching funds requirement reduced to 15%, or 5% for projects in overburdened communities.
3. Grant opened to leased facilities, if the lease extends beyond useful life of the improvement measure.
4. Cost of energy audit will be reimbursed if conducted after July 1, 2023.
5. Tier 1 buildings pursuing the Clean Buildings Performance Standard prioritized.
6. 40% of funds reserved for K-12 public school districts. K-12 school districts may submit concept papers for review with full applications due by Sept. 25.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• HVAC replacement/upgrade
• Other mechanical systems
• Lighting
• Insulation
• Windows
• Heat pump purchase and installation
• Geothermal heating systems
• Campus or district energy efficiency measures.

Important notes

• This is a competitive solicitation.
• The implementation of alternative energy sources may be funded if they support the primary proposed improvement. For example, solar panels may add to the efficiency of a new HVAC system but cannot be the main improvement measure on its own.
• All projects must conduct an energy audit that meets the standards of a level 1, level 2 or targeted level 2 audit, and submit a report indicating the expected impacts of the proposed retrofit measures.

More information and documents

• Request for Applications solicitation (PDF)
• Application (Word document)

• The above documents and additional program information is posted on the Energy Efficiency Grant Program webpage

SUBMIT applications beginning Aug. 26, 2024.

DEADLINE for applications is 4 p.m. Wed., Sept. 25, 2024. Funds will be awarded on a rolling basis after the closing date.

Questions?

Please contact Kristen Kalbrener, program manager, at [email protected]

Learn more

About Commerce

Commerce works with local governments, businesses, community-based organizations and tribes to strengthen communities. The department’s diverse portfolio of more than 100 programs and effective public and private partnerships promote sustainable community and economic development to help all Washingtonians thrive. For more information, visit http://www.commerce.wa.gov. For information on locating or expanding a business in Washington, visit choosewashingtonstate.com.

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