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The Clean Energy Fund of Texas (CEFTX) is on a mission to expand solar access to households that need it most. Thanks to a $156 million Solar for All grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, CEFTX is leading a multi-state initiative to develop community solar and battery storage projects at Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) across the South and Southeast. This transformative effort will reduce energy costs, strengthen community resilience, and create well-paid local jobs – all while making solar power more accessible.
Powering Change with Solar for All
Solar for All is a $7 billion federal program designed to bring solar benefits to over 900,000 low-income and disadvantaged households across the U.S. CEFTX, in partnership with the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice at Texas Southern University, is leveraging this funding to make solar more affordable and widely available.
Solar for All
A federal initiative that is making solar energy more affordable for low-income households, helping them lower electricity costs and access clean energy benefits.
A Partnership for Impact
The initiative brings together experts from national laboratories, financial institutions, and leading organizations in labor, workforce development, and community engagement. With the guidance of Dr. Robert Bullard, a pioneer in environmental justice, they are ensuring that historically underinvested communities benefit from clean energy solutions.
Solar for All: A Game-Changer for Communities
With this funding, CEFTX is:
- Expanding community solar access by reducing commercial development risks and supporting community-driven project designs.
- Lowering energy costs for income-qualified households and underfunded higher education institutions.
- Enhancing community resilience by supporting the creation of Community Resiliency Centers in climate-impacted areas.
- Boosting local solar generation to meet rising energy demand amid extreme weather events.
How the Program Works
CEFTX will provide grants and flexible financing to approximately 80 competitively selected applicants. Each participant will receive technical assistance throughout three program phases, culminating in 40 community solar projects. These projects will:
- Offer community-based ownership models that promote local equity.
- Generate solar power for 8,800+ households.
- Establish campus-community solar hubs at HBCUs and MSIs, strengthening local economic and energy independence.
How to Get Involved
CEFTX’s Solar for All program is seeking campus-community partnerships across 19 states in the South and Southeast. Here’s how you can take part:
Step 1: Express Your Interest
Submit a non-binding Expression of Interest form to stay informed about program updates, resources, and the 2025 application period.
Step 2: Stay Informed
Sign up for CEFTX’s email list to receive important updates, deadlines, and expert insights to strengthen your application.
Step 3: Get Ready to Apply
When applications open, CEFTX will provide comprehensive guidance and technical support to help communities submit strong proposals.
A Brighter Future with Solar for All
By taking action now, communities can secure funding and support to lower energy costs, build local resilience, and create sustainable economic opportunities through solar power.
Let’s work together to bring clean energy to the communities that need it most.
