Solar for All

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Under the $7 billion Solar for All program, 60 selected applicants will initiate or expand low-income solar programs, allowing over 900,000 households in disadvantaged communities to access distributed solar energy.

These initiatives aim to fulfill the objectives of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants, lowering electricity costs for overburdened households, and opening new markets for distributed solar in 25 states and territories that have never previously had a statewide low-income solar program.

The 60 selected applications comprise 49 state-level awards, six awards to Tribes, and five innovative multistate awards, covering the entire country. You can view the list of the 60 selected applicants.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is accurate as of the date of publication. SolarWiki serves as an informative resource and does not claim to be an expert in the financial sphere. For detailed and personalized information, please contact official government sources or consult with professional solar installers.

Executive Office of the State of New Hampshire

New Hampshire

Grant Amount: $43,510,000

The New Hampshire Department of Energy (NHDOE), in collaboration with the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund and the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, has developed a comprehensive strategy to bring residential community solar benefits to those who can least afford this technology. The plan includes:

Community Loan Fund 

Targeting resident-owned communities through an existing program that assists residents of manufactured housing parks in purchasing and converting these parks into cooperatives.

NH Housing Finance Authority

Utilizing funds to install community solar systems on workforce housing projects.

NHDOE

Acting as the coalition’s lead applicant, scaling up its existing community solar program to cover communities or projects that don’t fit neatly into the other two programs.

This multifaceted approach aims to ensure widespread access to community solar energy across diverse housing situations in New Hampshire.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

Massachusetts

Grant Amount: $156,120,000 

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (MA) has been awarded $156,120,000 for their Solar for All (SFA) Program, aimed at all low-income and disadvantaged communities across the state. The program focuses on maximizing participation and impact in historically underserved communities. A significant portion of the budget will directly fund solar photovoltaic projects to achieve substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The initiatives under this program include:

• a residential zero-interest loan initiative
• a residential lease initiative
• a public affordable housing procurement initiative
• a private affordable housing financing initiative
• a low-income community shared solar initiative

Additionally, the program will allocate funds for technical assistance, education and outreach, quality assurance, and workforce training. Massachusetts, with its robust existing solar photovoltaic industry, plans to leverage federal funding and integrate the initiatives with existing state programs like the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target program and Mass Save.

Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources

Rhode Island 

Grant Amount: $49,330,000

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources has been awarded $49,330,000 to launch and expand a comprehensive suite of solar programs aimed at low-income and disadvantaged communities. This funding will support seven financial assistance programs and twelve project deployment technical assistance initiatives. The goal is to address barriers to solar adoption in these communities equitably.

The financial assistance programs are specifically tailored to overcome persistent financial obstacles to solar adoption, targeting the needs of low-income renters and homeowners. These programs are designed to deliver the benefits of reliable solar power directly to Rhode Island‘s most historically underserved communities through eligibility requirements specific to low-income and disadvantaged groups.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

Connecticut

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has received $62,450,000 for Project SunBridge. This initiative will target low-income and disadvantaged households across Connecticut, with a priority on affordable housing units. The project aims to enhance access to residential solar energy, increase resilience, provide grid benefits, and invest in quality jobs and businesses.

Project SunBridge has the potential to reach thousands of additional households through Connecticut’s existing solar and storage programs. It aims to reduce CO2 emissions and save residents on energy costs. Connecticut residents will benefit from financial assistance through increased incentives, more accessible loans, and low-cost capital for solar and storage systems. Additionally, the project will provide technical assistance for clean energy workforce development and community engagement.

This comprehensive approach will create a sustainable funding stream for low-income and disadvantaged communities to participate in the green economy. The project is designed to last beyond the initial funding years, attract private investment, and drive market transformation.

The Maine Governor’s Energy Office

Maine

Grant Amount: $62,120,000

The Maine Governor’s Energy Office has been awarded $62,120,000 for the Maine Solar Energy Assistance (MESA) program. MESA will utilize this funding to implement four financial assistance channels aimed at overcoming barriers faced by low-income and disadvantaged households. These channels include single-family and multifamily on-site solar programs, as well as targeted support for cooperatively-owned community solar initiatives. Energy storage solutions are integrated into all four channels to enhance resilience and optimize value.

In addition to financial assistance, MESA will provide a comprehensive range of technical support. This includes expanded workforce development opportunities to bolster the clean energy sector, siting and permitting assistance to facilitate the deployment of solar projects, and support to address interconnection challenges. The program aims to create a holistic approach to making solar energy accessible and beneficial for Maine‘s underserved communities.

The Vermont Department of Public Service

Vermont

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Vermont Department of Public Service has been awarded $62,450,000 for the Solar for All Vermont (SAV) program. SAV aims to reduce electricity costs for low-income and disadvantaged Vermonters by enabling them to own solar arrays, thereby maximizing greenhouse gas emission reductions and fostering solar market development. The program will offer incentives, organizational structures, and policies to install thousands of solar systems on the roofs of low-income and disadvantaged homeowners, as well as on managed permanently affordable apartment buildings. Additionally, residential-serving community arrays will be established to benefit homeowners, affordable housing residents, and renters.

To further maximize greenhouse gas savings, the program will include the installation of battery storage systems and electrical upgrades. These enhancements will allow homeowners to replace fossil-fueled backup generators and adopt other energy-efficient appliances, such as cold climate heat pumps. SAV is designed to have a long-term impact by stimulating additional solar development beyond the initial funding period. This will be achieved by establishing revolving loan funds and financing programs that leverage private capital and other greenhouse gas reduction initiatives in Vermont.

Inclusive Prosperity Capital, Inc.

Multistate (AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, PR, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI)

Grant Amount: $249,300,000 

Inclusive Prosperity Capital, Inc. has been awarded $249,300,000 to lead the Community Power Coalition (CPC) under the Solar for All (SFA) program, titled “Powering America Together.” This multistate initiative aims to integrate with and expand the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Community Solar Partnership and Community Power Accelerator program. The goal is to deliver significant benefits to Americans in low-income and disadvantaged communities through community solar projects.

The CPC consists of experienced community solar experts, including developers, lenders, trainers, and technical assistance providers, alongside members specializing in workforce development, entrepreneurship in low-income communities, affordable housing, and policy. Their program focuses on:

• Developing low-income community solar projects: Facilitating the creation and expansion of solar projects accessible to low-income communities.
• Reducing carbon emissions: Implementing solar projects to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
• Generating energy cost savings: Providing financial relief by reducing energy bills for disadvantaged households.
• Promoting quality jobs: Creating employment opportunities in the solar energy sector.
• Community wealth-building: Encouraging economic growth and stability within communities.
• Community energy resilience: Enhancing the ability of communities to withstand and recover from energy disruptions.
• Equitable workforce development: Ensuring inclusive access to training and job opportunities in the solar industry.

The CPC program aims to advance solar development in states where community solar markets are emerging. It includes a “race to the top” financing pool that incentivizes states to reduce regulatory barriers, promoting a competitive environment for solar expansion. Based in Connecticut, the program will operate across at least 44 states, bringing comprehensive solar solutions to a broad range of communities nationwide.

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU)

New Jersey

Grant Amount: $156,120,000 

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) has secured $156,120,000 for its Solar for All (SFA) program, known as NJ SFA. This initiative aims to overcome barriers hindering the adoption of solar energy among low-income and disadvantaged households across the state. Through collaborative efforts across agencies, New Jersey has identified four primary focus areas for utilizing federal funding:

• Residential solar: Promoting the installation of solar energy systems in individual households.

• Multi-family housing solar and storage: Implementing solar and energy storage solutions in multi-family housing complexes.

• Residential-serving community solar: Supporting community solar projects that directly benefit residential communities.

• Technical assistance and workforce development: Providing resources for technical support and workforce training in the solar energy sector.

New Jersey anticipates that these initiatives will serve tens of thousands of households in low-income and disadvantaged communities. Leveraging its extensive experience in managing successful solar deployment programs and responding to significant demand for clean energy, NJBPU is confident that NJ SFA will accelerate the adoption of solar power, contributing to the state’s clean energy goals and promoting environmental sustainability.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)

New York

Grant Amount: $249,800,000 

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has secured $249,800,000 through the EPA’s Solar for All (SFA) initiative. NYSERDA plans to enhance its already successful solar deployment efforts by expanding technical assistance and workforce development programs. These initiatives are aimed at benefiting millions of residents in disadvantaged communities and low-income households across New York State. Additionally, NYSERDA will collaborate with New York City and affordable housing agencies statewide to address specific barriers to solar adoption within these populations.

Puerto Rico Office of Management and Budget (Oficina de Gerencia y Presupuesto de Puerto Rico)

Puerto Rico

Grant Amount: $156,120,000 

The Puerto Rico Office of Management and Budget (Oficina de Gerencia y Presupuesto de Puerto Rico) will lead a coalition of four partner organizations to implement a solar and storage initiative with a budget of $156,120,000. This program aims to provide financial and resilience benefits to thousands of low-income and disadvantaged households across Puerto Rico. By deploying solar and storage systems, the initiative seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants while delivering tangible benefits to underserved communities. Additionally, the program intends to mobilize financing and private capital to expand the deployment of similar projects in the future. Workforce development within the solar industry will be promoted, and residents will actively participate in program planning and implementation. Given Puerto Rico’s vulnerable and unstable power grid, a primary goal of the initiative is to enhance resilience and ensure reliable power supply during grid outages.

U.S. Virgin Islands Energy Office (VIEO)

Virgin Islands

Grant Amount: $62,450,000 

The U.S. Virgin Islands Energy Office (VIEO) has allocated $62,450,000 to fund residential solar and residential-serving community solar projects with integrated storage. Through the Virgin Islands SFA Program, VIEO aims to significantly alter the residential energy landscape in the USVI. This initiative addresses the region’s high electricity costs while promoting energy resilience and delivering reliable, affordable, and clean power to communities most in need. With SFA funding, VIEO seeks to build upon the achievements of its previous Solar+ Financing Pilot and expand solar accessibility further. The focus includes implementing residential-serving community solar solutions to ensure underserved residents benefit from affordable and dependable electricity.

District of Columbia Government

District of Columbia

Grant Amount: $62,450,000 

The DC SFA Program, led by the District of Columbia Government with $62,450,000 in funding, aims to leverage financing and private capital to spur investment in residential solar, storage, and enabling upgrades. Administered by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), this initiative targets low-income residents and disadvantaged communities in the District. It seeks to deliver tangible benefits such as household savings, quality job opportunities, increased resilience against power outages, and potential community ownership of solar projects.

By enabling upgrades such as energy efficiency retrofits, roof repairs, and electrical enhancements, the program aims to unlock greater solar potential for rooftop installations among low-income homeowners. This approach also aims to reduce energy burdens for both homeowners and renters, enhance overall resilience, maximize solar utilization, and create pathways for training and employment in renewable energy and building trades industries.

Maryland Clean Energy Center

Maryland

Grant Amount: $62,450,000 

The Maryland SFA Program, led by the Maryland Clean Energy Center with $62,450,000 in funding, brings together a coalition comprising government entities, industry partners, utilities, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations. This coalition is united in its goal to leverage federal funds to achieve targeted outcomes. The program’s initiatives will focus on mobilizing capital, enhancing workforce readiness, and bolstering capacity among low-income, underserved, and disadvantaged communities to enable access to solar energy benefits.

The program will make investments in both single-family and multi-family residential properties, aiming to reduce energy burdens and create opportunities for ownership among eligible households across the state.

Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority 

Pennsylvania

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Pennsylvania SFA Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority with $156,120,000 in funding, aims to facilitate the deployment of solar, storage, and enabling upgrades tailored for low-income and disadvantaged communities statewide. This initiative will bring significant benefits, including savings for households, creation of quality jobs, and promotion of community ownership in rural, urban, suburban, and persistent poverty counties across Pennsylvania.

Furthermore, the program seeks to enhance the solar deployment market by strategically combining financial subsidies, effective program design, and comprehensive project deployment services. These efforts encompass community outreach initiatives and workforce development programs, fostering sustainable growth in residential solar adoption throughout the state.

Virginia Department of Energy

Virginia

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Virginia Department of Energy’s SFA Program (SAVE) aims to enhance energy savings and resilience by expanding solar and solar plus storage access for low-income and disadvantaged communities. With $156,120,000 in funding, SAVE seeks to revolutionize Virginia‘s low-income solar market by attracting additional private investment and supporting the growth of solar businesses.

This initiative will address existing barriers in the solar market by lowering initial costs, broadening access to leasing and power purchase agreements, facilitating financing options for low-income homeowners, and streamlining interconnection processes. SAVE will deploy funds through various mechanisms to encourage direct ownership, third-party ownership, and community-based solar energy initiatives.

West Virginia Office of Energy

West Virginia

Grant Amount: $106,180,000

The West Virginia Office of Energy plans to utilize $106,180,000 from the SFA program to implement the West Virginia REAL Energy Resilient Roofs Program (WVRRP). This initiative aims to enhance energy resilience and reduce utility costs for low-income residents throughout West Virginia. WVRRP will focus on deploying residential solar roofs, improving home energy efficiency, and supporting residential-serving community solar projects, including those serving college residences.

Supported by a coalition of over a dozen organizations, cities, and community stakeholders across the state, WVRRP aims to provide significant energy benefits and upgrades to disadvantaged households. The program will leverage financing and private capital to create job opportunities, alleviate energy burdens, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and decrease electricity expenses for underserved homeowners in West Virginia.

Groundswell Inc.

Multistate (AL, AR, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, VA)

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

Groundswell Inc., a multistate nonprofit headquartered in DC, leads the Southeast Rural Power Coalition (SE Rural Power Coalition) with a $156,120,000 SFA grant. This coalition will launch the Southeast Rural Power SFA Program across Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The program aims to deploy residential-serving community solar and associated energy storage to enhance community resilience, deliver direct solar savings, and achieve energy efficiency improvements for low-income and disadvantaged households. 

Focused on one of the nation’s most economically challenged and energy-burdened regions, the SE Rural Power Coalition comprises eligible nonprofit electric cooperatives and municipal utilities. Its strategy includes strengthening and transforming the residential solar market by supporting new developers and installers through entrepreneurship initiatives, providing project development and operation support, facilitating project financing, and promoting workforce development through pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs. Community outreach and education programs will also be integral to the coalition’s efforts to broaden solar adoption and sustainability practices across the Southeastern states.

Tennessee’s Department of Environment & Conservation

Tennessee

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

Tennessee’s Department of Environment & Conservation will utilize $156,120,000 in SFA funding to expedite the deployment of solar infrastructure across the state, benefiting low-income households and disadvantaged communities. This program spans Tennessee‘s diverse urban, suburban, and rural areas, aiming to provide financial assistance for residential rooftop and community solar installations, storage solutions, and associated enabling upgrades. 

In collaboration with existing programs, the initiative will offer technical assistance for project deployment, focusing on workforce development opportunities and providing support for siting, permitting, and interconnection processes as required. Administrative oversight will ensure efficient and timely execution of projects, enhancing the program’s effectiveness in achieving sustainable energy solutions statewide.

Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet

Kentucky

Grant Amount: $62,450,000 

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet plans to utilize $62,450,000 in SFA funding to enhance access to solar energy among low-income households. Leveraging existing statewide program capabilities, partnerships, and resources, the Kentucky SFA program will expand through innovative financial assistance models and robust workforce development initiatives.

Employing a comprehensive 5-point market strategy, the program will collaborate closely with existing low-income heating energy assistance, disaster housing, and weatherization programs. This collaboration aims to identify priority low-income households in disadvantaged communities burdened with high energy costs. By leveraging the flexibility inherent in Kentucky’s utility regulatory framework, the program will deliver significant benefits to these households, including enhanced resilience, reduced energy expenses, utility bill savings, and environmental improvements through lowered emissions.

Ultimately, the Kentucky SFA program positions the state to capitalize on future financial assistance opportunities and utility programs, paving the way for sustained growth and expansion of solar energy adoption among its low-income and disaster recovery communities.

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality

North Carolina

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality is spearheading a $156,120,000 initiative known as the North Carolina SFA Coalition (NC Coalition), aimed at launching the EnergizeNC program statewide. This initiative seeks to revolutionize solar expansion across North Carolina by facilitating the rapid deployment of distributed solar energy and associated storage systems. The primary focus is on delivering tangible benefits to low-income and disadvantaged communities throughout the state, including both state- and federally recognized Tribal lands.

The NC Coalition has outlined four key objectives for the EnergizeNC program:

1. Implement a comprehensive program management approach over a one-year planning period, incorporating input from low-income and disadvantaged communities.

2. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and promote environmental justice by installing rooftop solar systems in low-income single-family and multifamily housing units across North Carolina.

3. Develop and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of deploying solar technologies across all regions of the state, with a particular emphasis on minority and Tribal communities.

4. Facilitate robust community engagement efforts to ensure that the benefits of the program are accessible and impactful for disadvantaged communities and individuals.

Through these efforts, the NC Coalition aims to establish North Carolina as a leader in sustainable energy development, fostering economic resilience, environmental stewardship, and equitable access to clean energy solutions statewide.

South Carolina Office of Resilience

South Carolina

Grant Amount: $124,440,000

The South Carolina Office of Resilience (SCOR) plans to allocate $124,440,000 towards expanding distributed solar generation and delivering substantial benefits to low-income and disadvantaged households and communities throughout the state. SCOR’s strategy includes several key initiatives:

1. Community solar initiative: SCOR will launch a program called the Community Solar Initiative, specifically designed to provide residential-serving community solar options for income-qualified residents, including homeowners and renters. This initiative aims to increase access to solar energy among disadvantaged populations.

2. Utility partnerships: SCOR will collaborate with utilities to expand or enhance existing utility-run solar programs. By leveraging these partnerships, SCOR intends to maximize the reach and impact of solar initiatives across South Carolina.

3. Coordination with energy efficiency programs: SCOR will coordinate activities with home energy efficiency and weatherization programs. This coordination is aimed at aligning efforts to engage low-income and disadvantaged households and communities more effectively, ensuring comprehensive energy solutions.

4. Workforce development: Building on existing solar workforce training programs in South Carolina, SCOR will support greater participation in these programs and help grow the skilled workforce necessary for the deployment of solar technologies statewide.

5. Solar innovation fund: SCOR plans to establish a Solar Innovation Fund. This fund will be used to explore and expand solar opportunities in the state, potentially including resilience hubs and solar and storage installations at affordable housing facilities. The goal is to foster innovation and enhance the resilience of South Carolina’s energy infrastructure.

Through these initiatives, SCOR aims to advance sustainable energy solutions, promote economic equity, and strengthen community resilience across South Carolina.

Hope Enterprise Corporation (HEC)

Mississippi

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

Hope Enterprise Corporation (HEC), based in Mississippi, plans to utilize $62,450,000 to expand access to affordable and resilient solar energy among low-income and disadvantaged households across the state. HEC’s approach involves multiple strategies:

1. Residential rooftop solar for low-income households: HEC aims to establish a market for residential rooftop solar leasing in areas served by the state’s investor-owned utilities. This initiative is designed to ensure cost savings for every low-income household while simultaneously fostering growth in the local solar installer industry.

2. Multifamily behind-the-meter solar for low-income tenants: HEC will focus on multifamily buildings to reduce energy costs for low-income tenants. This strategy involves implementing strategic financial mechanisms and partnering with local housing developers to deploy solar installations that benefit residents directly.

Both strategies rely on innovative financing models, strategic partnerships, and HEC’s extensive experience and expertise in serving disadvantaged communities throughout Mississippi. The goal is to enhance energy affordability, promote sustainability, and support economic empowerment through accessible solar solutions.

Solar and Energy Loan Fund of St. Lucie County, Inc. (“SELF”, as coalition lead)

Florida

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Florida SFA (FSFA) program, led by the Solar and Energy Loan Fund of St. Lucie County, Inc. (SELF), aims to utilize $156,120,000 to implement proven and innovative strategies for scaling rooftop distributed solar energy across low-income and disadvantaged communities in Florida. These communities have historically faced barriers such as high upfront costs and limited supportive statewide policies for inclusive clean energy economies.

The FSFA program prioritizes accelerating solar deployment in single-family homes, while also allocating funds to support multifamily residences and enhance solar resiliency projects. Led by coalition members with extensive experience in environmental stewardship, community organizing, and clean energy financing in Florida, the program includes provisions for technical assistance aimed at bolstering workforce development, fostering community engagement, and expanding solar market capabilities. The overarching goal is to deliver enduring and transformative benefits to these communities through accessible and sustainable solar solutions.

The Capital Good Fund

Georgia

Grant Amount: $156,010,000

The Georgia BRIGHT Communities Coalition, spearheaded by The Capital Good Fund, a nonprofit certified by the U.S. Department of the Treasury as a Community Development Financial Institution, aims to extend the advantages of solar energy to disadvantaged communities throughout Georgia. Partnering with three prominent clean energy cities—Atlanta, Savannah, and Decatur—the coalition aims to accelerate the adoption of clean energy, diminish greenhouse gas emissions, generate employment opportunities, and alleviate energy burdens.

The coalition plans to achieve these goals by expanding or establishing various solar programs, including a single-family lease program, a free direct installation initiative, and an innovative “Community Benefit” solar program. These efforts will be complemented by investments in essential upgrades and robust technical support, encompassing workforce development, program-level assistance with permitting, interconnection, and siting, personalized guidance for project hosts, community outreach, engagement initiatives, and capacity-building endeavors.

Illinois Finance Authority

Illinois

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

Illinois‘s initiative aims to extend the benefits of solar energy to low-income and disadvantaged communities statewide through an expanded Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) program and the Adjustable Block Program/Illinois Shines (Illinois Shines). This comprehensive effort will provide financial support, including grants and loans, to facilitate health, safety, and enabling upgrades. It will also integrate energy storage, expand residential solar access, promote energy sovereignty, and empower community-driven projects.

A key component involves providing crucial capital to disadvantaged solar vendors, enhancing their business capacities. The program’s technical assistance segment will enhance community engagement efforts, develop tools for contractors to navigate multiple funding sources, and aid local governments in streamlining application and permitting processes. Furthermore, leveraging Illinois’ forthcoming clean energy workforce development programs will foster an equitable workforce, ensuring sustainable growth within the clean energy sector.

Minnesota Department of Commerce

Minnesota

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Minnesota Department of Commerce (COMM) has been allocated $62,450,000 to support residential-serving solar initiatives for low-income and disadvantaged households across Minnesota. This includes efforts within federally recognized Tribal communities in the state. The funds, provided by the SFA, will be utilized in multiple ways:

1. Financial assistance

This includes grants, loans, and credit enhancements to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for these households.

2. Workforce development

Training programs and opportunities will be created to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting solar energy projects.

3. Interconnection and pre-development technical assistance

This will help streamline the process of connecting solar systems to the grid and support the initial stages of project development.

4. Energy navigators

These individuals will guide households through the process of adopting solar energy, helping them understand their options and benefits.

5. Community engagement and education

Outreach efforts will ensure that communities are informed about the benefits of solar energy and the opportunities available to them.

6. Administration

Effective management and oversight of the program to ensure its success.

The residential-serving solar projects funded through this initiative are expected to deliver substantial household energy savings and contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Minnesota’s environmental and sustainability goals.

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

Michigan

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has been allocated $156,120,000 for the MI Healthy SFA program, a comprehensive statewide initiative designed to deploy residential rooftop and other solar projects for low-income and disadvantaged households across Michigan. This program aims to overcome existing barriers and increase accessibility to solar energy for eligible households.

Key components of the MI Healthy SFA program include:

• Collaborative planning: The state will work with various stakeholders to establish specific criteria for financial and technical assistance that best serve Michigan households.
• Maximizing funding sources: The program will leverage complementary public and private funding to support residential rooftop solar installation, energy storage, and necessary home upgrades.
• Intentional collaboration: By fostering partnerships and comprehensive planning, the program aims to create a sustainable model for solar deployment.
• Equitable energy transition: The initiative focuses on ensuring that all Michigan residents benefit from a fair and just transition to renewable energy.

The MI Healthy SFA program is designed not only to increase the adoption of solar energy across the state but also to promote equity in Michigan’s energy landscape.

Ohio Office of Budget and Management State Accounting

Ohio

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Ohio Office of Budget and Management State Accounting has been allocated $156,120,000 for the Ohio SFA Program, which aims to strategically deploy solar-related upgrades through various funding models. Administered by the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, the program focuses on benefiting low- to moderate-income households and disadvantaged communities across Ohio.

Key objectives and components of the Ohio SFA Program include:

• Meaningful energy savings: Achieving significant energy cost reductions for residential customers in underserved areas.
• Energy burden relief: Reducing high levels of energy costs that disproportionately affect low-income households.
• Air quality improvement: Enhancing air quality in traditionally underserved regions.
• Economic prosperity: Promoting economic growth in disadvantaged communities through solar energy initiatives.
• Flexible financial models: Offering various funding options that allow both homeowners and renters to access solar energy, mobilizing private capital to ensure the program’s sustainability and long-term impact.

The Ohio SFA Program aims to maximize the reach of clean energy generation to underserved households, deliver substantial cost savings, and sustain the funds to amplify the program’s impact for years to come.

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

Wisconsin

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) has been allocated $62,450,000 to remove barriers to solar energy across the state through a comprehensive approach involving grants, incentives, tax credits, loan offerings, and strategic partnerships. 

Key components of the Wisconsin SFA program include:

• Financial support: Providing grants to homeowners, tax credits, and various loan options to make solar energy more accessible.
• Incentives: Offering incentives to encourage the adoption of solar energy.
• Partnerships: Collaborating with organizations and stakeholders to streamline the deployment of solar energy.
• Focus on disadvantaged communities: Assisting disadvantaged communities by installing solar systems on single-family and multifamily residential properties.
• No up-front costs: Ensuring that participants face limited or no up-front costs to participate in the solar programs.

The primary goal of the Wisconsin SFA program is to reduce household energy bills. Additionally, the program will leverage the expertise of the Wisconsin Technical College System and other workforce partners, which are already training individuals for careers in clean energy, particularly in solar installation. This initiative aims to promote economic development and sustainability throughout Wisconsin.

Indiana Community Action Association, Inc. (IN-CAA)

Indiana 

Grant Amount: $117,470,000

The Indiana Community Action Association, Inc. (IN-CAA) has been allocated $117,470,000 for the SFA Indiana (SFAI) initiative, a coalition effort involving municipal governments and community entities in Fort Wayne, Gary, Indianapolis, and Columbus, along with six statewide organizations. 

Key objectives and components of the SFA Indiana program include:

• Solarizing low-income homes: Installing solar energy systems on homes in low-income communities.
• Market transformation: Creating new financial products and incentives to promote solar adoption among low-income residents and in new affordable housing developments.
• Utility company collaboration: Engaging in dialogue with utility companies to facilitate the integration and support of solar energy.
• Industry development: Partnering with school-to-work programs to develop a skilled workforce in the solar industry.
• Grassroots leadership: Leading the transition to solar energy in Indiana from the grassroots level upward.

The SFA Indiana initiative aims to make solar energy accessible and affordable for low-income residents while fostering market growth and industry development throughout the state.

Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association, Inc.

Tribal Lands (35 Tribes in MN, WI, and MI)

Grant Amount: $62,330,000

The Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association, Inc. (MTERA), along with coalition partners GRID Alternatives (GRID), the Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy (ATCE), and the Native CDFI Network (NCN), has been allocated $62,330,000 to deploy Tribally-owned residential solar systems. This initiative, aimed at benefiting the 35 Tribes located in Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, includes the installation of solar systems, energy storage, and necessary upgrades.

Key components of the program include:

• Empowering tribes: Leveraging the expertise of coalition members to build a robust program that empowers Tribes and tribal energy champions.
• Technical assistance: Providing essential project-deployment technical assistance to plan and build solar projects on Tribal Lands.
• Workforce development: Enhancing Tribal self-determination and self-sufficiency through comprehensive workforce development programs.
• Residential solar projects: Deploying residentially beneficial solar projects, including storage solutions and necessary infrastructure upgrades.

Headquartered in Wisconsin, the coalition aims to foster energy independence and sustainability for Tribes in the Midwest, ensuring that the benefits of solar energy reach tribal communities.

Growth Opportunity Partners 

Multistate (IN, KS, MI, MO, PA, NY, OH, WV)

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Industrial Heartland Solar Coalition, headquartered in Ohio, unites 31 communities across eight states from the Midwest to the Rust Belt. Led by Growth Opportunity Partners (Growth Opps), the coalition is dedicated to driving a just, clean energy transition in America’s industrial heartland communities.

Key components of the SFA program include:

• Centralized management,lLocal Implementation: The program will be centrally managed by Growth Opps and locally implemented by 18 coalition members, ensuring that local needs and insights inform its execution.
• Household energy savings: The initiative aims to significantly reduce household energy costs.
• Greenhouse gas emission reductions: By installing residential rooftop solar systems, the coalition will help cut greenhouse gas emissions.
• Workforce development: Training programs will be established to develop a skilled workforce in the solar industry.
• Funding mobilization: The coalition will leverage tax credits and SFA grant funds to reach low- and moderate-income households.

Through these efforts, the Industrial Heartland Solar Coalition seeks to promote sustainability, economic growth, and energy equity across Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia.

New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department

New Mexico

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

To help overcome barriers to widespread adoption of distributed solar generation, the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) and its coalition partners will expand access to shared solar beyond the existing state community solar program. This initiative aims to connect the most isolated and off-grid residents, including unelectrified homes, to solar energy, thereby supporting grid resilience with on-site solar installations.

Key components of the program include:

• Reaching isolated and off-grid residents: Bringing solar energy to the most isolated and unelectrified homes.
• Supporting grid resilience: Enhancing grid stability through on-site solar installations.
• Assisting low-income and disadvantaged communities: Providing direct grants and financing options to both homeowners and renters to reduce energy costs and lower annual electric bills.
• Leveraging existing programs: Utilizing New Mexico’s current programs to maximize the reach and impact of the initiative.
• Collaboration with local partners: Working with workforce development providers, community-based organizations, and government partners that understand and represent New Mexico’s diverse, majority-minority population.

The program aims to decrease energy burdens and promote sustainable energy solutions across New Mexico, ensuring equitable access to solar energy for all communities.

State of Louisiana Department of Natural Resources

Louisiana

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Louisiana SFA Program, launched by the State of Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, will introduce a new resilient solar initiative targeting low-income and disadvantaged communities. This initiative aims to deploy solar energy systems, energy storage, and necessary upgrades for single-family and multi-family homes.

Key components of the Louisiana SFA Program include:

• Resilient solar deployment: Installing solar energy systems and energy storage solutions on homes in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
• Financing options: Developing low-cost and accessible financing options, including equitable loan programs for community resilience hubs, resilient schools, and disadvantaged businesses.
• Sustainable support: Providing long-term support for successfully deployed projects to ensure their sustainability.
• Workforce development: Growing a skilled workforce to support Louisiana‘s clean and resilient economy.
• Community-centered planning: Engaging communities in the planning and deployment process to address barriers such as unfamiliarity with solar technology, distrust, language barriers, and complex administrative processes.

This initiative aims to foster a strong, sustainable, and equitable clean energy economy in Louisiana, ensuring that all communities can participate in and benefit from the clean energy transition.

Harris County

Texas (Statewide)

Grant Amount: $249,700,000

The Texas SFA Coalition, comprised of municipalities across Texas, is dedicated to serving the state’s low-income and disadvantaged populations, impacting over 11 million people. The Coalition aims to revolutionize access to distributed solar energy in Texas, fostering community wealth, reducing energy costs, creating equity opportunities, and providing access to well-paying clean energy jobs.

Key components of the Texas SFA program include:

• Financial assistance: Leveraging federal funds, tax credits, and private capital to support solar installations, battery storage, and energy efficiency for residential multifamily and single-family homes.
• Community resilience: Enhancing community well-being and resilience against power system failures through improved energy infrastructure.
• Workforce training: Providing workforce training programs to equip residents with skills for clean energy jobs, focusing on low-income and disadvantaged communities.
• Support for minority- and women-owned businesses: Promoting and supporting businesses owned by minorities and women.
• Collaboration with community organizations: Partnering with community-based organizations to ensure the program meets local needs and maximizes impact.

The Texas SFA program is designed to extend within member jurisdictions and expand to other parts of Texas during and beyond the grant period, ensuring long-term benefits and sustainability.

Hope Enterprise Corporation

Arkansas

Grant Amount: $93,670,000

Hope Enterprise Corporation (HEC), with $93,670,000 in funding, is committed to expanding affordable and resilient solar energy access for low-income and disadvantaged households throughout Arkansas. Their strategy involves two main approaches:

• Residential rooftop solar for low-income households: HEC aims to develop a market for residential rooftop solar leasing in areas served by the state’s investor-owned utilities. This approach ensures savings for every low-income household while supporting the growth of local solar installers.

• Multifamily behind-the-meter solar for low-income tenants: HEC focuses on multifamily buildings to lower energy costs for low-income tenants. This initiative utilizes strategic financial mechanisms and partnerships with local housing developers to achieve its goals.

HEC’s initiatives rely on innovative financing models, strategic partnerships, and their extensive experience in serving disadvantaged communities across Arkansas. These efforts are designed to promote sustainable energy solutions and economic empowerment in the region.

Clean Energy Fund of Texas

Multistate (AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, NM, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV)

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Clean Energy Fund of Texas (TxCEF), partnering with the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice at Texas Southern University (BCECJ), collectively known as CEFBC, has been allocated $156,120,000. Their mission spans 19 states across the Southern and Southeastern regions of the United States (EPA Regions 3, 4, and 6), including Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Key initiatives of TxCEF and BCECJ include:

• Technical assistance and grants: Deploying technical expertise, private capital, and grants to minority-serving institutions to foster residential-serving community solar projects.

• Focus on low-income and disadvantaged communities: Targeting communities facing energy policy and grid vulnerability challenges, these projects aim to reduce emissions, lower household utility bills, and generate shared revenues through community ownership.

• Solar and energy storage deployment: Implementing solar and energy storage solutions to enhance grid resilience and benefit community resilience centers.

• Environmental and economic benefits: Delivering greenhouse gas reductions and improving air quality through sustainable energy projects that benefit communities across the United States.

Based in Texas, TxCEF operates at the forefront of advancing clean energy solutions, supporting community empowerment, and promoting environmental justice across a diverse range of states in the Southern and Southeastern regions.

The Missouri Environmental Improvement and Energy Resources Authority

Missouri

Grant Amount: $156,120,000 

The Missouri Environmental Improvement and Energy Resources Authority (EIERA) has secured $156,120,000 for Missouri’s SFA program, leveraging the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund to initiate widespread solar deployment across disadvantaged communities statewide. This initiative aims to achieve significant pollution reduction, enhance community resilience and health, and deliver substantial energy savings throughout Missouri.

Key elements of the program include:

• Financial support: EIERA will offer forgivable loans to promote solar adoption without long-term repayment obligations, alongside low-interest loans through a revolving fund. These measures are intended to expand solar capacity and benefit disadvantaged communities even beyond the program’s duration.

• Market transformation: By mobilizing financing and private capital, the program seeks to catalyze market changes that promote clean technologies, particularly in solar projects.

• Environmental and community benefits: The initiative is designed to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, bolster community resilience, and ensure that residents derive meaningful energy-saving benefits.

EIERA’s approach aims to foster sustainable energy practices, support economic growth, and improve environmental quality across Missouri.

Center for Rural Affairs

Nebraska

Grant Amount: $62,450,000 

The Center for Rural Affairs, based in Nebraska, has been allocated $62,450,000 for the Nebraska SFA program. This pioneering initiative aims to provide equitable access to solar power for low-income and disadvantaged households across the entire state. Key objectives include immediate greenhouse gas reductions, cost savings for low-income families, opportunities for ownership, and fostering long-term transformation in the residential solar market.

The Nebraska SFA program focuses on:

• Rooftop and multifamily solar: Supporting the deployment of solar installations on both single-family homes and multifamily residences, particularly targeting low-income households.

• Tribal collaboration: Including a set-aside for Tribal communities in collaboration with Nebraska Tribes, ensuring equitable access to solar benefits.

• Market transformation: Driving long-term changes in how residential solar is accessed and utilized, promoting ownership and sustainability.

This initiative by the Center for Rural Affairs aims to enhance energy equity, reduce environmental impact, and empower communities throughout Nebraska.

Colorado Energy Office

Colorado

Grant Amount: $156,120,000 

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) has secured $156,120,000 for the Colorado SFA (COS4A) program, which aims to expand access to single-family and multifamily rooftop solar installations statewide. CEO leads a coalition of stakeholders with diverse expertise and capacity, ensuring that the benefits of solar energy reach low-income and disadvantaged communities across Colorado.

Key aspects of the COS4A program include:

• Distributed solar investments: Enhancing Colorado’s robust solar market by extending access to distributed solar investments across various communities.

• Affordable and resilient energy: Providing affordable, resilient, and clean solar energy options to households and communities.

• Public health and environmental benefits: Reducing pollution from traditional power generation, thereby improving public health outcomes and lowering utility bills.

• Community wealth and job creation: Generating economic benefits such as job creation and local wealth accumulation through solar energy initiatives.

The COS4A program, supported by the EPA’s SFA grant, underscores Colorado‘s commitment to sustainability, equity, and economic development through renewable energy solutions.

Utah Office of Energy Development

Utah

Grant Amount: $62,450,000 

The Utah Office of Energy Development has allocated $62,450,000 for the launch of a transformative initiative called the SFA of Utah (S4AU), in collaboration with a diverse group of regional stakeholders across various sectors. This comprehensive program aims to leverage Utah’s abundant solar resources to bolster the market for residential solar deployments, ensuring significant benefits for disadvantaged and low-income households across the state’s diverse regions.

Key components of the S4AU initiative include:

• Rooftop solar deployment: Supporting the adoption of rooftop solar through inclusive financing options tailored to meet the needs of low-income communities.

• Community engagement: Engaging robustly with communities to ensure their active participation and benefit from renewable energy initiatives.

• Workforce development: Investing in workforce training to build capacity and expertise in the renewable energy sector, enhancing economic opportunities within Utah.

• Partnerships and innovation: Collaborating with proven partners to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy solutions throughout Utah.

• Equitable transition: Focusing on bringing modernized energy solutions to Utah’s low-income markets as part of a broader, just, and equitable transition to sustainable energy.

The S4AU initiative prioritizes addressing critical energy needs, particularly for populations without reliable electricity and those dependent on essential medical devices. By targeting at-risk communities and fostering resilience against power outages, S4AU aims to improve energy access and quality of life across Utah.

Bonneville Environmental Foundation

Montana

Grant Amount: $43,700,000 

The Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF), based in Montana, has secured $43,700,000 for the Montana SFA Program. This initiative aims to extend economic and environmental benefits of solar energy to low-income, Tribal, and disadvantaged communities across the state. 

Key features of the Montana SFA Program include:

• Community-centered approach: Designing a program that addresses both market and non-market barriers to residential solar adoption through community engagement.

• Comprehensive support: Providing outreach, workforce development, and technical and financial assistance to facilitate the deployment of single-family and multifamily residential solar projects.

• Capital mobilization: Leveraging and mobilizing additional capital to maximize the number of households benefiting from solar installations.

• Impactful benefits: Delivering substantial savings on electricity bills, enhancing resilience against power disruptions, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce.

BEF’s Montana SFA Program aims to promote sustainability, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship throughout the state, ensuring that all communities can access and benefit from clean energy solutions.

Bonneville Environmental Foundation

Wyoming 

Grant Amount: $30,260,000 

The Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) has allocated $30,260,000 for the Wyoming SFA Program, aimed at extending economic and environmental benefits of solar energy to low-income, Tribal, and disadvantaged communities across the state.

Key aspects of the Wyoming SFA Program include:

1. Community-centered approach: Implementing a program designed by and for the community to overcome barriers to residential solar adoption through outreach, workforce development, and technical and financial assistance.

2. Comprehensive support: Providing assistance for both single-family and multifamily residential solar projects to maximize household participation.

3. Capital mobilization: Leveraging additional funding sources to ensure widespread access to solar energy benefits.

4. Benefits: Delivering substantial savings on electricity bills, enhancing community resilience, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce.

BEF’s Wyoming SFA Program aims to promote sustainable energy practices, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship throughout Wyoming, benefiting communities across the state.

Coalition for Green Capital

North Dakota

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Coalition for Green Capital, operating in North Dakota with $62,450,000 allocated, will implement the North Dakota SFA program aimed at reducing greenhouse gases and other air pollutants through increased deployment of solar energy solutions across the state. 

Key components of the program include:

1. Residential solar deployment: Providing solar arrays for single-family homes to expand access to solar energy.

2. Multifamily solar development: Facilitating grants, tax incentives, and low-interest loans to develop solar units for multifamily dwellings.

3. Financial mobilization: Mobilizing financing and private capital by enabling community development financial institutions, credit unions, rural electric cooperatives, and municipal utilities to administer revolving loan funds effectively.

4. Impact measurement and funding attraction: Measuring program impact to attract additional funding to the region and ensure sustainable growth.

5. Equity focus: Prioritizing communities designated as low-income and disadvantaged under the Justice 40 initiative to ensure equitable access to clean energy benefits.

The North Dakota SFA program aims to advance sustainable energy practices, economic development, and environmental justice by expanding solar access and reducing carbon emissions across the state.

Oweesta Corporation

Tribal Lands Nationwide

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

Oweesta Corporation, a Tribal nonprofit with a funding allocation of $156,120,000, will implement an SFA program aimed at overcoming barriers to Native residential and community solar adoption. Serving as an intermediary between professional services partners, developers, Tribal governments, and Tribal organizations, Oweesta’s initiative aims to ensure equitable distribution of solar deployment across all Tribal census tracts nationwide.

Key components of Oweesta Corporation’s SFA program include:

• Equitable solar deployment: Focusing on spreading solar installations across Tribal lands through strategic partnerships and community engagement.

• Systems-building approach: Centralizing regulatory compliance information, technical deployment expertise, commercial solar standards, and Tribal housing knowledge. This approach leverages the experience of Tribal Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs).

• Nationwide operation: Based in Colorado, Oweesta Corporation’s program will operate extensively across Tribal lands throughout the United States.

Oweesta Corporation’s program is designed to enhance energy independence, promote sustainability, and foster economic development within Tribal communities nationwide.

Three Affiliated Tribes, known as the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation (MHA Nation)

Tribal Lands (ND, SD, MT, WY, and WI)

Grant Amount: $135,580,000

The Three Affiliated Tribes, known as the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation (MHA Nation), with a funding allocation of $135,580,000, will spearhead the Northern Plains Tribal SFA program (NPT-SFA). This initiative aims to revolutionize energy and economic systems within disadvantaged communities through substantial and targeted investments. Initially focusing on North Dakota, South Dakota, and Montana, with additional participation from tribes in Wisconsin and Wyoming, NPT-SFA builds on the success of a pilot program implemented on the Northern Cheyenne reservation in Montana.

Key elements of the NPT-SFA program include:

• Tribally-owned solar portfolios: Establishing and managing portfolios of solar systems located at Tribal members’ homes to enhance energy independence and economic resilience.

• Addressing energy challenges: Leveraging high electricity costs, frequent power outages, and inefficient housing to implement impactful energy programs.

• Capacity building: Introducing innovative apprenticeship programs, educational initiatives, and training partnerships to attract industry leaders and build lasting regional capacity for ongoing benefits beyond the grant period.

The NPT-SFA program by the Three Affiliated Tribes aims to create sustainable energy solutions, foster economic empowerment, and strengthen community resilience across the Northern Plains Tribal nations.

Executive Office of the State of Arizona

Arizona

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Executive Office of the State of Arizona has allocated $156,120,000 for SFA Arizonans, aiming to leverage Arizona’s abundant solar resources to benefit low-income and disadvantaged communities across the state. Arizona, known for its ample sunlight and rapidly growing solar market, seeks to address current disparities in solar access among its diverse communities.

Key aspects of SFA Arizonans include:

• Innovative market mechanisms: Introducing multiple innovative approaches to accelerate the deployment of distributed solar energy. These mechanisms will include rooftop installations, neighborhood solar projects, and solar-plus-storage systems.

• Equitable development: Promoting more equitable and just long-term solar development across urban, rural, and Tribal areas of Arizona.

• Immediate cost savings: Providing significant immediate savings on electricity bills for recipients of solar energy benefits.

• Greenhouse gas reduction: Contributing to extensive reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the state’s electricity sector through increased adoption of solar energy.

SFA Arizonans represents a transformative opportunity to expand solar access, reduce energy costs, and mitigate environmental impacts, thereby enhancing the economic and environmental resilience of communities throughout Arizona.

Government of Guam, Department of Administration

Guam

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Government of Guam, through its Department of Administration, has earmarked $62,450,000 for the SFA-GU program. This initiative aims to provide renewable energy solutions to low and moderate-income households on the island. 

Key elements of the SFA-GU program include:

• Targeted support: Focusing on households facing financial barriers to investing in solar energy.

• Comprehensive approach: Offering energy efficiency audits, weatherization support, and access to solar through a favorable loan program.

• Financial benefits: Enabling households to significantly reduce their monthly electricity bills and generate revenue by selling excess solar electricity to Guam’s power utility.

• Grid strengthening: Contributing to the resilience and sustainability of Guam’s local grid and supporting the island’s renewable energy goals.

The SFA-GU program represents a concerted effort by the Government of Guam to enhance energy affordability, promote renewable energy adoption, and bolster the island’s energy independence and sustainability.

Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority

Hawaii

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority (HGIA), an entity under Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, serves as the state’s Green Bank. With $62,450,000 allocated, the SFA-HI program aims to utilize HGIA’s inclusive and risk-mitigating financing mechanisms.

Key components of SFA-HI include:

• Residential rooftop solar: Financing for installations on residential properties.

• Storage systems: Funding for energy storage solutions.

• Community-owned solar: Supporting community-owned solar projects serving low-income households and disadvantaged communities across Hawaii.

SFA-HI, through HGIA, strives to enhance access to sustainable energy solutions, promote community resilience, and advance Hawaii’s renewable energy objectives statewide.

The California Infrastructure Economic Development Bank (Ibank)

California

Grant Amount: $249,800,000

California’s program (CA-S4A), led by the California Infrastructure Economic Development Bank (Ibank), represents a coalition of state entities with extensive expertise in regulatory design, capacity building, project finance, infrastructure development, and grid management. This coalition aims to capitalize on California’s pioneering role in transforming the solar energy market over the past two decades.

Key features of CA-S4A include:

• Equity-focused resources: Introducing highly flexible resources aimed at providing affordable, reliable clean energy to homes and businesses statewide, particularly those most in need.

• Programmatic capacity building: Enhancing existing efforts and developing new strategies to address funding gaps and future market conditions as part of California’s ongoing decarbonization agenda.

• Modernized grid emphasis: Emphasizing a modern and cost-effective grid infrastructure to support the integration of renewable energy sources.

By leveraging California‘s past successes in solar market transformation and fostering new equity-focused partnerships, CA-S4A aims to propel the state forward in achieving its sustainability goals while ensuring broader access to clean energy solutions for all Californians.

Nevada Clean Energy Fund

Nevada

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Nevada Clean Energy Fund (NCEF), acting as the Prime Applicant with $156,120,000 allocated, will oversee the Nevada SFA (NSFA) initiative. NSFA aims to facilitate the deployment of solar energy among low-income and disadvantaged communities in Nevada through comprehensive financial and technical assistance programs. 

Key components of NSFA include:

• Financial assistance: Providing statewide support for single-family homeowners, affordable housing properties, and residential-serving community solar projects to ensure equitable access to solar energy.

• Market transformation: Working towards establishing a vibrant and self-sustaining solar industry in Nevada.

• Community engagement: Engaging diverse stakeholders across rural, urban, suburban, Tribal, and persistent poverty communities in program design, outreach, education, technical assistance, and workforce development.

• Leadership and expertise: Leveraging NCEF’s role as Nevada’s nonprofit green bank to utilize institutional capacity, expertise, and established relationships for effective program implementation.

NSFA, under the guidance of NCEF, endeavors to empower communities across Nevada by expanding access to clean energy solutions while fostering economic resilience and environmental sustainability statewide.

Hopi Utilities Corporation

The Hopi Tribe Reservation (AZ)

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

The Hopi Utilities Corporation, in collaboration with Arizona State University and the Hopi Renewable Energy Office, plans to implement a $156,120,000 initiative to install residential solar and storage systems on the Hopi Reservation. This initiative is crucial for the Hopi Tribe, which faces chronic underservice, economic disadvantage, and significant energy inequity. 

Key features of the program include:

• Targeted community: Addressing the needs of a coal-impacted community with high poverty rates and severe energy inequity, where 35% of households lack electricity access and grid-connected homes experience frequent and prolonged outages.

• Direct benefits: Providing direct benefits to low-income and unelectrified households through the deployment of solar and storage systems, aimed at improving energy reliability and reducing energy costs.

• Financial mobilization: Mobilizing additional financing and leveraging tax incentives to facilitate the implementation of these energy solutions, all without requiring upfront costs from residents.

This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing energy access, resilience, and sustainability on the Hopi Reservation, while also addressing broader socio-economic challenges faced by the community.

GRID Alternatives’ Western Indigenous Network Solar For All

Tribal Lands Nationwide (Prioritizing Tribal Lands in AZ, CO, NV, NM, UT)

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

GRID Alternatives’ Western Indigenous Network Solar For All (WIN-SFA) program, headquartered in California, aims to empower Tribal communities across the nation with a $62,450,000 initiative. This program draws on GRID Alternatives’ extensive experience in Tribal communities to promote energy sovereignty, environmental stewardship, and resilience to climate change.

Key components of WIN-SFA include:

• Financial assistance: Providing grants and incentives to facilitate the deployment of solar energy in thousands of Native American households nationwide.

• Technical expertise: Partnering with organizations experienced in equitable deployment of renewable energy to ensure effective implementation of residential-serving solar projects in Tribal Nations.

• Benefits: Enhancing access to solar and storage solutions, both on- and off-grid, to improve energy affordability and resilience against climate impacts.

• Workforce development: Offering job training and inclusive workforce development opportunities for Tribal members, along with support for Tribal- and member-owned business enterprises.

• Community engagement: Promoting participatory governance and community-centered engagement based on relationships of respect and trust within Tribal communities.

WIN-SFA aims to foster sustainable energy solutions that honor Tribal values and traditions while advancing economic empowerment and environmental sustainability across Tribal lands in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah, and beyond.

GRID Alternatives (Solar Access for Nationwide Affordable Housing Program)

Nationwide (Prioritizing AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, ID, IL, IA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MT, ND, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, PR, SD, TX, WA, and WI)

Grant Amount: $249,800,000

GRID Alternatives, in collaboration with a consortium of ten mission-driven nonprofit solar and affordable housing providers and allies, introduces the Solar Access for Nationwide Affordable Housing Program (SANAH) with a budget of $249,800,000. Headquartered in California, SANAH aims to maximize household and community benefits while addressing climate change and reducing pollution.

Key features of SANAH include:

• Financial assistance: Providing grants and incentives to support the deployment of solar and storage solutions in single- and multifamily affordable housing units across prioritized states and territories.

• Technical expertise: Partnering with organizations experienced in equitable deployment of residential-serving renewable energy to ensure effective implementation and maximize benefits for income-qualified households.

• Program benefits: Enhancing access to solar and storage technologies to achieve deep energy savings, reduce energy burdens, and promote efficiency and electrification co-benefits.

• Workforce development: Offering job training and inclusive workforce development opportunities to support American manufacturing and small- and disadvantaged business enterprises.

• Resilience and governance: Strengthening community and grid resilience while fostering community-centered engagement and participatory governance based on relationships of respect and trust.

SANAH will operate across more than half of the United States, prioritizing states such as Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. This initiative seeks to advance environmental justice, economic empowerment, and sustainable development through accessible and equitable solar solutions for affordable housing communities nationwide.

Alaska Energy Authority

Alaska

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Alaska Energy Authority, in collaboration with the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC), is launching a $62,450,000 initiative to deploy solar photovoltaic infrastructure statewide. This comprehensive program will encompass urban residential projects as well as community-scale initiatives in rural Alaska. By implementing solar infrastructure, the initiative aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring that low-income and disadvantaged communities gain access to renewable energy sources.

Beyond expanding renewable energy access, the program will focus on developing Alaska’s local workforce through targeted funding initiatives. It seeks to stimulate the solar industry within the state by leveraging financing and private capital to further enhance deployment of projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

This initiative represents a crucial step towards sustainable development and energy independence for Alaskans, fostering economic growth and environmental stewardship across the diverse landscapes of the state.

Oregon Department of Energy

Oregon

Grant Amount: $86,600,000

The Oregon Department of Energy is launching an $86,600,000 initiative known as the Oregon Solar for All Coalition (OSFAC). This coalition will harness existing solar technology incentives and support platforms to deliver a coordinated program tailored for low-income households and residents of disadvantaged communities in Oregon. 

OSFAC members will collaborate to facilitate solar installations at single-family homes with minimal upfront costs to customers. Additionally, the program will offer point-of-sale rebates for multifamily buildings, directly benefiting low-income residents. 

Furthermore, OSFAC will provide financial and technical assistance to develop Community Solar projects in Consumer Owned Utility Territories (COUTCS), expanding access to solar benefits beyond areas covered by existing programs. The initiative will also include robust workforce development activities to build local capacity.

By leveraging these strategies, OSFAC aims to optimize the utilization of current resources and ensure a broad and inclusive reach across diverse households throughout Oregon. This initiative represents a significant effort to advance equity in renewable energy access and utilization across the state.

Washington State Department of Commerce

Washington

Grant Amount: $156,120,000

Washington State Department of Commerce is set to implement a $156,120,000 initiative aimed at expanding solar access for income-qualified residents and frontline communities statewide. This initiative will complement existing programs and policies supporting distributed solar energy adoption across Washington.

The proposal includes multiple targeted programs:

1. A program dedicated to assisting single-family homeowners in adopting solar energy solutions.

2. Support for multifamily affordable housing properties to access state and federal solar incentives.

3. A Tribal solar deployment program, developed in collaboration with Tribal governments.

These initiatives are designed to ensure that the benefits of solar energy extend to low-income households throughout Washington, with a specific emphasis on communities facing environmental justice challenges. The approach aligns closely with Washington’s commitments to environmental justice and the Justice40 initiative, aiming to enhance equity and sustainability across the state.

Bonneville Environmental Foundation

Idaho

Grant Amount: $56,540,000

The Bonneville Environmental Foundation in Idaho is launching a $56,540,000 initiative to extend economic and environmental advantages of solar energy to low-income, tribal, and disadvantaged communities statewide. This community-driven program aims to overcome both market and non-market obstacles to residential solar adoption through extensive outreach, workforce development, and comprehensive technical and financial support.

By mobilizing additional capital, the program seeks to expand its impact, facilitating the installation of solar systems in single-family residences and multifamily buildings. This effort promises substantial reductions in electricity costs for participants, while also promoting resilience, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce across Idaho.

Tanana Chiefs Conference

Tribal Lands in AK

Grant Amount: $62,450,000

The Alaska Tribal SFA initiative, a collaboration among three key organizations, aims to ensure comprehensive access to Solar For All (SFA) benefits for Tribal residents across Alaska. Partnering in this effort are the Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC), the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC), and the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC), each bringing tailored programs to facilitate solar adoption.

Alaska is home to over 40% of the nation’s Federally Recognized Tribes, with the highest proportion of Alaska Native and American Indian residents nationwide at 19.6%. This initiative ensures that all Tribal members, whether they own homes suitable for distributed generation or reside in communities with isolated microgrids where rooftop solar isn’t feasible, can access the benefits of solar energy.