COMMUNITY ADVOCATES FOR CLEAN ENERGY
Homeowners
These funding mechanisms empower schools to embrace sustainability, foster healthier learning environments, and provide students valuable opportunities to engage with renewable energy technologies.
Clean School Buses (CSB) Program (EPA)
Five billion dollars are available through multiple rounds over five years (Fiscal Years 2022-2026) to replace existing diesel school buses with zero-emission and low-emission models. Round number three just closed; expect the next round of grant applications by late spring 2024.
Eligibility Public school districts, charter schools, and fleet operators in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., U.S. territories, and Tribal nations. Some funding is allocated to priority high-need, rural, or Tribal schools.
Clean School Bus Program | US EPA
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Clean Energy Credits
All schools and nonprofits can use IRA tax credits as a direct payment.
Eligibility areas are solar arrays, high-efficiency HVAC equipment, geothermal, lighting automation, weatherization, electric vehicles and chargers, etc.
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FACT SHEET: IRA Tax Credits Can Fund School Facilities and Reduce School District Energy Bills
Nonprofits Can Benefit from Energy-Efficient Tax Deduction (179D)
Renew America's Schools
Renew America's Schools (DOE): Five hundred million dollars to promote the implementation of clean energy improvements at K-12 public schools nationwide. Round number one has closed, and the awards were announced. The Department of Energy anticipates releasing the second round of funding in Spring 2024.
Eligibility High-need K-12 public and charter schools.
Solar for Schools - HB1032
PA legislation proposes to provide grants to school districts, intermediate units, career and technical schools, and community colleges to fund solar energy projects. Has passed PA House as PA HB1032, pending PA Senate adoption in April 2024.
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The lead sponsor is Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, District 184.
Solar for Schools (pahouse.com)
Individuals and school districts urged to support this legislation: My school district supports Solar for Schools!