This program provides funding to qualified communities for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that will lead to overall reduction in energy. Communities that have been designated as a Green Community can again apply for a competitive grant this year, for which the State has set aside $15 million, with a maximum award to an applicant of $200,000. While the date for Block one applications has passed, communities who qualify for Block 2 should start planning now to meet the October 20, 2023 deadline. To qualify, all prior green community grant funds must be spent by August 31st and communities must submit their final grant report also by this date.
The State’s priority for this year’s funding is projects that further the State’s commitment to achieve Net Zero emissions in 2050 and combat climate change. The evaluation criteria include project viability, greenhouse gas emission reductions, energy reductions, strategic electrification, and direct benefit to Environmental Justice communities. Projects that could be funded include energy conservation measures, hybrid, electric or hybrid-electric vehicles, electric vehicle charging stations, vehicle efficiency measures, financing the siting and construction of renewable and alternative energy projects on town owned land, building operator certification training for staff members and energy storage project to address peak demand.