Biden Administration Launches Effort to Improve Non-Profit Building Energy Efficiency

Renew America’s Nonprofit grant will provide a funding opportunity for buildings operated by certain nonprofits to lower their energy costs through improvements and retrofits.

The Department of Energy has opened the Renew America’s Nonprofits grant application process. This first-of-its-kind funding opportunity aims to support projects meant to reduce energy use by buildings owned and operated by 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Several buildings owned by SMACNA chapters and our allies could benefit from this funding opportunity.

According to the Department of Energy, nonprofits historically employ the third-largest workforce in the American economy – more than 12.4 million people. These organizations also operate more than half a million facilities, primarily in commercial spaces where efficiency improvements can reduce energy use by up to 30%. This indicates significant potential for reducing emissions nationally. Given that most nonprofits operate on annual budgets of less than $500,000, energy savings have the potential to build organizational and community resiliency and increase their service capacities.   

If you are interested in participating in the grant program, take a moment to join the Teaming List, indicate one or more prospective roles, and begin connecting with other organizations. Take a moment to visit Renew America’s Nonprofit’s website to learn more.