Energy efficiency and conservation grants now available for towns under 15,000 people
News | Published on November 12, 2025 at 1:33pm EST | Author: frazeevergas
0Small communities are eligible for grants between $2,000-20,000 for energy planning activities, improving energy efficiency
Towns with populations under 15,000 in west central Minnesota are eligible for $2,000-$20,000 grants to support energy planning activities and improve energy efficiency.
Other local units of government, such as a township, school district, parks district, or any combination of those units operating under an agreement to exercise powers jointly, can use the funds.
West Central Initiative is accepting applications on a rolling basis. Don’t wait, funds must be spent by June of 2026.
Recipients may use funds for various energy planning and project development purposes, including, but not limited to:
Energy audits of government facilities such as community centers, arenas, school buildings, or wastewater and water treatment infrastructure.
Energy efficiency and resiliency planning.
Feasibility studies for energy-saving improvements.
Engineering and technical assistance services for government facilities related to energy savings.
Funds cannot be used for implementation projects. However, results of energy audits or planning outcomes make applying for implementation funds easier. Visit www.wcif.org/energy-efficiency-and-conservation-block-grant/ for project examples or to submit an application.
West Central Initiative was awarded an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) from the Minnesota Department of Commerce to support this work.