Solar for Schools Program
Administered by Department of Commerce
Unable to provide homeowner guidance—the official program website is inaccessible. Based on the DSIRE record, Minnesota's Solar for Schools Program offers grants covering up to 100% of solar installation costs for schools. Schools or their representatives should contact the Minnesota Department of Commerce to request application materials and submit proposals for systems up to 40 kW (or larger with utility consent).
Unable to provide contractor guidance—the official program website is inaccessible. Per DSIRE, the Solar for Schools Program funds solar installations for schools in Minnesota with grants sized based on demonstrated financial need. The Department of Commerce evaluates applications from contractors and developers, assessing whether all proposed costs are necessary and reasonable before awarding grants.
The Solar for Schools Program, created by H.F. 2310 (May 2023, Minn. Stat. 216C.375), is administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce with a dedicated $30,448,000 budget. The program accepts applications from schools, utilities, and developers; grants can cover up to 100% of procurement and installation costs, with award amounts determined by the Commissioner's assessment of each school's financial need. Systems range from up to 40 kW baseline to 1,000 kW with utility consent.
Program details
- Program ID
- 22578
- Effective
- 5/25/2023
- Expires
- 12/31/2032
- Last updated
- 3/17/2025
Eligibility
- Sectors
- schools
- Technologies
- solar photovoltaics
Incentive amount
$14,000,000
Program summary
H.F. 2310, enacted in May 2023 (see section 216C.375), created the Solar for Schools grant program under the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
The Program allows schools and parties on the behalf of schools to apply for grants for up to 100% of the cost of procuring and installing a solar energy generation system on or adjacent to the school premises. The law directed a $30,448,000 budget allocation to support the program.
The Department of Commerce is directed to request applications from interested schools, utilities, and developers and assess the applications and ensure that all costs are necessary and reasonable. The amount of the grant amount awarded must be based on the Commissioner's assessment of the school's need for financial assistance.
The program provides grants for systems up to 40 kW or up to 1,000 kW with the consent of the utility servicing the school.
Contact & resources
- Additional resources
Please verify current program details with the administering agency before making any financial decisions.
