Solar Grant Options for Wisconsin Businesses and Homeowners
Legacy Solar Co-op helps our members and nonmembers navigate their project and financing options – and even write grants – through our solar consulting services.
There are several grant and incentive programs available federally and in the state of Wisconsin.
Below, we outline grant options available to Wisconsin businesses and homeowners interested in adding solar to their property.
Wisconsin and Federal Solar Grants
Focus on Energy (FOE) Solar Grants
The Solar Electric (PV) Grant through Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy program provides financial incentives to businesses and homeowners for installing solar energy systems. FOE grants offers $500 ($1,000 for rural properties) for eligible residential solar installations.
Businesses and nonprofits can receive incentives ranging from $200 to $50,000, depending on the project size and energy production.
Focus on Energy also offers incentives for electric vehicles, geothermal, wind and appliances.
Solar for Good / Solar on Schools
Solar for Good, a program facilitated by RENEW Wisconsin (supported by the Couillard Solar Foundation and the Array It Forward Program), aims to bring solar power to nonprofit organizations and public entities. The program offers grants and technical assistance to help qualifying organizations install solar energy systems. Solar for Good assists with fundraising, project development, and implementation, making it easier for nonprofits and public entities to embrace solar energy.
Solar on Schools is a program facilitated by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association and supported by the Couillard Solar Foundation that makes it easier for schools to adopt solar. Educational institutions can apple to receive a solar panel donation or funds to go toward the purchase of a solar classroom or canopy.
USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is a federal incentive that offers grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses, including those in Wisconsin.
REAP grants can cover up to 25% of total project costs for solar energy installations. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate energy efficiency and economic benefits for rural communities.
Wisconsin State Energy Office Grants
The PSC (Public Service Commission) Wisconsin Office of Energy Innovation (OEI) provides grants and loans to businesses, organizations, and local governments for clean energy projects, including solar installations.
These grants support a wide range of initiatives, from feasibility studies and energy audits to construction and implementation. Applicants can receive funding based on project scope, cost, and expected energy impact.
EVs for Good
A program through Renew Wisconsin that facilitates the growth of electric vehicle infrastructure by helping nonprofits in Wisconsin purchase a vehicle or EV charging equipment.
Other Funding Sources
With the help of the Inflation Reduction Act, foundations and other sources, the funding landscape is constantly changing. Contact us today to learn more about funding for schools, libraries, churches and other sectors.
Financing
If you do not qualify for the grants listed above, or need additional financing, Legacy Solar Co-op offers bridge and longer term loans to nonprofits and for-profits. By leveraging funds from our Slice-of-Sun Solar Bond Program, we facilitate community solar projects up front or in the first year of the project’s development. This is truly homegrown solar supported by Wisconsites for Wisconsin projects. Contact us today to learn more.
There are several other organizations committed to helping nonprofits, businesses and homeowners receive fair and affordable financing loans. Also consider Greenpenny, a virtual and carbon-neutral bank offering up to 100% financing. Or the Clean Energy Credit Union that provides clean energy investment and solar loan options.
Conclusion
As a Wisconsin businesses or homeowner you have several grant options available to financially assist in your transition towards solar energy. By leveraging these grant options, residents can reduce energy costs, decrease their reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
At Legacy Solar Co-op we are committed to empowering Wisconsin residents to embrace clean energy and reduce their carbon footprint. Through our Consulting Services we can help you or your business or nonprofit navigate your options for funding your solar project. Get started to begin your journey to solar!
