The U.S. Department of Energy will be accepting 2024 applications for the Renew America's Schools Program this spring.

Purpose

This competitive award focuses on funding infrastructure upgrades at K–12 public school facilities, prioritizing high-need school communities.  As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), it aims to help school communities lower utilities costs, improve indoor air quality, and foster healthier learning environments.  The opportunity marks the start of a second round of funding related to the program.

Eligible Entities

As described in Section 40541(a)(3) of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, teams must consist of at least one local educational agency (LEA) and one or more of the following:
1. Schools.
2. Nonprofit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.
3. For-profit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.
4. Community partners that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.

In addition, applicants must identify a minimum of 10 K-12 public schools or school facilities in its proposed portfolio. These can be from different LEAs and geographic areas.

Applications will be open to all eligible organizations regardless of past participation.

Eligible Activities

Eligible projects include energy infrastructure improvements that reduce building operating costs—like new HVAC and ventilation systems, building envelope and lighting projects, and renewable energy technologies. Funding is also available for alternative fueled vehicles and alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure.

Important Dates

Application Deadline:  Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 5:00 pm.

For more information, monitor DOE's dedicated webpage for the Renew America's Schools Program, or go to Factsheet_Final_2024 Renew America's Schools Prize_0.pdf (energy.gov).