Schools can take advantage of CGSI funding for a range of professional services during open enrollment of the Planning Track. Eligible services include energy studies, on-site energy management, and fiscal advisors to help schools evaluate, plan for, and facilitate comprehensive projects to promote energy reduction, decarbonization, environmental sustainability, and improved indoor air quality.
How It Works
Funding can be used for under-resourced public schools for engineering and architectural services and services associated with clean energy studies and projects. The initiative also provides funding for school bus electrification studies to help public school districts plan for how to transition their fleets to zero-emission operation.
Up to 100% of the costs of eligible projects may be covered. Through the Clean Green Schools Initiative, NYSERDA can issue payment directly to service providers, forgoing the need to pay upfront for consultant services and wait for NYSERDA reimbursement.
The following resources provide a complete list of eligible activities along with definitions:
Additional resources can be found on the Clean Green Schools Initiative Documents and Resources page.
Who Can Apply
- All public school districts across New York State designated as underfunded high-needs by the New York State Education Department
or have at least one building located in a disadvantaged community. - See a list of eligible under-resourced school buildings [XLSX].
- For school bus clean transportation studies:
- Priority public school districts can also receive up to a 100% cost-share for fleet transition plans. See a list of Priority Districts here [PDF].
- Not on the list of underfunded schools eligible for the Clean Green Schools Initiative? NYSERDA can still help. All other P-12 Schools in New York State that pay into the System Benefits Charge (SBC) on their electric utility bill can apply for planning funding through the Flexible Technical Assistance (FlexTech) Program.
How to Apply
NYSERDA accepts Track I applications on a rolling basis. View the Program Opportunity Notice (PON 4924) for complete eligibility, application, consultant, and deliverable requirements. Schools, school districts, or authorized representatives may submit completed application packages to [email protected] through December 30, 2025, or until funds are fully committed.
Informational Webinar
Review the Q&A from the informational webinar of the Clean Green Schools Initiative (PON 4924) webinar hosted by NYSERDA on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at 12:00 PM (EST).
Clean Energy Educational and Professional Development Opportunities
Funding is available to applicants for workforce development services that engage students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding communities in clean energy educational opportunities. Schools can utilize existing tools and resources [XLSX] or apply to receive funding for a new or customized design effort.
Get Support
If you have questions about the program, eligibility, or the application process, e-mail us at [email protected].
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