NYSERDA offers funding opportunities for schools to implement construction projects that reduce the carbon emissions in their building portfolio through Track II of the Clean Green Schools Initiative.
Eligible projects may include comprehensive retrofits that reduce energy consumption and overall building load, electrification readiness projects, and the conversion of central heating/cooling plants to clean energy technologies such as heat pumps. Track II awardees from the initial funding round are expected to save a combined 1,000 metric tons of carbon annually through their facility retrofits.
How It Works
Track II project costs are up to 100% funded, with a maximum possible funding amount of $5,030,000 per building and $10,100,000 for multiple buildings. Applicants must highlight carbon reduction, resulting improved indoor air quality, and a path towards decarbonization. The application process for funding is competitive, and applications must be submitted by the deadlines listed below.
Track II eligible activities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Clean Heating and Cooling Projects
- Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP)
- Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP)
- Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF)
- Capital Projects to Move Towards Decarbonization
- Comprehensive retrofits that impact energy consumption and overall building load
- Electrification of building systems (e.g., kitchen equipment & domestic hot water heaters)
- Building electrification readiness projects:
- High performance building envelope (e.g., air sealing, insulation, window film)
- Heating/cooling projects
- Conversion of distribution systems (e.g., steam to hot water) to support potential future electrification
Track II additional resources can be found on the Clean Green Schools Initiative Documents and Resources page.
Eligibility
All public school districts across New York State designated as underfunded high-needs by the New York State Education Department, or school buildings which are located in a disadvantaged community, meet the eligibility requirements. Paying the System Benefit Charge (SBC) contribution is not required for participation in this program.
See a list of eligible under-resourced school buildings [XLSX] and the Program Opportunity Notice (PON 4924) 
for complete eligibility, application, consultant, and deliverable requirements.
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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