The Washington State Department of Commerce hereafter called "COMMERCE,” is initiating this Request for Applications (RFA) to solicit proposals from those qualified and interested in grant funding for retrofitting existing facilities and related projects that achieve energy and operational cost savings. The Energy Retrofits and Solar Power for Public Buildings grants are open to local governments, public higher education institutions, school districts, federally recognized Tribal governments, and state agencies. Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5949 as Amended by the House in Section 1002, authorizes $14,500,000 for Energy Efficiency Grants in the 2023-25 Energy Retrofits and Solar Power for Public Buildings proviso.
The proviso provides for at least 20 percent of the funds awarded be designated for award to eligible projects in small cities or towns with a population of 5,000 or fewer residents. A higher energy savings to investment ratio must result in a higher project ranking. Priority consideration must be given to applicants that have not received grant awards for this purpose in prior biennia. Whenever possible and the most cost effective, projects should select the use of non-fossil fuel systems. 40% of the funds will be reserved for K-12 public school districts. School districts that submit a concept paper with estimated budget by the close of the initial application period, will have an additional 30 days to submit the full application. Concept papers must be reviewed and accepted by Commerce. Another primary objective of this funding is to support the retrofit of publicly owned buildings that are pursuing compliance with Washington’s Clean Buildings Performance Standard. Tier 1 buildings in this process will receive priority consideration. Priority will also be given to applicants with a developed community engagement plan for gauging community needs and impacts related to the proposed project. COMMERCE may award multiple contract(s) as a result of this RFA.
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