Today, energy is more unaffordable than ever. Energy burden, the percent of income spent on utility bills, is 86% higher in Philadelphia than the national average of 3%, and some neighborhoods spend over 20% of their income on energy bills. Investing in energy efficiency and building electrification (switching gas-powered appliances to electric ones) is critical for reducing emissions that drive climate change, and energy burden.
As part of many other efforts to respond to this challenge, the Office of Sustainability is launching the Energy Efficiency Micro-Grant Program to fund community-based organizations up to $2000 to implement low-cost energy efficiency measures either in their buildings, or to provide energy efficiency resources to their constituents. This initiative is supported and administered by the Philadelphia City Fund, a nonprofit organization supporting programs and initiatives that improve the quality of lives for Philadelphians. All selected grantees will receive grant funding directly from the Mayor’s Fund.
Energy efficiency measures that are eligible for grant funds may include building improvements such as air sealing, weatherization, switching gas-powered appliances to electric ones or LED lighting conversion; applicants may opt to use the funds to provide their community with resources such as weatherization kits, LED light bulbs, or support accessing affordable home appliances such as window air conditioners or more efficient appliances.
Do you represent a community-based nonprofit organization interested in the energy efficiency micro-grant?
Before applying, read the following:
· Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in Philadelphia and serving the Philadelphia community. Priority will be given to organizations with annual budgets under $250,000 who serve historically marginalized communities with a significant number of households at or below 80% AMI.
· Stay alert for news about your application. Be prepared to sign a grant agreement and complete a W9 and an ACH electronic payment form, which will be provided to you, if selected for the grant.
· This application will be open for two weeks and will close on February 17th, 2023.
