~ Bloomington, IN - The City of Bloomington Department of Economic and Sustainable Development (ESD) has announced the expansion of its annual Solar, Energy Efficiency, & Lighting (SEEL) program. This year, the program will not only provide technical assistance and grant funding for small businesses but also for nonprofit organizations to install sustainable energy systems.

The SEEL program aims to promote energy efficiency and sustainability by providing financial support for solar system installations. Eligible small businesses can receive up to $25,000 in grant funding for solar installations, while eligible nonprofits can receive up to $45,000 for both solar installations and battery energy storage systems.

According to Jolie Perry, ESD Sustainability Program Coordinator, this expansion is a crucial step towards increasing resilience to climate change. "Pairing solar system installations with a battery energy storage system allows organizations to store low-cost solar energy and use it during periods of peak electricity use rates," she explained. This will not only help reduce electricity costs but also provide power during widespread outages, allowing nonprofits to continue providing essential services to the community.

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To participate in the program, small businesses must have fewer than 500 full-time employees and operate at least one facility within city limits. Nonprofits that do not own their facility can also apply with their property owner's permission.

Organizations selected for a solar system installation will receive a solar feasibility assessment from the City's SEEL program partner, Solar Energy Solutions. They will also receive a $25,000 grant for an 8 kW minimum solar system installation or addition to an existing one.

Applications for both solar and battery systems will be accepted on a rolling basis until all funding has been allocated. Any remaining project costs can be covered through a one-time payment or financed through low-interest loans from Clean Energy Credit Union or Hoosier Hills Credit Union. Additionally, there are other rebates and tax incentives available at the federal and state level.

Returning SEEL program participants are encouraged to apply, but they must have received their most recent grant at least 12 months prior. Since its inception, the SEEL program has helped 54 Bloomington businesses and community organizations to install solar systems and undertake energy efficiency upgrades.

For more information about the program, funding, and the application form, interested parties can visit bloomington.in.gov/sustainability/seel. Any questions can be directed to sustain@bloomington.in.gov.

To learn more about the City's ongoing sustainability and climate efforts, visit bloomington.in.gov/sustainability or the City's climate action dashboard at bloomington.climatenavhub.com.

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