The City of Boulder is pleased to announce the conclusion of the Solar Grant Program spring 2016 cycle. The city awarded more than $40,000 to five different recipients to install solar PV or solar thermal systems. The grant recipients are: Community United Church of Christ (CUCC); Marpa House, which is part of the Boulder Shambhala Center; and three owners of affordable homes.

“Community United Church of Christ has a long-term goal of being a net zero energy and zero waste building. Throughout this grant process, we have educated our members on the positive benefits to the planet, as well as encouraging them to conduct energy audits and make changes at home,” said John Graham, member of CUCC’s Earth Action Team.

Grant awards and amounts were determined by the Solar Grant Committee, which is selected by city staff and comprised of community members with expertise in solar installations, policy and financing, nonprofit organizations and affordable housing programs.

“I am grateful and proud to serve on this committee, and to work with other passionate residents to support important renewable energy projects that benefit affordable housing and homeowners in our community,” said Kelly Simmons, an owner of a Boulder affordable homeowner and member of the Solar Grant Committee.

Since 2008, the Solar Grant Program has awarded more than $650,000 to 32 community nonprofits and 33 affordable homeowners. Making solar energy more affordable is part of the City of Boulder’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable electricity by 2030.

Boulder-based nonprofits, participants in affordable housing programs, residents who live in lower-income housing developed or owned by nonprofit organizations, and nonprofit organizations that lease city-owned facilities are eligible to apply for a solar grant. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for the upcoming grant cycle.

For more information, please visit City of Boulder, CO