How to Search for Funding Incentives in your Locality

In addition to state-level funding, many cities, counties, and regional governments offer incentives that prioritize sustainability or energy efficiency.

Below are a few tips when searching for these opportunities:

  • Most cities, especially mid-to-large ones, offer: small business energy rebates, electrification grants, and waste reduction programs

    • Search: [City] sustainability office commercial incentives

  • BIDs, Downtown Development Authorities (DDAs), and Urban Renewal Authorities often fund items such as building repairs, energy efficiency upgrades, and exterior improvements

    • Search: [City] BID grants OR [City] Downtown Development Authority incentives

  • Many local governments offer grants unrelated to sustainability but still useful for building upgrades

    • Search: [City] small business grants OR [County] business improvement program

Example Local-level Sustainability Incentives Available: Boulder

  • City of Boulder Solar Tax Rebate

    Description: This program offers a rebate of the city sales and use tax paid on expenses incurred during the solar panel installation process.

    Qualified Entities: Businesses that have installed solar electric or solar thermal systems on their property

    Funding Terms Overview: 15% of city sales and use tax paid on materials and permits for solar installation

    Website

  • Partners for a Clean Environment (PACE) - Business Sustainability Incentives

    Description: This program offers rebates to small businesses to complete eligible energy efficiency upgrades. This is a county-run program.

    Qualified Entities: Businesses that are located in Boulder County

    Funding Terms Overview: The amount of funding one may receive is variable, but there is a maximum of $50,000 that a single entity can qualify for in a given year

    Website

  • Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG)- Power Ahead Colorado

    Description: This is a grant program that assists businesses in transitioning to energy-efficient solutions.

    Qualified Entities: Businesses that are located in the front-range metro area

    Funding Terms Overview: The funding amount is variable. DRCOG was awarded a $199.7 million grant through the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Program in July 2024. As such, the status of these funds are dependent on the federal government’s cooperation.

    Website