– K–12 Energy Efficiency Program (KTEP)
Can you apply?
This grant is for California public K-12 schools and school districts seeking funding for energy efficiency upgrades. Applicants can use funds for building retrofits, energy upgrades, and improvements to physical comfort and air quality. The program supports energy efficiency projects in existing school buildings funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Schools must be located in California. Public K-12 institutions are the primary eligible recipients. Private schools may need to verify eligibility with the California Energy Commission.
Eligible activities include energy audits, HVAC improvements, lighting upgrades, insulation, and other retrofits. Applicants should check the full PON for specific technical requirements and project scope limitations.
This grant is for California public K-12 schools and school districts seeking funding for energy efficiency upgrades. Applicants can use funds for building retrofits, energy upgrades, and improvements to physical comfort and air quality. The program supports energy efficiency projects in existing school buildings funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Schools must be located in California. Public K-12 institutions are the primary eligible recipients. Private schools may need to verify eligibility with the California Energy Commission.
Eligible activities include energy audits, HVAC improvements, lighting upgrades, insulation, and other retrofits. Applicants should check the full PON for specific technical requirements and project scope limitations.
Program description
Funds in this Program Opportunity Notice (PON) are made available by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also referred to as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), Pub. L. No. 117-58, enacted on November 15, 2021[1]. Section 40502 of BIL states the purpose of this provision is to establish revolving loan funds (RLF) under which states can provide loans and grants for energy upgrades and retrofits to increase the energy efficiency, physical comfort, and air quality of existing building infrastructure. Loan funds for this program are contingent upon United States Department of Energy (DOE) funding and terms may change. [1] Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for California public K-12 schools and school districts seeking funding for energy efficiency upgrades. Applicants can use funds for building retrofits, energy upgrades, and improvements to physical comfort and air quality. The program supports energy efficiency projects in existing school buildings funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Schools must be located in California. Public K-12 institutions are the primary eligible recipients. Private schools may need to verify eligibility with the California Energy Commission.
Eligible activities include energy audits, HVAC improvements, lighting upgrades, insulation, and other retrofits. Applicants should check the full PON for specific technical requirements and project scope limitations.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Program application form (per PON-24-002 instructions)
- Energy audit or assessment report
- Project description and scope of work
- Budget and cost estimate
- Evidence of school district authorization or board approval
- Supporting technical documentation as specified in PON
Program contact
- 📧 marissa.sutton@energy.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-237-2515
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | — | — | — |
| 2025-2026 | — | — | — |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
California public K-12 schools and school districts are eligible. Private schools should verify eligibility with the California Energy Commission.
Is there a cost-sharing requirement?
No, cost sharing is not required for this program.
What types of projects are funded?
Energy efficiency upgrades to existing school buildings, including HVAC, lighting, insulation, and other retrofits that improve energy efficiency and air quality.
When is the application deadline?
The program operates on a rolling basis. Check the California Energy Commission website for current application windows and deadlines.
How much funding can schools receive?
Award amounts are not specified in the PON. Contact the California Energy Commission for information on typical funding ranges and project caps.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Contact the California Energy Commission early to understand current application windows and any recent program updates or guidance.
- Conduct a thorough energy audit before applying to identify high-impact, cost-effective retrofits with strong returns.
- Include clear data on how projects will reduce energy costs, improve student comfort, and enhance air quality.
- Coordinate with your district's capital planning and energy management teams to align projects with existing priorities.
- Budget sufficient time for completing required technical documentation and engineering assessments that funders typically require.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Overlooking air quality and comfort as key funding drivers alongside energy savings. Submitting vague or unsupported project scope without detailed energy audits or technical assessments. Failing to clearly demonstrate project readiness and realistic timelines for implementation.
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