The Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources seeks applications from qualified Minnesota schools for the Solar for Schools Grant Program. Independent and Special School Districts, Tribal Contract Schools, Cooperative School Districts, and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities are eligible to apply for one or more grants valued up to 40-70% of the System’s purchase and installation cost. Each district or college/university is eligible for grants up to $500,000 if outside Xcel territory and $675,000 if inside Xcel.
Step 1: Notice of Intent: School Readiness Assessment (completed by the school)
- Application Open: Tuesday, July 01, 2025
- Application Due: Thursday, July 31, 2025
- School Readiness Eligibility Notification: by Friday, August 29, 2025
Step 2: Full Grant Application (completed in coordination with developer or electric utility)
- Application Open: Upon Notification
- Application Due: Friday, November 28, 2025