Established by the State Legislature in 2021, the Solar for Schools Grant Program is designed to stimulate the installation of solar energy systems on Minnesota schools, while using the opportunity to incorporate renewable energy use into school curriculum. As of May 2023, K-12 schools (Independent, Special, and Cooperative Districts), Tribal Contract Schools, as well as MN State Colleges and Universities are eligible to apply for grants through the program.
The application process consists of obtaining a Project ID from Commerce, submitting a School Readiness Assessment which will demonstrate a school’s readiness to apply for grant funds — download our checklist [PDF] to prepare for the assessment.
Those schools deemed ready will be invited to complete a Full Grant Application.
2026 Funding Round 1
- Readiness Assessment: January 2026
- Full Grant Application: June 1, 2026
For information pertaining to application deadlines or eligibility, to learn more about the program, or to apply for a grant visit the Solar for Schools Grant Program.
For questions, contact Peter Lindstrom at plindstr@umn.edu and learn more at CERTs Solar for Schools page.