Public Building Electrification Grant

The Public Building Electrification Grant (PBEG) Program, managed by the Colorado Energy Office (CEO), was established under HB 22-1362 to support greenhouse gas emissions reductions from public buildings throughout the state. This reimbursement grant is part of Colorado’s strategy to promote beneficial electrification by transitioning fossil fuel-dependent building systems such as HVAC, water heating, and cooking appliances to high-efficiency electric alternatives. PBEG targets public institutions and aims to alleviate the financial and technical barriers that hinder energy upgrades in aging and high-cost public facilities, particularly in Disproportionately Impacted, Low-Income, and Just Transition (DI/LI/JT) communities. Two types of grants are offered: the Planning and Implementation Grant, and the Implementation Only Grant. The Planning and Implementation Grant supports both the evaluation of electrification opportunities and the execution of projects. Planning funding is available for energy audits (ASHRAE Level II or equivalent), with up to $8,000 or 50% of audit costs covered for standard applicants and up to $12,000 or 75% for DI/LI/JT communities. Upon completion of the planning phase and submission of audit results, applicants become eligible for implementation funding. The Implementation Only Grant is intended for applicants who have already completed energy audits and are ready to begin installations. Both grant types allow for the reimbursement of up to 75% of project costs, with a 25% minimum community match required unless financial hardship can be demonstrated. Eligible applicants include public institutions such as local governments, school districts, state agencies, special districts, tribal governments, and public institutions of higher education. DI/LI/JT community applicants are strongly encouraged to apply and may be eligible for additional administrative cost coverage and match credit. In-kind contributions and other rebates or incentives may count toward the required match. Projects that provide more than the required 25% community match will receive higher evaluation scores. CEO also offers free electrification training, with completion contributing an additional 5% toward the community match requirement. Applications must be submitted online during announced funding rounds, and the CEO will notify applicants of decisions within four weeks. The program will continue accepting applications until funds are depleted or until the program’s expiration on July 1, 2026. The total program budget is $10 million, funded through the Clean Air Buildings Investments Fund. All projects must be completed within 12 months of award agreement execution, and extensions may be granted for valid reasons such as supply chain delays. Energy use data may be requested for up to five years after project completion. The grant evaluation process is handled by the PBEG Review Committee, which scores applications based on need, community benefits, energy efficiency improvements, local effort, and project readiness. For DI/LI/JT applicants, additional support and technical assistance are available upon request. Application questions vary by grant type and may include detailed descriptions of energy systems, project co-benefits, cost estimates, timelines, team composition, and proposed electric equipment specifications. Resources such as community identification tools, budgeting forms, and training schedules are accessible on the program’s website. For more information or technical assistance, applicants may contact Brittney VanCuran at brittney.vancuran@state.co.us. All required documentation must be submitted as specified on the CEO’s PBEG Program webpage. Any work performed or costs incurred prior to award notification and contract execution is not eligible for reimbursement.