Solar on Public Buildings Program

The Minnesota Statewide Solar on Public Buildings Program is administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce and is designed to accelerate the installation of solar energy systems on public buildings throughout the state. This initiative is part of a broader legislative effort passed in 2023 under Minnesota Statute § 216C.377 to support local governments and federally recognized Tribal Nations in enhancing their renewable energy capabilities. By facilitating solar infrastructure on publicly owned and operated buildings, the program aims to reduce energy costs, promote sustainability, and support clean energy goals statewide. The program has a total funding pool of $14.5 million and is open to applicants statewide, regardless of their utility provider. Grant funds will cover up to 70% of the cost for installing solar systems either on or adjacent to eligible public buildings. Projects must not exceed 40 kilowatts in capacity and must remain within 120% of the building’s annual energy consumption. When combined with the federal Direct Pay tax credit, grantees may be able to fully fund their installations. The funding mechanism is structured to ensure that selected applicants apply for the 48E Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit to cover remaining costs. Eligible applicants include local units of government such as counties, cities (both statutory and home rule charter), towns, and other local jurisdictions in Minnesota. Federally recognized Tribal Nations in Minnesota are also eligible. However, school districts that qualify for support under the Solar for Schools program (Minn. Stat. § 216C.375) are excluded from this opportunity. Projects must be tied to buildings that are both owned and operated by the applicant and must be sited to ensure effective solar exposure. Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed in the order they are received. The application window will remain open until November 14, 2025, or until all available funds have been committed—whichever comes first. While there is no formal pre-application requirement, early engagement is encouraged. The Minnesota Department of Commerce anticipates responding to applicants within approximately two weeks of submission. All submissions must be made through a single responder user account via the state's grant portal, as outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP). Technical assistance and support are available to potential applicants through the Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs). CERTs can help with identifying eligible buildings, beginning the procurement process, and contacting utility companies regarding interconnection. Applicants are also advised to consult with CERTs to ensure the solar installation aligns with technical feasibility and site requirements. Those outside the 11-county metro region can contact Pete Lindstrom at plindstr@umn.edu, while metro-area applicants should reach out to Aaron Backs at abacks@gpisd.net. For assistance in claiming the Direct Pay tax credit, applicants may contact the State of Minnesota’s support contractor at StateofMNIRATaxComplianceSupport@deloitte.com. Questions regarding the grant program and application process should be directed to Energy.Contracts@state.mn.us. Answers will be compiled weekly into a program FAQ, available on the Solar on Public Buildings webpage. This solicitation does not obligate the state to make awards and reserves the right to cancel at any time. All expenses related to proposal preparation are the responsibility of the responder.

Applicants are advised to consult CERTs for help with technical planning, solar siting, installer procurement, and utility interconnection.