The Community Clean Energy Grant Program is a funding initiative spearheaded by San Diego Foundation (SDF), San Diego Community Power (Community Power), and Calpine Energy Solutions. The program aims to foster a just, equitable, and resilient transition to a greener economy in San Diego by supporting local clean energy projects. Through this grant, more than $600,000 will be distributed to new and ongoing initiatives that benefit the environment, economy, and public health. The primary goal of the program is to advance sustainable, clean energy practices in local communities by funding projects that promote energy literacy, improve air quality through electrification, offer workforce development, and enhance energy resilience.
The grant will provide financial assistance to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on initiatives that serve the communities served by Community Power. These include the cities of Chula Vista, Encinitas, Imperial Beach, La Mesa, National City, San Diego, and unincorporated areas of San Diego County. Projects must align with the clean energy objectives outlined by Community Power, specifically in areas such as energy literacy, energy resilience, and clean energy workforce development. Each organization is eligible to receive up to $125,000 in total funding for this cycle, which includes both lead applicant grants and funds received through partnerships.
Eligible projects must be related to clean energy and can include educational programs, workforce development, energy resilience, and initiatives that contribute to better air quality via electrification efforts. The funds awarded can be used for a wide range of project expenses, including personnel, supplies, equipment, capital purchases, administrative costs, and any necessary program costs. Grant funds must be expended within 24 months from the award date. However, the overall focus is on projects that benefit communities of concern, as defined by the California Climate Investments program, targeting disadvantaged and low-income communities.
The application process requires submission through SDF’s grants management system, Foundant. Applicants must create an account if they have not used the system before. Technical assistance will be provided via a grantseekers webinar, with additional support available by contacting SDF staff directly. The deadline for submission is March 14, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. PDT, with awards expected to be announced in early August 2025. As part of the evaluation, proposals will be reviewed based on alignment with funding priorities, program design, feasibility, the communities served, and the environmental impact of the project.
