Small Building Retuning Pilot Program

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) of the District of Columbia has released a Request for Applications (RFA) for the Small Building Retuning Pilot Program, under the RFA code RFA-FY25-DBD-875. The program is part of the District’s broader Clean Energy DC Plan and aligns with the upcoming expansion of the District’s Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS), which will apply to buildings between 25,000 and 50,000 square feet in 2027 and between 10,000 and 25,000 square feet in 2033. The funding for this program originates from the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant Program, with an Assistance Listing Number (ALN) of 81.128. The primary objective of this grant is to pilot and refine a scalable and cost-effective program that helps small buildings reduce energy consumption and comply with BEPS. The grantee will develop a program model that includes recruitment of at least ten eligible properties, execution of building retuning investigations, and implementation of energy conservation measures. The pilot will also include evaluation of building performance improvements, generation of policy recommendations, and submission of a final report with recommendations for future BEPS pathways for small buildings. Target buildings include affordable multifamily housing, houses of worship, and Class B and C commercial properties. The project is expected to improve energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and enhance indoor environmental quality for historically under-resourced buildings. The total amount available for this grant is $500,000, with funding disbursed primarily on a reimbursement basis. Some advance payments may be approved in limited situations. Grant funds can be used for a variety of eligible expenditures, including personnel, equipment rental, contractor services, communications, materials, small tools, and necessary travel. However, funds cannot be used for major equipment purchases, lobbying, entertainment, or land acquisition. The project period extends through August 1, 2026, and DOEE may extend this period based on grantee performance or funding availability. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations (including those with 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) designations), faith-based organizations, universities, educational institutions, private enterprises, and government agencies. Applications must be submitted through DOEE’s online Grants Management System by 11:59 p.m. on August 11, 2025. A pre-application information session will be held on July 23, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. via web and phone. Questions about the RFA can be submitted to 2025SmallBuildingRetuning.grants@dc.gov up to one week before the deadline. Evaluation of applications will be conducted by a review panel that scores proposals on ten criteria including the implementation plan, budget detail, outreach strategy, checklist development, and familiarity with the District’s energy standards. Deliverables include a comprehensive work plan, participant reports, energy savings documentation, and a final policy report. The grant process includes requirements for a Certificate of Good Standing, Clean Hands Certificate, IRS W-9, and documentation of nonprofit status if applicable. Financial documents, a separation of duties policy, and proof of SAM.gov registration are also required. Applicants are strongly encouraged to register early for the online submission system and to review all requirements listed in the RFA and appendices. Award notifications are expected within six to twelve weeks of the deadline. Further assistance and updates can be obtained by emailing the grant contact or visiting the DOEE’s grants webpage.

DOEE encourages early registration in the Grant Management System. Attend the pre-application session. Provide quantifiable outcomes and thorough budget justifications.