Green Homes and Businesses Grant

The Green Homes and Businesses Grant is a funding initiative managed by the City of Takoma Park aimed at advancing residential and commercial energy efficiency, sustainability upgrades, and climate-conscious infrastructure improvements within the city limits. Administered by the Department of Public Works' Sustainability division, the program supports the city's broader climate and sustainability objectives while helping property owners reduce utility costs, improve indoor air quality, and enhance comfort. This grant is structured as a non-repayable award and is available to both individual residents and businesses, including nonprofits and community organizations. Homeowners, tenants, and condo owners are eligible under the residential track, while businesses and property owners with storefronts or office space in Takoma Park may apply under the commercial track. For the 2026 cycle, applications are open from February 23 to April 26, 2026. Residential grants range from $5,000 to $15,000 and are awarded based on household income levels. Tier 1 applicants—those earning up to 65% of area median income (AMI)—can apply for up to $15,000, with the possibility of full project cost coverage. Tier 2 applicants, earning up to 100% AMI, may receive up to $10,000 with a cap at 60% of the project cost. Those above the AMI or not providing income verification can apply for up to $5,000, covering no more than 20% of the project cost. Businesses and community organizations may apply for up to $30,000 per project. While no cost match is required, applicants proposing higher-budget projects exceeding $30,000 must explain how the additional costs will be funded. Partial awards are possible depending on project type and available budget. Eligible projects include electrification upgrades, high-efficiency appliances, rooftop solar panel installation, EV charging stations, battery systems, and targeted weatherization efforts like insulation and window replacement. For Tier 1 income applicants only, additional supports such as electric bicycles, portable induction cooktops, and home repair-related weatherization are also eligible. ASHRAE Level 2 or 3 energy audits can be included with other projects. Certain uses are explicitly excluded: fossil-fuel appliances, electric vehicles, landscaping features like rain gardens, and operating costs are not permitted under this grant. All projects must be new or less than 50% complete to qualify and must be completed by June 30, 2027. Applications must be submitted online through the Foundant portal. Applicants proposing multiple projects must submit each as a separate application and include a ranking letter. A vendor registration form is required for those selecting direct contractor payment. Grantees must subscribe to 100% green electricity for at least 24 months post-award and must also pursue all available rebates and incentives from other programs like Pepco, EmPower Maryland, and Montgomery County Green Bank before the City releases grant funds. The city will not support projects resulting in net negative costs after rebate stacking. The evaluation process begins immediately after the April 26 deadline, with award decisions released by June 1, 2026. Questions about eligibility or application procedures may be directed to Sustainability Manager Dorothy Estrada via email at [email protected] or by phone at 301-891-7623. A public informational webinar was held on February 9, 2026, to assist applicants, and resources such as application checklists and guides are available on the grant webpage. The grant is expected to recur annually.

Apply early to allow time for income documentation and contractor estimates. Ensure all rebates are applied to avoid negative project cost.