Solar Pipeline Training Program

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced the FY25 Solar Pipeline Training Program funding opportunity under the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA). This initiative, supported by the state and authorized through legislation such as the Illinois Power Agency Act and the Public Utilities Act, seeks to advance workforce development in the solar energy sector. With a total fund of $3 million available, this program builds upon the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) to stimulate clean energy job growth and ensure equitable access to solar workforce training throughout Illinois. The program is designed to support underserved communities and individuals with barriers to employment, including those from equity investment eligible communities, foster care system graduates or enrollees, and individuals with criminal records. The training programs must focus on solar energy and prepare participants through bridge programs and job-specific solar photovoltaic training. A goal of the program is that at least 50% of participants come from environmental justice communities. Eligible training programs should lead to certifications or apprenticeship placements and may offer stipends to participants to ensure retention and participation. Applicants must be Illinois-based organizations with a successful track record in job training. Proposals should demonstrate a commitment to serving targeted populations within the same communities where the training is delivered. The training design must integrate the Clean Jobs Curriculum Framework and include contextualized instruction, soft and technical skill development, and work-based learning experiences. Grantees must also commit to post-training transition services, performance tracking, and coordination with state programs such as the Energy Transition Navigators and CEJA-related workforce programs. Applications are open from May 1, 2025, through July 1, 2025, and require submission of several components including a Formatted Grant Technical Application, project work plan with specific attachments, budget documents, and a staffing plan. A non-mandatory technical assistance webinar is scheduled for May 15, 2025. Grantees will be selected based on merit review criteria that assess program capacity, need, quality, and cost-effectiveness, with particular weight given to applicant qualifications and integration of equity values. The anticipated award announcement is expected by August 1, 2025, with grant implementation beginning on September 1, 2025. The grant term extends through August 31, 2027, with the possibility of a 12-month no-cost extension. The grant does not require matching funds, but leveraging additional funding will be viewed favorably during review. Indirect costs are permitted, and applicants may select or negotiate an appropriate rate under Illinois’ guidelines. Inquiries about the program may be directed to John Barr at john.w.barr@illinois.gov. Technical questions related to the application may also be addressed to Diana Fuller at Diana.Fuller@Illinois.gov. Detailed program guidelines, FAQs, and application instructions are available at https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/2750-2996.html.

Leverage additional funding if possible, align curriculum with Clean Jobs Curriculum Framework, ensure community-based service alignment, include partnership agreements.