The Energy Efficiency Trust Fund Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Energy, provides funding to reduce energy demand for Illinois residential electric customers. The program focuses specifically on properties where residents receive housing assistance, helping improve comfort, lower utility bills, and support long-term energy savings in affordable housing.
Funding is available to public housing authorities, units of local government (municipalities, counties, and townships), and nonprofit organizations that manage residential properties in Illinois. Eligible projects must benefit residents participating in federal, state, or local public housing programs, housing choice vouchers, rental assistance, or other subsidized housing programs. Each funded project may address up to 20 dwelling units at a given location.
Projects must be based on an energy efficiency assessment conducted by a qualified third-party within the last five years. Only upgrades identified in that assessment are eligible. Typical measures include building envelope insulation, window replacement, heating and cooling equipment retrofits, distribution system improvements, domestic hot water upgrades, lighting improvements, high-efficiency appliance replacement, and installation of programmable thermostats. All applicable equipment and materials are expected to meet ENERGY STAR criteria at the time of installation.
The program offers grants ranging from $25,000 to $500,000, with a required cost share that scales with project size: 2% for smaller projects, 5% for mid-sized awards, and 10% for the largest awards. Eligible costs include equipment, labor, services, and contractual expenses directly tied to the approved scope of work. Administrative and indirect costs are not allowable. Grantees are reimbursed based on detailed invoices, and projects are generally expected to be completed within 12 months of grant agreement execution.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are exhausted or March 1, 2025, whichever occurs first. A complete application includes the GATA Uniform Application and Budget, a narrative project plan, a qualifying energy efficiency assessment, and required risk and disclosure forms. Successful applicants enter into a grant agreement with Illinois EPA and must submit regular performance and financial reports documenting the progress, energy savings, and benefits delivered to residents.
