Description

Note: Due to the short-lived application period of many solicitations (Requests For Proposals, or RFPs) offered under this program, interested parties are encouraged to access open RFPs directly at the MPSC Energy Efficiency Grant website. Proposals for the most recent RFP were due May 12, 2011.

The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) Energy Efficiency Grant program, funded by the state’s Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund, supports the implementation of energy efficiency projects and renewable energy projects in the state. The MPSC issues periodic RFPs in three categories: (1) energy efficiency for low-income clients, (2) energy financial assistance to low-income clients, and (3) energy efficiency for all customers. In addition to energy efficiency projects that reduce energy demand, previous grants have supported renewable energy project for solar, wind, anaerobic digesters, fuel cells and biofuel application.

Eligibility
Depending on the specifics of individual Request for Proposal (RFP), businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies and/or schools are eligible to apply. The PSC has emphasized that this program does not provide any direct funding to homeowners or renters. Interested applicants should review currently available requests for proposals to ensure they qualify before contacting the MPSC for additional information.

RFP Solicitation Examples
Recent RFP solicitations have addressed subjects such as the creation of an energy efficiency and renewable energy financing system; renewable energy investments and energy efficiency upgrades by non-profits, schools, and public agencies; offshore wind feasibility studies and testing; and market advancement of smart-grid energy storage technologies. Detailed RFP information on current and past solicitations is available on the MPSC Energy Efficiency Grant website.

Contact the PSC for more information on potential future grant funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Each RFP also contains contact information for that particular solicitation.