~ Bloomington, IN - The City of Bloomington has announced that it is now accepting applications for the 2026 Solar, Energy Efficiency, & Lighting (SEEL) Grant Program. This program aims to provide technical assistance and up to $25,000 in grant funding to local small businesses and nonprofits for the purpose of improving building efficiency, installing solar panels, or implementing battery storage systems.

The SEEL Grant Program is designed to benefit local organizations by increasing the accessibility of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technology, while also reducing operating costs through energy savings. Eligible participants include nonprofit organizations, schools, early childhood centers, healthcare facilities, grocery stores, multifamily residential complexes, and small businesses with fewer than 500 full-time employees that own a facility within city limits. Even organizations that rent their facilities are eligible to participate with a documented agreement from the property owner.

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Projects that qualify for funding include solar panel installations, battery storage systems, LED lighting upgrades, energy-efficient HVAC system upgrades such as heat pumps and weatherization measures like cool roofs and window replacements. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all funding has been allocated.

In cases where the grant amount does not cover the full project cost, organizations can cover the remaining expenses themselves or opt for low-interest loans or flexible-term financing options from IFF, Hoosier Hills Credit Union or CDFI Friendly Bloomington. Previous recipients of SEEL grants are also encouraged to reapply but must have received their last grant at least 12 months prior.

Since its launch in 2021, the City of Bloomington has awarded a total of 67 grants amounting to $1.27 million in local investment through the SEEL program. These grants have supported the installation of 435.24 kW in solar capacity over the last five years. This program is a crucial step towards achieving Bloomington's goal of becoming a net-zero community by 2050, as outlined in the City's 2021 Climate Action Plan. SEEL also aligns with the City's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the built environment sector, which is currently the largest source of emissions in Bloomington according to the 2023 Community-Wide and Municipal Operations Greenhouse Gas Inventory, available at bloomington.in.gov/sustainability/greenhouse-gas-inventory.

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Interested parties can find more information about the program and access the application form at bloomington.in.gov/sustainability/seel. For any questions about the program, individuals can contact 812-349-3418.

To learn more about the SEEL grant, a webinar will be hosted by the City of Bloomington on Thursday, March 26 from 12-1pm. The target audience for this webinar includes prospective applicants or community organizations that work with nonprofits and small businesses. Registration for the SEEL informational webinar can be done through a link on bloomington.in.gov/sustainability/seel.

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