Solar on Public Buildings grant program
The Solar on Public Buildings grant program is available to local units of government and Tribal Nations. Nearly $19 million in grant funding has been awarded to eligible applicants to install solar energy generating systems up to 40 kW on publicly owned and operated buildings.
RFP is now live and available online for Round 5 of the Solar on Public Buildings grant program. This round is limited to projects in Xcel Energy’s electric service territory. Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2026.
Grants are awarded for up to 70% of the project costs for a solar array that is built on or adjacent to a public building and is the lesser of 40 kW system capacity or 120% of the building’s annual electricity consumption. Grants combined with the Federal Direct Pay tax credit may cover up to 100% of the cost of the system. Please visit the Commerce Direct Pay resources for assistance opportunities.
Eligible applicants for this grant program included county, statutory or home rule charter city, town, or other local government jurisdiction, excluding a school district eligible to receive financial assistance under section 216C.375; or a federally recognized Indian Tribe in Minnesota. (Minn. Stat. § 216C.377, subd. 1).
Get started today!
1. Set up a free consultation with the Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) Representative for unbiased advice and technical assistance:
a. 11 county metro: Aaron Backs abacks@gpisd.net
b. Greater Minnesota/outside of metro: Pete Lindstrom plindstr@umn.edu
2. Identify your eligible building:
a. Owned and operated by the local government unit
b. A building or adjacent land equipped to hold a solar array and receive
ample sunlight
3. Start the procurement process to find a solar installer (CERTs can assist with this).
Questions and additional information
For questions about the application process, email Energy.Contracts@state.mn.us. All questions will be answered in the Solar on Public Buildings FAQ and updated weekly on this page.
Solar on Public Buildings Round 5 FAQ - updated April 30, 2026.