Solar on Public Buildings grant program

The Solar on Public Buildings grant program was available to local units of government and Tribal Nations statewide. $19 million in grant funding was available for eligible applicants to install solar energy generating systems up to 40 kW on publicly owned and operated buildings. Grant applications were accepted across four rounds in 2024 and 2025.

Grants were 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).

Questions and additional information  

For questions about the program, email SolarOnPublicBuildings.COMM@state.mn.us.