SAINT PAUL, MN: The Minnesota Department of Commerce has awarded $15 million in clean energy grants through the latest round of the State Competitiveness Fund (SCF) Matching Funds Program.  

The grants will help Minnesota electric cooperatives, businesses, nonprofits, Tribal governments, and other organizations meet cost-share requirements for federal awards. By offsetting these costs, the program reduces financial barriers and supports clean energy resources across the state. This marks the fourth round of SCF Matching Funds awarded by Commerce. The $15 million in SCF Matching Funds are from the State of Minnesota and pair with federal funds in an effort to support clean energy goals.  

“To date, more than $20 million in SCF Matching Funds and $135 million in federal funding has been put toward clean energy projects in Minnesota,” said Pete Wyckoff, deputy commissioner of energy resources. “These investments are critical for achieving Minnesota’s 100% clean energy by 2040 goal. We are proud to support efforts that lower energy costs, modernize energy infrastructure and accelerate the adoption of advanced energy systems.” Commerce is monitoring future federal policy updates and changes. There are concerns that the federal government's new energy priorities may increase Minnesota state costs and hinder our ability to meet our climate goals. 

The Minnesota legislature established the SCF Matching Funds Program in 2023 to help Minnesota applicants become more competitive for federal energy funding. Matching funds help cover costs that Minnesota entities would be required to cover as part of their federal award. These state resources further incentivize Minnesotans to pursue clean energy projects. 

With this latest round, more than $69 million in SCF Matching Funds have been reserved for 75 projects. Awards average $800,000, with individual grants ranging from $29,000 to $10 million. The application for the next SCF Matching Fund round will open soon. 

For updates and program details, visit the Minnesota Department of Commerce website. 

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Contact
Minnesota Department of Commerce
news.commerce@state.mn.us