New Energy Efficiency Grants Opening in Ohio This Fall

Now is the time to prepare.

If your business, school, or government facility is planning a project, two major funding opportunities are expected to open this fall through the Ohio Department of Development. At Viridi, we’ve helped clients secure millions in energy efficiency grants, and we’re ready to do it again.

Here’s what’s coming:

1. Ohio Energy Efficiency Program

This federally funded grant supports basic energy-saving improvements and is designed to move quickly.

  • Grant awards: $100,000 to $200,000

  • Eligible costs: Materials only (no labor)

  • Requirements:

    • Projects must demonstrate at least 15% utility energy savings

    • A Level II ASHRAE audit completed within the last two years

    • Must meet Federal prevailing wage and Build America Buy America standards

  • Application type: First-come, first-served — early submission is key

2. Advanced Energy Fund (AEF)

The AEF grant is competitive but provides larger funding for more comprehensive upgrades.

  • Grant awards: $250,000 to $2.5 million

  • Eligible costs: Materials and labor

  • Requirements:

    • At least 15% utility energy savings

    • A Level II ASHRAE audit completed within the last two years

    • Must comply with State prevailing wage and Ohio-sourced materials where applicable

  • Application type: Competitive scoring — strong projects have a higher chance of success

Is Your Facility a Good Fit?

Both grants are open to a wide range of applicants, including:

  • Manufacturers

  • Local governments

  • Schools and universities

  • Nonprofits

  • Commercial and institutional building owners

If you’ve completed a qualifying audit or are planning a project that could meet the requirements, this is your opportunity to offset major upgrade costs with public funding.

How Viridi Can Help

Navigating federal and state energy grants can be time-consuming, but we’ve done it many times before. From audit coordination to application submission, our team is ready to help you position your project for funding success.

  • Audit support
  • Eligibility review
  • Application prep and submission
  • Ongoing compliance guidance

Don’t Wait — Get Started Today

These grant programs will be competitive and, in some cases, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Starting early is essential.

Contact us today to discuss your project’s eligibility and take the first step toward securing grant funding this fall.

📩 Email Claire Wilson at claire@viridi.eco