Massachusetts Awards $2.4 Million in Solar Grants to Nonprofits
The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has awarded 10 grants to nonprofit organizations across the state for increased rooftop solar power deployment. This marks the third round of grants under the department’s Leading the Solar Smart Program (LISSP).
The new grants total $2.4 million and will support the installation of solar systems with a combined capacity of 612.3 kW. These installations are expected to reduce the nonprofits’ electricity bills by 70% to 100%.
Details of the Third Round of LISSP Grants
“We are thrilled to award grants to this latest group of nonprofit organizations and add more than 600 kW of new solar energy to Massachusetts,” said Energy Resources Commissioner Elizabeth Mahony. “Together, these organizations will pay almost $275,000 less in electricity costs each year, providing more financial resources for their important missions. The solar systems LISSP enables benefit communities by helping local organizations reach more people, and with cleaner air and improved public health.”
Breakdown of Grant Recipients
- Allston Brighton CDC in Boston — $240,600 for a 70-kW solar system, cutting electricity costs by $25,000 annually. The CDC develops climate-ready affordable housing and supports economic wellbeing.
- Catholic Charities Diocese of Fall River — $234,100 for a 62.4-kW system, saving $27,200 per year. Provides essential living services.
- Charles River Center in Needham — $241,300 for a 44.1-kW system, estimated savings of $15,200 yearly. Supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Community Action Somerville — $136,200 for a 27.3-kW system, saving $6,000 per year. Helps families achieve financial security; also houses the Head Start program for early childhood support.
- Council of Social Concern in Woburn — $253,400 for a 46.3-kW system, cutting costs by $18,500 annually. Provides social and educational services and a food pantry.
- High Point Treatment Center in Brockton — $500,000 for a 220-kW system, estimated savings of $95,600 per year. Focuses on treating substance use and mental health disorders.
- Marion Institute in Marion — $135,700 for a 17.5-kW system, saving $5,000 yearly. Works to strengthen local food systems.
- Open Table in Maynard — $179,400 for a 55-kW system, saving $8,300 annually. Works to end hunger via mobile pantries.
- The Open Door Food Pantry in Gloucester — $361,200 for a 96-kW system, saving $36,800 per year. Serves 11 communities in northeast Essex County.
- Union Congregational Church in East Bridgewater — $137,400 for a 20-kW system, saving $37,000 yearly and covering 100% of electricity needs. Operates an emergency food pantry.
Impact on Communities and Environment
The grants enable these nonprofits to redirect significant funds from electricity bills to their core missions, while also contributing to cleaner air and improved public health. The previous round of grants was provided in January under the same LISSP program.