Development Announces $8.5 Million Available to Support Energy Efficiency Projects Across Ohio

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - The Ohio Department of Development today announced new round of grant funding is available to help support energy efficiency projects in communities across the state.

Applications will be accepted for the latest round of the Advanced Energy Fund, which is allocating a total of $8.5 million to help businesses, nonprofits, municipalities, educational institutions, and other entities complete energy efficiency projects designed to reduce costs and improve the lives of Ohioans.

The application period opens at 10 a.m. on Nov. 18 and runs through 4 p.m. on Feb. 17, 2025. Program guidelines and application instructions can be found on the program webpage.

"The Advanced Energy Fund is a clear demonstration of Ohio's forward-thinking approach to economic and environmental resilience," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. "When we invest in energy efficiency, we invest in lower operating costs, cleaner communities, and a stronger future for everyone across this great state."

The first two rounds of the program - announced May 8 and June 11 - provided a total of $8.5 million to 10 organizations across seven counties, including a $910,000 grant awarded to the Montgomery County Convention Facilities Authority as part of a larger, $45 million renovation project at the Dayton Convention Center and a $1.35 million award to help Mansfield Memorial Homes in Richland County update its HVAC and install solar power upgrades.

All projects selected for funding must show a reduction of at least 15 percent in utility energy usage and have a simple pay-back period of 15 years or less, ensuring a tangible and measurable impact on energy efficiency in their communities.

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio's people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.