Community Renewable Energy Grant

The Community Renewable Energy Grant Program is administered by the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) and was established under House Bill 2021 to support the development of community-based renewable energy and resilience projects across the state. The program is designed to provide financial assistance for both planning and construction activities that increase access to renewable energy, improve energy resilience, and deliver economic and environmental benefits to Oregon communities. This specific opportunity announcement focuses on planning grants for projects that qualify as community renewable energy systems and also meet the criteria for community energy resilience. The primary objective of the program is to offset the costs associated with planning renewable energy systems, making such projects more economically feasible, particularly for qualifying communities. These communities include those that have been historically underserved or disproportionately affected by environmental and economic challenges, such as communities of color, rural areas, tribal communities, and lower-income populations. The program also aims to promote small-scale renewable energy systems and support outcomes such as job creation, economic development, and reduced energy costs for families and small businesses. Funding under this opportunity supports planning activities only, with a maximum award of up to 100,000 dollars covering up to 100 percent of eligible planning costs. Eligible expenses include consulting fees, engineering and design work, load analysis, siting studies, interconnection and transmission studies, and other preparatory activities necessary to develop a viable renewable energy project proposal. The grant operates on a reimbursable basis, although up to 30 percent of funds may be provided in advance. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to finance the full project through completion, as final reimbursement is contingent upon successful completion and reporting. Eligible applicants include federally recognized tribes in Oregon, public bodies such as counties and municipalities, and consumer-owned utilities. Applicants may partner with nonprofit organizations, private businesses, federal agencies, or property owners to strengthen project proposals. Projects must be located in Oregon and outside cities with populations exceeding 500,000. Eligible technologies include a wide range of renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and hydroelectric, as well as energy storage, microgrids, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure when paired with renewable generation. The application process requires submission through an online portal and includes detailed documentation such as project descriptions, stakeholder engagement evidence, technical feasibility information, and a comprehensive planning schedule. Applicants must also provide documentation of consultation with community stakeholders and local electric utilities. A complete application must include authorization from governing bodies and detailed budget information. Applications are evaluated first for completeness and eligibility, followed by a competitive review process based on criteria such as project strength, resilience impact, equity considerations, and economic benefits. Evaluation criteria emphasize both technical and community-focused outcomes. Projects are scored based on team qualifications, feasibility, financial readiness, and resilience benefits, as well as equity metrics such as engagement with environmental justice communities and inclusion of disadvantaged businesses. Additional scoring factors include job creation, economic development, and alignment with hazard mitigation plans. Successful applicants may receive a performance agreement outlining reporting requirements and timelines, typically requiring completion of planning activities within six months. The program is currently not accepting applications, but it operates in recurring funding rounds. Applicants are encouraged to monitor the program website for future opportunity announcements. ODOE provides ongoing support through FAQs, webinars, and technical guidance documents. Questions can be directed to the program via email or phone, and all applications and awards are subject to public disclosure under Oregon law.

Emphasize community resilience and equity impacts demonstrate strong stakeholder engagement and utility coordination provide clear financing pathway and detailed planning schedule