Ohio Energy Efficiency Program (OEEP) – Implementation Funds

The Ohio Energy Efficiency Program is administered by the Ohio Department of Development as part of the State Energy Program, which connects businesses and communities to financial and technical resources aimed at reducing energy consumption and operational costs. The program is designed to support energy efficiency improvements across a wide range of eligible entities, including manufacturers, non-manufacturers, nonprofits, school districts, colleges and universities, and local governments operating within the state of Ohio. Through this initiative, the Department advances its broader mission of promoting economic development, environmental sustainability, and job retention or creation through strategic energy investments. The primary purpose of the program is to fund the implementation of energy efficiency retrofits in existing buildings and facilities. These retrofits must be supported by an ASHRAE Level II energy audit conducted within the previous two years and must demonstrate at least a 15 percent reduction in utility energy usage. Additionally, proposed measures must have a simple payback period of no more than 15 years based solely on projected energy savings. The program prioritizes projects that deliver measurable cost savings and environmental benefits while aligning with federal and state compliance requirements. Funding under the program is limited to specific allowable uses. Grant funds may only be applied toward the purchase and installation of qualifying energy efficiency materials such as insulation, lighting systems, sensors, thermostats, windows, doors, and other building-related components. The program explicitly prohibits the use of funds for personnel, consultants, energy audits, travel, equipment classified as high-cost tangible property, or overhead expenses. Furthermore, projects must not involve new construction, expansions, or research and development activities, ensuring that all funded efforts directly improve existing infrastructure. Eligible applicants must meet several criteria to participate. All applicants must be registered with the Ohio Secretary of State and maintain good standing throughout the grant period. Applicants must either own the project site or hold a long-term lease agreement. In addition, all required documentation must be submitted, including a certified ASHRAE Level II audit, a technical energy audit summary table, engineer certification, and relevant compliance documentation such as permits and certifications. While matching funds are encouraged to strengthen applications, they are not required. The application process requires applicants to access the program through the State of Ohio’s OHID system, where they must create or log into an account to submit materials. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until available funding is depleted. Each application must include detailed project descriptions, cost breakdowns, projected savings, and supporting documentation. The Department evaluates applications based on criteria such as energy savings, project readiness, environmental impact, and supporting documentation, with a structured scoring system used to guide award decisions. The program timeline is tied to funding availability rather than a fixed deadline, making it a rolling opportunity. However, all funded projects must be completed by July 31, 2025, and applicants are required to submit reimbursement requests within 45 days of project completion. Successful applicants must also comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly progress reports and long-term record retention obligations. The Department reserves the right to amend or discontinue the program and to request additional information during the review process. Overall, the Ohio Energy Efficiency Program represents a targeted effort to incentivize energy-saving upgrades across Ohio’s public and private sectors. By focusing on measurable outcomes, strict eligibility requirements, and clearly defined allowable costs, the program ensures that public funds are used effectively to reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and support sustainable economic growth throughout the state.

Ensure audit clearly demonstrates at least 15 percent energy reduction and under 15 year payback; prioritize project readiness and complete documentation; include strong cost estimates and compliance documentation