The Renew America’s Schools grant is the flagship funding opportunity of the Renew America’s Schools Program. This competitive award focuses on funding infrastructure upgrades at K–12 public school facilities, prioritizing high-need school communities. The first round of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) launched in November 2022, and the application period closed on April 21, 2023. 

Demand for this funding was unprecedented. Local Education Agencies (LEAs) from 48 states and two territories submitted over 1,000 concept papers, totaling nearly $5.5 billion in requests. After receiving feedback on their project proposals, 236 LEAs from 44 states submitted eligible full applications, with requests totaling $1.62 billion.   

In response to the high demand and overwhelming evidence of public need, the Department of Energy (DOE) more than doubled the funding for Round 1 of the competition from $80 million to $178 million. After extensive review of a highly competitive field, DOE identified 24 Selectees that demonstrated significant technical merit and responsiveness to the goals of the funding opportunity.   

Congratulations to our Selectees!

Map of Renew America's School's grant selectees

Renew America’s Schools Grant: Selected Local Education Agencies 

Selectee Fast Facts

Applications included an average of 3.75 types of improvements per applications. HVAC was included in 88% of the applications followed by lighting at 71% and envelope at 58%. 54% controls; 42% renewable-solar; 33% windows/doors; 13% AFV-infrastructure; 8% domestic hot water system; 4% power system; 4% AFV-purchase or lease. 15 projects note the transition to electrification for HVAC improvements
15 Selectees have schools located in a DAC, including 5 in tribal areas; 23 Selectees are Title 1 schools; 14 Selectees are in a Rural Locale; The Selectees have a combined Free & Reduced-Price Lunch average of 70%

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Last Milestone

The Department of Energy announced selections for Round 1 of the Renew America's Schools grant on June 29, 2023.  

Next Milestone

The Department of Energy anticipates releasing the second round of funding in Spring 2024.

Eligible projects

Eligible projects include energy infrastructure improvements that reduce building operating costs—like new HVAC and ventilation systems, building envelope and lighting projects, and renewable energy technologies. Funding is also available for alternative fueled vehicles and alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure.

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