The Clean Energy Grants program supports the deployment of clean energy technologies in Washington state while advancing equity, resilience and energy access. Program goals include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing access to reliable and affordable energy — especially for tribes, overburdened communities, and vulnerable populations — and aligning with state energy strategies. Clean Energy Grants began in 2024, when Energy Programs in Communities (EPIC) combined several funding streams to reduce barriers for applicants, maximize the construction timeline for clean energy projects, and enhance equitable outcomes.
Clean Energy Grants has two available funding opportunities:
The 2025 program includes funding from Clean Energy Fund, Clean Energy Community Grants, and Solar and Storage Grants. The Solar and Storage Grants funding source will support solar projects previously eligible for Solar plus Storage for Resilient Communities and Energy Retrofits for Public Buildings.
Commerce is prioritizing “construction-ready” projects that can start right away and finish by June 2027. Commerce is also prioritizing projects that deliver benefits to or conduct meaningful community engagement with vulnerable populations and overburdened communities, including tribes.
Technical assistance available
Applicants interested in solar and energy storage may apply for a no-cost feasibility study from Commerce. If the project is feasible and cost-effective, the grantee may be eligible for additional funding for construction without completing an additional application. Review the applicable Request for Applications (RFA) for more details.
Timeline
- September 18, 2025: Application opens
- September 18-October 24: Q&A period
- November 1, 2025: Applications due by 1 p.m.
- December 2025: Awards announced
- February 2026: Earliest contract start date