The deferred maintenance crisis facing public K-12 schools is well documented. Now the federal government is awarding grants to select districts that address some of the most pressing energy-related needs in schools across the country.
The U.S. Department of Energy recently announced the first round of selectees for the Renew America’s Schools grant program, a competitive award that will support the implementation of energy improvements in K–12 schools across the country. Twenty-four local education agencies (LEA) in 22 states will share in approximately $178 million of funding, enabling them to pursue projects to lower energy costs, lower emissions and create healthier, safer and more supportive learning environments in their schools. This investment will directly benefit about 74,000 students and 5,000 teachers in 97 school buildings across America.
Most LEAs plan to upgrade their HVAC systems (88 percent), lighting (71 percent), and building envelopes (58 percent), and 54 percent plan to update or install controls. Many LEAs are installing innovative technology packages, including solar panels and batteries (42 percent), and alternative-fuel vehicle infrastructure (13 percent). Many are collaborating with partners such as energy service companies, unions, utilities, and higher education institutions to bring these projects to fruition.
The Renew America’s Schools grant is part of the $500 million Renew America’s Schools program, funded by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. For more information about the Renew America’s Schools Program or Round 1 selectees, email schools@doe.gov. DOE anticipates releasing a second round of funding in spring 2024.
Dan Hounsell is senior editor of the facilities market. He has more than 30 years of experience writing about facilities maintenance, engineering and management.
