BISMARCK – The North Dakota Department of Commerce has announced the opening of applications for the Energy Efficiency Community Block Grant Program. This initiative will allocate $1.6 million in grant funds from the U.S. Department of Energy to support energy efficiency projects in smaller communities and counties across the state, according to a news release.

“These grants will empower our smaller communities to invest in energy-efficient projects that provide long term savings for the taxpayers and improve quality of life for residents,” Commerce Community Development Director Maria Effertz said in the release.

Eligible Projects:

– Public Building Upgrades: Weatherization, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, and smart energy management systems.

– Street and Signal Light Replacement: Upgrades to LED lighting.

– EV Charging Stations: Installation in accessible community areas.

The program is open to the 43 counties and 356 cities in North Dakota that are not eligible for direct federal grants. Priority will be given to projects in disadvantaged areas, particularly in tribal regions.

Grants up to $65,000 will be available with a 20% match required. Applications can be submitted starting Nov. 1, with funding distributed quarterly beginning Jan. 1.