The Illinois Finance Authority (IFA), in its capacity as the Illinois Climate Bank (ICB), is pleased to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Round 3 of the Small Utility Clean Energy Planning Grant Program. Funding is intended to support municipal and cooperative electric utilities in transitioning to cleaner energy sources through robust planning and implementation efforts, up to $200,000 per award.
This initiative is designed to equip utilities with the resources necessary to navigate the complexities of clean power integration while maintaining reliable and affordable electricity service. Grants may be used to assess energy needs, evaluate renewable energy options, and develop procurement strategies that align with the goals of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and the newly released Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA).
- Application Due Date: April 17, 2026
- Available Funding: $1.6 million
- Award Range: Up to $200,000 per award
The IFA will be hosting a webinar on two open grants under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants, including this one.
- When: February 17, 2026, 3-4PM CT
- Where: Microsoft Teams Webinar
- Registration Link: https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/cc72041d-cf30-4e46-998c-c67ccd8a70e2@cf620ec5-17cf-42e1-b97a-38cfbb8c1de3
Please visit our Small Utility Clean Energy Planning program page for more information.