Federal Initiatives

The Federal Initiatives project provides opportunities for CESA-member organizations and all US states to learn about federal energy developments and exchange information to advance energy deployment in their state. In particular, the Initiative 

• keeps participants abreast of federal policies and funding opportunities both via the Federal Energy News newsletter and by bringing in industry experts to help them understand policy developments,
• helps participants leverage and request technical assistance provided by CESA and partnering organizations, and
• shares best practices and peer-learning in energy program design and implementation among states and regions.

In addition to extensive information sharing across our networks, CESA-member organizations and all US states receive access to invaluable networking and convening opportunities via the Initiative’s many working groups, office hours, and national conferences. These opportunities give states the chance to collaborate across state borders with one another and connect with agencies and departments in charge of programs to address their needs and prioritize the use of program funding. If you are a state energy official interested in learning more about and joining these meetings, please email [email protected].

Assistance to States on EPA’s Solar for All Program

CESA is helping states prepare to apply to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for funding under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund’s Solar for All Program. Through this IRA initiative, EPA will award up to $7 billion in grants to states, territories, Tribal governments, municipalities, and nonprofits to expand solar for low-income and disadvantaged communities. CESA has been convening discussions among state officials to allow them to share ideas and questions about this funding opportunity. CESA is also producing model program templates that states can adapt and use as starting points for developing their Solar for All program concepts to submit to EPA. CESA templates have been shared with the states for low-income single-family homes and community solar programs, and one is being prepared for multifamily affordable housing. (The templates are neither created, sponsored, or sanctioned by EPA.)

• Community Solar for Low-Income and Disadvantaged Communities Program Design Options
• Single-Family Home LMI Solar Program: Program Design Guidance
• Single-Family Home LMI Solar Program Request for Proposals Template
• Davis-Bacon Primer for States Implementing Solar for All
• A Directory of Solar Consumer Education Resources

Weekly Newsletter: Federal Energy News & Funding Opportunities

CESA produces a weekly newsletter describing resources and opportunities funded by federal legislation and related programs. The newsletter features commentary and explanations for why certain opportunities deserve states’ attention. It is edited and produced by Anna Ziai, CESA Project Director for State Implementation of Federal Energy Programs. The newsletter is available exclusively to state and federal government employees. Email Anna to subscribe.