Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s energy-efficiency and renewable resource program, recently issued a request for proposals under its Renewable Energy Competitive Program (Program). The Program offers incentives to eligible applicants for the installation of cost-effective renewable energy facilities at eligible applicant facilities. Applications are due March 24, 2017 by 5:00 PM CST. If you act now, particularly on a solar photovoltaic project, you may still have time to apply.

Importantly, applicants may be able to pair Focus on Energy incentives and rebates with other programs and incentives, such as Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing, U.S. Department of Energy grants, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grants or U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Energy for American Program (REAP) grants, as well as, in some cases, valuable 30% investment tax credits.

High level details about the available incentives are as follows:

Incentives

The Focus on Energy incentives may not exceed 50% of the total project cost. The maximum combined incentives a selected applicant may receive from Focus on Energy are capped at $400,000 per calendar year.

Eligible applicants

All non-residential ratepayers of electric or gas utilities that participate in Focus on Energy (e.g., businesses, non-profits, municipalities, tribes, schools, farms, etc.).

Eligible renewable technologies

Solar Photovoltaic

Solar Thermal

Geothermal

Biogas

Biomass

Wind

Project size

Not to exceed 125% of either kWh and/or Therms consumed by the selected applicant in a given year (except for biogas projects).

Due date: March 24, 2017 by 5:00 PM CST