The application deadline for City of Boulder Solar Grant Funds has been extended and now must be received by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19. For applications and more program information, visit the city’s Solar Rebate and Grant Programs website.

The City of Boulder Solar Grant Fund (formerly known as the ClimateSmart Solar Grant Fund) is dedicated to providing financial assistance through grants toward installation of photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal systems on:

· Housing included in the city’s permanently affordable housing program;

· Lower-income housing developed and/or owned by nonprofit organizations; and,

· Facilities of nonprofit organizations.

The program is funded by revenue generated through a solar rebate ordinance that the Boulder City Council approved in 2006. The city collects taxes on the sales and installation of solar technologies, using the revenue to fund the City of Boulder Solar Grant Fund and to provide sales-tax rebates to those who pay solar sales and use taxes. Approximately $150,000 is currently available for solar grants.

Since the first grant cycle in March 2008, a total of $232,784 has been awarded to nonprofit organizations and homeowners participating in the city’s affordable housing program. The grant funds have resulted in 22 solar PV systems, 315 kilowatts of installed PV, and two solar thermal systems, which save approximately $38,000 annually and prevent about 265 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) from being emitted per year.

LEAD programs promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, and alternative transportation options to Boulder residents and businesses. For more information, visit www.bouldercolorado.gov/LEAD.