The Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (the Foundation) was founded in 1999 with a mission to support projects that improve energy efficiency, advance the development and use of renewable energy resources, and protect natural areas and wildlife habitat in communities across Illinois.
Effective December 1, 2023, the Foundation is not accepting new grant applications. All previously awarded grants will be funded subject to the provisions of each grant agreement.
From inception until October 31, 2023, the Foundation has awarded $351 million to Illinois schools, municipalities, local government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Foundation grants have supported clean energy and open lands activities in 101 of the 102 counties in Illinois.
The Foundation is proud of the positive impact it has had on efficient, renewable energy and natural areas preservation in Illinois over the last 24 years. Together with grant recipients, the Foundation has demonstrated that adopting energy efficiency measures, using renewable energy resources, and preserving natural areas and wildlife habitat make environmental and financial sense for Illinois.
Energy Programs
From inception through October 31, 2023, the Foundation awarded more than 4,300 renewable energy and energy efficiency projects consisting of 3,617 energy efficiency grants, 725 renewable energy grants, 16 net zero energy buildings grants and three net zero wastewater treatment plant grants.
Over the life of the Foundation, all energy programs have accounted for $211.5 million, or 62 percent of total funds awarded.
Natural Areas Programs
From inception through October 31, 2023, the Foundation awarded 716 natural areas grants and co-funded projects that protected more than 35,000 acres of natural areas and wildlife habitat in Illinois.
All natural areas programs have accounted for $139 million or 38% percent of total funds awarded.
There have been many positive changes in environmental awareness and policies over the years and the Foundation is proud to have contributed to the progress made and the innovation still ahead. Further information regarding the Foundation’s future activities will be provided in the coming months.