School Energy Efficiency Development (SEED) Grant Program

The New Hampshire Department of Energy is requesting proposals for the School Energy Efficiency Development (SEED) Grant Program under RFP energy-2026-003, with proposals due August 21, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. EST. Eligibility is restricted to public schools in New Hampshire municipalities with populations of 10,000 or fewer residents.

Eligible projects include insulation, energy-efficient lighting, HVAC upgrades, weather sealing, energy-efficient appliances and equipment, pump and motor retrofits, and window and door replacements. Applicants must demonstrate direct ownership of school property, maintain active SAM registration with a valid Unique Entity Identifier, provide a recent independent financial audit, employ a qualified project manager with relevant experience, and commit to a 5% or 15% cost-share match depending on whether the school qualifies as economically disadvantaged based on free/reduced lunch eligibility.

Total available funding is $250,000, with the Department expecting to award at least two grants ranging from $40,000 to $150,000 per award. The anticipated award date is December 2026, with project completion required by March 31, 2028. Payment is cost-reimbursable; the Department will withhold 10% of each grant award until final project completion and submission of a technical monitor's final inspection report. Grantees must submit certified weekly payrolls through the U.S. Department of Energy's LCPtracker system.

All projects are subject to compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, Davis-Bacon prevailing wage requirements, and Build America, Buy America domestic-sourcing standards for iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials. Funding originates from the U.S. Department of Energy's State Energy Program Award Number DE-EE0010086. All awards are contingent upon approval by the New Hampshire Governor and Executive Council.