Clean Energy
Clean Energy: Simple, Local Solutions
Clean energy generates power locally, reduces costs and helps keep our water and air clean. These projects can also create jobs and promote energy independence through local resources.
Some examples of clean energy include:
- Solar arrays installed on or near homes, schools, government and community buildings
- Geothermal systems
- Wind energy
- Biogas
- Waste heat capture
Energy & Resiliency Yearly Grant Round
The Initiative Foundation Energy & Community Resiliency grants can be used for energy efficiency upgrades, clean energy adoption and resiliency planning.
We plan to offer another grant round in 2027.
Energy Efficiency
Improving efficiency reduces energy consumption and increases savings. Using less energy—and using it smarter—helps …
- lower utility bills
- reduce strain on the power grid during peak times
- improve comfort and safety in buildings.
Energy Storage Systems
Energy storage capture extra electricity produced during the day and stores it for later use.
Benefits of pairing storage with solar arrays include …
- power when the sun isn’t shining
- better resilience during outages (backup power for essential services)
- lower energy costs (strategic use during high-rate periods and reducing demand charges)
- less strain on the grid
- cleaner energy, all day long
- more flexible projects (supporting community solar, microgrids, and resilience hubs).
Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Charging
EVs run on electricity instead of gasoline, producing zero tailpipe emissions. EV charging stations supply the power needed to recharge batteries—from home chargers to public fast-charging options.
Public and workplace charging can reduce fleet operating expenses, support economic activity and make EV ownership more accessible.
The Initiative Foundation partners with Minnesota Power to offer an electric vehicle charging station at the Initiative Foundation’s Little Falls office. Minnesota Power partners with ZEF ENERGY to operate its charging stations. The cost is $1.50 per hour of charging. Two charging ports are available.
Ways We Support Clean Energy
- Yearly grant round
- Energy trainings and cohorts
- Grant-funded energy assessments and audits
- Guidance on upgrades (lighting, insulation, HVAC, etc.)
- Information about rebates, incentives, and financing
Contact the Team
Have a clean energy idea: Contact Elizabeth Mboutchom.
