The State of Iowa has received $2 million of federal formula funds to establish the Iowa Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. The Iowa EECBG Program is comprised of two funds—Community Fund and Innovation Fund.
In support of the federal Justice40 Initiative, projects benefitting federal identified disadvantaged communities will receive a scoring preference during application review.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to utilize any project applicable U.S. Department of Energy provided EECBG Blueprint . Blueprints outline key activities to drive project success. Following a Blueprint may also streamline National Environmental Policy Act requirements.
The following federal requirements may apply to EECBG funded projects:
National Environmental Policy Act Davis-Bacon Act Federal Procurement (2 CFR 200) Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Build America, Buy America
The EECBG Policies and Procedures Manual includes:
Eligibility requirements Program details, including types of projects that align with program purposes and priorities Processes for applicants
Community Fund Overview: (see Policies and Procedures Manual for more details)
Eligible Recipients
Eligible applicants for the Community Fund are cities and counties NOT NOT
Eligible Projects
Project awards may range from $50,000-$300,000. Projects must be completed by June 30, 2026 . Project examples (may include but are not limited to):
Building energy assessment or audits plus energy efficiency upgrades Energy efficiency upgrades at wastewater or water supply facilities Replacement of traffic signals and streetlights to improve energy efficiency
Eligible Project Costs
Project costs incurred before the approval of a grant award are not
Energy assessments/audits Developing and installing energy efficiency improvements Contracting for project development and/or implementation Direct administration costs Contracting for federal regulations compliance assistance
Cost Share
Cost share is not required for Community Fund applications, but applicants providing cost share will receive a scoring preference during application review.
Innovation Fund Overview: (see Policies and Procedures Manual for more details)
Eligible Recipients
Eligible applicants for the Innovation Fund include local governments, nonprofits, and for profit entities.
Eligible Projects
Eligible project types include innovative energy efficiency and innovative renewable energy demonstration projects. Projects must be completed by June 30, 2026 . Project examples (may include but are not limited to):
Demonstrating an innovative energy efficiency or renewable energy project, program or technology new or rarely used in Iowa Reducing fossil fuel emissions in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and, to the maximum extent practicable, maximizes benefits for local and regional communities Reducing total energy use Improving energy efficiency in transportation, building, or other appropriate sectors Building a clean and equitable energy economy that prioritizes disadvantaged communities and promotes equity and inclusion in workforce opportunities and deployment activities
Eligible Project Costs
Project costs incurred before the approval of a project are not
Energy assessments/audits Developing and installing energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy systems Contracting Direct administration costs Contracting for federal regulations compliance assistance
Cost Share
A 50% cost share is required for Innovation Fund projects. Cost share may be a combination of cash and in-kind but at least 50% of the proposed cost share must be cash.
How to Apply:
Questions may be directed to the Program Manager, Jeff Geerts at jeff.geerts@iowaeda.com or by calling 515.348.6211 Application focused questions should be submitted to IEDA at least one week prior to the application deadline to ensure adequate time for receipt, consideration, and response.
