Solar for Schools Program

This program is closed.

The Solar for Schools Program has been successful since it launched in 2018, and the deadline for submission of applications has now been reached. Applications with signed funding agreements will continue to be processed and will receive payments upon project completion. If you have questions about the status of your application, review the Frequently Asked Questions or contact our team at contact@mccac.ca.

There are still several programs open for applications that municipalities can apply for. See which programs are still accepting applications at mccac.ca/programs/.

Why Alberta schools participated

By investing in solar PV systems, schools across Alberta are seeing savings on their electricity bills and are reinvesting those savings into other priorities.

Installing solar PV helped schools:

• generate free power any time the sun is shining for their system’s entire 25+ year life,
• demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility,
• educate students on new renewable energy technologies and climate change.

See how Canadian Rockies Public Schools are lowering their energy costs and reducing emissions with funding from the Solar for Schools Solar Program.

The Solar for Schools Program has helped schools across Alberta take advantage of renewable energy.

• 108 projects completed
• 20 MW installed solar capacity
• 51,710 solar PV modules installed
• 12,861 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions avoided annually

See how schools of all sizes are benefiting from solar:

• Cochrane High School
• Lacombe Composite High School
• Chinook Park School

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is the program still accepting new applications?

No, the Solar for SchoolsProgram is closed to new applications as the application submission deadline has passed (it was April 30, 2022). Funding was allocated on a first-come, first-served basis based on the submission of completed applications. Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date on other available funding opportunities.

My school submitted an Expression of Interest, now what?

Expressions of Interest are non-committal and do not guarantee any funding through the program. The Solar for Schools Program is no longer accepting applications. Funding was allocated on a first-come, first-served basis to projects which submitted complete applications.

My school applied to the program, now what?

The Solar for Schools Program is no longer accepting new applications. Funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Projects with signed Funding Agreements are guaranteed funding upon project completion. If you are unsure about the status of your application, please contact the Action Centre.

Is the program first-come, first-served? How does it work?

Yes, the Solar for SchoolsProgram was operated on a first-come, first-served basis as per the date on which completed applications were received. Complete application packages were required to be received and approved by the Action Centre prior to the April 30, 2022 deadline in order to be considered for a Funding Agreement.

Is the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre closing?

No, there are still several programs open that municipalities can apply for. Learn more about our programs accepting applications at mccac.ca/programs.

Are there other funding programs I can apply to for my solar project?

Yes, the Action Centre has built the Alberta Funding Guide which provides information about climate change adaptation and mitigation funding opportunities available to municipalities in Alberta. Explore programs classified under the “Renewable Energy” category.

Who is the person to contact about the Solar For Schools Program?

Program inquiries can be directed to the Executive Director of Sustainability Services at Alberta Municipalities: trina@abmunis.ca