Community Energy Management (CEM) Program

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Energy Unit is offering grants for communities to improve energy management and accelerate the implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy for local governments and tribes. This program is part of the EGLE Catalyst Communities Initiative to provide resources to local public officials as they prepare for climate impacts on emergency response and public health, and support Governor Gretchen Whitmer's climate change priorities through measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in line with the MI Healthy Climate Plan.

Applicants must be physically located in Michigan and be a local government, tribal government, or other public service entity (such as non-profit organizations that provide a critical service to communities). Public schools, universities, and recreation-based organizations are not eligible to apply. Previous recipients of the Community Energy Management Program must wait at least one program year after their most recent award before becoming eligible to apply again. All eligible applicants must provide a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number from the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).

Eligible projects must involve or address energy management, energy efficiency, renewable energy, fleet electrification, EV charging infrastructure, sustainable financing solutions, and/or clean energy workforce development. Renewable energy projects will only be considered after all, or a majority of, energy efficiency upgrades have been completed as identified in an ASHRAE Level II audit. Impacted facilities must be occupied and have long range plans of continued use.

Applicants must submit a complete response to the RFP using the Online Application, addressing the Program Objectives, Program Priorities, and Applicant Tasks. Required attachments include the Approved Budget Form, Detailed Timeline, Applicant Organizational Chart, and most recent financial statements or audit. Applications are accepted on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis until all funding is expended or until 5:00 p.m. EST on August 31, 2027.