Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program
Funds Rhode Island small businesses for energy efficiency upgrades after an approved audit and practical implementation work.
Eligibility · United States · US-RI
The Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program, administered by Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, reimburses qualifying Rhode Island small businesses and nonprofits for the cost of energy efficiency improvements implemented following an approved energy audit. Eligible improvements include LED lighting upgrades, HVAC systems, insulation, thermostats, ventilation upgrades, water-saving devices, refrigeration controls, and electrical panel upgrades; solar panels are explicitly excluded. Energy assessments must be conducted in 2026 by approved providers, including Rhode Island Energy's RISE Engineering program at (877) 784-3709.
The maximum reimbursement for standalone projects is $20,000; when an applicant also receives Rhode Island Energy or RISE incentives for the same project, the maximum drops to $10,000. Reimbursement rates are tiered by revenue: up to 80 percent of project costs for businesses with annual gross revenue under $2 million, and up to 70 percent for businesses with revenue between $2 million and $5 million. Eligible applicants must operate in Rhode Island or be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, must have been operating since January 31, 2024, must hold a valid Rhode Island Certificate and Letter of Good Standing, and must have annual gross revenue of $5 million or less. Franchise-owned businesses, federally debarred entities, and permanently closed businesses are ineligible.
The 2026 cycle is open. Applicants should schedule their energy audit with an approved provider as an early step, since the audit is a prerequisite for the improvement project and subsequent reimbursement claim. Documenting all improvement costs with receipts and contractor invoices is essential for reimbursement processing. Contact: energy.efficiency@commerceri.com or (401) 278-9100.
Energy efficiency improvements: LED lighting, HVAC, insulation, thermostats, ventilation, water-saving devices, refrigeration controls, electrical panel upgrades. Solar panels excluded.
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