Free energy plans for healthy, comfortable, cost-efficient schools.

WHAT THIS IS

The Modernizing Michigan School Buildings Initiative is a cohort program that will support 10 districts and schools across the state with no-cost, expert-developed energy and facilities plans.

These plans build on your existing energy audits and facilities studies, helping you turn planning into actionable next steps.

WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE

We’re looking for Michigan districts and schools that:

  • Participated in both the School Finance Research Foundation Energy Audit and Statewide School Facilities Study

  • Are interested in solar, energy efficiency, and geothermal upgrades

  • Anticipate HVAC or major system upgrades in the next 1–5 years and/or are in need of cooling

  • Can commit ~10 hours to participate in planning sessions with energy professionals and financial experts

    We aim to build a cohort that reflects diverse regions and communities across Michigan, including schools that serve large numbers of low-income students.

COHORT MEMBER BENEFITS

The ten schools that participate in the cohort will receive:

Comprehensive Energy Plan

Assessment of solar, geothermal, and efficiency upgrades for one school building by a top building energy firm

Financial Analyses

Detailed cost estimates, return on investment, and models of health and economic benefits

Funding & Incentives Support

Guidance on financing options and assistance with federal Elective Pay reimbursements

Energy plans will build on the School Finance Research Foundation (SFRF) Energy Audit and Facilities Studies already conducted at the majority of Michigan schools.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Michigan schools are facing:

  • Rising utility costs

  • Aging buildings and systems

  • A $22.8 billion school infrastructure gap, including $7 billion in HVAC needs

At the same time, new federal incentives allow schools to recover 30–50% of project costs through direct payments.

Upgrading school buildings can:

  • Improve air quality and classroom comfort

  • Lower energy and operating costs

  • Allow schools to reinvest savings into student and staff supports and critical building needs

Partners include:

Who we are

This project is funded by a State of Michigan MI Healthy Climate Challenge grant to help schools plan for infrastructure investments and take advantage of Elective Pay.