The Bloomington Energy Works program provides free technical assistance to support the clean energy transition and electrification of Bloomington. The free technical assistance is implemented by Donovan Energy, the program’s energy efficiency consultant, which specializes in clean energy solutions and finance.
What is included in the free technical assistance:
Each application* received for the free technical assistance program will be reviewed by the City of Bloomington. Qualifying applicants include developers and large commercial, manufacturing, nonprofit, and academic institution building owners.
Approved applications will proceed with either one or all of the following activities, depending on the applicant’s project needs, building size, building energy usage, etc.:
Energy assessment of 12 months of utility data
On-site building energy audit
A written report outlining recommended National Clean Investment Fund qualified energy conservation measures, such as solar photovoltaic systems, battery energy storage systems, HVAC optimization, LED lighting upgrades, EV charging stations, etc.
Assistance with creating a basic financial model for the proposed project, including return on investment calculations and consideration for any available financial incentives that include applicable tax credits or rebates available through local, state, and federal governments and local utilities
*Multifamily unit housing owners can only receive a free solar assessment. Free energy audits and funding for project implementation of energy efficiency upgrades on multifamily housing buildings are available through the Indiana Energy Saver Program.
Applications are closed. The recommended energy conservation measures that were selected by applicants were added to the list of projects in the Public Private Partnership Plan, which was submitted to the Coalition for Green Capital on April 30, 2026.
Available Incentives for Solar and Energy Efficiency
City of Bloomington Sustainable Development Incentives
City of Bloomington Solar, Energy Efficiency, and Lighting (SEEL) Grant Program
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit
For businesses that install EV charging stations. Property must be placed in service on or before June 30, 2026, to qualify for the credit.
Clean Electricity Investment Credit and the Clean Electricity Production Credit
Both credits are eliminated for wind and solar facilities placed in service after 2027, unless construction begins on or before July 4, 2026. Wind and solar projects begun after that date must be put in service by the end of 2027.
Energy efficient commercial buildings deduction
The Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction is a federal financial incentive ($2.50-$5.00 per square foot) for interior lighting, building envelope, or heating/cooling/ventilation system upgrades based on energy savings. Building owners should follow IRS instructions on claiming the deduction on their tax return forms.
Tax Deductions for Commercial Buildings | ENERGY STAR