The administration of Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has announced the first round of grants under the state’s Dept. of Energy Resources’ Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP). Grants totaling $1.2 million will help three non-profit organizations install rooftop solar systems that will reduce each organization’s electricity costs by between 70 to 100%, resulting in more resources for the non-profits’ critical work.
ISSP helps nonprofit organizations reduce operating costs and strengthen community resilience by providing funding for solar and energy storage systems. Grants are available to nonprofit organizations that provide critical community services and support environmental justice (EJ) communities across Massachusetts.
“Solar is low-cost energy that can be up and running quickly, and it helps keep the lights on year-round. We’re excited to help non-profit organizations access solar, which will enable them to aid many more families,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “The Healey-Driscoll administration will continue to offer programs that help more residents and organizations lower costs and improve lives with clean energy.”
The Newton Food Pantry, which works to alleviate food insecurity in Newton, will receive $398,000 to install a 17.3-kWAC solar system with an accompanying energy storage system. The Newton Food Pantry is estimated to save $20,000 annually in electricity costs.
“The Newton Food Pantry is an invaluable resource to our community, and this award will free up resources to help it serve even more of our neighbors at its new facility,” said State Senate Majority Leader Cindy Creem (D-Norfolk and Middlesex), who represents Newton. “This project demonstrates that solar and energy storage can be an important tool not only in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also in promoting energy affordability and economic security.”
Grow Associates in Randolph, dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, will receive $500,000 to install a 161.8-kWAC solar system. Grow Associates is estimated to save $72,000 annually in electricity costs.
“For 30 years, Grow Associates has supported adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and this $500,000 Low-Income Services Solar Program grant will help lower energy costs, expand their services, and strengthen their long-term sustainability,” said State Representative Bruce Ayers (D-1st Norfolk).
High Point Treatment Center’s mission is to prevent and treat substance use and mental health disorders. It will receive a $344,603 grant to install a 280.5-kWAC solar system at its Plymouth campus. High Point Treatment Center is estimated to save $142,800 annually in electricity costs.
“High Point serves as a lifeline for so many in our region struggling with addiction, substance use disorder and mental health conditions and this investment in the facilities’ energy infrastructure will continue to allow them to focus on the amazing work they do,” said State Representative Kathleen LaNatra (D-12th Plymouth).
The three grants will result in 459.6 kW of new solar added to Massachusetts. Together, the solar systems are estimated to save the nonprofits $234,800 each year in energy costs, or an estimated 745,195 kWh of electricity.
Applications for LISSP are accepted quarterly. The application period for round two closes on January 16, 2026. The application period for round three will open on March 2, 2026. Non-profits interested in applying, including non-profits in municipal light plant territories, can find more information here.
