Metropolitan Energy Center has been awarded a $250,000 Market Building Grant to support planning efforts for potential energy-saving projects that will benefit Douglas County. Securing the award and the forthcoming project is a partnership with the County’s Sustainability Office.

The grant, awarded by the Coalition for Green Capital and supported by ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability USA, will fund the development of financing models and energy-efficiency strategies tailored to the needs of the Douglas County community.

Planning efforts will focus on financial strategies that attract both private and public investors as well as upgrades to community centers, nonprofit buildings and multi-family rental housing.

“Metropolitan Energy Center is proud to partner with Douglas County on this planning effort,” Executive Director Kelly Gilbert said. “We know that the cost of energy is rising, and efficiency and renewable energy solutions are more important than ever. Our role is to bring technical expertise and connect partners so Douglas County can design financing strategies that work for its unique needs and deliver long-term savings and resiliency to residents and organizations alike.”

Douglas County is one of 49 communities nationwide selected to participate based on the potential impact of local projects and their attractiveness to future funders and private investors.

Jamie Hofling, Sustainability Impact Analyst for Douglas County, emphasized the significance of the collaboration in advancing the County’s climate goals.

“Our goal is to design a plan that brings clean energy and energy-efficiency upgrades to community facilities and housing where it’s most needed,” Hofling said. “This is about lowering utility bills, creating healthier spaces and making our county more resilient in the future.”

The grant period runs Oct. 1, 2025, to April 1, 2026.