The Oklahoma Energy Efficiency Lighting Retrofit Program (EELRP) is a competitive grant opportunity administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) under the State Energy Program (SEP) funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The program aims to improve energy efficiency by funding the replacement of indoor and outdoor lighting in publicly owned buildings. The total funding available for the program is $500,000, with award amounts ranging between $50,000 and $200,000. There is no cost-sharing or matching fund requirement, and the number of awards granted will depend on the number of applications submitted, their final evaluation scores, and the requested amounts.

The primary objectives of the EELRP are to enhance energy efficiency, reduce maintenance expenses, improve lighting quality and optical control, enhance color rendering, support economic development and job creation, and improve community vitality through energy savings. The program seeks to reduce energy usage, increase safety, and allow cost savings to be reinvested in further efficiency improvements.

Eligible applicants include Oklahoma local governments and state agencies that own the buildings where lighting retrofits will take place. Public schools and technology centers owned and operated by the State of Oklahoma are also eligible. However, charter schools and private institutions are not eligible for funding. All funded projects must comply with DOE regulations and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) categorical exclusions for facility operations.

The grant application process includes several requirements. Applicants must submit a work plan detailing the project scope, management approach, timeline, budget narrative, procurement strategy, and energy audit documentation. A professional or walk-through lighting energy audit is required to justify the project’s projected energy and cost savings. Projects should achieve a minimum of 40% energy and maintenance savings, verified using approved calculators such as MEASUR, Pacific Power, or Energy Star's Light Bulb Calculator. Additionally, applicants must provide a lighting disposal plan, insurance verification, and SAM ID registration proof.

The deadline for submission is September 11, 2024, at 5:00 PM. Applications must be submitted through OKGrants (https://grants.ok.gov). All selected applicants will be notified by September/October 2024, contingent on available federal funding. Selected applicants are required to attend an orientation workshop in October 2024, which will be available both virtually and in person. The project implementation period will run from the contract signing date until June 30, 2025.

Applications will be evaluated based on quality and energy efficiency impact following a weighted scoring system. Preference will be given to projects that have not received energy-efficient upgrades in the past 20 years, incorporate sensors and controls, follow Energy Star efficiency guidance, and have been previously funded by ODOC with a good standing performance record. Additionally, previously funded projects that were not completed in 2023 may receive extra points if they meet all 2024 requirements.