The City of South Bend has launched the fourth year of its Energy Assistance and Solar Savings Initiative (EASSI), a program aimed at supporting local nonprofits, schools, community organizations, and businesses in implementing solar panel installations and energy efficiency upgrades. This initiative, which started in partnership with IFF and CDFI Friendly South Bend, seeks to provide financial assistance and resources to help organizations reduce energy costs and increase sustainability.

EASSI offers participants a free energy assessment to identify opportunities for improvements and funding gaps. Organizations can apply for matching grant funding of up to $30,000 to implement eligible energy efficiency and solar projects. Additionally, those that participated in previous years are eligible to apply for funding for projects identified in their past assessments.

Since its inception, the program has supported 36 organizations, leading to 13 solar panel installations and over 30 energy efficiency projects. Collectively, these projects have leveraged private investment totaling more than $1.6 million, demonstrating significant community impact and commitment to sustainability.

Applications for the 2025 round of funding are currently open, with a deadline of Monday, February 24, at 11:59 PM. Interested organizations can learn more and apply via the City of South Bend's official website at southbendin.gov/eassi.

For more information, applicants can contact the City of South Bend’s Sustainability Department by dialing 311 or calling 574-233-0311. The City of South Bend encourages eligible organizations to take advantage of this opportunity to reduce energy costs and support local environmental initiatives.