DOE announces up to $100 million for school energy improvements
DOE’s A+STEPS announcement describes planned regional support hubs; hub applications are expected in November, with a separate school-district expression of interest planned for 2027.
What the record says
The Department of Energy announced on October 27 a funding opportunity of up to $100 million under Affordability + Strategic Energy Pathways for Schools, or A+STEPS. The initiative is part of the Renew America’s Schools Program and is intended to support energy planning and facility improvements in K–12 public school districts. DOE anticipates selecting four to eight regional hubs to train facilities staff, coordinate technical assistance and help districts develop financeable improvement plans. The agency expects hub applications to open in November. It says individual school districts and local partners should not submit regional-hub applications now; a separate expression of interest for school districts and local education agencies is planned for 2027.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Monitor the official A+STEPS opportunity page for forthcoming applicant instructions and distinguish hub applications from the later district process.
Limits and what is not established
The funding amount is an announced ceiling and the selection schedule is prospective. This is not a claim that applications are currently open to individual school districts or that awards or energy savings have been realized.
Sources checked October 27, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
U.S. Department of Energy: original information