Grants from the Range Bank Clean Energy Fund support energy transition programs and initiatives in Marquette County including, but not limited to, greater reliance on renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, reductions in energy demand through a variety of energy efficiency improvements.

Applicants must be qualified nonprofit organizations serving Marquette County. No grants are made to individuals, private foundations, or for-profit enterprises. The maximum grant amount is $5,000.

Projects can include physical improvements (e.g. LED lighting/exit Signs, occupancy sensors, insulation, solar, battery storage, level II EV charging ) and/or non-physical activities (e.g. community engagement, education). 

2021 APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED. Please join our email list or check back in 2022. 

History of the Clean Energy Initiative

Michigan is in the midst of a major energy transition, which includes greater reliance on renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, and reductions in energy demand through a variety of energy efficiency improvements. This “clean energy” transition presents opportunities and challenges that are felt acutely at the community level. Community foundations are well-positioned to help successfully address such challenges and opportunities.

With a 2018 grant from Mott Foundation, the Community Foundation of Marquette County created energy information materials, developed three demonstration sites that illustrate energy efficiency and renewable energy practices, and convened an energy awareness community event.

These outreach efforts served to educate the community on the benefits of clean energy, share environmental and economic benefits documented from project demonstration sites. Key partners of the Initiative included the Superior Watershed Partnership, Michigan Energy Options and Range Bank.