Through generous support from the Couillard Solar Foundation, the Midwest Renewable Energy Association’s Solar on Schools grant program continues to make solar achievable for public schools across the state of Wisconsin. Over 500 kW of grants were awarded in 2025, helping to add over 1 MW of solar to offset rising energy costs for the following school districts:
- Tomorrow River School: 118 kW roof mount system
- Belleville Aquatic Center: 24 kW pavilion mounted canopy system
- Sauk Prairie School District, Bridges Elementary: 200 kW roof mount
- Coleman School District: 100 kW roof mounted system
- School District of Onalaska: 110 kW roof mount system
- Sparta School District: 126 kW ground mount system
- Gilman School District: 124 ground mount system
- Cornell School District: 155 kW roof and ground mount systems
- School District of Eleva-Strum: 99 kW ground mount system
- Stoughton School District: 100 kW roof mount system
The Solar on Schools grant program awards public Wisconsin K-12 schools and colleges up to half the panels for systems sized at 100 kW or less, valued up to $24,000. This in-kind solar module grant makes renewable energy accessible for schools — lowering monthly utility bills and providing students an opportunity to learn about solar energy production.
Schools interested in applying for the Fall 2025 Solar on Schools grant can do so online during the September 1–October 17, 2025 grant application window. Applicants are eligible to apply for one grant per district installing solar. Grant applicants must demonstrate project development and the ability to install their PV system within 12 months of being awarded the grant. Additional information about the Solar on Schools grant program, including case studies and resources for educators can be found here.
Photo (from left to right): Aaron Benson – Solar Connection, Lindsey Schreiner – CESA 10, Jackie Harrison-Jewell – Couillard Solar Foundation, Claire Lindstrom – Couillard Solar Foundation, Cory Kulig – School District of Eleva-Strum, Kaela Stendahl – School District of Eleva-Strum, Heather Feigum – CESA 10