LPEA is proud to support local energy projects through the Local Energy Action Fund (LEAF), formerly known as the Local Green Power Fund. 

Each month, participating members opt in to contribute to our LEAF program. Those funds are then used as grants for local energy projects that focus on greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction and economic development: 

  • Beneficial Electrification Projects
  • Energy Efficiency Projects
  • Local Renewable Energy Installations 

  • RECs currently appear as -  Renewable Energy.
    This will not change if a member opts to continue purchasing RECs
    This will change to Local Energy Action Fund if a member opts to contribute to LEAF rather than purchase RECs
  • Local Green Power currently appears as - Local Renewable Energy 
    This will change to read as Local Energy Action Fund

Formerly, LPEA members could opt in to participate in our Green Power Renewable Energy Credit (REC) program. Each month, members paid a fee and LPEA purchased RECs from Tri-State wind generation projects on the members' behalf.

With our departure from Tri-State, LPEA is transitioning to a cleaner, more local power supply, so LPEA no longer needs to purchase RECs for resources outside of our service territory to offset emissions.

We've also heard from many members that they would like for their contributions to support local projects to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and benefit our community more directly. At the end of 2025, LPEA's Board updated Policy 303 to establish the Local Energy Action Fund and start supporting these local initiatives. 

How it Works: 

  • Members opt in to make a monthly contribution to LEAF, which is included on their electric bill.
  • Tax-exempt organizations within LPEA's service territory apply for grants during the annual application window, open October 1 through November 30.
  • LPEA staff evaluate project applications and make recommendations to the Board based on projected greenhouse gas reduction, project viability, community benefit, and financial readiness. 
  • The LPEA Board votes on grant awards in February. Recipients are notified of their award no later than two weeks after the Board vote and are recognized at the Annual Meeting in May. 

How to Participate: 

If you're interested in contributing to LEAF, please reach out to us at memberservices@lpea.coop to learn more and sign up.

Let's make an impact in our community! 

Apply for a LEAF Grant

Tax-exempt organizations within LPEA's service territory are eligible to apply. LEAF funds three types of projects:

  • Beneficial electrification (such as heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, EV charging infrastructure, or induction cooking equipment)
  • Energy efficiency improvements 
  • Local renewable energy installations such as solar PV

Two funding tiers are available:

  • Standard Tier: grants up to $15,000, no matching funds required
  • Enhanced Tier: grants up to $25,000, requires a 50% co-investment from the applicant

Up to four grants are awarded each cycle, with one award per LPEA account per cycle. Grants are reimbursement-based — organizations complete and pay for their project first, then submit invoices to LPEA for reimbursement.

The application window opens October 1 and closes November 30. 

Check back for the application form to go live October 1.

For questions about the program, contact Chase LaCroix (clacroix@lpea.coop).