Press Release: 5/11/2026

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $394,000 to Help Two Non-Profits Slash Electricity Costs by at least 70% with Solar

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced the second round of grants under the Department of Energy Resources’ Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP). Grants totaling $394,643 will help two non-profit organizations install rooftop solar systems that will reduce each organization’s electricity costs by between 70 to 100 percent, resulting in more resources for the non-profits’ critical work.

LISSP helps nonprofit organizations reduce operating costs and strengthen community resilience by providing funding for solar and energy storage systems. Grants are available to nonprofit organizations that provide critical community services and support Environmental Justice (EJ) communities across Massachusetts.

“Cape Abilities and Springfield Partners provide much-needed services in their communities, and we’re thrilled to help them add solar to their rooftops, which will cut their energy costs and ensure our most vulnerable residents can access the benefits of clean energy,” said Energy Resources Commissioner Elizabeth Mahony. “These solar systems will allow more of the organizations’ precious financial resources to serve those in need, and they will benefit the broader communities with cleaner, healthier air.

Cape Abilities mission is to support individuals with disabilities on Cape Cod by educating, counseling and providing residential, therapeutic, social and employment supports that empower individuals to achieve meaningful and valued roles in the community. The organization provides jobs, homes, transportation, therapeutic and social services for individuals with disabilities. It is awarded a grant for $98,010 to install a 19.8 kW AC rooftop solar system at a facility in Sandwich. The system will save Cape Abilities an estimated $6,300 each year in energy costs.

“Cape Abilities thanks the Healey‑Driscoll Administration and the Department of Energy Resources for their commitment to clean energy solutions that also advance human services. This $98,010 Low‑Income Solar Services Program grant supports our 58‑year mission of serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by lowering operational costs and strengthening the organization’s long‑term environmental and financial sustainability.”

Springfield Partners for Community Action’s mission is to utilize and provide resources that assist people in need to obtain economic stability, ultimately creating a better way of life. It is awarded a grant for $293,633 to install a 100 kW AC rooftop solar system at its main building in Springfield. The system will save Springfield Partners an estimated $9,700 each year in energy costs.

“As the leading weatherization program in Hampden County, Springfield Partners is committed to improving the energy efficiency of our clients’ homes and advancing long-term sustainability in our community. With the support of the Department of Energy Resources, we are excited to now have the opportunity to lead these efforts through the installation of our own solar panel array,” said JC Schnabl, Deputy Director of Springfield Partners for Community Action. “This installation will enable us to reduce our electricity costs, strengthen our operational capacity, and pass those savings directly on to our clients through expanded and enhanced services.”

The two grants will result in a total of 119.8 kW AC of new solar added to Massachusetts. Together, the solar systems are estimated to save the nonprofits $16,385 each year in energy costs, or an estimated 51,253 kWh of electricity. The systems will also reduce pollution in their communities.

This is the second round of grants awarded under LISSP. In January, grants were awarded to the Newton Food Pantry for $398,000, Grow Associates in Randolph for $500,000, and High Point Treatment Center of Southeastern Mass. for $344,603.

Applications for LISSP are accepted quarterly. The application period for the next round of funding will open in June. Non-profits interested in applying, including non-profits in municipal light plant territories, can visit the program website for more information and assistance with applying.