Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP)

On-site solar for nonprofits and community service organizations

The Low-Income Services Solar Program is a Massachusetts program that helps nonprofit and community service organizations install on-site solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on their buildings.

About the program

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While the name Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP) references “low-income services,” it is not a community solar program and does not involve residential subscriptions. Instead, LISSP focuses on bringing solar directly to the facilities of organizations that provide critical services. While many participating organizations serve low-income and environmental justice communities, projects may also support broader populations, as long as the services provided meet program eligibility criteria.

The program is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) through its Powering Community Services with Solar initiative and is administered by CET, which provides technical assistance to participating organizations.

Funding round three: Closed

Funding round four opens: Tuesday, May 12th, 2026

key Benefits include

Lower energy bills

Free up more resources for your mission.

Resilience

Solar plus battery backup ensures stability during outages.

Enviromental Impact

Reduce carbon emissions and advance community sustainability.

Eligibility & Requirements

The Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP) is designed for nonprofit organizations that provide critical community services and support Environmental Justice (EJ) communities across Massachusetts.

To participate, nonprofits must install a solar PV system that complies with program standards, with the option to include battery storage for added energy resilience. Both property owners and renters may qualify, ensuring broad access to the program’s benefits.

501c3 designated nonprofit organizations who:
Provide essential services such as food security, homelessness support, or emergency shelter. 
Serve Environmental Justice (EJ) communities in Massachusetts.
Install a solar PV system that meets technical standards (battery storage encouraged but not required).
Owners: Eligible if they own the building and pay utility bills.
Renters: Considered case by case with proof of a long-term lease.

Nonprofits are lifelines for Massachusetts residents

By powering their facilities with clean, reliable solar energy, LISSP ensures that organizations can:

Spend less on utilities and more on mission-driven services.
Stay resilient during power disruptions.
Lead by example in building a sustainable future for all.

How the program works

Nonprofits and community-based service providers often face high energy costs and limited capital for building upgrades. LISSP helps remove those barriers by supporting solar installations that can provide predictable, long-term savings.

CET works with eligible organizations to:

1 – Assess whether their building is a good fit for on-site solar
2 – Navigate technical and financial considerations
3 – Coordinate incentives and funding sources
4 – Support procurement and project development

Program Manual

This manual provides detailed information on the application process, funding opportunities, technical requirements, and compliance expectations for participating in LISSP.

document cover for DOER Solar program

Program Webinar

Download the slides from the Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP) Kick-Off Webinar, presented on October 2, 2025.

This resource provides an overview of program eligibility, application process, technical requirements, available funding, and next steps for nonprofits interested in solar and storage solutions.


Who LISSP is for:

Massachusetts nonprofits →

Community service providers →

Mission-driven organizations →

Program Roles

Program sponsor

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER)

Program Administrator

CET

working with cet

Why Partners Work With CET

Nearly 50 years of experience
We Care
Community-Specific Support
Bilingual Staff
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Low-income services solar program

Interested in Applying? Complete the form to confirm your eligibility and start the application process.
 
We’re here to support you every step of the way from application to project completion.

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