Low-Income Services Solar Program

Powering Community Services with solar Energy

The Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP) helps nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts bring solar power and battery backup to the communities that need it most.

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About the program

The Low-Income Services Solar Program (LISSP) provides grants for nonprofit organizations that serve low-income residents and Environmental Justice (EJ) communities. Nonprofits can install solar energy systems—and optional battery storage—at their facilities, reducing operating costs and strengthening community resilience.

The program is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) with support from CET to provides technical and application assistance.

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.

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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.

From Application to Installation

1 – Engage with CET early to confirm eligibility and receive guidance.

2 – Identify a Solar Project with an installer and get proposals.

3 – Apply by submitting documentation to CET by a quarterly deadline.

4 – Review & Approval: CET reviews applications and DOER issues approvals.

5 – Install & Interconnect: Work with your installer to complete the project.

6 – Completion & Payment: After final inspection, CET releases grant funds.

Program Manual

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

Low Income Services Solar Program Manual

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.

DOER Solar: Webinar Slides

Why partner with cET

Nearly 50 years of experience

Half a century of experience as a leader in designing and delivering successful community programs for income-eligible.

We Care

CET is at the forefront of innovation, spearheading initiatives to enhance access to underserved communities serving thousands of households annually.

community-Specific Support

Strategies address the unique needs of non-profits and community services.

Bilingual Staff

Don’t speak English? No problem! We have staff who can explain everything to you in Spanish from start to finish.