The Clean Power Alliance (CPA) announced the opening of its 2025-26 Community Benefits Grant application period. This unique program, launched in 2021 in collaboration with Calpine Community Energy, aims to support nonprofit organizations that are advancing clean energy initiatives and promoting sustainability across Southern California.
This year, CPA has earmarked a total of $339,000 for this grant cycle. Of this funding, $50,000 was previously allocated to assist four local organizations in response to the recent Eaton and Palisades fires. The remaining $289,000 will be awarded to between nine to 12 organizations spread across Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
Gina Goodhill, Senior Director of Government Affairs at CPA, stated, “At Clean Power Alliance, our mission is to enhance Southern California’s resilience and sustainability through improved access to clean energy and community-driven initiatives. We aim to partner with nonprofit organizations that have a deep understanding of their communities’ needs. This grant is an opportunity to create a significant and positive impact on the lives of those we serve.”
Eligible projects may focus on five main pathways: 1) Research 2) Education 3) Environmental and Social Justice Communities 4) Workforce Development 5) Resilience. The grants, ranging from $15,000 to $30,000, will be available to nonprofits operating in at least one of the 38 communities served by CPA.
Josh Brock, Vice President of CCA Commercial Operations at Calpine Community Energy, expressed pride in the continuing partnership: “Community-based organizations are pivotal in addressing local needs, providing essential services, and fostering community development. This funding enables us to enhance their efforts and strengthen CPA’s positive presence in the communities it serves.”
In previous years, grants have empowered numerous organizations to launch impactful projects. Last year, funding was awarded to various initiatives, such as:
- Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition: Enhanced air quality and reduced emissions through the ChargerHelp workforce training program.
- Central Coast Minority Enterprises Resource Affiliates: Supported sustainable entrepreneurship in underserved communities with the Black Business, Green Sustainment initiative.
- Center Stage Inc.: Installed energy-efficient LED lighting to decrease costs and promote sustainable technology in their youth theater.
- Community Nature Connection: Funded an environmental education program for Title I schools, combining nature exploration with resilience training.
- Film2Future: Enabled underserved teens to create short films advocating for clean energy through an animation program.
- Food Exploration and Discovery (Food ED): Expanded sustainability outreach in Title I schools by hiring AmeriCorps and Climate Corps graduates for hands-on environmental projects.
- Nyeland Promise: Promoted energy equity and peak-hour energy use education through a multilingual outreach initiative.
- ONEgeneration: Enhanced services to older adults and families, integrating energy and water conservation programs.
Organizations interested in applying for the Community Benefits Grant have from September 2 to September 30, 2025, to submit their applications. This initiative represents a continued commitment by CPA to foster a healthier and more equitable future for all communities in Southern California.
