ComEd and Ameren Illinois are offering FREE assessments designed to help make a significant impact on public schools’ environments. These assessments, called Public Schools Carbon-Free Assessments (PSCFA), help public schools by assisting in energy cost savings and carbon reduction strategies. This program is a result of Section 8-402.2 of the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which states that each electric utility serving over 500,000 retail customers in the state of Illinois shall implement a Public Schools Carbon-Free Assessment program.

With the ability to apply for grants, guidance on becoming carbon-free in your energy usage, and a no-cost, no-hassle process, PSCFA allows you to make a significant impact to your school’s future without disruption to your day-to-day schedule. After all, you’re busy shaping our future astronauts and presidents!

Public School Carbon-Free Assessment Program

What is it?

Public Schools Carbon-Free Assessment program was created as a result of the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which was passed in September 2021. This landmark legislation puts the state of Illinois on a path toward 100% renewable energy by the year 2050.
CEJA includes provisions to phase out carbon emissions from the energy and transportation sectors. As part of this legislation, public schools can receive a carbon-free assessment from ComEd or Ameren Illinois at no cost.
This non-interruptive assessment includes an inspection of the building envelope and mechanical insulation. They will also determine the estimated costs needed for electrification, the building’s solar energy potential, and opportunities to save energy and reduce costs.
To qualify for a grant under Section 5-40 of the School Construction Law, a public school district must submit a copy of a PSCFA report (if a PSCFA has been performed) or request the PSCFA and submit a copy of the report as soon as it becomes available.
The program will end December 31, 2029.

School Benefits

There is NO cost to the public school for the PSCFA.
Facility assessments are scheduled on dates and times that work best for the school and avoid disruption to staff and students.
Schools will receive guidance on becoming carbon-free.
Energy efficiency project incentives and third-party funding sources will be identified.
Opportunities to reduce carbon emissions associated with energy usage will be identified.
Schools will learn requirements for supporting electrification of a facility's space heating, water heating, and transportation needs.
Schools will learn about the solar energy potential of their properties.
Schools will learn about investments needed for WELL certification.