M-DCPS to Receive $15 Million Grant to Make Schools More Energy Efficient

M-DCPS to Receive $15 Million Grant to Make Schools More Energy Efficient

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is the only school district in Florida set to receive a $15 million 2024 Renew America's School Prize and grant from the U.S Department of Energy (DOE). The grant aims to make building upgrades that decrease energy costs and improve indoor air quality in aging schools.<_o3a_p>

"We want this project to showcase what is possible among all schools in Miami-Dade County Public Schools for future energy resiliency," said M-DCPS Sustainability Officer Karly Pulido. "This is not only a school-focused program. These school improvements will invigorate local communities."

In the first phase of the grant, M-DCPS is receiving $300,000 and will plan on beginning work on the facilities identified as needing upgrades. The District will then advance to the next phase and enter into an agreement with DOE to renovate the schools in order to receive the remaining funds. As part of the agreement, M-DCPS's contribution to the project will be $4.7 million.

M-DCPS is among 16 school districts nationwide and the only one in Florida advancing to phase two and receiving up to $15 million. But of these the District has the largest number of facilities in the scope of work being done to improve energy efficiency on its campuses.

M-DCPS has identified 74 campus buildings at ten Title I schools with high energy needs to participate in the Renew America's Schools program. The scope of work includes updating lighting and installing air conditioning units that are more energy efficient. Some schools will also receive solar panels. Overall, this grant will benefit 7,460 students

This grant is part of a $190 million investment DOE is making across to help K-12 public schools nationwide make energy upgrades that will decrease energy use and costs, improve indoor air quality, and foster healthier living environments for students and teachers. The grant will help 320 school facilities in 21 states.

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