General

OPPD announces latest round of Greener Together grant recipients

Three community groups will receive Greener Together funding for projects focused on sustainability.

This year’s recipients are Educational Services Unit #3 Educational Foundation, InCommon Housing Development and The Bay.

The Greener Together Program, launched in 2022, gives nonprofit organizations throughout OPPD’s 13-county service territory the opportunity to apply for grant funding to support projects that involve renewable energy, environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, community resiliency and betterment and/or education.

OPPD customers can make tax-deductible donations on their monthly bills to support the program, and now they have the option of making a one-time donation, as well.

OPPD partnered with United Way of the Midlands (UWM) this year to amplify Greener Together. UWM serves as the administrator of the program, supports outreach to community organizations, and helps ensure funds are directed to projects that align with shared goals of creating a more sustainable, resilient and equitable region.

“This was an exciting year for the Greener Together Program. We received more applications than we have had in any year prior,” said Britton Gabel, manager of Advocacy Solutions at OPPD. “This program demonstrates how community level partnerships and projects can make a difference in our community. Adding United Way of the Midlands as a strategic partner in administering the application cycle will have a lasting impact.”

Shawna Forsberg, president and CEO of United Way of the Midlands, concurred.

“Greener Together reflects our shared commitment to strengthening community resiliency by investing in local projects that improve efficiency and support sustainability,” Forsberg said. “As a trusted steward of community resources, we’re honored to work with OPPD and community volunteers to direct these dollars toward meaningful and impactful projects.”

This year’s recipients

This year, Educational Services Unit #3 Educational Foundation is receiving $100,000, InCommon Housing Development is receiving $75,000 and The Bay is receiving $25,000.

Educational Services Unit #3 Educational Foundation is using the funds for the Gifford Farm Solar Energy Education Initiative. The grant will enable the installation of a roof-mounted solar array and an energy storage battery. The solar array system will be the centerpiece for the development of a new sustainability and nature-based education curriculum on the farm that will serve pre-kindergarten through 12^th grade students, as well as adults.

The project aligns with Gifford Farm’s efforts to become energy-self-sufficient and reduce energy costs. Construction will start within the next couple of months, with the solar array becoming operational in the spring or summer of 2026.

InCommon Housing Development is using the money to add solar panels and related equipment to its Poppleton Housing Development. The organization is building 51 new units of quality, affordable housing for low-income neighbors. Solar panels will reduce the project’s utility costs and contribute to the organization’s mission of providing affordable, dignified housing. Site preparation and foundation work is underway, with solar panel installation planned for spring of 2026. The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026.

The Bay’s grant plans also include installing solar panels, but for another kind of project – one that is transforming a former three-level parking structure into a youth-focused community center. Funds will go toward implementing a solar-first, battery-ready energy strategy to lower operating costs, reduce emissions and maintain critical services during grid events. Demolition is currently underway to make way for construction.

For more information about Greener Together or to contribute to the cause, visit OPPD.com/gtp. To submit a project for consideration of grant funding, visit UnitedWayMidlands.org/GreenerTogether.