The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has announced an expansion of the eligibility requirements for its NJ Cool Program. This initiative provides grants to building owners and tenants for retrofit construction projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from existing buildings. Initially, only commercial buildings were eligible, but now industrial and institutional buildings such as schools, non-profits, and local government buildings can also apply.
The pilot program currently limits grant funding to projects located in Atlantic City, Edison, and Newark. These areas are designated as Overburdened Communities under the State’s Environmental Justice Law. Eligible applicants must own or lease the building space that will benefit from the grant funding.
Under the NJ Cool program, grants of up to $1 million are available for eligible hard construction costs associated with emissions-reducing projects like updating heating and cooling systems. The goal is not only to reduce emissions but also to promote environmentally friendly building systems and practices throughout New Jersey.
Applications for this program are open on a first-come, first-served basis. Updates regarding the expanded eligibility will be posted on NJEDA's website. Interested parties can find more information about application requirements and eligible projects online or by contacting NJEDA directly via email.
