The Jewish Solar Challenge opened its 2026 grant application cycle on Sept. 1, offering matching grants of up to $50,000 to Jewish nonprofit organizations seeking to install solar panels.

Eligible applicants include synagogues, Jewish schools and Jewish camps that own their buildings. First-round applications are due Sept. 25, and grant recipients are expected to be announced toward the end of the year.

The organization plans to award another $300,000 during the current cycle, bringing the total amount awarded for solar projects to $1.5 million since the Jewish Solar Challenge launched in 2021. Organizations that already have quotes for solar installation and are prepared to begin work will receive priority.

“This grant cycle is an opportunity for Jewish institutions to turn interest in solar into a concrete plan,” Jewish Solar Challenge founder Mitchell Schwartz said. “Through grants and hands-on guidance, we help communities take practical steps to lower long-term energy costs, strengthen their sustainability efforts and invest in a more resilient future.”

The organization has awarded matching grants to more than 20 organizations across the United States and one Jewish community in Uganda. According to the Jewish Solar Challenge, it has supported more than $10 million in solar projects with an estimated total capacity of 3 megawatts.

The installations generate approximately 4.6 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year and prevent an estimated 1,700 metric tons of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere, according to the organization.

Among previous recipients is Camp Gilboa, a Jewish summer camp in the Big Bear area that previously relied on propane generators. After receiving a grant last year, the camp installed solar panels that now fully power its dining hall and kitchen.

“Environmental justice is central to who we are,” Camp Gilboa Executive Director Michael Auerbach said. “This solar project brings those values to life in a tangible way – both through how we operate and what our campers see every day.”

Westchester Torah Academy also received a grant last year and recently installed solar panels. The school said the installation is reducing energy costs and providing students with an example of environmental responsibility.

Grant recipients must demonstrate sustainability efforts beyond installing solar panels. Qualified applicants will advance to a second round and work with Jewish Solar Challenge representatives on additional sustainability initiatives. Second-round applications are due Oct. 30.

For information and applications, visit jewishsolarchallenge.com.