Frequently Asked Questions

Who is WPPSEF?

WPPSEF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides investment capital, and a limited amount of grant making, to spur the deployment of renewable energy and other forms of clean power, energy efficiency, and sustainable energy outreach events.

How was WPPSEF established?

WPPSEF was established out of the proceedings that followed the passage of the Pennsylvania’s Electricity Generation Customer Choice and Competition Act (HB 1509) in 1996. West Penn Power was required to develop and submit their restructuring plan to the PA Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for approval. The West Penn Power restructuring plan provided funding to promote renewable energy that led to the establishment of a separate, stand-alone nonprofit organization. WPPSEF was incorporated in June 2000 and started to provide project funding in 2001.

Is WPPSEF part of West Penn Power?

No. WPPSEF is a stand-alone nonprofit organization.

Are there other sustainable energy funds in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Four regional sustainable energy funds were established as part of Pennsylvania’s restructuring efforts – Sustainable Energy FundThe Reinvestment Fund Sustainable Development FundMet-Ed/Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund and the West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund.

Am I eligible for WPPSEF funding?

The WPPSEF is constantly seeking out new investment opportunities within the West Penn Power service region or projects that provide benefit to the West Penn Power ratepayer. The WPPSEF accepts investment requests year round. Grant requests may be submitted through WPPSEF annual request-for-proposal process. All funding requests need to be aligned with the mission of the WPPSEF and show a benefit to the West Penn Power Rate payer.

Does WPPSEF provide funding to homeowners?

No. WPPSEF has worked with AFC First Financial to provide low-cost loans to homeowners for their energy efficiency improvements. These loans are made available through Renew Financial’s Keystone Home Energy Loan Program (Keystone HELP).

How do I submit a funding request to WPPSEF?

Financing requests can be submitted to the WPPSEF anytime. Applicants are required to submit an investment inquiry application form, which provides the WPPSEF a brief summary of your project and its financing needs. Grants requests are solicited 1-2 times/ annually through a competitive grant making request-for-proposals.

Who evaluates my funding request?

WPPSEF staff compiles and reviews all incoming funding requests. All requests are then presented to the WPPSEF Board of Directors for funding consideration.

How long will it take to review my funding request?

The WPPSEF staff works closely with the applicant to gather the necessary project information needed to conduct a technical and financial due diligence for the Board. After these data have been collected and reviewed, the funding request is reviewed by the WPPSEF Board for funding consideration. The WPPSEF Board meets every two months to review funding requests.

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