Solar energy projects require significant upfront capital, but federal and community-based financing programs make clean energy investments more accessible than ever. Through partnerships with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, Community Development Financial Institutions, and the New Markets Tax Credit program, CBO Financial helps solar developers, municipalities, and community organizations secure the funding needed to deploy renewable energy solutions. Whether you’re developing utility-scale solar farms, commercial rooftop installations, or community solar arrays, strategic financing structures can reduce costs and accelerate project timelines across the United States and its territories.
Federal Financing Programs for Solar Projects
Multiple federal programs provide capital specifically designed to support clean energy infrastructure, including solar installations:
The National Clean Investment Fund (NCIF) offers funding for solar projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit low-income communities. This EPA-backed program provides flexible financing options, including loan guarantees, credit enhancements, and direct lending to qualified borrowers.
The Clean Communities Investment Accelerator (CCIA) focuses on deploying capital to underserved markets where solar energy can create economic opportunity while advancing environmental justice. Through EPA financing programs, community lenders can access resources to support residential, commercial, and community-scale solar developments.
For projects located in qualified low-income communities, the New Markets Tax Credit program provides substantial equity through tax credit consulting for renewable energy projects. NMTC financing can reduce the effective cost of solar installations by 15-20%, making previously unfeasible projects economically viable.
Who Can Access Solar Energy Financing
CBO Financial works with a diverse range of solar energy stakeholders:
Solar Developers seeking construction financing, bridge loans, or permanent debt for utility-scale, commercial, or residential solar projects can leverage EPA programs combined with traditional project finance structures.
Municipalities and Public Entities implementing solar installations on government buildings, schools, or public infrastructure can access specialized financing through CDFI loans designed for public benefit projects.
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and mission-driven lenders can partner with CBO Financial to structure solar lending programs that serve their communities while accessing federal credit enhancements and technical assistance.
Non-Profit Organizations developing community solar projects or installing solar on facilities serving low-income populations may qualify for blended financing that combines grants, low-interest loans, and tax credit equity.
Tribal Nations pursuing solar energy sovereignty can access specialized financing programs that respect tribal governance while providing capital for renewable energy infrastructure.
Types of Solar Projects We Finance
Our financing expertise spans the full spectrum of solar energy applications:
Utility-Scale Solar Farms ranging from 5 MW to 100+ MW require sophisticated project finance structures including construction loans, tax equity, and term debt. CBO Financial coordinates with multiple capital providers to create optimal financing stacks.
Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Solar installations on warehouses, manufacturing facilities, retail centers, and office buildings benefit from accelerated depreciation, Investment Tax Credits, and NMTC project financing when located in eligible communities.
Community Solar Gardens that provide renewable energy access to renters, low-income households, and those unable to install rooftop solar require specialized financing that accounts for subscriber-based revenue models.
Residential Solar Programs developed by CDFIs, green banks, or community lenders can access wholesale capital and credit enhancements to offer affordable solar loans to homeowners.
Solar + Storage Projects combining photovoltaic generation with battery storage systems qualify for enhanced incentives and can access specialized financing programs focused on grid resilience and reliability.
How CBO Financial Structures Solar Project Financing
With over a decade of experience in clean energy finance, CBO Financial provides end-to-end advisory services for solar developers and lenders:
Financial Modeling and Feasibility Analysis evaluates project economics, incentive eligibility, and optimal capital structures before approaching lenders or investors.
Capital Stack Optimization combines multiple funding sources—EPA programs, CDFI lending, tax equity, utility incentives, and traditional debt—to minimize capital costs and maximize project returns.
EPA Program Navigation guides borrowers through the NCIF and CCIA application processes, compliance requirements, and reporting obligations to ensure the successful deployment of federal clean energy capital.
NMTC Transaction Structuring for solar projects in low-income communities creates complex financing architectures that capture maximum tax credit value while meeting Community Development Entity allocation requirements.
Lender and Investor Coordination manages relationships with multiple capital providers throughout project development, construction, and operations to ensure timely funding and successful project completion.
Solar Financing Across All U.S. States and Territories
CBO Financial has facilitated solar project financing in diverse markets across the United States, from the sun-rich Southwest to emerging solar markets in the Northeast and Midwest. Our team understands regional differences in:
- State-level solar incentives, Renewable Portfolio Standards, and net metering policies
- Utility interconnection requirements and power purchase agreement structures
- Local permitting, zoning, and land use regulations affecting solar development
- Regional installer availability, equipment costs, and construction timelines
- State environmental regulations and EPA coordination at the regional level
We also serve U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, where solar energy offers critical benefits in terms of energy independence and resilience.
Get Started with Your Solar Project
Whether you’re in early-stage project development or ready to close financing, CBO Financial can accelerate your solar energy project. Our team will assess your project’s eligibility for EPA clean energy programs, identify optimal financing structures, and connect you with capital providers aligned with your goals.
Schedule a project analysis to discuss your solar energy financing needs. Our consultants will evaluate your project’s financial viability, recommend appropriate funding programs, and outline next steps to secure capital for your renewable energy investment.