City of Boulder Launches Pilot Program To Help Nonprofits Prepare For Power Outages

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Thursday, July 9, 2026

Media Contact:

Layra Nicli, Media Relations, City of Boulder, 303-818-4678

bouldercolorado.gov

City of Boulder launches pilot program to help nonprofits prepare for power outages

New Resiliency Hub Pilot Program will provide funding and technical support for battery backup systems

BOULDER, Colo. – The City of Boulder is launching the Resiliency Hub Pilot Program to help nonprofit organizations prepare for extended power outages by installing battery backup systems that can support critical community services.

Through the pilot program, qualifying nonprofits can receive up to $50,000 toward a battery storage system or a battery-plus-solar system, along with support from an energy advisor to help evaluate options and guide organizations through the process.

Recent Public Safety Power Shutoffs, extreme weather events, and infrastructure challenges have highlighted the need to better prepare for longer outages and understand how local resources can support community needs. Through this effort, the city will explore how community-based energy solutions can help with access to essential resources during outages while learning what approaches can best support future resilience efforts.

“Boulder has experienced a shift in how we think about and prepare for power outages,” said Carolyn Elam, Sustainability Senior Manager with the City of Boulder. “While improvements to the electric grid remain an essential part of this work, this pilot recognizes the important role community organizations play in helping prepare for and respond to disruptions.”

Many nonprofit and community organizations already provide essential services during emergencies, but the cost of backup power systems can be a significant barrier. The Resiliency Hub Pilot Program is designed to help organizations invest in these resources while providing the city with valuable information about how different models can support different community needs.

Funding for the Resiliency Hub Pilot Program comes from taxes collected on solar and battery storage systems, made possible through ordinance changes approved by City Council earlier this year.

Interested organizations are invited to attend a conversational workshop on Monday, July 27, to learn more, connect with like-minded organizations, and explore broader community resilience needs with city staff.

Applications are open and must be submitted by Aug. 14, 2026.

For more information about the Resiliency Hub Pilot Program, visit our website.

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