In February 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was enacted, creating a renewable energy grant program. The program is overseen by the United States Department of Treasury, offering a cash grant in lieu of the previous federal business energy investment tax credit.

In July 2009, documents became available that detailed all deadlines for these new renewable energy grants. The United States Department of Treasury released terms, conditions of the grants and a sample application. Those who wish to apply will be able to undergo an initial online application process.

The solar grant equals 30% of the base of a property, particularly for solar energy. The property must be eligible and include equipment which uses solar energy for the generation of electricity to heat or cool a structure. Solar pool-heating systems are not eligible however hybrid solar lighting systems may be eligible.

The fuel cells grant is equal to 30% of the basis of property for the fuel cells. There is a cap of $1,500 per kilowatt in capacity for this grant.

The small wind turbine grants equal out to 30% of the particular property. These include turbines up to 100 kilowatt in capacity.

There are also grants for qualified facilities, geothermal heat pumps, micro-turbines and combined heat and power systems. Only tax-paying entities are eligible for the grants, so federal, state, and local governments, non-profits, cooperative electric companies, and qualified energy tax credit bond lenders are not eligible.