HVAC indoor air quality grant program

Grants to support CT public schools

man installing air conditioner

HVAC grants

In 2022, Governor Lamont signed legislation to establish a new grant program that encourages public school districts to install, replace, or upgrade their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Over the two rounds of the program, the State of Connecticut awarded more than $178 million in grants to 163 public schools across the state to make improvements to heating and ventilation systems or for other indoor air quality projects.

A third round of applications and awards is not expected.

However, given the importance of investing in indoor air quality for public schools, the Lamont Administration and the Department of Administrative Services are exploring 2025 legislative options to include the program as a permanent category within the school construction grant program.

About HVAC grants

The HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grant Program encourages public school districts to install, replace, or upgrade their heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Eligible applicants include:

  • Local boards of education
  • Regional boards of education
  • Regional education service centers

The Department of Administrative Services' Office of Grants Administration oversees the program, which is funded with state bonding and federal Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSFRF). Approximately $244 million is available for funding for FY 2024, including $169 million in state bond funds and $75 million in federal CSFRF funds.

Sections 10, 360, and 367 of Public Act 22-118 established the program. It was codified into the Connecticut General Statutes at § 10-265r and § 10-265t and has been amended by Sections 48 and 328 of Public Act 23-204 and Sections 58 and 119 of Public Act 23-205.

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IAQ Annual Form and HVAC 5-Year Form

Recently passed legislation required that the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) develop two forms for schools to utilize in order to comply with reporting requirements relating to indoor air quality.  Those forms are now available below.

Air quality resources

HVAC system fan

Find the right technology

We understand that finding the right technology can be a complex task. Not all air purification technologies are equally backed by research. That is is why we encourage school districts to make informed decisions when investing in air quality improvement measures.

The Connecticut Department of Health has compiled a summary of the available research on the most common air filtration technologies. Districts may find it a helpful resource to inform purchasing decisions.

Information and recommendations (PDF)  
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Watch a webinar about the HVAC grant program

Learn about HVAC grants by viewing a webinar hosted by DAS on Wednesday, October 4 at 12 p.m.

Contact DAS