Green banks are financial institutions that can leverage public funding to attract private capital for clean energy projects (including energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other distributed energy resources), as well as other “green” investments. They can help both states and communities partner with private lenders and investors to mobilize capital, alleviate perceived risks, and design attractive financial instruments to support these investments.

This primer provides a basic explanation of green banks, the benefits they offer, issues local governments might consider when deciding whether to create a green bank, and several case studies. It also provides information on other green banking opportunities for local governments.

You may also want to listen to the webinar on green banking strategies that EPA hosted on October 1, 2018.

• Clean Energy Finance: Green Banking Strategies for Local Governments (PDF)(8 pp, 138 K)