Andy Garcia, NJ Economic Development Authority: Funding Opportunities

Course Description

This course provides an overview of clean energy funding programs offered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA), with a primary focus on the RETROFIT program. Participants will learn how large-scale building retrofit projects can reduce emissions through energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and innovative technologies. The course covers program eligibility, funding structure, application requirements, and project criteria including financial incentives, CO₂ reduction goals, and compliance standards. It is designed for institutions and property owners seeking to plan and finance sustainable upgrades while navigating state-supported clean energy initiatives.

Recorded March 12, 2026

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the role of building retrofits in improving health, safety, and welfare by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy performance in institutional and campus environments.
• Evaluate clean energy strategies including electrification, renewable energy integration, and energy efficiency measures for their impact on occupant health, safety, and long-term building resilience.
• Identify eligibility requirements, funding structures, and compliance criteria of state-supported retrofit programs to ensure safe, code-compliant, and sustainable project implementation.
• Assess the environmental and public health benefits of decarbonization projects, including CO₂ reduction targets and improved indoor and outdoor environmental quality.

About the Instructor:

Andy Garcia is a Project Officer at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), focusing on building decarbonization and clean energy partnerships. He is a sustainability specialist involved in initiatives such as the NJ Energy Code Collaborative and the New Jersey Zero-Emission Vehicle Roadmap. Andy serves as a key team member at NJEDA’s Clean Energy team, driving initiatives that support the state’s transition to a clean energy economy. He focuses on building decarbonization strategies, contributing to the Building Transformation Forum regarding New Jersey’s initiatives.

Course Outline

• About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority
• NJEDA Clean Energy Products
• RETROFIT
  • Building Eligibility
  • Applicant Eligibility
  • Project Eligibility
  • Eligible Funding Uses
  • Grant Awards
  • Disbursements
  • Application Process
  • Required Application & Post-application Documents

• Q&A Session

• Exam