|
This PIA complements the Connected Communities 2.0 funding opportunity, launched in July 2024, which is designed to validate technology innovations at the grid edge—where electricity distribution transitions between utilities and end users—in real-world situations to help ensure grid readiness for load growth.
The PIA will accelerate collection and reporting of performance data at the grid edge, especially from electric and gas distribution systems working with utilities, and associated analysis to increase acceptance of new technologies and planning strategies as viable approaches for efficient infrastructure investment.
DOE’s intention is to assist and strengthen the scope of existing pilot programs specifically for more customer and utility data collection, analysis, and reporting purposes. Communities with limited distribution capacity, such as locations with data centers and affordable housing, are a priority.
Applicant organizations—including research organizations, universities, utilities, community-based groups, and small and independent consulting firms—must have access to data from existing, ongoing projects running in collaboration with utilities to collect data from distribution systems and to validate grid-edge technology solutions.
Selected awardees are anticipated to each receive around a $1,000,000 award.
Applications are due Jan. 9, 2025. An informational webinar is scheduled for Dec. 18, 2024, at 2 p.m. ET.
|
