JANUARY 28, 2022

Rural Clean Energy Innovation News

Commerce's Rural Clean Energy Innovation program supports clean energy research, development and implementation in Washington’s rural communities. The program will allocate approximately $4.9 million from the state Clean Energy Fund to advance clean energy through a work group and new grant program with specific funding targeted to bioenergy and Tribal energy projects.

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Rural Clean Energy Work Group Updates

Commerce has been convening a Rural Clean Energy work group to develop targeted rural clean energy investment strategies informed by rural community and business engagement, outreach and research (Section 1064 (14) (a) of the 2021 Capital Budget). 

Between October and December 2021, the work group held three meetings. Materials from these meetings are available on the program webpage. The work group will culminate in a legislative report due June 30 this year.

• Public comment period closes Feb. 10, 2022
  In parallel with the work group meetings, we invite feedback through a public comment form. We want to hear your ideas for how to develop clean energy projects that meet the needs of Washington’s rural communities. Comments are due by Feb. 10, 2022.
• Tentative: Additional public comment period to be announced
  We may add a public comment period in March to gather feedback on the work group's draft recommendations. An announcement with more details will go out closer to the opportunity.

Upcoming opportunities for Rural Clean Energy Grants

Approximately $4.6 million is available for projects supporting rural clean energy. This funding will be divided into at least two distinct grant opportunities: Dairy Digester Bioenergy grants and Rural Clean Energy Innovation grants. Both are tentatively set to open in fall 2022.

• The Dairy Digester Bioenergy program provides funding for projects that enhance the viability of dairy digesters.
• The Rural Clean Energy Innovation grants are open to Washington-based entities pursuing rural clean energy projects. Approximately 20% of available funding is allocated to Tribal governments, designated subdivisions and agencies. The remaining grant funds are available for any projects supporting rural clean energy such as  advancing energy efficiency, resilience and carbon sequestration.
  • Tribal resource session: Feb. 15, 2022
    Commerce will host a resource and information session on Clean Energy Fund opportunities available to Tribes. Part of the session will provide an overview of current and future grant opportunities, and the remaining portion will be dedicated to listening and discussion.
    

    Zoom meeting details: https://wastatecommerce.zoom.us/j/86358081205?pwd=ZnVydVpRSVpZaHhNdlJ6TnNVM2FKUT09

    Join by phone: 1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
    Meeting ID: 863 5808 1205
    Passcode: 703274

Helpful resources

• 2021 capital budget
• Contact: CEF@commerce.wa.gov

Upcoming federal grant opportunities

• USDA Rural Energy Pilot Program (USDA Rural Development, www.rd.usda.gov)

About Commerce

Commerce works with local governments, businesses, community-based organizations and tribes to strengthen communities. The department’s diverse portfolio of more than 100 programs and effective public and private partnerships promote sustainable community and economic development to help all Washingtonians thrive. For more information, visit http://www.commerce.wa.gov. For information on locating or expanding a business in Washington, visit choosewashingtonstate.com.

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