DOE launches $1 B program to enhance energy systems
USA, Washington, D.C.: DOE seeks public input on new program to improve energy systems in areas with fewer than 10,000 people.
Image source: T&D World
USA, Washington, D.C.: DOE seeks public input on new program to improve energy systems in areas with fewer than 10,000 people.
The Biden-Harris Administration, through the US Department of Energy (DOE), last week issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking public input on a new $1 B program to improve energy generation in rural or remote communities across the country.
Nearly one in six Americans live in a remote or rural community. Due to low population density and isolation from larger electric grids, these communities face higher energy costs and poor electrical reliability. Rural communities also have a disproportionately high share of low- and moderate-income families, who have limited ability to cope with high electricity costs.
Funded by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas (ERA) program will strengthen the resilience, reliability, and availability of energy systems, helping communities unlock the public health and cost-saving benefits for a cleaner, more efficient energy.
The ERA program will provide federal support to rural or remote communities to improve the overall cost-effectiveness of energy generation, transmission, or distribution systems; site or upgrade transmission lines; reduce greenhouse gas emissions from energy generation; provide or modernize generation facilities, develop microgrids, and increase energy efficiency.
DOE expects to announce a funding opportunity to solicit project proposals in 2023.
Source: T&D World
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