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Grid Modernization Program

 

Smart grid technologies promote the modernization of the electric grid, including the use of renewable and distributed energy resources, fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and lower operating costs. With a smart grid, New Yorkers will have access to a more affordable electricity and a more resilient and reliable energy system.

To further the research and development of a smarter grid, NYSERDA has provided funding for these related smart grid opportunities: Distributed Energy Resource Integration, High Performing Grid, and Future Grid (see below). Refer to the full funding opportunity for all eligibility requirements and application information.

Grid of the Future

RFP 5705 Grid of the Future Link opens in new window - close new window to return to this page. seeks to produce a comprehensive, integrated, actionable, and maintainable plan for updating the New York State electric system to effectively and timely support the new and changing grid needs driven by increasing electrification and the increasing scale, distribution, and capabilities of distributed energy resources. This project aims to produce the first complete version of the comprehensive NYS Grid of the Future Plan by the end of 2025, while also producing detailed plans for a robust framework that ensures timely ongoing development and maintenance of the Plan as the grid and its environment evolve.

Who Should Apply

NYSERDA welcomes proposals from organizations who have experience in the changing needs of the grid due to distributed energy resources and increased electrification.

Submissions are being accepted up until:

  • Round 1 – Open

Proposals Due Date: December 5, 2024 3:00 PM EST

Future Grid Challenge

PON 4393: Electric Power Transmission and Distribution Link opens in new window - close new window to return to this page. seeks innovative solutions that solve challenge areas defined by members of the Joint Utilities of New York and NYSERDA. Please join our mailing list to be notified of the next round opening.

Who Should Apply

NYSERDA welcomes proposals from organizations adept at product development, demonstration projects, and research studies. Teaming is encouraged to match skill sets that meet the needs of the challenges. 

Submissions are being accepted up until:

  • Round 1 - Closed
  • Round 2 - Closed
  • Round 3 - Closed
  • Round 4 - Closed
  • Round 5 - Open
    • Consolidated Edison Challenge: Advanced Utility Controllers for DC-Tied Energy Storage Systems to Enhance Resiliency and Hosting Capacity
    • Nation Grid Challenge: Building-to-Grid Gateway – Controllers for Grid-Interactive Efficient Buildings
      • Please note: National Grid challenge awardees will be expected to enroll flexible capacity in the Building-to-Grid pilot program for a minimum of 3 years and be compensated on a case-by-case basis based on distribution system needs at each site location. (updated September 4, 2024)

Proposals Due Date: October 17, 2024 3:00 PM EST

Contact

Christopher Cheng at [email protected] or 518-862-1090 x3436

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Federal Funding (GridFedFun)

In November 2023, the State of New York (NYS) was awarded ~$24 million from this Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grant. NYSERDA, which submitted the application to the DOE on behalf of NYS is providing the required 15% (~$3.5 million) as cost share. In response to stakeholder feedback, NYSERDA will devote its ~$3.5 million cost share to providing technical assistance and/or implementation funding to entities that are eligible. The ~$24 million from the grant awarded by the DOE will be available for the execution of grid hardening and resilience implementation projects.

PON 5737: Technical Assistance Funding to Develop Grid Modernization Projects Link opens in new window - close new window to return to this page. invites applications from municipal electric utilities (MUNIs) and rural electric cooperatives (COOPs) in New York State for technical assistance awards of up to $200,000 per applicant. Technical assistance grants can be used to support technical analyses needed to evaluate potential projects, grant writing assistance for implementation funding, and development of a reporting system to evaluate project success.

Applicants will be required to directly procure any contractors needed for technical services, which may include engineering, economics, and grant application services.

MUNIs and COOPs that do not have technical assistance needs may propose smaller implementation projects that fall within the allowable maximum award amount.

The grant funding will support energy systems that benefit disadvantaged communities, reduce the energy burden to disadvantaged communities, and increase the skilled workforce.

Who Should Apply

This is a rolling solicitation, awards will be made on a first come first served basis through 3:00 p.m. on December 1, 2027.

PON 5896: Competitive Solicitation for Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grant Link opens in new window - close new window to return to this page. invites applications from municipal electric utilities (MUNIs) and rural electric cooperatives (COOPs) in New York State for funding to support grid hardening and grid resilience implementation projects. Proposers’ intended projects must fall under one of the DOE approved project types outlined in the PON summary.

Eligible entities are allowed to apply for PON 5896 without having applied for or received funds from Technical Assistance Technical Assistance Funding to Develop Grid Modernization Projects (PON 5737). Previous application and/or award of technical assistance funding from PON 5737 does not guarantee award for federal implementation funds and vice- versa.

Proposers must provide a 33% cost match for the funds that they are requesting.

Who Should Apply

This is a due date solicitation that will be open for applications until January 29, 2025, at 3 pm.

Contact

Hafiz Bello at [email protected] or 518-862-1090 x3533

Read about Grid Modernization as a focus area for Innovation@NYSERDA.