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, Future Grid and Vehicle to Grid Integration (see below). Refer to the full funding opportunity for all eligibility requirements and application information.
Future Grid Challenge
PON 4393: Electric Power Transmission and Distribution 
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
Contact
Christopher Cheng at [email protected] or 518-862-1090 x3436
Vehicle Grid Integration Program
PON 5354: Vehicle Grid Integration Program involves the Grid Modernization program working closely with NYSERDA’s Clean Transportation team to help develop and demonstrate solutions that address technical, economic, and other barriers to increasing electric vehicle adoption, grid flexibility and EV integration with the electric grid.
Who Should Apply
NYSERDA welcomed proposals from organizations adept at product development and demonstration projects. Teaming was encouraged to match skill sets that met the needs of the challenges.
Submissions were being accepted up until:
- Round 2 – Concept Papers -Open
- Round 2 – Full Proposals - To Be Announced
Contact
Bob Mack 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.
PON 5737: Technical Assistance Funding to Develop Grid Modernization Projects 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.
Applications for implementation funding will be announced soon.
Contact
Hafiz Bello at [email protected] or 518-862-1090 x3233
Read about Grid Modernization as a focus area for Innovation@NYSERDA.