Department of Energy’s Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas program
The Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas (ERA) program opened up applications for up to $400 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to improve the resilience, reliability, and affordability of energy systems in communities across the country with 10,000 or fewer people. ERA aims to fund community-driven energy projects that demonstrate new energy systems, deliver measurable benefits to customers and build clean energy knowledge and capacity throughout rural America. The TCTAC has developed a suite of resources to help you complete your application. See the resources below.
Due Dates:
Required concept paper by February 27, 2025 at 5:00pm ET
Full applications by August 28, 2025 at 5:00pm ET
Award:
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Open category: $10-$50 million
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Dual use and co-location: $10-$50 million
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Smaller-scaled community-centered: $2-$10 million
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Isolated microgrants and unelectrified buildings: $2-$10 million
Cost-share requirement: Non-federal 5 to 50% cost-share
Resources:
TCTAC Slide deck: overview of the program with real-world examples
Application Guide: detailed information on how to complete the concept paper
Fact Sheet: snapshot of the program with links
Request for National Renewable Energy Laboratory Technical Assistance by February 13, 2025 here