DOE Releases $1.9 Billion in Third Round of Grid Resilience Funding
The Department of Energy (DOE) has launched the SPARK program, a significant funding initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of the U.S. electrical grid. With a total of $1.9 billion available, this program is designed to support projects that expand the capacity, reliability, and affordability of the grid through advanced transmission technologies.
Eligible applicants include electric grid operators, electricity storage operators, and various other entities involved in the energy sector. This funding is crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring a robust energy infrastructure in the face of increasing demand and climate challenges.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants include:
- Electric grid operators
- Electricity storage operators
- Electricity generators
- Transmission owners or operators
- Distribution providers
- Fuel suppliers
- Other entities as determined by the Secretary
Specific eligibility criteria vary by topic area, including requirements for institutes of higher education, for-profit and non-profit organizations, and state and local government entities.
Deadline: Concept papers due April 2, 2026; full application deadline is May 20, 2026.
Benefits
Funding is distributed across three topic areas:
- Grid Resilience: $427 million available, with awards ranging from $10 million to $100 million per project.
- Smart Grid: $614 million available, with awards ranging from $10 million to $50 million per project.
- Grid Innovation: $862 million available, with awards ranging from $100 million to $250 million per project.
