We are still waiting for DOE to issues rules on the ARRA’s big-ticket renewable energy loan guarantee program, but last week did bring news of three new funding opportunity announcements of interest to the renewable energy community.
The first, titled Solar Market Transformation, aims to address market barriers to the adoption of solar technologies (limited to the twenty-five previously-designated Solar America Cities) and to promote solar installation training at the local level (open to all domestic entities and institutions). Approximately $20,000,000 in total awards is expected to be available, with an additional $17,000,000 expected during FY 2010 through FY 2013. Applications are due July 30, 2009.
The second solar program, High Penetration Solar Deployment, seeks projects that will aid in accelerating incorporation of PV systems into the grid. This initiative is focused on modeling, control systems and related steps that can help address PV integration. All types of domestic entities are eligible to apply, except Federal agencies and nonprofit organizations described in section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that engaged in lobbying activities after December 31, 1995. Approximately $17,500,000 in total awards is expected to be available, with an additional $20,000,000 expected to be available and distributed during FY 2010 through FY 2014. Applications are due July 30, 2009.
The third funding announcement, the $170 million Geothermal Technologies Program aims to support geothermal systems research, exploration, demonstration, and development. Most entities are eligible, and funding will be awarded in the form of grants, cooperative agreements, and technology investment agreements. Keeping with the core purpose of the ARRA, the program seeks aggressive schedules for project completion, and creation and maintenance of jobs. Final applications are due on July 22, 2009.
