The Community Energy Connectors: Regional Clean Energy & Economic Development Support Grant, offered by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), is designed to support clean energy initiatives and economic development through the establishment of a network of regional partners. This initiative will assist local, state, Tribal, and territorial governments participating in the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program by providing technical assistance, capacity-building support, and stakeholder engagement. Applications for this opportunity are due by January 28, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET.

Funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the EECBG Program provides $550 million to more than 2,700 eligible entities across the United States. The Community Energy Connectors initiative builds on this program by fostering collaboration among governments, utilities, nonprofits, and academic institutions. These partnerships aim to advance community-driven clean energy goals, develop “shovel-ready” projects, and sustain long-term energy initiatives. Applicants can apply individually or as part of a team. Priority will be given to teams, which should include one Administrator and 5–10 Regional Partners.

The grant will distribute a total of $6 million over three years, with individual funding requests ranging from $400,000 to $1 million. Applicants must submit a detailed work plan that describes their proposed activities, budget allocation, metrics for success, and strategies for engaging underserved communities, such as Tribes, disadvantaged areas, and energy communities. Regional Partners are expected to host annual in-person workshops and provide ongoing technical assistance tailored to their region's unique challenges and opportunities. Administrators will oversee network coordination, fund management, reporting, and communication.

Eligible applicants include nonprofits, Tribal councils, state and local governments, community-based organizations, academic institutions (preferably in partnership with community groups), and trade associations. Priority is given to organizations with a demonstrated history of working with underrepresented communities and expertise in clean energy project management.

To assist applicants, DOE will host an informational webinar on December 18, 2024, and an office hours session on January 14, 2025. Interested organizations can apply individually or as part of a team and must submit their applications through the DOE portal by the deadline. For more information or assistance, contact info@energywerx.org. This grant offers a unique opportunity to enhance local clean energy initiatives, foster economic development, and address community-specific energy challenges.