The Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity (DOE-OE) is issuing the "HARMONY: Human-Centric Analytics for Resilient & Modernized Power Systems" funding opportunity announcement (FOA) to support projects that enhance grid reliability and resilience. The initiative focuses on developing tools to quantify, assess, and communicate risks and uncertainties in power systems, aiming to equip human operators with actionable information to mitigate cascading failures. A total of $6,250,000 in funding is available for up to five awards, each averaging $1,250,000. Applications must be submitted by March 20, 2025, following a concept paper deadline of January 27, 2025. Projects are expected to last 36 months, beginning September 22, 2025.

The program seeks to advance analytics and methodologies in three key areas: risk analytics, cybersecurity and grid communications, and human factors. By addressing both aleatory (random) and epistemic (systematic) uncertainties, these projects will foster a more resilient and adaptive power grid. Eligible activities include probabilistic risk analysis, advanced cybersecurity frameworks, and tools that enhance the interface between human operators and grid systems. Applicants are encouraged to define metrics for success tailored to their proposed solutions.

Eligibility for this FOA is restricted to U.S.-based universities, colleges, DOE Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), and non-profit research institutions or think tanks. Collaboration with electric sector partners and technology providers is highly encouraged, ensuring that research outcomes are practical and industry-relevant. Foreign entities and certain ineligible participants, such as organizations banned from U.S. federal programs, may not apply. All work must be performed in the U.S., unless a waiver is explicitly granted.

Applications must include a detailed research plan addressing one or more of the following areas: enhancing probabilistic risk analysis, developing integrated cybersecurity measures, and advancing human-centric tools for managing grid uncertainties. Partnerships between research institutions, electric utilities, and technology developers are strongly encouraged to ensure cross-sector collaboration and practical implementation of research findings.

Key dates include the FOA release on December 9, 2024, the concept paper deadline on January 27, 2025, and the full application deadline on March 20, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified by June 24, 2025, with awards expected to begin on September 22, 2025. Successful applicants must demonstrate a clear plan to address uncertainties and deliver tools that support resilient grid operations in the face of evolving risks and technologies.

Interested parties can access the FOA through FedConnect and Grants.gov. For additional guidance, questions must be submitted through the FedConnect portal. This funding opportunity represents a significant step towards modernizing the nation’s energy grid and preparing for future challenges through innovative research and development.