The DC-GRIDS (Disruptive DC Converters for Grid Resilient Infrastructure to Deliver Sustainable Energy) program, issued by the Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E) of the Department of Energy, is a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) that seeks transformative technological advancements in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems. This program targets innovative solutions to improve grid resiliency, sustainability, and capacity by advancing multi-terminal HVDC (MT-HVDC) technologies that enable multi-directional power flow and flexible interconnections between AC and DC lines.

The program aims to support the U.S. energy grid's transition by making HVDC systems more cost-effective and competitive with traditional AC systems, especially to accommodate the increased electricity demand from data centers, manufacturing, and the electrification of transportation. With a focus on technologies that can integrate sustainable energy sources more seamlessly, DC-GRIDS aspires to enhance grid resilience and availability while facilitating the rapid expansion of HVDC infrastructure. Key program goals include enabling MT-HVDC converter stations that can leverage existing AC infrastructure for faster deployment and improved grid interoperability.

The program categorizes technical innovation into two main categories: Category A for the development of novel, modular high-voltage power electronic valves with attributes like enhanced performance, redundancy, and compatibility across different vendors; and Category B for the creation of compact, cost-efficient multi-terminal converter station technologies with a focus on innovative station designs and auxiliary components to support MT-HVDC grids. Specific technical advancements in both categories include improvements in modular converter valves, reduction of converter station size, and enhanced thermal management. These innovations aim to reduce station costs and environmental impacts, such as the use of non-greenhouse gas insulation materials.

Approximately $38 million in federal funds is available for the DC-GRIDS program, anticipated to support 10 to 12 awards across this NOFO and its companion opportunity (DE-FOA-0003500). Individual award amounts may range from $500,000 to $10 million, based on project scope and requirements. ARPA-E mandates that award recipients allocate at least 5 percent of federal funding to Technology Transfer and Outreach (TT&O) activities, unless a waiver is granted. TT&O activities include market development efforts, attendance at industry conferences, and patenting costs associated with the funded technology.

Eligible applicants include domestic entities, individuals, consortia, and institutions, with restrictions on certain foreign participation from countries of concern. Compliance with U.S.-based work requirements is expected, though waivers may be requested for specific foreign components. Additionally, ARPA-E requires adherence to substantial involvement terms, meaning it actively guides project direction and technical milestone achievement.

Applications are initially submitted as Concept Papers, with selected applicants invited to submit Full Applications. Full Applications must include a technical volume, budget justification, and specific assurances. ARPA-E emphasizes alignment with program goals and technical performance targets, such as achieving a specific power density, cost reduction, and modular valve configurations. High priority is given to projects that propose disruptive solutions, address existing HVDC system limitations, and exhibit strong collaborative planning.

The concept paper deadline is December 10, 2024, by 9:30 AM ET, with additional application deadlines and key dates to be determined. Selected applicants will be notified by June 2025, and awards are anticipated to start in September 2025 with a performance period extending through September 2028. For additional guidance or questions, applicants are advised to refer to ARPA-E’s FAQs or contact the specified ARPA-E representatives.