The Grid Resilience Formula Funding (GRFF) Subgrants are available through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). These funds are allocated to states by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to enhance the resilience of the electric grid against disruptive events such as extreme weather, wildfires, and natural disasters. The MoDNR, as the designated lead agency, will administer these funds through its Division of Energy, making up to $13 million available for eligible projects in Missouri.

The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that strengthen the electric grid’s resilience by reducing the risk of disruptions and enhancing system adaptability during extreme events. Eligible projects include infrastructure improvements such as hardening power lines, implementing fire-resistant technologies, relocating or undergrounding power lines, deploying advanced monitoring and control systems, integrating distributed energy resources (e.g., microgrids and battery storage), and supporting vegetation and fuel-load management. Additionally, funds may be used for workforce development activities, including training and retention of skilled workers to implement the projects.

Funding is restricted to projects located within Missouri, with eligibility extended to electric grid operators, electricity storage operators, electricity generators, transmission and distribution providers, fuel suppliers, and groups composed of these entities. Preference is given to applications from groups of eligible entities rather than individual applicants. The grant requires a cost match, with small entities (those selling ≤4 million MWh/year) required to provide a 49.13% cost match, while large entities (selling >4 million MWh/year) must provide a 115.79% cost match. A minimum of 37.59% of the total funding is targeted toward small entities, but awards will ultimately be determined based on application volume and merit.

Applicants must submit a complete application package, including forms related to project description, budget justification, environmental impact assessment, organizational policies, and financial documentation. Applications are due by April 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. CST, and must be submitted via the department’s Funding Opportunities Portal or emailed to gridresilience@dnr.mo.gov. First-time portal users must request access in advance, allowing up to 48 hours for approval. Award decisions are expected to be announced by June 23, 2025, pending DOE approval.

Following selection, recipients must comply with various federal and state reporting requirements, including quarterly and annual project reports, financial audits, and adherence to environmental and workforce regulations. All project activities must be completed by April 30, 2032, with reimbursement requests requiring a minimum of 20% of the subaward amount per submission. Projects are subject to additional terms under the Federal Financial Assistance Agreement and DOE Special Terms and Conditions. Recipients must also ensure compliance with labor regulations such as the Davis-Bacon Act and Buy America requirements.

Awarded projects will be monitored for compliance, and recipients must submit closeout reports and provide necessary documentation upon project completion. Failure to meet reporting and compliance requirements may result in grant termination. Additional details, including application instructions and full eligibility requirements, can be found in the Grid Resilience Formula Funding Program Request for Proposals.