The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the "Disruptive DC Converters for Grid Resilient Infrastructure to Deliver Sustainable Energy" program (DC-GRIDS), aimed at transformative innovations in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission. The purpose is to develop advanced HVDC technologies that enhance grid resilience, enable multi-terminal HVDC (MT-HVDC) macrogrids, and facilitate integration of renewable energy sources. This program addresses increasing U.S. energy demands, fueled by data centers, manufacturing, and transportation electrification, by advancing HVDC systems that offer higher capacity and efficiency than traditional alternating current (AC) transmission, especially over long distances.

This funding opportunity is targeted under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, encouraging small businesses and research institutions to collaborate on these HVDC advancements. ARPA-E anticipates awarding approximately $38 million across two related NOFOs, aiming to fund 10-12 projects. Awards may range from $314,363 up to $4,505,859 for combined Phase I/II/IIS projects, depending on project scope, with the possibility of separate awards for Phase I or Phase I/II projects.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based small business concerns for SBIR projects and U.S.-based small business concerns partnering with research institutions for STTR projects. All applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria detailed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and ARPA-E's guidelines. The proposal review will assess project responsiveness to technical requirements and alignment with ARPA-E’s mission to support transformative and commercially impactful energy technology advancements. Collaborative teams are encouraged to engage system integrators, utilities, or independent system operators (ISOs) to support the integration and testing of HVDC technology within existing infrastructure.

The NOFO outlines two main categories of technical interest: Category A focuses on high-voltage power electronic valves with integrated protective features and modular design to reduce costs and enhance HVDC system compatibility. Category B supports innovations in MT-HVDC converter station design and auxiliary components for the HVDC grid, such as converters that function across multiple AC and DC systems, as well as associated switchgear, breakers, and cooling systems. Both categories demand high-performance targets, including enhanced power density, modularity, and reduced station footprint, aligned with ARPA-E’s goals for achieving a flexible, high-capacity, and cost-effective HVDC infrastructure.

Proposals must include detailed technical performance metrics, project milestones, and scalability plans. ARPA-E will engage in substantial project oversight, including milestone evaluations and, where necessary, the modification or termination of projects failing to meet established objectives. The application submission process requires concept papers due by December 10, 2024, with encouraged submissions proceeding to full applications. Further details and assistance are available through ARPA-E's dedicated portals and contacts as provided in the NOFO documentation.