Indiana launches grant opportunity aimed at comprehensive energy solutions for communities

The Indiana Office of Energy Development (OED) today announced a $2.5 million community-focused competitive grant opportunity geared to address Indiana communities’ energy needs and priorities across the state, with robust collaboration and innovative partnerships as vital aspects of the new program.

“OED has tailored this program to support locally driven energy solutions and provide an opportunity for community leaders to share their communities’ energy priorities,” said Ryan Hadley, Executive Director of the Indiana Office of Energy Development. “We are eager to offer this support for energy-related investments in Hoosier communities.”

Empowering Energy Partnerships in Indiana Communities (EPIC) is funded by Indiana’s State Energy Program formula funds authorized by the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021. OED anticipates issuing awards ranging from $300,000 - $500,000.

Eligible entities include local units of government, non-profit organizations, for-profit entities, and institutions of higher education. Entities that work throughout a community or region and can coordinate partnerships are strongly encouraged, such as local and regional economic development organizations, community foundations, and other organizations that participate in community development initiatives.

Overall, the goals of the program will support Indiana’s five pillars of electricity policy: reliability, resiliency, stability, affordability, and environmental sustainability. Each project will support as many of the five pillars as possible with a measurable impact.

“Applicants are encouraged to think creatively about how they can address their energy needs on a larger scale through holistic partnerships,” Hadley said. “Ideally, successful projects could serve as a model for other communities.”

The EPIC grant application process includes multiple phases. The initial phase begins March 4, 2024, when the grant opens to applicants. Applicants will then have until May 1, 2024, to submit letters of intent. Final grant applications are due June 30, 2024.

Information about the grant application may be found at: https://www.in.gov/oed/grants-and-funding-opportunities/epic

OED will offer early coordination and programmatic assistance for interested applicants. Details on this assistance are included in the application package. Participants interested in the grant and additional OED initiatives may sign up for updates.