Overview
The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC), Office of Energy Policy (OEP) is seeking applications for the Kentucky Resilient Microgrid project. This funding is made available by the Department of Energy (DOE), State Energy Program, Infrastructure and Investments Act (SEP IIJA). The grant is worth $2,000,000 in federal award.
The Kentucky Resilient Microgrid Program is designed to support two-to-four-year public universities and non-profit colleges in improving the resilience, reliability, and sustainability of their electric grids through microgrid development. This initiative aims to:
- Enhance Energy Resilience: Reduce reliance on the main grid by enabling campuses to maintain power during outages and disruptions.
- Lower Energy Costs: Optimize energy efficiency and reduce operational costs through innovative microgrid solutions.
The program adopts a phased approach, allowing institutions to progress from feasibility studies to full implementation with funding eligibility at each stage.
Grant Application Process and Timeline
The Office of Energy Policy, (OEP), will schedule and hold a webinar on the microgrid application process prior to the application period opening. A recording of this webinar will be made available. Applicants should submit written questions to energy@ky.gov and amanda.lemaster@ky.gov. Oral questions will not be accepted.
The Application Manual, Recorded webinar, Detailed Budget Workbook, Q&A compilation and additional resources to assist with preparing the application will be posted here on the Office of Energy Policy's website.
Where to submit: Applications and documentation must be submitted via Submittable Platform for Online Submission.
Timeline
Grant Application period will open on August 25, 2025 and are due to the Office of Energy Policy no later than 5:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on October 31st, 2025.
Tentative Timeline:
- Information Webinar for Applicants: September 4, 2025
- Application Release Date: September 15, 2025
- Application Submission Deadline: October 31, 2025
- Review and Selection Period: November 2025
- Grant Award Announcement December 2025
- Project Implementation Start Date: April 2026
All applications must be submitted electronically and received by 5:30 p.m. EDT October 31st, 2025.