The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the commencement of applications for Round Two of the Renewable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning (R-STEP) program. This initiative, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, will allocate up to $12 million to support the enhancement of state-based programs or initiatives aimed at improving renewable energy siting processes at both state and local levels.
With large-scale renewable energy facilities playing a critical role in swiftly and economically decarbonizing the grid, the R-STEP program aligns with President Biden’s ambitious targets of achieving a 100% clean electricity sector by 2035 and transitioning to a net-zero emissions economy by 2050. By backing state-based programs that act as a resource for local communities, R-STEP aims to enhance the outcomes of renewable energy deployment for host communities, particularly disadvantaged communities, local governments, and renewable energy developers.
The DOE plans to allocate funds to approximately six to seven state-based collaboratives, with each collaborative eligible to receive up to $2 million to establish or expand their programs or initiatives. In addition to financial support, collaboratives will receive tailored technical assistance and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning.
Activities supported by the awarded funds may include:
Engaging communities, local and Tribal governments, and stakeholders to determine priorities and resource requirements for renewable energy planning, siting, and permitting.
Establishing state-specific technical assistance and information hubs to address inquiries and requests from local governments and/or Tribes regarding large-scale renewable energy siting and proactive planning for future deployment.
Conducting trainings and workshops with local governments and/or Tribes to enhance technical understanding of renewable energy planning and siting.
Increasing technical capacity on siting processes, renewable energy technologies, community engagement planning and execution, and community plan development through hiring or subcontracting.
Developing state-specific resources to aid community planning for renewable energy and implementation of siting best practices.
In Round 2, proposals may encompass activities related to various clean energy technologies, including geothermal power, agrivoltaics, offshore wind, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, in addition to land-based wind, large-scale solar, and energy storage.
Applicants are encouraged to explore the potential use of software tools employing machine learning or similar technologies to support renewable energy planning, siting, and permitting activities.
The DOE emphasizes the involvement of state energy offices (or equivalent agencies) and university extension offices in leading or participating in applications. However, it acknowledges that the organizations best suited to execute these activities may vary by state. Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with other entities, including Tribal governments, universities, non-governmental organizations, and community-based organizations.
Collaboratives should encompass organizations familiar with the needs of local communities within the state, entities experienced in providing educational or technical assistance services to local communities, and organizations possessing expertise in renewable energy siting topics such as environmental impacts and zoning ordinance development.
Managed by ENERGYWERX in partnership with the DOE, the R-STEP program operates under an innovative Partnership Intermediary Agreement facilitated by the DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions.