Efficient Affordable Resilient Neighborhoods Initiative Planning Grant

The Efficient Affordable Resilient Neighborhoods Initiative Planning Grant is administered by the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) through its Energy Administration, specifically the Energy Initiatives and Data Division. This competitive funding opportunity is designed to support the development of strategic, neighborhood-scale plans for electrification and clean energy deployment. The initiative aligns with broader District climate and energy goals, including those outlined in Clean Energy DC, which emphasizes improving energy efficiency, affordability, and resilience across the built environment. The primary purpose of this grant is to fund planning activities rather than implementation. The selected grantee is expected to develop a comprehensive deployment plan for one or two neighborhoods within the District of Columbia. This plan must outline how coordinated electrification, energy efficiency upgrades, and distributed energy resources can be deployed to achieve measurable improvements in community outcomes. The initiative emphasizes engagement with residents, businesses, and local stakeholders to ensure that proposed strategies are community-informed and responsive to local needs. Funding for this opportunity is supported in part by federal resources through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law State Energy Program. The total available funding for the project is $366,200, and DOEE anticipates making a single award. Grant funds may be used for allowable planning-related expenses, including stakeholder engagement, technical assessments, data analysis, and the development of reports and planning documents. Funds are typically disbursed on a reimbursement basis, with limited exceptions for advance payments under specific circumstances. Matching funds are not required, although applicants may propose additional contributions. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, including those with IRS 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) status, faith-based organizations, government agencies, universities or educational institutions, and private enterprises. Applicants must demonstrate the organizational capacity and technical expertise necessary to conduct complex energy planning activities and community engagement processes. The program encourages collaboration among organizations but requires a single entity to serve as the primary applicant and grantee. Applications must be submitted electronically through DOEE’s Grants Management System. The application package includes a detailed narrative, work plan, budget, and supporting documentation such as certificates of good standing, financial statements, and assurances. The application must address specific components including neighborhood selection, stakeholder engagement strategies, technical analysis of electrification opportunities, and development of a deployment framework. A review panel evaluates submissions based on criteria such as project feasibility, community engagement approach, technical expertise, and cost effectiveness. The application period opened on April 10, 2026, and closes on June 5, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Applicants are encouraged to participate in informational sessions and submit questions prior to the deadline. DOEE expects to notify applicants of award decisions within six to twelve weeks after the application deadline. The project period begins upon award and extends through March 31, 2028, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.

Focus on demonstrating strong technical expertise and community engagement, clearly justify neighborhood selection and feasibility, and ensure the budget narrative aligns with proposed activities and outcomes.