In a recent press release, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity (OE) announced a funding opportunity of approximately $1.9 billion that aims to accelerate upgrades to the nation’s power grid. The investments seek to meet rising demand for electricity while also lowering costs. The projects will be selected through the Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK).
As stated in the release, the SPARK opportunity builds on the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, which provided up to $10.5 billion in competitive funding over five years to states, tribes, electric utilities, and other eligible recipients to strengthen grid resilience and innovation. The previous two GRIP funding rounds covered FY 2022-2023 and FY 2023-2024 funding. The new announcement focuses on the rapid deployment of reconductoring and other ATTs that expand transfer capability, strengthen reliability and resource adequacy, and reduce costs for consumers.
Concept papers are due April 2, 2026, and full applications are due May 20, 2026. Per the announcement, DOE says it anticipates making selections in August 2026. An informational webinar will be posted on the OE website by March 19, 2026.
Learn more about the SPARK funding opportunity here.
