JEFFERSON CITY, MO, DEC. 31, 2024 - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy is now accepting applications for its Grid Resilience Formula Funding Program. Funding subawards will support investments that improve the resilience of the electric grid against disruptive events. Examples of eligible projects include utility pole management, power line relocation or reconductoring and microgrids, as well as the training, recruitment, retention and reskilling of skilled and properly credentialed workers in order to perform the required labor.
“The Grid Resilience Formula Funding grants will enable communities to ensure reliable power for their residents,” said Dru Buntin, director of the Department of Natural Resources. “Projects selected through this program will protect households and businesses from blackouts or power shutdowns during extreme weather.”
Eligible applicants include electric grid operators, electricity storage operators, electricity generators, transmission owners or operators, distribution providers and fuel suppliers. A total of just over $13 million is available for selected projects.
“Affordable, reliable, and resilient electric infrastructure is important to Missouri’s economy and our citizens’ well-being,” said Emily Wilbur, director of the Division of Energy. “These grants will help the state’s energy providers make sure power is available to critical infrastructure and small or disadvantaged communities.”
The department will score and prioritize applications for funding based on specific criteria. Priority will be given to projects that, in the department’s determination, will generate the greatest community benefit (whether rural or urban) in reducing the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events.
The department will accept Grid Resilience Formula Funding applications through 4 p.m. Central Time on April 30, 2025. Applications must be submitted through the department’s Funding Opportunities Portal or via email to gridresilience@dnr.mo.gov.
To learn more, visit dnr.mo.gov/energy/grants-loans/grid-resilience-formula-funding-subgrants.