DOE Announces $1.9 Billion Investment to Modernize U.S. Power Grid
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Electricity (OE) has announced a $1.9 billion funding opportunity aimed at upgrading the nation’s power grid. This investment seeks to address increasing electricity demand, enhance grid reliability, and lower costs for consumers and businesses.
SPARK Funding Opportunity
The funding, part of the Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK) program, will focus on projects that deliver rapid and durable upgrades to the grid. A key component of these upgrades is reconductoring – replacing existing power lines with higher-capacity conductors – coupled with other Advanced Transmission Technologies (ATTs). These improvements are expected to expand grid capacity, improve operational efficiency, and bolster system security.
Alignment with National Energy Goals
The initiative aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order, “Unleashing American Energy,” and reflects the administration’s commitment to modernizing the nation’s energy infrastructure. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright emphasized the importance of grid modernization, stating that the investments will lower electricity costs for American families and businesses. OE Assistant Secretary Katie Jereza added that the SPARK funding opportunity will stabilize and optimize grid operations to support rapid growth.
Building on Existing Programs
The SPARK opportunity builds upon the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, which has already provided up to $10.5 billion in funding over five years to states, tribes, electric utilities, and other eligible entities. Previous GRIP funding rounds covered fiscal years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024. The SPARK program continues the GRIP Program’s mission, with a specific focus on the swift deployment of reconductoring and ATTs to enhance transfer capability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, all even as utilizing existing rights of way.
Timeline and Application Details
Concept papers for the SPARK funding opportunity are due April 2, 2026, with full applications due May 20, 2026. The DOE anticipates announcing selections in August 2026. An informational webinar will be available on the OE website by March 19, 2026.
About the Office of Electricity
The Office of Electricity leads the Department of Energy’s research and development efforts to strengthen and modernize the U.S. Power grid. Its mission is to ensure every American has reliable access to affordable and secure energy. The OE focuses on three key areas: Grid Systems and Components, Grid Controls and Communications, and Energy Storage. Learn more about the Office of Electricity.