Operation and Planning Tools for Inverter-Based Resource Management and Availability for Future Power Systems (OPTIMA)

Federal Agency

Sub-Department

Solar Energy and Technologies Office (SETO)

Purpose

To address emerging challenges and opportunities for grid planning and operation engineers and technicians arising from the power system’s transition to variable renewable energy sources and inverter-based power electronic grid interfaces. It will prioritize projects that develop new state-of-the-art planning and operations tools to enable solar energy to be more optimally and reliably integrated and utilized within the electric power grid.

Applicant and/or Project Eligibility Requirements

There are three topic areas: Topic Area 1: Planning Tools for Future Power Systems, Topic Area 2: Variability Management in Grid Operations, Topic Area 3: Rapid System Health and Risk Assessment Tools for Grid Operators. Teams from institutions of higher education, for-profit entities, non-profit entities, state and local government, and Tribal entities are encouraged to apply.

Decarbonization Considerations

There are three priority research areas for this grant program: planning tools for future power systems, variability management in grid operations, and rapid system health and risk assessment tools for grid operators. All of these areas will help grids deal with an increase in intermittent renewable power in coming decades.

Equity Considerations

Projects funded under this FOA are expected to (1) advance diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA); (2) contribute to energy equity; and (3) invest in America’s workforce. To ensure these objectives are met, applications must include a Community Benefits Plan that addresses the three objectives

Helpful Tips

DOE is compiling a "Teaming Partner List" to facilitate the formation of project teams for this FOA. The Teaming Partner List allows organizations that may wish to participate on a project to express their interest to other applicants and explore potential partnerships.

Other Notes

See FY23 awardees here: https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-invests-44-million-advance-clean-reliable-electric-grid