Solar Energy Innovation Network (SEIN)

Federal Agency

Sub-Department

Solar Energy and Technologies Office

Purpose

To assemble multi-stakeholder teams that research and share solutions to real-world challenges associated with solar energy adoption. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) administers the program and, with other expert partners, provides technical assistance and facilitation support to identify local and regional impacts of team projects, formulate and test innovations, and validate new ideas. The third round of SEIN will focus on efforts to overcome barriers to equitable adoption of solar in underserved communities

Applicant and/or Project Eligibility Requirements

Not listed.

Decarbonization Considerations

Consider implementing projects that accelerate innovative distributed energy resources, such as rooftop solar, energy storage, and demand-side management.

Equity Considerations

Consider prioritizing no-money down, immediate cost savings solutions to overcome financial barriers and partnering with frontline community-based organizations to overcome clean energy educational barriers facing underserved communities.

Helpful Tips

N/A

Other Notes

Over the course of 15 to 18 months, teams receive direct funding, analytical support from NREL and other expert partners, and facilitation support. Through coordinated engagement at four multi-day working sessions, teams work together to identify local and regional impacts, formulate and test innovations, and validate new models.