Project Grants
DEED grants encourage and promote energy innovation and support the development and demonstration of new, innovative technologies and techniques, and the creation of useful products and tools for the betterment of public power utilities and their customers. Grants often support pilot projects, new technology demonstrations, early commercialization projects, and the development of best practices.
Funding is available to improve utilities by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, investigating new technologies, offering new services, and improving processes and practices to better serve customers. DEED grants have been used to improve reliability, safety, security, and lessen environmental impact. The grants are typically $25,000-$50,000 but could be up to $125,000. See examples of DEED-funded projects. Only DEED members may apply for DEED grants. Learn more about DEED membership.
View the Grant Reporting Requirements for information on grant responsibilities and reporting for DEED grants.
DEED members may use the DEED Idea Exchange to explore potential project ideas and partnership opportunities with industry vendors that are APPA corporate associate members. Visit the DEED Project Library, to view reports and resources from completed projects or those that are underway, on your topic of interest. Perhaps your project idea has already been supported by DEED and the knowledge you seek is in a report in our Library.
The online grant application process is quick and easy so that small utilities with limited staff and resources can apply. View a sample grant application. Applications are due February 15 and August 15 each year. To get access to the grant application, or for questions, email us at [email protected] or call 202-467-2942.
Students at Your Utility
Student scholarships awarded through DEED help your utility attract new talent and enhance your profile in the community. You can help students earn valuable work experience, financial support, and college credits.
DEED offers three types of scholarships to introduce students to career opportunities in public power — lineworker scholarships, student internships, and technical education scholarships. To apply, students must be studying energy-related disciplines and must be accepted or enrolled in accredited lineworker programs, vocational schools, colleges or universities. Students require a DEED member utility to serve as a sponsor and mentor for their scholarship. Your utility or a student may initiate the scholarship application process.
DEED member utility staff may apply for an intern to work at their utility. Simply provide a scope of work in the internship application. Utilities may apply with or without designating a student. Applications are due February 15 and October 15 each year. Email [email protected] or call 202-467-2942 to gain access to the application or for questions.
