Deadline

TBD

April 2, 2026

3:00 pm

Voucher Opportunity 11 (Provider) - i2X Interconnection Cost Reduction Solutions for Transmission (iCRS-T) Voucher Program

Information

Description

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Interconnection Innovation e-Xchange (i2X) Program is looking to fund experts in bulk electric power system modeling and innovative transmission techniques to provide services to transmission providers (Voucher Recipients) through the Interconnection Cost Reduction Solutions for Transmission Grid (iCRS-T) Voucher Program. This Voucher Program will help address the National Energy Emergency by supporting innovations to streamline and expedite interconnection services by implementing cutting-edge technology solutions, such as grid-enhancing technologies, flexible interconnection, and many other innovations.

The iCRS-T Voucher Program will increase Voucher Recipient understanding and implementation of advanced interconnection topics, with the goal of reducing transmission interconnection costs. Industry experts (Voucher Providers) will assist transmission providers in modeling power electronics in large data center loads, power electronics in inverter-based resources, controls for the flexible operation of data center loads, storage, generation resources, and hybrid facilities, and advanced transmission technologies that are currently underutilized. These new modeling capabilities can give transmission providers more cost-saving options and either reduce the need for costly network upgrades or provide a faster path for interconnection alongside more extensive transmission upgrades. Additionally, Voucher Providers will train transmission providers in modeling innovative transmission technologies and controls, including incorporating these into electromagnetic transient (EMT) studies.

This Opportunity will open for Voucher Provider applications on February 19, 2026, and applications will be accepted until April 2, 2026. This Opportunity is anticipated to open for Voucher Recipient applications in Spring 2026, with matching of Providers and Recipients completed in Summer 2026. DOE reserves the right to request additional information about applications prior to selection, if necessary. To receive reminders about this and future opportunities, sign up to Join Our Ecosystem. 

For general information on Voucher Programs, see the Vouchers Overview.

Available Funding

DOE will fund 16 to 30 Voucher Provider/Recipient matches with projects expected to last up to two years. The value of each Voucher will depend on the service requested, with the estimated value of support services per Recipient ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. 

Objective

The iCRS-T program supports innovative strategies to increase affordable and reliable interconnection of new loads and energy generation resources by linking transmission providers with technology experts and training. This will increase transmission providers’ understanding and application of advanced transmission interconnection techniques, empowering them to implement cost reduction solutions. By optimizing existing grid resources and embracing novel ways to manage electricity use, transmission providers can unlock existing capacity and add new resources needed to meet data center-driven load growth while lowering costs for all Americans.

Funding

Expected maximum Voucher value will be up to $250,000 of work (actual values vary depending on the details of the Provider’s capability statement). Vouchers will be distributed as in-kind support, meaning that ENERGYWERX will directly reimburse the Voucher Provider for the work they have completed on behalf of the Voucher Recipients.

Submission Details

The first submission window solicits capability statements from potential Voucher Providers. After Voucher Provider selection, a second submission window will be opened to solicit requests from potential Voucher Recipients. Pending availability of funds, additional submission windows may open in the future.

As part of the application form, potential Providers will submit the details of their capability statement, including the technical scope, deliverables, price, and throughput of the capability. Each Voucher Provider may submit up to seven unique capabilities per Voucher Opportunity. The unique capabilities can be the same grouped services at tiered service levels. The application form must be submitted once per capability and service tier, no more than seven separate times. Additional submissions will not be reviewed.

Provider Services

Only work related to providing services that will result in interconnection cost reductions will be eligible to receive a Voucher under this Opportunity. Eligible services include:

Advanced modeling and studies, which include but are not limited to any or all the following:
- Detailed modeling of power-electronics-interfaced loads, generation, and storage, including model quality testing.
- Systems studies and assessments related to power flow analysis, transmission impact, operations, dynamics, transient stability, oscillations, short circuit, and power quality.
- Hybrid interconnection studies that include both large loads and generation.
- Economic studies related to transmission planning, load forecast, resource adequacy, optimal power flow, reliability impact, and life cycle cost analysis.
- Modeling and implementation of grid-enhancing technologies, such as dynamic line ratings and power flow controllers, and solutions for weak grid conditions.
- Power electronics control for improved flexibility and enhanced performance without adverse system control interactions.
- EMT modeling and simulation.
Interconnection modeling standards development: Bulk power system transmission interconnection modeling requirements, including adaptations to cover large loads such as inclusion of ride through, ramping, and/or flexibility requirements.
Education and training: Training that is associated with any of the above services.

A unique capability can offer the same set of services as another capability at different service levels or tiers, to best represent the range of potential Voucher Recipient needs for the service. Service levels can be based on existing expertise, size of system to be modeled, urgency of need, or other differentiating factors. Each service level must be submitted as a separate application within the seven-capability limit.

Project Milestones

‍If selected, Voucher Providers will be required to complete the following four milestones for each Recipient match:

‍Milestone 1 – Memorandum submitted to the ENERGYWERX point of contact verifying that all requisite agreements (e.g., non-disclosure agreements, Co-operative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA’s), site access paperwork) between the Voucher Provider and Voucher Recipients are completed. This document must be signed by both the Voucher Provider and Recipient.‍ ‍
Milestone 2 – Project plan document submitted to the ENERGYWERX point of contact describing the scope and schedule for the planned project activities.
‍Milestone 3 – Project progress update presentation submitted to the ENERGYWERX point of contact containing a status description of project activities. A virtual meeting may also be requested by ENERGYWERX program staff.‍ ‍
Milestone 4 – Submission of a Project Summary Report to the ENERGYWERX point of contact containing a summary of the project objectives, methods, results, discussion, and attachments with relevant data. Results must contain the anticipated cost reductions that transmission solutions are expected to achieve.

The Voucher Provider is responsible for timely submission of all milestones to the ENERGYWERX point of contact, but Provider and Recipient are expected to work collaboratively on project milestones.

The schedule of milestone due dates will depend on the project and will be established in the relevant agreement between ENERGYWERX and the Voucher Provider. Milestones 1 and 2 must be completed before modeling activities can begin. Milestone 3 should be completed approximately 50-75% through the project timeline. Milestone 4 should be submitted upon project completion.

Event Updates

How to Participate

Participating in the Informational Webinars will improve your knowledge in the expectations of the opportunity and application.

Register for the Informational Webinar on March 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET‍
- Focuses predominantly on explaining the Opportunity with some questions at the end.

Register for the Informational Webinar on March 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET
- Focuses predominantly on answering questions for the applicant.

For an optimal experience, we recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams software to your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Complete the submission form and upload the appropriate project information and supporting documentation:

Start the Voucher Opportunity 11 - iCRS-T Provider Application (Submissions are due no later than April 2, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET)

Important Dates

DOE Announcement

Objective Strategic Session (OSS) Webinar

Voucher Provider Informational Webinar: DOE will present and summarize the details of the iCRS-T Voucher Opportunity. Potential Voucher Providers can better understand the scope, scale, and intent of the Voucher Opportunity and ask questions of the DOE staff.

Register for the Informational Webinar on March 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET

For an optimal experience, we recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams software to your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Office Hours (OH) Q&A Webinar

Voucher Provider Informational Webinar: DOE will host an Informational Webinar to answer any remaining questions from potential applicants before the submission deadline.

Register for the Informational Webinar on March 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET

For an optimal experience, we recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams software to your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Submission Deadline(s)

Submission Window: February 19, 2026 - April 2, 2026

Start the Voucher Opportunity 11 - iCRS-T Provider Application (Submissions are due no later than April 2, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET)

Process Details

Timeline(s)

Voucher Provider Timeline

Phase 1 – Voucher Provider Capability Statement Submissions Open (February 19, 2026 – April 2, 2026): Interested potential Voucher Providers should complete the application including background information on the Provider as well as technical scope, deliverables, price, and throughput of the capability.

Informational Webinar: DOE will present and summarize the details of the iCRS-T Voucher Opportunity where potential Voucher Providers can better understand the scope, scale, and intent of the Voucher Opportunity and ask questions of the DOE staff.
- Register for the 3/5/26 Informational Webinar
Informational Webinar: DOE will host the following Informational Webinar on March 17, 2026 to answer any remaining questions from potential applicants relating to the topic Voucher Opportunities, before the submission deadline.
- Register for the 3/17/26 Informational Webinar

Phase 2 – Voucher Recipient Applications and Matching (Spring 2026): Transmission Providers will apply to receive services and meritorious applications will be matched to one of the capabilities approved during Phase 1. ‍

Phase 3 – Project Execution (Winter 2026): Matched Provider-Recipient pairs will establish project agreements with ENERGYWERX to define the scope of work, budget, timing, and outcomes.

Link(s) to Apply

Submission Window: February 19, 2026 - April 2, 2026

Start the Voucher Opportunity 11 - iCRS-T Provider Application (Submissions are due no later than April 2, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET)

Resources from Webinar(s)

Coming soon.

Slide Deck(s)

Coming soon.

Transcript(s)

Coming soon.

Video Recording(s)

Coming soon.

Webinar Q&As

Coming soon.

Eligibility & Review Criteria

Eligibility Criteria

All Voucher Provider (with Specialized Capabilities) applicants must meet the following requirements:

Applicant is a U.S.-based public or private company, national lab, nonprofit organization, or academic institution with one or more advanced electric-system-modeling capability directly relevant to the U.S. bulk power system. Capabilities of interest include but are not limited to:
- bulk power system transmission interconnection standards and modeling,
- detailed modeling of power-electronics-interfaced loads or generation,
- power electronics control for improved performance without adverse system control interactions,
- dynamic system studies,
- modeling and implementation of grid-enhancing technologies such as dynamic line ratings and power flow controllers, and
- EMT modeling and simulation. Firms may be a part of a larger international organization with multiple facilities, but work must be performed in the United States, and the U.S. based firm must generally operate independently with a significant level of autonomy.
Applicant must qualify as a domestic entity. To qualify as a domestic entity, the entity must be organized, chartered, or incorporated (or otherwise formed) under the laws of a particular state or territory of the United States. The entity must have majority domestic ownership and control and have a physical place of business in the United States.
Applicant must certify that it is not owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of government of Country of Risk. The U.S. Department of Energy defines Country of Risk to include China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. This list is subject to change.

DOE retains the prerogative to require additional information from the applicants to verify the applicant meets the eligibility requirements and selection criteria. i2X may disqualify an application for any reason, including but not limited to if the applicant engages with the iCRS-T Program in a manner that, in the sole discretion of the i2X, is indecent, obscene, or lacking in professionalism. This includes but is not limited to the application itself or emails to the Program staff.

Review Criteria

Merit Review Process & Evaluation Criteria

The i2X team will review and evaluate each application according to the merit review criteria, program policy factors, and the overall portfolio of proposed projects. In conducting the review, the teams may seek the advice of qualified non-federal personnel as reviewers. The applicant, by submitting its application, consents to the use of non-federal reviewers. The weightings for each criterion are equal; however, a low score in any one criterion may disqualify the proposal.

Criteria 1: Relevance & Specificity (25%)

The degree to which the proposed services are relevant to the Voucher Opportunity.
The clarity of the capability(ies) and specificity of activities to be performed.
The reasonableness of the timeline(s).

Criteria 2: Expertise (25%)

The degree of expertise and experience demonstrated in providing the capability.
The degree to which the scale of experience matches the capability offered. For example, the size of systems modeled.
Proficiency in software tools needed to support the capability offered.
The specific experience in modeling advanced grid solutions offered in the capability.
Documentation of past similar work to the capability offered.

Criteria 3: Technology (25%)

Access to the tools/hardware necessary to execute the capability.
Availability of specific software that is necessary to execute the capability.

Criteria 4: Price Competitiveness (25%)

The degree to which the price is reasonable and competitive for the scope and scale of capability offered.

Program Policy Factors

The i2X Program will apply the following program policy factors when reviewing and evaluating applications to select the most impactful projects aligning with national priorities:

Alignment with i2X Program Objectives: The proposed services strongly align with the goals, priorities, and ongoing activities of the Interconnection Innovation e-Xchange (i2X) program. ‍
Support for DOE Energy Goals: The proposed services advance key DOE energy goals related to grid modernization, streamlining of interconnection processes, and energy addition. ‍
Geographic Diversity: The proposed services expand the geographic diversity of organizations and regions participating in DOE-supported interconnection initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

May an FFRDC or a National Lab apply?

DOE will not directly fund National Labs*/FFRDCs via this Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) Opportunity; however, FFRDCs (e.g. DOE/National Nuclear Security Administration national laboratories) may participate as a Selectee’s subrecipient. The FFRDC effort, in aggregate, shall not exceed 10% of total federal share of the project, and ENWX and DOE will not be involved in, nor assist in, these activities. Selectees will receive full funding through a Business-to-Business (B2B) Agreement with ENWX. Selectees are solely responsible for funding and executing necessary agreements with subrecipients.

*Caveat: NLs may be Voucher Providers and may apply, but if selected, DOE will manage the work and pay the NL directly through the existing funding mechanism.

‍What are Smart Manufacturing and high-performance computing?

For the purposes of this opportunity:

“Smart Manufacturing” means advanced technologies in information, automation, monitoring, computation, sensing, modeling, artificial intelligence, analytics, and networking that can -

simulate manufacturing production lines;
operate computer-controlled manufacturing equipment;
monitor and communicate production line status; and
manage and optimize energy productivity and cost throughout production;
model, simulate, and optimize the energy efficiency of a factory building;
monitor and optimize building energy performance;
model, simulate, and optimize the design of energy efficient and sustainable products, including the use of digital prototyping and additive manufacturing to enhance product design;
connect manufactured products in networks to monitor and optimize the performance of the networks, including automated network operations; and
digitally connect the supply chain network.¹⁶

“High-Performance Computing” means the use of supercomputers, sophisticated models, and/or large data sets to study and solve complex scientific and technological challenges.

What exactly is a “small- and medium-sized manufacturer”?

The term “small- and medium-sized manufacturer” (SMM) means manufacturing firms:

classified in the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) as any of sectors 31 through 33;
with gross annual sales of less than $100,000,000;
with fewer than 500 employees at the plant site; and
with annual energy bills totaling more than $100,000 and less than $3,500,000

Who is eligible to receive funding?

Refer to Section III.G.2. Eligibility Requirements in the Solicitation Overview.

An application’s prime recipient must be one of the following eligibility entities, else the application will be considered ineligible and removed from further evaluation:

State entity;
State-funded university; or
State-funded community or technical college

Are applicants required to provide cost share?

Yes, cost sharing is required under this solicitation. Applicants are required to provide at least a 23.1% cost share, i.e. applicants need to fund a minimum of 23.1% of the total project cost. Cost share can come from any non-federal source, i.e. cash on hand, philanthropy, corporate investment, etc.

‍

What is the difference between "cost sharing" and "cost match"?

Refer to the Cost Share handout for more detail and examples.

While the terms “cost sharing” and “cost matching” are sometimes used interchangeably, there is an important distinction between them. DOE uses “cost sharing” to indicate that the non- federal share is calculated as a percentage of the Total Project Cost. On the other hand, for “cost matching”, the non-federal match is calculated as a percentage of the federal funds only, rather than the Total Project Cost.
The statutory language that authorizes the State Manufacturing Leadership Program requires proponents to provide at least 30 percent cost match. For the purposes of this solicitation, the 30 percent cost matching requirement has been converted to an equivalent 23.1 percent cost sharing requirement

What are the acronyms SMM, HPC, and SLMP?

SMM = small- and medium-sized manufacturers
HPC = high-performance computing
SMLP = State Manufacturing Leadership Program
IAC = Industrial Assessment Center
ITAC = Industrial Training and Assessment Center
TA = Technical Assistance

Why did the solicitation come down mid-January?

The solicitation was temporarily taken down while DOE and ENERGYWERX confirmed that the language was consistent with recent Executive Orders.

What is an Opportunity?

Understanding Opportunities

An opportunity is a favorable circumstance or situation that allows for the potential to achieve a goal or benefit. In various contexts, opportunities can arise in business, education, and personal development. Recognizing and seizing these moments can lead to significant advancements in one's career or personal life.

Types of Opportunities

Career Opportunities: Job openings or promotions that can enhance your professional journey.
Educational Opportunities: Programs or courses that provide knowledge and skills.
Networking Opportunities: Events or platforms that allow you to connect with others in your field.

Download

Questions

For additional questions, please contact info@energywerx.org

Quick Links

RSVP to Webinar Sessions

Participating in the Informational Webinars will improve your knowledge in the expectations of the opportunity and application.

Register for the Informational Webinar on March 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET‍
- Focuses predominantly on explaining the Opportunity with some questions at the end.‍
Register for the Informational Webinar on March 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET
- Focuses predominantly on answering questions for the applicant.

For an optimal experience, we recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams software to your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Application

Submission Window: February 19, 2026 - April 2, 2026

Start the Voucher Opportunity 11 - iCRS-T Provider Application (Submissions are due no later than April 2, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET)

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