U.S. Department of Energy Launches Prizes for Grid-Edge Technologies, Emerging Energy Storage Solutions | Department of Energy

Oct 25, 2024

Prizes will boost consumer adoption of “beyond the meter” technologies and innovative storage solutions to unconventional use cases

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Electricity (OE) today announced two advanced energy storage technology prizes under DOE’s American-Made Challenges Program. First is the Beyond the Meter Energy Storage Integration Prize to encourage innovation on the consumer’s side of the energy meter. OE is also previewing the Energy Storage Innovations Prize Round 2 to recognize innovative energy storage solutions for less conventional use cases.

Beyond the Meter Energy Storage Integration Prize

The shift towards cleaner energy has led to an increase in consumers’ usage of distributed energy resources (DERs), like photovoltaic solar panels, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. When effectively harnessed, these technologies can contribute to a more efficient and sustainable energy ecosystem. But, for many Americans, the benefits of these emerging technologies remain difficult to access.

“The Beyond the Meter prize opportunity will help stakeholders unlock the potential of behind-the-meter storage and create value for consumers empowering them with greater control of their energy usage and bills,” said Assistant Secretary for Electricity Gene Rodrigues. “In addition, we are focusing on innovative technologies to help underserved U.S. communities through the Energy Storage Innovation Round 2 prize. Advancements in energy storage are key to creating a 21st century electric grid that is reliable, resilient, secure, and affordable for all Americans.”

Winning submissions will demonstrate a behind the meter grid-edge technology solution as well as highlight a plan to collaborate with vendors to integrate these clean energy technologies onto the power grid. Up to two winning teams will receive $50,000 after Phase 1 winners are announced and another $50,000 after participating in DISTRIBUTECH March 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

Coming Soon: Energy Storage Innovations Prize Round 2

Innovative, emerging, and next-generation energy storage solutions for niche markets can accelerate grid modernization for all Americans, while achieving needed reliability, affordability, and energy security. OE will soon launch the $300,000 Energy Storage Innovations Prize Round 2 opportunity. Building on the success of Round 1, Round 2 focuses on less conventional use cases (e.g., remote and/or underserved communities, extreme climates) and innovative (less mature) energy storage technology solutions, across all duration scales, to advance the market landscape.

The Prize will award up to five Champions $50,000 each and up to five Finalists $10,000 each. Follow the Prize and stay tuned for the full launch coming this fall.

The American-Made Challenges Program incentivizes energy technology innovation through prizes, training, teaming, and mentoring, connecting the Nation’s entrepreneurs and innovators to DOE’s national laboratories and the private sector.

Follow the American Made Challenges and learn more about the Office of Electricity.