On March 4, the Indiana Office of Energy Development (OED), the State Energy Office, announced the launch of its Empowering Energy Partnerships in Indiana Communities (EPIC) program. The program, funded by the U.S. State Energy Program, is a competitive grant program that will support projects in local communities that align with the five pillars of Indiana’s energy strategy: reliability, resiliency, stability, affordability, and environmental sustainability.
The $2.5 million EPIC program will enable organizations in Indiana’s communities to undertake energy projects that address their energy needs and priorities. Entities eligible to participate in the program include local governments, higher education centers, and nonprofit and for-profit organizations.
OED expects to make awards of $300,000 - $500,000 per project, although it has set no upper limit on the award size. OED is strongly encouraging applications from organizations that have expertise in coordinating partnerships within a community or communities and/or participate in initiatives that develop their communities. OED is also offering technical assistance for organizations intending to apply for the program. OED hopes that successful projects will serve as models for other communities in the state to emulate.
“OED has tailored this program to support locally driven energy solutions and provide an opportunity for community leaders to share their communities’ energy priorities,” said Ryan Hadley, Executive Director of the Indiana OED. “We are eager to offer this support for energy-related investments in Hoosier communities.”
Applicants are required to submit letters of intent by May 1, 2024. The EPIC program will remain open for grant applications until June 30, 2024. For more information, please see the EPIC website or contact Cary Aubrey at OED, caubrey@oed.in.gov