Energy Programs in Communities (EPIC)
The Energy Programs in Communities (EPIC) unit, a part of the Energy Division and State Energy Office, is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing initiatives that enable communities to be a part of the clean energy transition. Funding is provided through a diverse portfolio of state and federal programs which aim to reduce energy burden on low-income households, improve access to renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies, and advance environmental justice. Learn more about our agency’s overall efforts to reduce environmental health disparities through the HEAL Act.
News and Updates
EPIC Programs
The Energy Programs in Communities (EPIC) unit, a part of the Energy Division and State Energy Office, is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing initiatives that enable communities to be a part of the clean energy transition. Funding is provided through a diverse portfolio of state and federal programs which aim to reduce energy burden on low-income households, improve access to renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies, and advance environmental justice. Learn more about our agency’s overall efforts to reduce environmental health disparities through the HEAL Act.
Washington is making significant strides towards achieving a greenhouse gas emission-free electricity supply. To accomplish this, it will be necessary to expand clean, reliable electricity generation in order to keep pace with the growing needs of buildings, industry, and transportation. Commerce offers a suite of clean electricity programs that aim to enhance grid resilience, promote the equitable adoption of clean energy technologies, and drive market innovation.
In response to valuable feedback from the Request for Information (RFI) issued in fall 2023 and previous stakeholder input, Commerce is implementing a new approach designed to reduce barriers for applicants, maximize the construction timeline for clean energy projects, and enhance equitable outcomes. This approach will combine multiple funding sources into three tailored application opportunities.
Through a combination of fund sources, Commerce expects to make approximately $167 million available for grants through the three solicitations. The three solicitations will be the primary opportunity to apply for these funds.
The 2023-2025 Solar Energy Retrofits for Public Buildings, Solar Plus Storage and Community Solar and Clean Energy Fund funding will be delivered through these three application rounds.
Grid Resilience and Reliability Grants (New, coming in 2024)
Authorized by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants program (often referred to as section 40101(d)) is designed to strengthen and modernize the power grid against wildfires, extreme weather, and other natural disasters that are exacerbated by the climate crisis. Beginning in 2024, Commerce will award state formula funds to a diverse set of projects, with priority given to efforts that generate the greatest community benefit providing clean, affordable, and reliable energy. Learn more about the federal program.
Contact
Jennifer Grove, EPIC Director
Email: Jennifer.Grove@Commerce.wa.gov
Stephanie Molloy, EPIC Assistant Managing Director
Email: Stephanie.Molloy@Commerce.wa.gov
Nora Hawkins, Senior Energy Policy Specialist
Email: Nora.Hawkins@Commerce.wa.gov