The Rural Utilities Service (RUS), an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announces a notice of funding opportunity, subject to appropriation, of up to $10 million in competitive grants to assist communities with extremely high energy costs. The grant funds may be used to acquire, construct, or improve energy generation, transmission, or distribution facilities serving communities where the average annual residential expenditure for home energy exceeds 275% of the national average. Eligible projects also include on-grid and off-grid renewable energy projects and the implementation of energy efficiency and energy conservation projects for eligible communities. Projects cannot be for the primary benefit of a single household or business. Grant funds may not be used for the preparation of the grant application, operating costs, or for the purchase of any equipment, structures, or real estate not directly associated with the provision of community energy services.

Government

• State governments
• City or township governments
• Federally recognized Native American tribal governments
• Public and Indian housing authorities
• County governments
• Special district governments

Education

• Public and state institutions of higher education
• Independent school districts
• Private institutions of higher education

Business

• For-profit organizations other than small businesses
• Small businesses

Nonprofit

• Nonprofits non-higher education without 501(c)(3)
• Other Native American tribal organizations
• Nonprofits non-higher education with 501(c)(3)

Miscellaneous

• Other
• Individuals
• Unrestricted