Federal Solar Energy Grants

Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions

• This grant is part of the U.S. Department of Energy's initiative of reducing the cost of solar energy systems by 75 percent by the end of the decade. It is aimed at researchers who are developing ways to reduce the cost of balance of system hardware, a component of photovoltaic systems. Specifically, the grant is aimed at the encouragement of research into new components or new building code language. The amount of funding available depends on the specific proposal submitted.

Solar Energy Grid Integration Systems -- Advanced Concepts

• This grant is also focused on reducing the costs associated with solar power. Specifically, it is aimed at the advancement of solar technologies within the energy grid as well as improving the performance and reliability of such systems. The program encourages applications geared toward increasing economies of scale as well as aggregate cost reductions. Grant amounts vary based on each proposal.

Foundational Program to Advance Cell Efficiency

• This grant is awarded to researchers seeking to increase the efficiency of solar systems in order to achieve a cost of $1 per watt for direct current installed systems. Specifically, the program encourages project proposals aimed at advancing photovoltaic science and engineering, improving the materials of photovoltaic cell components and closing the gap between theoretical and actual efficiency.

Transformational PV Science and Technology: Next Generation

• This funding opportunity is available to researchers focused on advancing solar energy technology on the whole. Research into breaking the current performance barriers is encouraged, including studies of highly disruptive solar photovoltaic technologies. The grant seeks to achieve technologies with a cost of under $1 per watt beyond the year 2020.