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For energy systems integration research, NREL offers partners access to an award-winning, state-of-the-art lab space and specialized scientists and engineers to help move new technologies forward.

The Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF) was designed to be a connection point where industry, academia, and government could work together on the most complex and important global energy challenges of our time.

ESIF Call for High-Impact Project Proposals

Applications are currently being accepted for the ESIF's User Call for High-Impact Projects. As part of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Grid Modernization Initiative, which aims to develop the concepts, tools, and technologies needed to measure, analyze, predict, protect, and control the grid of the future, qualified candidates will enhance innovation in the private sector and develop scalable technologies for the modern grid. DOE may provide up to $250,000 per project to match the applicant's cost-shared contribution for laboratory services and research and development support.

To be considered a high-impact project, applicants must:

Use multiple grid technologies, such as energy storage, wind, solar, hydrogen, or building technologies
Address the challenges outlined in the Grid Modernization Multi-Year Program Plan
Exhibit high impact on the companies and regions it supports
Demonstrate national scalability
Offer valuable lessons learned for nationwide implementation.

View the proposal description for more information on how to apply. Proposals will be accepted until January 27, 2017 at 5 p.m. EST.

See a list of frequently asked questions related to the ESIF Call for High-Impact Projects.