DOE formula grants and multistate projects move toward implementation

DOE’s $967 million FY2025–26 State and Tribal Formula Grant release is the final IIJA tranche, with applications due February 17, 2027; utilities should check state deadlines, match rules, and customer-share requirements. Nebraska reports $9.28 million for the final two program years and awards exceeding $15.6 million statewide; Tennessee selected 13 projects for about $23 million subject to DOE approval. California’s nearly $69.8 million DOE formula-grant allocation is confirmed, but the Energy Commission has not reported its distribution timeline or applicant mechanics; Grid SCALED concept papers are due November 20, 2026.