FY 2026 Energizing Insular Communities Program

Foa_Content_of_OIA-EIC-2026 (1).pdf

Office of Insular Affairs
Notice of Funding Opportunity
FY 2026 Energizing Insular Communities Program
Funding Opportunity Number
OIA-EIC-2026

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Table of Contents
BASIC INFORMATION .................................................................................................................1
ELIGIBILITY ..................................................................................................................................2
Cost Sharing Requirement ...........................................................................................................2
GET READY TO APPLY ...............................................................................................................3
Required System Registrations ....................................................................................................3
PROGRAM OVERVIEW ...............................................................................................................3
Program Goals ..............................................................................................................................3
Program Description ....................................................................................................................3
Legislative Authority ...................................................................................................................5
Type of Award .............................................................................................................................5
PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION ................................................................................................5
Application Content and Format ..................................................................................................5
Application Documents ................................................................................................................5
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES ..............................................................10
Address to Request Application Package ..................................................................................10
Submission Dates and Times .....................................................................................................10
Submission Instructions .............................................................................................................10
APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION ................................................................................11
Eligibility Review ......................................................................................................................11
Merit Review ..............................................................................................................................12
Review and Selection Process ....................................................................................................16
Risk Review ...............................................................................................................................16
AWARD NOTICES ......................................................................................................................17
POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION ................................................17
Administration and National Policy Requirements ...................................................................18
Reporting ....................................................................................................................................18
BASIC INFORMATION
Announcement Type: Initial
Funding Opportunity Number: OIA-EIC-2026
Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.875
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Estimated Total Program Funding: $15,000,000
Expected Number of Awards: 10
Award Ceiling: $15,000,000
Award Floor: $0
Award amounts will depend on number and type of applications received. As this funding
opportunity is open to proposals that may or may not involve infrastructure or construction, OIA
is not imposing an award floor/ceiling.
Cost Sharing Required?
No
Closing Date Explanation
Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m., ET, on the
listed application due date.
OMB Control Number:
Have Questions?
For technical assistance with Grants.gov, please contact Krystina Alfano at
krystina_alfano@ios.doi.gov.
Executive Summary
The Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) requests proposals for its Energizing Insular Communities
(EIC) Program promoting domestically produced energy and protecting the United States’
economic and national security interests and military preparedness by ensuring that an abundant
supply of reliable energy is readily accessible in every state and territory of the Nation. The EIC
program provides grant funding for energy strategies that reduce reliance on imported foreign
fuels, reduce the cost of electricity, and improve the performance of energy infrastructure and
overall energy efficiency and reliability in the territories.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligible Applicants
Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
Additional Information on Eligibility
Eligible applicants are local government entities, utilities, semi-autonomous agencies, and
institutions of higher education located in the U.S. territories of Guam, American Samoa, the
U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, in accordance with
Federal regulations contained in the Code of Federal Regulations Title 2, Part 200 "Uniform
Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards" or 2
CFR 200.
Per 2 CFR 200.444, OIA cannot provide funding to the Judicial or Legislative branches of
local governments.
Cost Sharing Requirement
Cost Sharing Required?
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No
GET READY TO APPLY
Required System Registrations
Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration
Before applying, all applicants except individuals applying as a natural person must be
registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique
Entity Identifier (UEI).
The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not
already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible.
To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to
complete registration.
• Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov
“Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.
• Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that
your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is
complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you
have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you
need, including during renewal.
• Need help? For additional information and contact information on the SAM.gov Help
page.
Refer to Attachment – Submission Instructions & Tips.
GRANTS.GOV
This program accepts applications through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to
Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow 30 days to register and set up a Workspace
in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.
GRANTSOLUTIONS
This program accepts applications through GrantSolutions.gov. You must register with
GrantSolutions. See Submission Instructions.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Program Goals
• Support local priorities to reduce the cost and improve the reliability of electricity to
consumers. Improve the performance of energy infrastructure and overall energy
efficiency and reliability in the territories through projects tied to updated and in-use
strategic energy plans, energy action plans, or integrated resource plans.
Program Description
The Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) requests proposals for its Energizing Insular Communities
(EIC) Program promoting domestically produced energy and protecting the United States’
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economic and national security interests and military preparedness by ensuring an abundant
supply of reliable energy is readily accessible in every state and territory of the Nation. The EIC
program provides grant funding for energy strategies that reduce reliance on imported foreign
fuels, reduce the cost of electricity to consumers, and improve the performance of energy
infrastructure and overall energy efficiency in the territories. All proposals must be tied to
updated and in-use strategic energy plans, energy action plans, or integrated resource plans. OIA
will evaluate proposals on whether the project is identified and supported in the strategic energy
plan, energy action plan, or integrated resource plan, and the proposal’s projected energy cost
savings. Strong preference will be given to proposals that utilize domestically produced
components and materials in alignment with the Administration’s Energy Dominance policies.
Unleashing American Energy – The White House
Declaring a National Energy Emergency – The White House
SO 3417 - Addressing the National Energy Emergency
SO 3418 - Unleashing American Energy
EIC grant funds are not intended to supplant local funding for routine operating expenses of an
insular government or organization. EIC grant funds are not intended to fund the salaries of
existing local employees though they may be utilized to provide temporary, short-term expertise
from contractors or consultants to help carry out the project if approved in the proposed budget.
Eligible technologies for energy supply and energy efficiency projects should incorporate
commercially available technology. This may include but is not limited to energy from natural
gas, diesel, geothermal, geothermal heat pumps, waste to energy, and biogas. Energy storage and
transmission and transportation projects will also be considered. Solar, wind, and pilot projects
will not be considered.
Examples of projects that were awarded in previous years include integrated resource planning,
energy efficiency improvements (lighting, air conditioning, cool rooftop, etc.), net metering
policies, debit meters, backup battery systems, micro-grids, grid stability and integration studies.
Unleashing American Energy
OIA will prioritize funding for projects that align with the Administration’s Energy Dominance
policies under the Department of the Interior Secretary’s Order No. 3418, “Unleashing American
Energy,” which implements Executive Order 14154, “Unleashing American Energy.” OIA will
not fund projects that are contrary to either order.
Certified Local Governments are encouraged to prioritize projects in support of the celebration
of America’s 250th birthday (American250). This may include, but is not limited to, preservation
planning, interpretation, public engagement, and rehabilitation projects that recognize and honor
the nation’s founding, history, and cultural heritage.
Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Projects
This program has Federal funding for infrastructure projects. Buy America preferences apply to
Federal awards for infrastructure projects in the United States. Reference 2 CFR Part 184 - Buy
America Preferences for Infrastructure Project for further guidance.
If your application contains components for which Build America, Buy America (BABA) may
apply, please review and follow BABA regulations as applicable.
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Legislative Authority
48 U.S.C. 1492
Type of Award
Projects will be funded through G (Grant).
PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION
Application Content and Format
Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below.
Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission
Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the
form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.
• SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance
o Note: For applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds, the
Authorized Representative’s signature (or electronic equivalent) on the
Application for Federal Assistance form also represents their certification of the
statements in Appendix A to 43 CFR 18-Certification Regarding Lobbying
o The UEI on this application is the UEI that will receive the awards/funds, i.e.
if your office is part of a larger local government, and the funding flows through
the Department of Treasury/Administration/Finance/etc., you must use that
office's UEI, not your office's UEI.
• SF-424A Budget Information, Non-Construction Programs OR SF-424C: Budget
Information – Construction Programs
o PLEASE FILL OUT ALL PAGES OF THE RELEVANT FORM.
• SF-424B, Assurances - Non-Construction Programs OR SF-424D, Assurances -
Construction Programs
• SF-429 (Cover Page & Attachment B), Request to Acquire, Improve, or Furnish Real
Property (Required if requesting to acquire, improve, or furnish real property)
• Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019)
o This should only be one page and should include the following information. If
awarded, this information will be input into USA spending to inform the public.
▪ Award Purpose
▪ Activities to be performed
▪ Expected deliverables or outcomes
▪ Intended Beneficiaries
▪ Subrecipient activities
Prior to applying, applicants should review presidential actions found at:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ and DOI Secretary’s Orders found at:
https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order. By applying in response to this Notice of
Funding Opportunity, the applicant certifies awareness and compliance with all currently
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effective and applicable executive orders and secretary’s orders, including but not limited to the
Executive Order titled Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and
Preferencing as well as the Executive Order and Secretary’s order titled Restoring Truth and
Sanity to American History. Applicants are responsible for ensuring their proposed activities are
consistent with the intent and requirements of these directives.
Project Narrative
Signed and Dated Cover Letter (should be included with Grants.gov or GrantSolutions.gov
attachments, should not be mailed): The cover letter should briefly summarize the application
and be signed by an Authorized Representative of the applicant organization. Cover letters
should be addressed to:
John D. Brewer
Director
Office of Insular Affairs
1849 C Street N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20240
Narrative Format: OIA does not require a standard narrative format; however, your
proposal should include all the following elements to receive full consideration:
1. Detailed Project Description(s) - Please refer to the “Merit Review” section for
specific required criteria.
o All proposals should include the following information, which will also be used to
help inform NEPA review and analysis as applicable:
▪ Detailed description (who, what, where, why, when, how) for each
activity. Include the entire project scope and all phases from beginning to
end. If multiple types of activities are proposed, please explain each in
detail. If a project is wholly administrative or a desktop exercise, please
indicate.
▪ Describe the project purpose and need (such as a required upgrade to
replace an inadequate power system).
▪ Project location and site conditions (such as address, location of facilities,
staging areas, habitat, new features or construction).
▪ Design plans, drawings, and construction specifications, if warranted
(include diagrams, schematics, size and distance details, quantitative
description of construction phases, etc.)
▪ Describe any estimated digging, vegetation removal, or ground
disturbance that might occur.
▪ Map(s).
▪ Photographs of project site(s) and important features.
▪ Any existing federal, state, or local permits, including initial application
(if already completed).
▪ Any Best Management Practices (BMPs) or control procedures that may
be enforced
▪ Points of contact for more information (phone numbers and emails).
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▪ Please identify external and internal factors that could affect achieving
results and associated mitigation strategies. For example, if a proposal is
to upgrade to more efficient diesel generators, an external factor may be
supply chain availability and an internal factor may be ability to
interconnect with current utility systems. IF THERE ARE NO
FACTORS, PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR PROPOSAL “THERE
ARE NO EXTERNAL OR INTERNAL FACTORS THAT COULD
AFFECT ACHIEVING RESULTS.”
2. Detailed Project Timeline(s): Provide a detailed project timeline for completion of the
proposed project with project milestones, inclusive of time estimated to complete all
environmental documentation and any required permits to obtain National Environmental
Policy (NEPA) clearance.
3. Statement of Need: Describe why this project is necessary (how would this project be
funded if not by OIA) and include supporting information. Summarize previous or ongoing
efforts relevant to the proposed work. Please provide copies of the relevant plan and explain
how this project is tied to/reference where it is in the territory’s updated strategic energy
plan, energy action plan, or integrated resource plan.
4. Project Goals and Objectives: State the long-term goals of what you want to achieve.
Objectives are the specific steps you will take to achieve your stated goals. State your
objectives, which must be specific, measurable, and realistic (attainable within the project’s
period of performance).
Performance Goals
All applications must include at least one performance measure (output & outcome) that
corresponds to the proposed project objective. If the grant is chosen for award, the applicant
will need to report on the performance measure in narrative project reports that are
submitted.
Example
• Output: Number of youth enrolled in the afterschool STEM tutoring program.
• Outcome: Improvement in participating students￿math proficiency scores.
The narrative portion of the application must:
• Describe the expected outputs and the potential outcomes for communities, the economy,
and the environment.
• Describe how the project supports the Agency’s priorities described in the Executive
Summary section.
• Describe how progress toward achieving the expected outputs and social, economic, and
environmental outcomes will be tracked and measured.
Please note that the performance measures need to be reported on in every Performance
Progress Report submitted. If performance goals are not being met, a detailed explanation
of why they are not being met should be included in the report.
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5. Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: All Federally-funded projects are required to
comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Please describe what will be
required to comply with NEPA and how long it will take to acquire the necessary local and
federal permits. Please refer to the included Environmental Review Instructions for guidance on
what level of NEPA compliance potential projects may require.
6. Priority Listing for Multiple Projects: If multiple projects are being proposed, please
provide a listing of the proposed projects in order of priority. An example is provided below:
SUMMARY PRIORITY PROJECTS
Priority Project (list in priority order) Requested Amount
Priority 1 - Project [Name] $
Priority 2 - Project [Name] $
Priority 3 - Project [Name] $
Total Request for Fiscal Year 2026 $
7. Grant Recipient: Please provide the name, title, and address of the person to whom the grant
award, if made, should be addressed. This is normally the head of the local government or
organization.
8. Recipient Grant Manager: Please provide the name, title, and contact information for the
person who will be the day-to-day grant manager if the proposal is funded. Contact information
should include the mailing address, phone number, fax number and email address (as applicable).
9. Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) Identification Number:
Organizations already enrolled in ASAP under Agency Location Code 14010001 should list their
ASAP identification number on their application.
10. Copy of your entity's audit summary page with findings. See 2CFR200, § 200.501 for audit
requirements
Budget Narrative
Applicants must describe and justify items and costs listed in their budget. The budget narrative
must identify the following cost items: total estimated costs, non-Federal cost share, third-party
contributions, and any pre-award costs. Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs,
including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions.
Budget items must be:
• Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary
• Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles
Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect
costs, including the rate to be applied:
• De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de minimis
rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal
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negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de
minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR 200.414(f).
• Negotiated Rate: State if you will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your
organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently
negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).
OIA does not require a cost share. Please provide detailed budget information for the proposed
project(s) and activities.
• A budget breakout chart, by category, is suggested.
• Please explain categories that are not self-explanatory, such as “OTHER”, in full.
• State the basis for the budget cost estimates, whether it is based on research by
government technical staff, a recently completed similar project, information provided by
quotes or an outside source, etc.
• Provide a description of external contracts that will be required to complete the project.
• If charging indirect costs, please include or attach a copy of the negotiated indirect
cost rate document. Please note that all activities and costs to be charged to the grant
must be in full compliance with the applicable cost principle found in OMB Uniform
Guidance for Federal Awards (2 CFR 200).
Please note that all activities and costs to be charged to the grant must be in full compliance with
the applicable cost principles within 2 CFR 200. As funds are limited, OIA reserves the right to
partially fund projects.
Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures:
If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of
application, the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination
of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112. Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR
200.113.
Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement:
Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs, or time commitment of key
personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award
or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:
• Activities: Description any overlapping activities.
• Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.
• Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.
• A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential
funding entity.
• Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected
date of the funding decision.
Other Required Information
If you would like a prior proposal to be considered for award, please submit an application. Past
applications will not be considered unless submitted/re-submitted during this round of funding.
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SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES
Address to Request Application Package
All proposals must be submitted via Grants.gov or GrantSolutions.gov. OIA will only allow
for alternative submissions for extenuating circumstances, with prior approval from OIA.
Individual extensions may also be approved for extenuating circumstances, with prior OIA
approval.
PLEASE DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE DAY OF THE APPLICATION DEADLINE TO LOG
IN TO GRANTS.GOV/GRANTSOLUTIONS.GOV. PLEASE BE SURE YOU CAN LOG IN
AND HAVE ACCESS TO SUBMIT FOR YOUR ENTITY BEFORE THAT DATE. NOT
BEING ABLE TO LOG IN TO GRANTS.GOV/GRANTSOLUTIONS.GOV OR REALIZING
YOU DON'T HAVE THE RIGHT ACCESS FOR YOUR ENTITY ON THE DAY OF THE
DEADLINE IS NOT AN EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCE. Give yourself plenty of time to
upload your application.
Submission Dates and Times
Closing Date for Applications: 05/18/2026
Closing Date Explanation
Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m., ET, on the
listed application due date.
Submission Instructions
Apply Through Grants.gov
To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for
Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and
has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the
application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these
steps below to apply:
• Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it
through your organization for review before submitting.
• Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on
the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding
Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in
the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.
• Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking
the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab
• Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a
Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the
application.
The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as
proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not
encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user
and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.
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Application System Technical Support: For Grants.gov technical registration and submission,
downloading forms, and application packages, contact Grants.gov Customer Support at 1-800-
518-4726 or by email at Support@grants.gov.
Apply Through GrantSolutions
To apply through GrantSolutions, follow these steps:
1. Register your organization. Send an e-mail to help@grantsolutions.gov with:
• Subject: New Organization Request
• Entity name (organization or individual applying as a natural person)
• Entity type
• SAM.gov Unique Entity Identifier (not required for individuals)
• Employer Identification Number (individuals, do not include your SSN)
• Address
• Contact details (First and last name, e-mail, phone)
This information should be the same as entered on the entity’s SAM.gov profile.
2. Assign system user roles. Follow the GrantSolutions “Recipient user” registration
instructions. Submit a separate Recipient User Account Request form for each official to
be assigned a system role. At minimum, the Authorizing Official (ADO) and Principal
Investigator/Program Director (PI/PD) must be assigned.
3. Log in. GrantSolutions requires users to log in through Login.gov. Each user must create
a Login.gov account. For instructions, see the GrantSolutions Training Resources web
page.
4. Find and apply to this Funding Opportunity. After logging in, click on either the
“Begin an application” link (first time applicants) or the “Funding Opportunity” link to
go to the “Competing Announcements-Application Kits” list screen. Search the list for
this Funding Opportunity’s title and number. Click on the associated “Apply” link.
Follow the prompts from there. Required applications forms are provided with the
Funding Opportunity in GrantSolutions unless otherwise indicated on the Required
Forms table above.
5. For detailed instructions, see the GrantSolutions Training Resources web page.
6. Need help? Find help topics and contact information on the GrantSolutions Contact Us
page.
APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
Eligibility Review
During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed
packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this
announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility
review.
Eligible applicants are local government entities, utilities, semi-autonomous agencies, and
institutions of higher education located in the U.S. territories of Guam, American Samoa, the
U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
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If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200
and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the
applicant is ineligible for the award and choose to grant it to someone else. Please refer 2 CFR
25.205 for more information.
Prior to making an award, the DOI checks the anticipated recipient and their key project
personnel against the current list of prohibited or restricted persons or entities in the System for
Award Management (SAM.gov) Exclusions database. We are prohibited from making an award
if a recipient or any key personnel are found ineligible, prohibited, restricted, or otherwise
excluded from receiving or participating in an award, as their ineligibility condition applies to
this program.
If removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in
writing.
Merit Review
Merit Review Criteria (Power Merit Review Criteria (Energy Efficiency &
Generation, etc.) Conservation)
Criterion 1: Goals and Objectives Weight: 25%
Applies to all applications.
• Whether or not the proposed project is identified and supported in the territory’s
Strategic Energy Plan and/or Energy Action Plan.
• Extent to which the proposed project will reduce the cost and improve reliability of
electricity to the consumer.
• Clarity and completeness of the discussion of the project goals and objectives.
• Extent to which the proposed project provides economic, environmental, cultural, or
social benefits to the territory.
• Potential for future replicability or expansion beyond the currently proposed project.
• Soundness of the discussion that justifies the need for OIA funding.
Criterion 2: Project Description and Criterion 2: Project Description and
Implementation Plan Weight: 40% Implementation Plan Weight: 40%
Grid/Feasibility Studies, Deployment of Energy Efficiency and Conservation
Energy and Power
Applies only to related proposed projects:
Generation/Transmission Projects,
Thermal and Energy Storage Systems 1. Overall clarity and completeness of the
discussion of the proposed project.
Applies only to related proposed projects.
2. Project location(s).
1. Overall clarity and completeness of 3. The criteria by which locations of energy
the discussion of the proposed efficiency and conservation projects are
project. chosen.
2. Location of proposed system. 4. Description of project scope including, for
buildings: the number of buildings, square
footage, and systems (HVAC, lighting,
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3. Estimated power/energy rating(s) of mechanical, building envelope, plug loads,
the proposed system (both DC and water heating, etc.).
AC as appropriate). 5. Projected annual and lifetime reduction in
4. Physical footprint of the proposed energy consumption (for both electrical
system. and thermal energy as appropriate) as
5. Estimated energy production of the demonstrated by proposed energy
proposed system (annual, consumption of the project as compared to
seasonal/monthly). an energy baseline taken from energy bill
6. Estimated reduction in fuel usage for data, and who will benefit from these
current generation or offsetting load savings.
increase (show calculations) (if 6. Energy conservation measures with a
applicable). favorable payback period as identified
7. Description of the energy load to be through an energy audit. Identify the level
served (annual consumption, of audit already performed or to be
seasonal/monthly/diurnal performed: ASHRAE Level 1:
consumption [if important]). walkthrough assessment, Level 2: energy
survey and analysis, or Level 3: detailed
8. Demonstration of site control/access
analysis/modeling.
9. Demonstration that the project will
7. Demonstrate that
be designed and constructed to
equipment/devices/processes/controls to be
withstand extreme, but reasonably
installed are commercially available, able
likely weather events such as
to be installed within 36 months, with
typhoons/hurricanes.
proven success in similar applications,
10. Demonstration that the chosen
warrantied, with readily available service
technology is commercially proven
and parts, and available training/support to
(tested and demonstrated, carries a
ensure successful operation &
warranty, has service and parts
maintenance.
readily available), is ready for
8. Demonstrate that an adequate level of
immediate deployment, and is
energy metering/sub-metering will be
financeable.
installed to measure and verify ongoing
11. Demonstration that the proposed
project performance and energy savings.
project, if interconnecting to the
9. Quantification of impacts on the electricity
utility grid, is consistent with utility
grid, such as the extent of peak load
interconnection requirements.
reduction or system congestion relief.
Include describing consultations with
utility, design reviews, and 10. Description of anticipated commissioning
participating in any needed plan, which describes the commissioning
interaction between utility and the process, sequence of operations, equipment
proposed project. Include the run times and schedules, energy metering,
required process and steps required proposed set points, and other requirements
by the utility to complete to ensure energy efficient operations.
interconnection approval if the 11. Description of anticipated operation &
project is approved, including the maintenance (O&M) plan and explanation
utility’s interconnection agreement of how the project will be financially
template and a Memorandum of sustained after OIA funding. Description
Understanding from the utility that should designate the responsible party (i.e.,
verifies they’ve reviewed your who has the expertise and will perform the
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project, and outlines requirements, required maintenance) and estimated O&M
roles, and responsibilities for costs. (Note: maintenance costs for the
interconnecting. period of performance the project may be
12.Evidence/Affirmation that the system budgeted within the cost of the project.)
will be insured to the full cost for 12.Estimated total capital cost for the
system damage and third-party proposed system. Show a breakout of
liability. Per 2 CFR 200.447, estimated costs for significant project line
insurance costs are eligible under this items and major components.
grant. 13.A pro-forma showing the estimated annual
13.A description of the territory's and lifetime cost savings due to the project.
procurement rules and regulations
applicable to the proposed project.
14.Anticipated commissioning plan,
which describes the commissioning
process, sequence of operations,
equipment run times and schedules,
energy metering, and other
requirements to ensure sustained
energy performance.
15.Description of anticipated operation
& maintenance (O&M) plan and
explanation of how the project will
be financially sustained after OIA
funding. Description should
designate the responsible party (i.e.,
who has the expertise and will
perform the required maintenance)
and estimated O&M costs. (Note:
maintenance costs for the period of
performance of the project may be
included in the proposed budget)
16.Quantification of non-energy
benefits, such as reduction in water
consumption, avoided infrastructure
improvements, jobs created, etc.
17.Address whether and how the project
improves the territory's disaster
resilience.
18.Estimated total price for proposed
system. Show a breakout of
estimated costs for significant project
line items and major components.
19.Description of what entity is the
offtaker/beneficiary of the system.
20.A pro-forma showing the expected
energy cost savings. If the utility is
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the off-taker or installer of the
system, provide estimated cost
savings to the utility and show
whether the project will lower energy
costs for individuals and families,
and if so, whether savings across all
or specific classes of rate payers.
Criterion 3: Environmental Considerations Weight: 15%
Applies to all applications.
• Quality of the description of land for deployment projects only and evidence of a
commitment of the use of that land.
• Thoroughness of the discussion of Federal, State, or local permitting, National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), or other
approvals as required for the proposed project.
• Likelihood of obtaining the required permits, approvals, and any applicable NEPA
compliance within the 1–3-year timeframe allotted. Please refer to the included NEPA
Screening Template for guidance on what level of NEPA compliance potential projects
may require. As a reminder, all Federally funded projects are required to comply with
NEPA, regardless of the project involving infrastructure or not.
• Clarity of the discussion of environmental analyses conducted and quality of the
environmental analyses provided.
• If applicable, the soundness of the plan to dispose of any sanitary or hazardous waste
(e.g., construction and demolition debris, old light bulbs, lead ballasts, piping, roofing
material, discarded equipment, debris, and asbestos) generated because of the proposed
project.
Criterion 4: Roles, Responsibilities, Resources, and Capabilities Weight: 10%
Applies to all applications.
• Soundness of the project management concept with respect to proposed tasks and
organizational structure to achieve project objectives.
• Capabilities of the applicant and participants to comprehensively address all aspects of
the proposed project or reasonableness of the plan to obtain qualified suppliers,
subcontractors, or consultants.
• Level of commitment of the applicant and each participating organization as evidenced
by level of involvement, contributions, and cost sharing (if any) identified in declarations
and letters of commitment.
• Reasonableness of the business agreements between each of the parties to implement the
project, if any.
Soundness of the project co-financing and evidence of the capability of the applicant and
participating organizations to meet cost sharing requirements (if any) of the proposed project.
Criterion 5: Project Support Weight: 10%
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Applies to all applications.
Level of support from stakeholders, the public, Congress, and local government, as evidenced
by letters of support, historical support by Congress/the Administration, or signature on grant
documents by the Governor of the insular area.
Review and Selection Process
This program reviews proposed budgets to ensure:
• figures are correct
• estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives
• avoid obviously unallowable costs
• identify costs requiring prior approval
• ensure indirect cost rates are applied correctly
• confirm cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget.
This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed
project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, DOI may
choose to not make an award.
Prior to a comprehensive merit evaluation, OIA will perform an initial review to determine that
(1) the applicant is eligible for an award; (2) the information required by the announcement has
been submitted; (3) all mandatory requirements are satisfied; (4) the proposed project is
responsive to the objectives of the funding opportunity announcement; and (5) the proposed
project is in compliance with all applicable executive and secretary orders, including the
President’s executive order on Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and
Preferencing as well as the executive order and Secretary order on Restoring Truth and Sanity to
American History. If an application fails to meet the requirements or objectives of the NOFO, or
does not provide sufficient information for review, the applicant will be considered
nonresponsive and eliminated from further review. The review committee will review and
evaluate all eligible applications, then provide recommendations to the Assistant Secretary
and/or designated official. The Assistant Secretary and/or designated official will consider the
merit review, as well as the amount of funds available and geographic distribution of funding
when making recommendations for funding. The Assistant Secretary and/or designated official
will select the successful proposals.
Risk Review
Prior to making an award, the applicant will be assessed for their level of risk per 2 CFR
200.206. This assessment includes the applicant's financial management capabilities, project
delivery experience, staffing resources, past award performance, administration and reporting
compliance records, and overall project complexity and potential for challenges. If an award will
be made, special conditions may be applied to the award corresponding to the assessed risk. For
awards over the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $350,000), a review of the applicant's
eligibility and financial integrity information in the applicant's SAM.gov records will also be
performed per 2 CFR 200.206.
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AWARD NOTICES
Notices of Federal Award are sent electronically via GrantSolutions or e-mail. These notices
outline the terms, conditions, and payment instructions per 2 CFR 200.211. The Notice of
Federal Award signed by an authorized Grants Officer is the legal instrument obligating financial
assistance to a recipient. Any other prior notice is not an authorization to begin work. If the
program allows pre-award costs per 2 CFR 200.458, beginning performance before receiving a
Notice of Federal Award is at the applicant’s own risk.
Anticipated Project Start Date: 10/01/2026
Anticipated Project End Date: 09/30/2029
Award Instrument Information
• Projects will be funded, subject to availability of funds, by issuance of a grant agreement.
• Agreements will include a cover letter signed by an Office of Insular Affairs Official and
a grant award document issued by the grant manager.
• The recipient shall obtain prior approval for any budget or program revisions.
Funding Restrictions
• All funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds by the United
States Congress.
• Costs must be allowable in accordance with the applicable Federal cost principles
referenced in 2 CFR 200, Subpart E – Cost Principles.
• All projects must receive an Authorization to Proceed (ATP) before beginning any work
except work related to compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Submission from Successful Applicants
• If selected for possible award, the Office of Insular Affairs reserves the right to request
additional or clarifying information for any reason deemed necessary.
• OIA will notify the applicant if only a portion of the application is selected for funding
and if any special terms and conditions are required for their grant.
Award Notices
• After an applicant’s proposal is selected for award, the applicant will receive a letter from
the Office of Insular Affairs.
• The Office of Insular Affairs anticipates that the grant recipients and projects will be
chosen during the summer.
Administration and National Policy Requirements
• Code of Federal Regulations – By accepting financial assistance, your organization
agrees to abide by the applicable Federal regulations in the expenditure of Federal funds
and performance under this program: 2 CFR Part 200 – Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards.
POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION
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Administration and National Policy Requirements
For award administration and national policy requirements, see the DOI General Terms and
Conditions. Infrastructure projects require the use of American iron, steel, manufacture products,
and construction materials per 2 CFR 184.
Geospatial Data
If you receive financial assistance from the Department of the Interior (DOI), recipient must
follow these rules for geospatial data:
Follow Federal Standards: All geospatial data you collect or create must meet the standards set
by the Federal Geospatial Data Committee (FGDC) or the Department of the Interior. This is
required by the Geospatial Data Act of 2018, which is part of Public Law 115-254, specifically
in Subtitle F (Geospatial Data), sections 751-759C (codified at 43 U.S.C. §§ 2801–2811).
Include Metadata: Your Geographic Information Systems (GIS) files must include complete
metadata. Metadata is information that describes the data, such as where it came from, how
accurate it is, and how it should be used. This is to ensure that anyone using the data understands
its context and quality.
Check for Existing Data: Before you start collecting new geospatial data, you need to check
GeoPlatform.gov. This is to see if there is already existing geospatial data from federal, state,
local, or private sources that can meet your needs and is available for free. If such data is
available, you should use it instead of gathering new data.
These rules help ensure that geospatial data is reliable, high-quality, and that resources are used
efficiently.
Reporting
The recipient’s Notice of Award will detail all reporting requirements, including frequency, due
dates, and instructions for requesting extensions. In general, but not limited to, recipients must:
• Submit Federal Financial reports and Program Performance reports.
• Use the Federal Financial Report (SF-425) form for financial reporting,
• Monitor award activities and report on program performance per 2 CFR 200.329,
• Promptly notify the awarding program in writing of any issues, delays, or conditions
impairing award objectives per 2 CFR 200.329(e),
• Disclose any conflicts of interest related to their award that arise during the award period
per 2 CFR 1402.112,
• Report on the status of real property acquired under the award in which the Federal
government retains an interest per 2 CFR 200.330, and
• Report all violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity
violations potentially affecting the Federal award per 2 CFR 200.113.
• Report any matters related to recipient integrity and performance to SAM.gov per
Appendix XII to 2 CFR 200.
• If the Federal share of the award is more than $100,000 and the recipient makes or agrees
to make any payment using non-appropriated funds for lobbying in connection to the
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award, disclose those activities using the Disclosure of Lobbying (SF-LLL) form per
43 CFR 18.100.
• Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (FFATA) and 2 CFR 170
requires certain recipients to report information on executive compensation, and
information on all sub-awards, subcontracts and consortiums equal to or over $30,000 to
SAM.gov.
The standard grant reporting requirements are listed below:
• A narrative and financial project status report will be due semi-annually for the periods
beginning January 1 and ending June 30 and beginning July 1 and ending December 31.
• Reports are due within 30 days of the end of the period (i.e. January 30 and July 30).
Final reports are due 120 days after the expiration or termination of the award.
• Reports should be submitted via GrantSolutions.gov within the required time frames, to
be considered accepted.
• If applicable to the project scope, Performance Progress Reports should reflect all
impacts upon fuel/electricity bills and pricing, and how benefits are distributed.
• Please note that the performance measures need to be reported on in every Performance
Progress Report submitted. If performance goals are not being met, a detailed explanation
of why they are not being met should be included in the report.
• Even if no progress has been made during a report period, a Performance Progress
Report must still be submitted.
Other Information
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