The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has extended the  application deadline for an $18 million funding opportunity for Flexible Innovative Transformer Technologies (FITT). This initiative aims to support the development of advanced transformers that can enhance grid reliability and address supply chain constraints. The application deadline for this opportunity has been extended to April 26, 2024, at 5 p.m. ET.

Power transformers play a crucial role in the distribution and transmission of electricity, regulating voltage levels to ensure safe delivery to homes and businesses. The selected projects under the FITT FOA will focus on researching, developing, and demonstrating technologies that offer real-time monitoring of voltage, current, and temperature, thereby enabling grid operators to promptly address any issues.

One of the key objectives of this funding opportunity is to tackle transformer supply chain challenges. By investing in flexible, adaptable, and modular transformer designs, the DOE aims to reduce procurement lead times and enhance long-term replacement needs. Assistant Secretary for Electricity, Gene Rodrigues, emphasized the importance of these advancements in ensuring a resilient and cost-effective electric grid for communities across America.

The DOE's Office of Electricity (OE) and the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) are co-funding this initiative, contributing $16 million and $2 million, respectively. Interested parties can apply for funding through FedConnect, with the expectation of announcing selectees in late summer. Applicants must demonstrate a process for evaluating prototype performance and meet specific technical requirements outlined in the FOA.

Source: energy.gov