FINAL Foa_Content_of_OIA-EIC-2026 3.13.26.docx

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

OIA-EIC-2026

Table of Contents

BASIC INFORMATION

* Linked Field. Auto populated with user selection in the “Announcement Type” field on the Synopsis>General Information screen.

Announcement Type: Initial

* Linked Field. Auto populated with autogenerated number from “FON” field, Key Attributes tab.

Funding Opportunity Number: OIA-EIC-2026

* Linked Field. Auto populated with user selection(s) in “Assistance Listing Number(s)” field, Key Attributes tab.

Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.875

* Linked Field. Auto populated from the “Estimated Total Program Funding” field within the Publication Setup tab.

Estimated Total Program Funding: $15,000,000

* Linked Field. Auto populated with user entry in “Expected Number of Awards” field, Publication Setup tab.

Expected Number of Awards: 10

* Linked Field. Auto populated with user entry in “Award Ceiling” field, Publication Setup tab.

Award Ceiling: $15,000,000

* Linked Field. Auto populated with user entry in the “Award Floor” field, Publication Setup tab.

Award Floor: $0

* Linked field. Auto populated with user entry in the “Award Floor/Ceiling explanation" field with the Publication Setup tab.

Applicants may request funding in any amount; however, larger applications carry a higher risk of not being funded due to limited available funds and the anticipated number of applicants and priorities.

Cost Sharing Required?

This field appears on both the Synopsis and the Announcement. User entry in any instance populates all instances. If not already populated, select Yes or No to indicate if cost sharing is required based on statute or regulation. When you select ‘Yes’, you must enter further information in the “Cost Sharing Explanation” field on the Announcement, Eligibility screen. Explain how cost sharing is calculated (e.g. percentage of total, ration to Federal share). In section “Application Contents and Format” you must state pre-award requirements for letters or other documentation verifying commitments to meet cost sharing requirements if an award is made. Required cost sharing is waived for awards to insular areas per 48 U.S.C. §1469a(d). Per E.O. 14112 (vi) Enhance accessibility by identifying any cost-sharing requirements that may make it difficult for Tribal Nations to access resources and remove these burdens when possible. Cost sharing not required by statute is strongly discourage for Tribal applicants. Any restrictions on the types of cost, such as in-kind contributions, acceptable as cost sharing should be addressed When you select ‘No’, you may enter any further explanation in the text field as needed.

No Closing Date Explanation For Grants.gov and GrantSolutions applicants, please enter “Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 PM, ET, on the listed application due date.” in the Closing Date Explanation Field. If dates and times are different for electronic and paper submissions, be clear about those differences. Include details on submission deadline(s) for full applications and, any preliminary submissions, such as letters of intent, white papers, or pre-applications.

Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m., ET, on the listed application due date.

Remove the text below if it's not applicable to your program.

OMB Control Number:

Have Questions?

Provide contact information for at least one point of contact to answer questions from the public. If needed, provide different points of contact for distinct types of help, such as a contact for programmatic or technical questions and a second contact for administrative questions. If the program has multiple points of contact, you may insert a link to a publicly available list of those. Provide multiple ways to contact the point(s) of contact or include an email address that multiple people monitor.

For technical assistance with Grants.gov, please contact Krystina Alfano at krystina_alfano@ios.doi.gov.

Executive Summary This field appears on both the Synopsis and the Announcement. User entry in any instance populates all instances. If not already populated, enter a summary (may be bulleted list) in plain language of program goals and objectives, target audience, and eligible recipients. Point to references for more information, as applicable. This field has a 500-word limit (4000 characters). This also populates the Grants.gov 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’ 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 This checkbox list appears on both the Synopsis and the Announcement. User entry in any instance populates all instances. If not already populated, select all entity types eligible to apply. If your program is open to all nonprofits regardless of tax status, be sure to select both nonprofit options. Programs should avoid inadvertently excluding organizations that could otherwise be applicable.

Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification) Additional Information on Eligibility This Text Field appears on both the Synopsis and the Announcement. User entry in any instance populates all instances. If you selected “Others” or “Unrestricted” above, provide further clarification. For any specifically targeted applicant types (e.g., Native American tribal organizations), we encourage you to explicitly state that they are eligible in the text box. While they may be part of the general eligibility entity types listed above, specifically identifying them as eligible may reduce potential confusion for such applicants. Describe any eligibility factors for principal investigator or project director. Detail any criteria that makes any project ineligible. Refer to any funding restriction describe elsewhere in this Funding Opportunity that could affect eligibility (e.g., program does not fund land acquisition). Refer or link to any other factors that would disqualify an applicant or application (e.g., Eligibility Review criteria). Specify any limit on number of applications an applicant may submit, including clarification if that limit applies to the submitting entity or the individual investigator or program director (or both).

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.

Author Instructions: Select the checkbox if the program will fund projects outside the United States.

Cost Sharing Requirement Cost Sharing Required?

This field appears on both the Synopsis and the Announcement. User entry in any instance populates all instances. If not already populated, select Yes or No to indicate if cost sharing is required based on statute or regulation. When you select ‘Yes’, you must enter further information in the “Cost Sharing Explanation” field on the Announcement, Eligibility screen.Explain how cost sharing is calculated (e.g. percentage of total, ration to Federal share). In section “Application Contents and Format” you must state pre-award requirements for letters or other documentation verifying commitments to meet cost sharing requirements if an award is made. Required cost sharing is waived for awards to insular areas per 48 U.S.C. §1469a(d). Per E.O. 14112 (vi) Enhance accessibility by identifying any cost-sharing requirements that may make it difficult for Tribal Nations to access resources and remove these burdens when possible. Cost sharing not required by statute is strongly discourage for Tribal applicants. Any restrictions on the types of cost, such as in-kind contributions, acceptable as cost sharing should be addressed When you select ‘No’, you may enter any further explanation in the text field as needed.

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.

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.

If you select option 4, “Refer to Attachment – Submission Instructions & Tips”, upload document to application kit.

Refer to Attachment – Submission Instructions & Tips.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals Briefly summarize in plain language the expected performance goals/outcomes the Federal agency expects to be advanced or achieved through the funding awarded under this Funding Opportunity. Also summarize the inputs and activities that will be used to achieve those goals/outcomes, along with outputs that will be measured. Include the indicators that will be used to measure those outputs and outcomes, along with the data that will be collected to support those indicators. Include baseline data and targets if applicable. These goals are transmitted to USASpending.gov with each award made under this Funding Opportunity. This field is limited to 4,000 characters, including spaces and punctuation. This field does not support bulleted, numbered, or indented text. This field does not support non-ASCII characters (will be rejected by USASpending.gov). Refer to PAN-0016 USASpending Award Description for further instructions.

· 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 Describe in plain language the general purpose of the funding and what it is expected to achieve for the public good. Identify any agency funding priorities or focus areas supported by the funding. Describe how awards will contribute to achieving program goals and objectives. Describe how performance will be measured and outcomes evaluated. Describe any program-specific unallowable costs (e.g., construction, land acquisition, foreign travel, equipment not allowed, pre-award costs limited or not allowed, legal cap on or OMB-approved deviation from indirect or other costs). Describe any program-specific eligibility criteria for beneficiaries or program participants other than award recipients. 100,000 character limit, includes spaces and punctuation.

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 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.

Describe for infrastructure projects subject to Build America, Buy America requirements, information on key items anticipated to be purchased under the program, and any related domestic sourcing concerns based on market research.

If your application contains components for which Build America, Buy America (BABA) may apply, please review and follow BABA regulations as applicable.

Legislative Authority Insert the program’s primary legislative authority citation(s) for the statute(s) that authorize the program to issue financial assistance awards for the purpose and activities described in this NOFO. The statues listed here must also appear in the program’s SAM.gov Assistance Listing. If your program has a new authorizing statute that does not appear in the SAM.gov Assistance Listing, please contact the Bureau’s Assistance Listing Coordinator. Examples: The Yukon River Salmon Act (16 U.S.C. §55701 et seq.), Good Neighbor Authority (16 USC §2113a).

48 U.S.C. 1492 Type of Award The Award Type is generated from the “Funding Instrument Type” in the dropdown menu under “General Information” on the Publication Setup Tab. If it is not already populated, please go back to the Publication Setup to make your selection. When you select “Cooperative Agreement,” the sentence “Recipient should expect the Federal agency to have substantial involvement in the project” will automatically populate. You will need to provide additional information in the related text field below this automated sentence. If you select “Other,” you must provide further explanation in the required text field below your selection.

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.

Use the table below to select all applicable forms. To remove a row/form, click into the cell and select the row icon from the pop-up. Once you click on the row icon you will have the ability to delete the row you are currently in. You will also have the ability to add additional rows for any other applicable forms.

· SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance

· 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

· 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

· 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)

· 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 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 Specify project narrative requirements, which may include (as applicable to the program):

· Content and form or format requirements and limitations (e.g., length, paper size, file type).

· Overview information:

· project title,

· location details,

· description of entity(ies) undertaking the project,

· Information on key project personnel, including details on their expertise, skill, or significance to the project.

· needs statement,

· description of how project meets the program goals and objectives,

· activities,

· timeline,

· description of stakeholder coordination or involvement

· Monitoring and evaluation information:

· objectives,

· methods for data collection (performance monitoring, evaluation, and other reporting),

· expected outcomes,

· any expected deliverables beyond required financial and performance reporting

· Other:

· description of applicant needs for Federal substantial involvement or technical assistance,

· any information needed to support environmental compliance review requirements,

· If any requirement also requires submission of separate supporting documentation, describe those in the Other Documentation section below and cross reference them here.

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.

· 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).

· 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.

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

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 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).

Use this checkbox when the program has a mandated cap on indirect costs or approved rate deviation (e.g., CESU, CRUs).

Describe any program-specific budget narrative requirements. Address content and form or format requirements and limitations (e.g., length, paper size, file type). If the program has any cost restrictions or caps, point to the Program Description section above where they should be detailed. If the program requires prior approval for how recipients can use program income according to 2 CFR 200.307, please explain those requirements clearly for applicants. Add any program-specific instructions for items of cost requiring prior approval per 2 CFR 200.407.

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 of 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 Specify all other application requirements and documentation. Address content and form or format requirements and limitations. Other documentation may include curriculum vitae or other biographical information for key personnel, project location maps, any documentation to support an eligibility determination (e.g., proof of certain tax status, authorizing tribal resolution), third-party references, letters of support, or letters of cost sharing or other commitments to the project.

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.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package Describe pre-application procedures, including how and when applicants will know when they can submit a full application. How to get application forms, kits, or other materials needed to apply. Specifically, include: (1) An Internet address where the materials can be accessed. (2) An email address. (3) A U.S. Postal Service mailing address. (4) Telephone number. (5) Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD), Text Telephone (TTY) number, or other appropriate telecommunication relay service.

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

* Linked Fields. Auto populated with user entry in the “Closing Date for Applications” and “Closing Date Explanation” fields on the Synopsis>Key Dates screen.

Closing Date for Applications: 05/05/2026 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 Check what method(s) for application and if applicants have an option to submit hard copies or other means electronically outside of Grants.gov and GrantSolutions. Provide additional instructions in the text box below your selection.

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.

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.

List the program’s eligibility review criteria and any disqualifying factors to be reviewed. Provide enough detail for applicants to understand them. Provide reference to any regulation or other source describing restrictions. This section must include a brief understanding of the agency’s responsiveness review process.

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.

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 Describe the criteria used to evaluate merit. Fully describe them or provide a link to a detailed reference. Describe each criterion and sub-criterion used. If criteria vary in importance, describe the relative percentages, weights, or other method used to distinguish between them. Explain any statutory, regulatory, evidence, or other preferences and their effect (e.g., additional points). If cost sharing is not an eligibility criterion, explain how voluntary cost sharing will be considered (e.g., additional points, tiebreaker). Do not encourage cost sharing without clarifying what it means. If cost sharing is not considered in the evaluation, clearly state that in this section.

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 Implementation Plan Weight: 40% Grid/Feasibility Studies, Deployment of Energy and Power Generation/Transmission Projects, Thermal and Energy Storage Systems Applies only to related proposed projects.

1. Overall clarity and completeness of the discussion of the proposed project.

2. Location of proposed system.

3. Estimated power/energy rating(s) of the proposed system (both DC and AC as appropriate).

4. Physical footprint of the proposed system.

5. Estimated energy production of the proposed system (annual, seasonal/monthly).

6. Estimated reduction in fuel usage for current generation or offsetting load increase (show calculations) (if applicable).

7. Description of the energy load to be served (annual consumption, seasonal/monthly/diurnal consumption [if important]).

8. Demonstration of site control/access

9. Demonstration that the project will be designed and constructed to withstand extreme, but reasonably likely weather events such as typhoons/hurricanes.

10. Demonstration that the chosen technology is commercially proven (tested and demonstrated, carries a warranty, has service and parts readily available), is ready for immediate deployment, and is financeable.

11. Demonstration that the proposed project, if interconnecting to the utility grid, is consistent with utility interconnection requirements. Include describing consultations with utility, design reviews, and participating in any needed interaction between utility and the proposed project. Include the required process and steps required by the utility to complete interconnection approval if the project is approved, including the utility’s interconnection agreement template and a Memorandum of Understanding from the utility that verifies they’ve reviewed your project, and outlines requirements, roles, and responsibilities for interconnecting.

12. Evidence/Affirmation that the system will be insured to the full cost for system damage and third-party liability. Per 2 CFR 200.447, insurance costs are eligible under this grant.

13. A description of the territory's 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 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 2: Project Description and Implementation Plan Weight: 40% Energy Efficiency and Conservation Applies only to related proposed projects:

1. Overall clarity and completeness of the discussion of the proposed project.

2. Project location(s).

3. The criteria by which locations of energy efficiency and conservation projects are chosen.

4. Description of project scope including, for buildings: the number of buildings, square footage, and systems (HVAC, lighting, mechanical, building envelope, plug loads, water heating, etc.).

5. Projected annual and lifetime reduction in energy consumption (for both electrical and thermal energy as appropriate) as demonstrated by proposed energy consumption of the project as compared to an energy baseline taken from energy bill data, and who will benefit from these savings.

6. Energy conservation measures with a favorable payback period as identified through an energy audit. Identify the level of audit already performed or to be performed: ASHRAE Level 1: walkthrough assessment, Level 2: energy survey and analysis, or Level 3: detailed analysis/modeling.

7. Demonstrate that equipment/devices/processes/controls to be installed are commercially available, able to be installed within 36 months, with proven success in similar applications, warrantied, with readily available service and parts, and available training/support to ensure successful operation & maintenance.

8. Demonstrate that an adequate level of energy metering/sub-metering will be installed to measure and verify ongoing project performance and energy savings.

9. Quantification of impacts on the electricity grid, such as the extent of peak load reduction or system congestion relief.

10. Description of anticipated commissioning plan, which describes the commissioning process, sequence of operations, equipment run times and schedules, energy metering, proposed set points, and other requirements to ensure energy efficient operations.

11. 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 the project may may be budgeted within the cost of the project.)

12. Estimated total capital cost for the proposed system. Show a breakout of estimated costs for significant project line items and major components.

13. A pro-forma showing the estimated annual and lifetime cost savings due to the project

Criterion 3: Environmental Considerations Weight: 15%

· 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…