The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched the Renewable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning (R-STEP) that will support the creation of new, or the expansion of existing, state-based programs or initiatives that improve renewable energy planning and siting processes for local communities. Large-scale renewable energy projects, especially wind and solar facilities, have a pivotal role in decarbonizing the grid quickly and cost-effectively to achieve President Biden’s goals of a 100% clean electricity sector by 2035 and net-zero emissions economy by 2050.

Through R-STEP, DOE anticipates awarding approximately five to seven state-based collaboratives (Collaboratives) between $1 to $2 million each to expand state and local capacity on large-scale renewable energy siting and planning. Collaboratives will also benefit from tailored technical assistance and peer-learning opportunities through the program. R-STEP will also serve as a platform for Collaboratives to share learnings and best practices with other stakeholders. Activities conducted with awarded funds could include but are not limited to:

• Engaging with local governments and communities to identify renewable energy siting and planning priorities,
• Hiring and subcontracting to expand technical capacity and leverage experts in the region or state,
• Developing state-specific resources that could improve siting practices and outcomes for local communities and the renewable energy industry, and
• Conducting trainings and workshops with local governments to improve technical understanding of renewable energy siting.

Collaboratives should consist of cross-disciplinary teams with an understanding of local community needs and a variety of expertise relevant to planning for and siting large-scale renewable energy facilities. Collaboratives could include but are not limited to state energy offices, Governors’ offices, Extension offices, universities, non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, and other organizations. DOE highly encourages state energy offices (or equivalent state agencies) to participate or lead applications. Applicants are encouraged to begin identifying the partnerships that would work best in their states.