Description
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) is issuing a Notice of Intent to procure proprietary engineering studies—referred to as “Power Forward Engineering Studies”—that will evaluate electric‑grid capacity, cost, and timelines for municipalities eligible for DOER funding. The work will be performed by the two primary electric distribution utilities (National Grid and Eversource) and will result in a study report delivering cost estimates (±50%/–25%) and connection timelines for up to three parcels per application, with a maximum project size of 5 MW and a per‑study funding cap of $100,000. The program provides a total of $3 million in funding (up to $1 million per year through 2028) and requires municipalities to apply, receive funding confirmation, and then have the utilities complete the study within a defined schedule.
• Scope: Conduct full or “Step Zero” engineering studies for eligible municipalities, delivering cost‑and‑timeline estimates for grid connection.
• Funding limits: $100 k maximum per study (including restudies); $3 M total program budget, $1 M per calendar year (2026‑2028).
• Eligibility: 46 designated municipalities; up to three developable parcels per application; peak load ≤ 5 MW; study must be completed and projects energized within three years.
• Timeline: Responses due by 11/05/2026 4 PM EST; utilities must invoice DOER after study completion; funding must be used by 12/31/2028.