Overview
- DOE opened the SPARK funding opportunity to speed upgrades that increase power flows on current transmission infrastructure.
- Concept papers are due April 2, 2026, with full applications due May 20, and DOE expects to announce selections in August 2026.
- Projects will replace existing conductors with higher‑capacity wires and deploy advanced transmission technologies to boost reliability and lower costs.
- SPARK extends the department’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships effort, which authorized up to $10.5 billion over five years.
- The solicitation spans three areas—Grid Resilience, Smart Grid, and a Grid Innovation track focused on large, multi‑jurisdictional demonstrations that expand interregional transfer capability.