COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that the state will receive a $14.2 million Grid Resilience Formula Grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (U.S. DOE). The grant is intended to modernize Ohio’s electric grid and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather and natural disasters, ensuring reliable and safe electricity for all residents.
With the aim of enhancing the power sector infrastructure, these funds will alleviate or eliminate the financial burden associated with grid modernization for local communities. Eligible projects include burying electrical equipment underground, implementing fire-resistant technologies, replacing old overhead conductors and underground cables, and effectively managing utility poles.
“Reliable electricity is crucial for ensuring the well-being of all Ohioans,” emphasized Governor DeWine. “By modernizing our grid and safeguarding it against extreme weather events, we can maintain thriving homes, schools, and offices across the state.”
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) will oversee the distribution of funds to various projects throughout the state. Priority will be given to projects that promise the most significant benefits to communities, providing them with affordable, reliable, and environmentally friendly electricity.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the funding, PUCO Chair Jenifer French stated, “I am thrilled to announce that Ohio will receive funding to enhance the electric grid’s reliability. Successful projects will reduce the frequency and duration of outages in underserved communities, ensuring more dependable utility services.”
The $14.2 million grant for Ohio is part of the U.S. DOE’s Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants, which fall under the recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Over a span of five years, these grants allocate funds to states, territories, and federally recognized Indian tribes, including Alaska Native Regional Corporations and Alaska Native Village Corporations, based on a formula considering factors such as population size, land area, probability and severity of disruptive events, and historical expenditures on mitigation efforts. Ohio’s award includes the first two years of formula-allocated funds for the state.