Resilient Energy

Working to ensure island and coastal communities have better access to reliable, affordable and climate-friendly energy

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Resilient Energy Programs Overview

Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project 

The Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project (ETIPP) is a U.S. Department of Energy program that helps coastal, remote, and island communities across the United States develop more affordable, reliable, and secure energy systems through strategic energy planning and deep-dive technical assistance. The program brings communities together with technical experts and regional organizations to inform unique energy solutions, build energy literacy and connections among decision makers and stakeholders, and define pathways toward resilient, affordable energy systems in hard to reach places. 

As the regional partner for the Northeastern Seaboard, we understand the local energy landscape and community needs, and provide on-the-ground support to selected communities to support them throughout the course of their ETIPP project. 

The Strategic Energy Planning Track typically takes 4-8 months and is fitting for communities that know they have energy challenges, but need support translating them into plans of action. The Deep Dive Technical Assistance track, which typically takes 12-24 months, is suited for communities with an existing energy plan or have a specific energy project in mind that they require technical support to bring to fruition. In addition to receiving support in either track, all ETIPP communities have the opportunity to connect with others enrolled in the program through both regional and national knowledge sharing networks.

Topic Areas for Deep Dive Technical Assistance: 

• Energy generation

• Energy efficiency 

• Transmission and distribution 

• Utility ratemaking and regulations 

• Workforce development and engagement strategies 

Examples of projects supported through ETIPP:  

• Strategic energy planning and stakeholder engagement
• Microgrid and hybrid energy system analysis 
• Energy efficiency and electrification strategies 
• Marine electrification for working waterfronts 

Application Information: 

Applications are expected to open in May and close in July 2026. 

Local governments (e.g. municipality, county, city, town), tribes or tribal organizations, community-based organizations (including nonprofits and nongovernmental organizations), special purpose districts (e.g. school district, water district, sewer district), academic institutions, municipal utilities, electric co-ops are eligible to apply. 

Interested applicants must reach out to their local Regional Partner prior to applying in order to be considered eligible for ETIPP. 

Contact: Email Amber Blum or Skye Butterson-Dunn, Community Development Officers

ETIPP Resources: 

• US Department of Energy: ETIPP Program Description 
• Case studies of Island Institute ETIPP Projects

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Clean Energy Grant

Island Institute’s Community Clean Energy Grant supports island and coastal coastal communities in reducing energy burden and advancing the adoption of energy efficiency, weatherization, and clean energy technologies. This $20,000 grant will empower communities to lead targeted campaigns, audits, and upgrades that will insulate homes and municipal buildings as well as strengthen energy resilience. There is a set amount of funds available annually for the Community Clean Energy Grant. The funding available for this fiscal year (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026) have already been fully released. We expect to continue this opportunity in the following fiscal year with some changes to project eligibility. More details are expected to be released by June 1, 2026. 

Applications are accepted, reviewed, and awarded on a rolling basis from July 1, 2026 to June 1, 2027

Eligible applicants are: 

• Maine Municipalities, including committees
• Regional Planning Commissions
• Councils of Governments (COGs)
• Note: Nonprofits are allowed to apply on behalf of one of the above entities but are currently not eligible for awards themselves.

Resilient Energy in Action

Energy Technology Innovation Navigators (Energy Navigators) Pilot 

Island Institute completed this U.S. Department of Energy pilot technical assistance program in April 2026. This program provided free assistance in planning and analysis to support communities and businesses in a wide range of possible scenarios, including identifying and comparing energy priorities, understanding the feasibility of extending 3-phase power to working waterfronts, or modeling backup energy solutions for town offices, schools and resilience hubs. 

Island Institute worked closely with entities working at the local level to help them understand their needs, bolster existing expertise, and open pathways to available resources and funding. Navigators equipped local decision-makers with focused support to accelerate progress toward a more resilient and affordable energy future.

This program may continue starting in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned! 

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Grid Resilience and Energy Innovation Toolkit  

Island Institute has received federal funding to develop and deploy a grid resilience toolkit to empower communities and utility providers to accelerate the deployment of innovative energy infrastructure along Maine’s coast. By leveraging our expertise as the Regional Partner for the Department of Energy’s Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project (ETIPP), Island Institute will convene stakeholders including utility companies, site preparation experts, local governments, community organizations, residents, and regulatory agencies to develop grid resilience and vulnerability studies; convene communities, utilities, and clean energy developers; develop a step-by-step grid resilience toolkit; and generate analyses to support rural energy resilience efforts locally, statewide, and nationally. Stay tuned for more information! 

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Community Microgrid Assistance Partnership  

Island Institute has joined the pilot cohort for the Community Microgrid Assistance Partnership (C-MAP). This program empowers communities to strengthen their energy resilience through the development and enhancement of microgrid systems. By combining targeted funding with technical expertise, the program supports the design, modernization, and long-term sustainability of reliable local energy infrastructure. Working alongside community members, energy providers, and regional partners, the program helps co-create solutions that reflect local priorities while addressing complex challenges such as climate impacts, energy affordability, and system reliability. This approach ensures that those most affected by energy insecurity are central to shaping practical, forward-looking outcomes. 

If you’re interested in learning more about this program and how it could help your community, email Skye Butterson-Dunn.