Advanced Transmission Grant Application Support
ScottMadden supports complex grant applications for our clients from opportunity identification to application submission, RFI responses, dispersing funds and tax filings, and documenting project close-out and completion of grant requirements.
Managed development of a federally compliant FRIP grant application to support advanced transmission upgrades and improve regional grid resilience
Highlighted technical and community impacts, including dynamic line rating, carbon reduction, and enhanced service to Tribal lands, to strengthen the application’s competitiveness
Delivered tools and documentation to support post-award compliance, audit readiness, and long-term program success
Challenge
A large, south-central investor-owned utility engaged ScottMadden to support the development and submission of a complex grant application for the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program. ScottMadden helped the client develop a proposal focused on reconductoring a significant transmission line and creating a proposal that tightly aligned with federal requirements and included detailed input from transmission planning and regulatory functions, all under tight deadlines. The grant application would significantly improve grid capacity, reliability, and resilience, especially across tribal lands.
Process
- Developed a detailed application strategy and development roadmap, outlining all DOE requirements and focusing on technical, environmental, and community benefits criteria
- Provided overall project management for the grant development, driving the completion all requirements
- Coordinated stakeholder engagement, including three interconnected cooperatives, tribal leaders, and community representatives
- Interviewed key transmission planning personnel to capture relevant project data and justifications
- Integrated advanced technology narratives, such as dynamic line rating, optical ground wire, and substation hardening, to highlight the project’s transformative grid impacts
- Modeled economic and social benefits, including avoided outage costs, carbon reductions, and job additions
- Ensured on-time and compliant submission by managing the data collection process, drafting technical sections, and aligning all materials with DOE’s guidelines
- Monitored evolving federal guidance and Q&A and adjusted the application accordingly
- Provided tools and guidance to help the client prepare for post-award reporting and compliance
Result
The GRIP grant application was submitted on time and in full compliance with federal requirements, positioning the client to effectively compete for critical funding. The application underscored the project’s potential to significantly expand grid capacity and reduce congestion at both regional and national levels, demonstrating clear, measurable benefits. It highlighted the client’s leadership in adopting innovative technologies and building strong partnerships, strengthening their case for impact. Beyond submission, the client was also equipped with a comprehensive toolkit to navigate award negotiations and ensure compliance, while detailed documentation and traceability set the foundation for efficient audit responses and long-term program success.
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