The Virginia Department of Energy is offering grants of $6,000 or $10,000 for eligible communities to assist in energy resilience planning. These applications are open and are being taken on a rolling basis.
About Energy Resilience
Energy resilience is a strategic approach designed to address and mitigate electrical disruptions within communities. It focuses on enhancing the stability and reliability of energy systems to prevent interruptions and ensure continuous access to power. Energy resilience aims to maintain the smooth operation of daily life, even during unforeseen events or prolonged outages. This approach not only safeguards individual convenience but also supports the overall well-being and functionality of entire communities.
How Power Outages Affect Communities
Power outages can be particularly challenging for economically impacted communities. For some, losing power means not just inconvenience but real danger. Energy resilience helps ensure everyone can maintain a safe and stable living environment regardless of economic status.
Benefits of Energy Resilience
Reliable Power Supply:
There will be less concern regarding sudden power outages. A reliable energy supply better ensures that appliances, lighting and heating/cooling systems operate as needed.
Safety and Comfort:
A resilient energy system increases the availability of heating during cold spells and cooling during heatwaves. This is particularly crucial for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, young children and individuals with medical conditions requiring a continuous power supply.
Energy Affordability:
Energy-efficient and resilient systems often reduce energy bills. Solar panels can lower costs and home batteries provide backup power during outages, making energy more affordable.
Community Benefits
The Virginia Energy Resilience Study (VERS) is working with economically impacted communities across the state to measure their energy resilience and identify practical long-term solutions to reduce or eliminate vulnerabilities.
Application and Workbook
If you are ready to get started, download and complete the application form.
Energy Resilience Planning Grants Application
Understand your community’s strengths and vulnerabilities during power outages. Download the Virginia Community Energy Resilience Workbook and Scoring Tool
Virginia Community Energy Resilience Workbook and Scoring Tool
For more information email: resilience@energy.virginia.gov Additional information and main links at https://www.energy.virginia.gov/renewable-energy/Energy_Resilience.shtml.
[Content courtesy of Virginia Department of Energy]
For VCC inquires contact Alleyn Harned at aharned@active-fuchsia-cobra.67-208-42-13.cpanel.site.