Through the NASEO Buildings Committee and the NASEO-NARUC Grid-interactive Efficient Buildings (GEB) Working Group, NASEO submitted its response to a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) request-for-information on its draft Connected Communities Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). A number of states, including Colorado and Maryland also responded.

These responses will help shape a planned $42 million DOE Connected Communities solicitation for regional GEB demonstration projects. These demonstrations will develop real-world data and experience on how multiple buildings and facilities can be integrated with the grid through smart technologies, distributed energy resources (DERs), and flexible loads to cost-effectively reduce energy use and peak demand while enhancing occupant services and comfort. GEBs can provide greater energy efficiency and improved energy management to the benefit of both building owners and grid operators while supporting state energy, economic, resilience, and environmental goals

NASEO operates the GEB Working Group in partnership with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) and with the support of DOE’s Building Technologies Office and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The Working Group serves as a forum and resource platform for state exploration, learning, exchange, and technical assistance on GEB technologies and applications and to help inform state policies, planning, programs and regulation.