On March 1, 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy introduced funding under the Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas Program in the amount of $1 billion over 5 years for both community-scale and large-scale demonstrations to advance clean energy solutions in rural and remote areas. Through a cooperative agreement via a competitive process, selected projects will address regional climate risks with solutions such as microgrids, hydro and marine hydrokinetic power, geothermal for generation and district heating, and more. The first round of $300 million funding will be awarded to projects ranging from $5-$100 million, depending on the scale of the projects. Additionally, selected projects will require a 20-50 percent match, depending on type of applicant. Eligible entities include domestic institutions of higher education, non-profits, for-profits, tribal nations, state and local governments, and incorporated and unincorporated consortia.