42 U.S.C. § 17389 — Technology demonstration on the distribution grid

(a) In general. The Secretary^* must set up a grant program for projects that modernize the electric grid, including using technology that improves observability, advanced controls, and predicting how the distribution system will perform.

(b) Eligible projects. To qualify for a grant, a project^* must: (1) be designed to improve how well the future grid performs, while still keeping power safe, secure, reliable, and affordable; and (2) show (A) secure integration and management of two or more energy resources, such as distributed generation, combined heat and power, micro-grids, storage, electric vehicles, energy efficiency, demand response, and smart loads, and (B) secure integration and interoperability of communications and information technology.