The purpose of this solicitation is to fund studies and applied research and development (R&D) projects that support the approved Electric Program Investment Charge 2021–2025 (EPIC 4) Investment Plan’s strategic objective to increase the value proposition of distributed energy resources to customers and the grid. This solicitation’s research topics fall under the EPIC 4 Transportation Electrification Initiative. This solicitation intends to fund research and innovation that complements and supports actions that automakers, charging providers, utilities, automation service providers, regulators, and other stakeholders are taking to advance VGI in these broad areas. Specifically, the solicitation will seek projects to address VGI knowledge gaps; high costs of V2X or bidirectional charging equipment, as compared to unidirectional charging; and the lack of access to cost-effective, accurate, and flexible submetering solutions. Projects that address disadvantaged and/or low-income community needs with strong community engagement and support will be prioritized. Projects must fall within one of the following project groups:

·       Group 1: Addressing VGI Knowledge Gaps

·       Group 2: Cost Reduction of V2X Enabling Technology

·       Group 3: Submetering Solutions to Facilitate VGI