DOE’s Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas (ERA) Program is managed by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED). OCED has provided financial investment, technical assistance, and other resources to advance clean energy demonstrations and energy solutions that benefit rural and remote communities. ERA aimed to fund clean energy projects with three specific goals:

1. Fund energy projects in rural areas for cost reduction, improved access, resilience, and environmental benefits.
2. Back innovative rural energy systems with climate-resilient tech, resilient business models, financing, and community engagement.
3. Foster clean energy knowledge, capacity, and self-reliance in rural America.