Equity and Access (E&A) Grant Program

Equity and Access

(E&A) Grant Program

GRANT GUIDELINES

July 13, 2023

Rev. 11/27/23

Thanks to:

CPUC News and Outreach Office – Business and Community Outreach

Community and Tribal organizations that collaborated on developing this program

Contents

Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1

Background ............................................................................................................................................................ 1

Program Summary ................................................................................................................................................ 2

Program Vision ...................................................................................................................................................... 5

Program Objectives .............................................................................................................................................. 5

Program Administration ............................................................................................................. 7

Duration of Grant Program ................................................................................................................................ 7

Grant Funding Breakdown .................................................................................................................................. 7

Eligible Entities ..................................................................................................................................................... 8

Application Overview ........................................................................................................................................... 8

Public Participation Grant Account ................................................................................................................... 8

Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant Account .................................................................................... 13

Clean Energy Access Grant Account ............................................................................................................... 24

Attachments and Appendix Items ......................................................................................... 34

Attachment 1: Glossary of Terms .................................................................................................................... 34

Appendix 1: Public Participation Grant Application Coversheet ................................................................ 38

Appendix 2: Public Participation Grant Application Coversheet Instructions .......................................... 44

Appendix 3: Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant Application ........................................................ 50

Appendix 4: Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant Application Coversheet Instructions ............ 52

Appendix 5: Clean Energy Access Grant Application Coversheet .............................................................. 55

Appendix 6: Clean Energy Access Grant Application Coversheet Instructions ....................................... 57

Appendix 7: Sample Workplan Table .............................................................................................................. 60

Appendix 8: Grant Budget Table Instructions ............................................................................................... 61

Appendix 9: Sample Budget Table ................................................................................................................... 62

Appendix 10: Tribal Organization Sample Resolution .................................................................................. 63

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Introduction

Tribal and Community Based Organization (CBO) entities interested in the Equity and Access (E&A) Grant

Program should refer to these guidelines prior to applying to one of the program’s three grant accounts.

Background

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) serves all Californians and recognizes that specific

populations face higher barriers to clean, safe, and affordable utility and transportation services. To ensure

that underserved and underrepresented community needs are met and that their voices are considered, the

CPUC approved an Environmental and Social Justice (ESJ) Action Plan in February 2019 and version 2 was

approved in April 2022. The ESJ Action Plan established a series of goals related to health and safety,

consumer protection, program benefits, and enforcement in all the sectors that the CPUC regulates. These

goals include soliciting the participation of ESJ communities in CPUC proceedings and decision-making,

and ensuring that investments in clean energy resources, transportation, and communication services benefit

all communities.

The E&A Program will specifically contribute to the following ESJ Action Plan Goals:

• Goal 1: Consistently integrate equity and access considerations throughout CPUC regulatory activities.

• Goal 2: Increase investment in clean energy resources to benefit ESJ communities, especially to improve

local air quality and public health.

• Goal 5: Enhance outreach and public participation opportunities for ESJ communities to meaningfully

participate in the CPUC’s decision-making process and benefit from CPUC programs.

Tribes and CBOs serving disadvantaged communities may lack the capacity to effectively engage with the

CPUC. In some cases, this may be due to resource constraints that can make it difficult to keep abreast of

and access state programs and participate in decision-making processes.

The CPUC is seeking to reduce these barriers and ensure that the needs and voices of underserved and

underrepresented communities are included in the agency’s decision-making processes and clean energy

programs designed for customers and communities are accessible.

In 2022, the California Legislature appropriated $30,000,000 in the Budget Act of 2022 (AB 179) for

capacity grants to Tribes and CBOs for participation in CPUC decision making processes and supporting

activities.

From the Budget Act of 2022 (AB 179):

“...for capacity grants to community-based organizations that conduct outreach and obtain technical assistance

for participation in Public Utilities Commission decision making processes and supporting activities and that

support ongoing equity initiatives and provide clean energy access opportunities to tribes, as defined pursuant

to Section 21073 of the Public Resources Code, and other underrepresented communities. The Public

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Utilities Commission shall consider capacity grants to community-based organizations that also conduct

outreach and obtain technical assistance for participation in Department of Water Resources, Office of

Energy Infrastructure Safety, Energy Commission, State Air Resources Board and Independent System

Operator energy related decision-making processes. The funds shall be available for encumbrance or

expenditure by the Public Utilities Commission until June 30, 2025, and shall be available for liquidation

until June 30, 2027.”

The Equity and Access (E&A) Grant Program was created to implement this legislation and incorporate its

statutory purpose. These guidelines act as a source for administration of the program.

Program Summary

The Equity and Access (E&A) Grant Program consists of three (3) grant accounts. The grant accounts

include the “Public Participation Grant”, “Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant” and “Clean Energy

Access Grant.” These accounts recognize the scope of activities envisioned by the authorizing legislation as

well as ensure that application and reporting requirements are appropriate for the given level of funding.

Public Participation Grant Account Summary

The Public Participation (PP) Grant Account is intended to remove financial and capacity-based barriers to

participation while creating a flexible and accessible process to apply for and receive compensation.

Organizations are compensated for their time for participating in day-to-day CPUC activities that drive and

influence policy decisions.

Grants will be awarded for specific eligible activities, such as speaking on a panel, participating in a working

group, or participation in other decision-making processes. The PP Grant Account cap per organization of

$15,000 will ensure a proportional distribution of funds over time and across various organizations.

Submissions for grant awards will be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the grant period and payment

for these discrete engagements will be prompt.

To ensure that funding is made available to organizations with no or limited participation experience with

the CPUC, the following eligibility criteria has been established:

• Organizations are not eligible to apply for a grant award if they receive or plan to receive funding from

another source for the same activity. For example, some CPUC activities provide a stipend, per diem, or

other type of funding for participation, including Intervenor Compensation.

• Organizations that have previously applied to or received Intervenor Compensation are eligible to apply,

as long as the Intervenor Compensation award was not denied due to lack of financial hardship.

• Organizations who are granted Intervenor Compensation for previous work that was performed as part

of an E&A Grant Program award may have their E&A award reduced by the amount of funding

granted through the Intervenor Compensation program up to the full amount of the E&A award at the

CPUC’s discretion.

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This grant account aligns with the CPUC’s ESJ Action Plan by creating participation pathways to

compensate CBOs and Tribes for the time and effort spent contributing critical perspectives to the CPUC.

The total amount available in the PP Grant Account is $3,100,000 with a lifetime funding cap of $15,000 per

organization. Of the total $3.1 million, no less than $300,000 shall be available exclusively to Tribes. Tribal

applicants are eligible for both this $300,000 amount and funding from the remainder of the PP Grant

Account, but non-Tribal applicants are not eligible for the $300,000 amount.

Equity, Engagement, And Education Grant Account Summary

The Equity, Engagement, and Education (EEE) Grant Account will award grants up to $200,000 for the

purposes of building CBO, Tribal, and community capacity to understand and engage with CPUC decision-

making processes. The EEE Grant Account will increase participation within CPUC decision-making and

build the long-term capacity of Tribes and CBOs to make participation in the Intervenor Compensation

program and other funding sources more accessible. This will enable CBOs and Tribes to have more

influence over clean energy programs and support making these programs more accessible to their served

communities.

Successful applicants for the EEE Grant Account will have a demonstrated background in advocating for

their Tribe or community. Eligible activities for the EEE Grant Account will include:

• Community engagement and outreach related to CPUC proceedings.

• Hiring consultants and staff for activities necessary for active participation in decision-making processes

at the CPUC.

• Education, training, and curriculum development regarding CPUC processes, proceedings, and

programs.

• Partnership and coalition development to bring greater awareness of CPUC matters to disadvantaged

communities.

Grant applications will be accepted in two cycles, the windows for which will be set by CPUC staff. The

EEE Grant Account is a competitive grant. Please refer to E&A Grant Program webpage for the most

current grant timelines: http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/capacitygrants.

The total amount available for the EEE Grant Account is $9,750,000 with a maximum award of $200,000

per application. Of the total $9,750,000 no less than $750,000 shall be available exclusively to Tribes. Tribal

applicants are eligible for both this $750,000 amount (with an individual Tribe capped at $200,000) or

funding from the remainder of the EEE Grant Account, but non-Tribal applicants are not eligible for the

$750,000 amount.

Clean Energy Access Grant Account Summary

The Clean Energy Access (CEA) Grant Account will award grants to CBOs and Tribal organizations to help

facilitate access to and the adoption of clean energy programs in their respective communities. Specifically,

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the CEA Grant Account will provide funding to develop equity initiatives and clean energy access

opportunities that complement other CPUC programs, including:

• Microgrid Incentive Program (MIP)

• Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)

• Technology and Equipment for Clean Heating (TECH) Initiative

At the community level, the grant program is designed to bridge gaps and connect people to clean energy

access programs. Eligible activities may include:

• Community engagement

• Marketing, outreach and enrollment support

• Resource mapping and needs development

• Project design and development

• Capacity building and workforce development training

For example, funding from the CEA Grant Account could be used to:

• Conduct community outreach to gather necessary information for a microgrid project through the MIP.

• Conduct community outreach on the availability of SGIP and TECH to increase enrollment in

underutilized communities.

• Improve awareness of training and workforce development opportunities for the TECH Initiative and

provide financial or ancillary support to access these opportunities.

• Develop pathways to use TECH to achieve building decarbonization in disadvantaged communities.

• Hire technical assistance to support procuring a developer for a clean energy project through MIP or

SGIP.

This grant will not pay for infrastructure buildout, such as hardware or equipment, but rather help facilitate

the planning of projects as well as outreach to increase participation by underrepresented communities.

CEA Grant Account eligible projects must be in an area served by a CPUC-regulated investor-owned utility

for MIP supporting projects but may be statewide for the SGIP and TECH supporting projects.

Grant applications will be accepted in two cycles, the windows for which will be set by CPUC staff. The

CEA Grant Account is competitive.

The total amount available for CEA Grant Account is $15,650,000 with a maximum award of $500,000 per

application. Of the total $15,650,000 no less than $1,950,000 shall be available exclusively to Tribes. Tribal

applicants are eligible for both this $1,950,000 amount and funding from the remainder of the CEA Grant

Account, but non-Tribal applicants are not eligible for the $650,000 amount.

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Program Vision

The CPUC is committed to environmental and social justice through its ESJ Action Plan. This commitment

includes acknowledging and addressing that some California communities, particularly low-income

communities of color, face:

• systematic underinvestment.

• higher pollution burdens.

• higher barriers to clean, safe, and affordable utility and transportation services.

The E&A Grant Program makes it possible for the CPUC to honor its commitment to members of ESJ

communities by empowering them to participate in CPUC proceedings and decision-making processes, as

well as have more access to investments in clean energy resources, transportation, and communication

services.

Program Objectives

Create ongoing engagement between the CPUC, Tribes, CBOs, and

underrepresented communities.

The E&A Grant Program serves to break down existing barriers to participation. The PP Grant Account

will provide a simple and practical means for Tribes and underrepresented communities to get exposure to

CPUC decision-making processes and provide their expertise. Utilization of the EEE Grant Account allows

Tribal organizations and CBOs to get an extensive understanding of how the CPUC functions and will

provide the basis for some organizations to apply for Intervenor Compensation or other funding programs

to sustain engagement on a consistent and long-term basis.

Improve understanding and use of CPUC programs in Tribal and underrepresented

communities.

The CEA Grant Account will provide a means for guidance to Tribes and CBOs to implement microgrid

projects supported by the CPUC’s MIP, electrification and storage projects through the SGIP, and develop

pathways to achieve building decarbonization in disadvantaged communities through TECH. Future

programs may be added at staff discretion. Additionally, support from the PP and EEE Grant Accounts will

expose more Tribes and CBOs to CPUC processes, enabling them to participate in shaping future programs

and policies.

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Improve the transparency of CPUC decision-making processes and design of its

programs.

The CPUC strives for transparency of its decision-making process by inviting stakeholders to be active

participants. This expands the stakeholder and participant pool in the agency’s processes to advance the

CPUC’s goal of equitable transparency.

Facilitate a clean-energy transition and address historic harms by ensuring that

access programs work and are available for all Californians.

The clean-energy transition depends on millions of Californians adopting new technologies, such as electric

heat pumps, electric vehicles, and solar energy. As such, CPUC programs must be designed so that these

technologies meet the needs of all households and communities, and in way that communities are aware of

the benefits. The EEE Grant Account provides means for communities to give input on these programs

and the CEA Grant Account provides means for CBOs and Tribal organizations to work locally to improve

community awareness and adoption.

Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank

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Program Administration

The E&A Grant Program consists of three (3) grant accounts that will very in administration, application,

and timelines.

Duration of Grant Program

All funds for the E&A Grant Program are available for encumbrance or expenditure until June 30, 2025.

Funds are available for liquidation until June 30, 2027. If future funding becomes available for this program,

then the duration of the grant program will be modified accordingly.

Grant Funding Breakdown

E&A Grant Program Funding Breakdown

Funding Account

Maximum

Grant Award

Tribal Reserved

Funds**

General Non-

Reserved Funds

Total Available

in Account

Public Participation (PP)

Grant Account

$15,000

$300,000

$2,800,000

$3,100,000

Equity, Engagement, and

Education (EEE) Grant Account

$200,000

$750,000

$9,000,000

$9,750,000

Clean Energy Access (CEA)

Grant Account

$500,000

$1,950,000

$13,700,000

$15,650,000

Program Administration*

$1,500,000

TOTAL

$30,000,000

*Limited term CPUC staff to administer the program, the SME, and other administrative costs associated with this program will

remain under 5% of the authorized funds.

**Tribal Reserved Funds total is $3,000,000. Tribal applicants (Types 2 and 3 Eligible Applicants described above) will have

access to both Tribal Reserved Funds and General Non-Reserved Funds.

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Eligible Entities

To apply for the CPUC’s E&A Grant Program, an entity must be one of the following types of applicants:

• TYPE 1: California tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

• TYPE 2: Federally or non-federally recognized California Native American Tribes, as defined in Public

Resources Code (PRC) Section 21073. PRC Section 21073 defines a California Native American Tribe

as a Native American Tribe located in California that is on the contact list maintained by the Native

American Heritage Commission for the purposes of Chapter 905 of the Statutes of 2004.

• TYPE 3: Tribal entities, including organizations incorporated under Tribal law and wholly owned by the

Tribe, Tribal Section 17 Corporations, and Tribal utilities and authorities operated under Tribal law.

Tribal applicants, which includes Types 2 and 3 Eligible Applicants, are eligible to receive funds within the

Tribal reserved portions, as well as funding from the general non-reserved funds.

Application Overview

CPUC staff will release a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) and hold an application workshop for

potential applicants and interested stakeholders prior to the application window. An application form will be

published on the program’s designated CPUC website along with application instructions.

Applications for the PP Grant Account will require proof of participation in an eligible activity and awards

will be made ministerially on a rolling basis.

As the EEE and CEA Grant Accounts will be competitive, the applications will be more in-depth than that

of the PP Grant Account and applicants will be scored based on the information provided in their

application. Applications will be scored and evaluated on a competitive basis in grant cycles.

Additional information about the application process, including specific deadlines, will be included in the

NOFA and updated on the program’s webpage.

Following each award cycle, staff may revise the guidelines for subsequent cycles.

Public Participation Grant Account

Applicants will be awarded funds from the PP Grant Account for eligible activities up to a maximum of

$15,000 per organization for the duration of the grant timeline. Individual PP Grant Account applications

exceeding $15,000 will be considered up to the maximum amount of $15,000. Applicants who have

previously been awarded funds from the PP Grant Account and who submit additional applications for

funds will be considered for funding that does not exceed the $15,000 organization maximum.

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E&A Grant Program Funding Breakdown

Funding Account

Maximum

Grant Award*

Tribal Reserved

Funds**

General Non-

Reserved Funds

Total Available in

Account

Public Participation (PP)

Grant Account

$15,000

$300,000

$2,800,000

$3,100,000

*$15,000 is the maximum grant award and organization maximum.

Grant Timeline

The PP Grant Account opened on September 8, 2023 and will continue until funds have been exhausted.

Applications for the PP Grant Account will be accepted on a rolling basis, pending available funds.

Applications will be reviewed and assessed in the order that they are submitted, and grants will be awarded

until funding is exhausted. The grant award amount from the PP Grant Account is limited to $15,000 per

eligible organization for the duration of the grant timeline.

Eligible Activities

The below activities qualify as eligible CPUC activities for award through the PP Grant Account if they took

place after September 8, 2023. Generally, eligible CPUC activities under the PP Grant Account are

initiated by CPUC invitation.

Advisory Board Member

An appointed role that advises the CPUC on program development, implementation, and administration in

relation to CPUC issues and initiatives.

En Banc Speaker/Panelist

En Banc speakers and panelists are invited to CPUC events by CPUC staff to discuss their unique

experiences or offer best practices on programs/services in relation to the communities that they serve.

Featured Speaker/Presenter

Featured speakers and presenters are invited to CPUC events by CPUC staff to speak about their unique

experiences or offer best practices on programs/services in relation to the communities that they serve.

Focus Group Participant

Focus groups are created by the CPUC to test proposed program implementation concepts, ideas, and rules.

Additionally, focus groups assist in ensuring CPUC programs are not inadvertently reinforcing barriers to

enrollment for specific populations. As an example, focus groups were empaneled to received feedback on

California LifeLine English and Spanish enrollment forms.

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Panelist

Panelists are invited to CPUC events by CPUC staff to speak on their unique experiences or offer best

practices on programs/services in relation to the communities that they serve. Panelists will offer feedback

to the CPUC on a certain topic which will be used to make programs more efficient and accessible.

Working Group Participant

Working groups are typically comprised of stakeholders from industry, consumer advocate groups, business

groups, academia, government, and CBOs. Working Groups are given a specific topic and scope to discuss

by the CPUC, ranging from broad policy goals to details on program implementation. Working groups draft

a final report with a set of recommendations used as part of a proceeding or legislative mandate. As an

example, the California LifeLine program used a working group to determine how to best implement

marketing and outreach modifications to the program.

Other

Public participation opportunities not included within the list above may be considered for grant funding

only if invited to participate in by the CPUC.

Eligible Activity Compensation

Activity Compensation Rate Eligible for Hourly Compensation

Advisory Board Member

$150/hour

Includes meeting preparation, meeting, and follow-up.

En Banc Speaker/Panelist

$150/hour

Includes speaker/panelist preparation, related meetings,

presentation, and follow-up.

Featured Speaker/Presenter

$150/hour

Includes speaker/panelist preparation, related meetings,

presentation, and follow-up.

Focus Group Participant

$150/hour

Includes preparation and meeting.

Panelist

$150/hour

Includes speaker/panelist preparation, related meetings,

presentation, and follow-up.

Working Group Participant

$150/hour

Includes meeting preparation, meeting, and follow-up.

Application Requirements And Submission

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See Appendix 1 for a sample Public Participation Grant Account Application Coversheet. See Appendix 2

for the Public Participation Grant Account Application Coversheet Instructions.

The application coversheet and instructions for the PP Grant Account can be found on the E&A Grant

Program webpage here: http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/capacitygrants.

Complete applications for the PP Grant Account will have all the items listed in the checklist below.

Application Packet Checklist



Public Participation Grant Account Application Coversheet (Appendix 1)

Please include a completed Time Sheet with the hours that you are claiming. The Coversheet must be

signed by an individual who has the authority to sign on behalf of the applying organization.

 Proof of Eligibility

TYPE 1 APPLICANTS:

IRS Letter confirming status as a 501(c)(3) entity. The IRS letter must also include the applicant’s Tax

Identification Number.

TYPE 2 & 3 APPLICANTS:

Support letter from the Tribal administrator, chair, or council.

 Proof of Participation

 Attendance Log & Activity Invitation

 Link to Recording

 Photo & Activity Invitation

 Program or Meeting Agenda

 Program or Meeting Minutes

 Virtual Activity Screenshot & Activity Invitation

 Written Verification

 Travel Expense Claim Form STD262A (if applicable)

Include supporting receipts for expenses more than $25.

Proof of Participation

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Applicants need to provide proof of participation with their completed applications. Proof of participation

must verify the applicant’s participation within a PP Grant Account eligible activity and the time

commitment. Below are the acceptable forms of proof of participation to be included with a completed

application:

Attendance Log & Activity Invitation

Attendance log must be obtained from the host of the eligible activity and list the applicant’s name. Activity

Invitation must describe the eligible activity and times of participation.

Link to Recording

Virtual recording of the eligible activity. Must include a recording of the applicant’s full participation and the

applicant must be introduced in the recording via another participant or via displayed text.

Photo & Activity Invitation

Photo must contain the applicant’s image. Activity Invitation must describe the eligible activity and times of

participation.

Program or Meeting Agenda

Must list the applicant’s name and times of participation (such as the start and end time of a panel).

Program or Meeting Minutes

Must be obtained from the host of the eligible activity and list the applicant’s name and times of

participation (such as the start and end time of a panel).

Virtual Activity Screenshot & Activity Invitation

Screenshot must contain the applicant’s name and image. Activity Invitation must describe the eligible

activity and times of participation.

Written Verification

Must be from the coordinator of the eligible activity and specifically mention the applicant’s name, type of

activity, and times of participation.

Travel Expense Claim Form

There may be some instances where travel is required to participate in a CPUC activity. There is a travel

allowance of up to $450 per activity. The travel allowance counts toward an organization’s funding

maximum ($15,000).

Each claimant must complete a form STD-262A, Travel Expense Claim (TEC) Form, and follow

instructions therein. Expense claims must comply with the travel expense, limitation rules applicable to State

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of California employees and contractors. Applicants are expected to choose the most cost effective and

reasonable lodging and modes of transportation consistent with State of California travel reimbursement

rates (see link below). An electronic copy of STD 262A, instructions, and current applicable information are

available at: https://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/Pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx.

Submitting the PP Grant Account Application

For electronic applications, please email completed forms, proof of eligibility, proof of participation, and

travel reimbursement form STD 262A (if applicable) and relevant travel expense receipts to

[email protected] and include “Public Participation Grant” in the subject line.

For paper applications, please mail completed forms and required documents to:

Business and Community Outreach

Attn: E&A Grant Program

California Public Utilities Commission

505 Van Ness Ave.

San Francisco, CA 94102

Application Review and Approval

The Commission delegates to CPUC staff ministerial review authority for all PP Grant Account

applications. CPUC staff will:

• Review for eligibility and completeness. Upon determination that an applicant is eligible and their

application is complete (see “Application Packet Checklist” above), staff will submit the application for

payment (upon receipt of a completed STD 204 form).

For incomplete applications, staff will contact applicants to address outstanding application issues within ten

(10) business days. If an application is not complete within ten (10) business days following a request for

correction, the application will be rejected and the applicant will need to submit a new request for PP grant

funds.

Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant Account

Applicants will be awarded funds from the EEE Grant Account for eligible activities up to a maximum of

$200,000 per award.

E&A Grant Program Funding Breakdown

Funding Account

Maximum

Grant Award*

Tribal Reserved

Funds**

General Non-

Reserved Funds

Total Available

in Account

Equity, Engagement, and

$200,000

$750,000

$9,000,000

$9,750,000

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E&A Grant Program Funding Breakdown

Education (EEE) Grant Account

Grant Timeline

The EEE Grant Account will commence accepting applications in 2023. Applications will be accepted and

awarded in two cycles. Specific dates for the two cycles will be posted to the program’s webpage.

Applications will be scored competitively by the CPUC.

Applicants who are awarded a grant will be sent a Grant Agreement which details the terms and conditions

of the grant. The applicant must sign and return the Grant Agreement to the CPUC prior to dispersing

grant funds.

Examples Of Eligible Activities

Capacity building refers to the process of developing the skills, knowledge, and resources of a community or

organization to enhance its ability to effectively engage with and participate in programs and decision-

making processes of the CPUC and other state regulatory agencies.

Below are examples of activities that qualify for an award through the EEE Grant Account.

Training and Education

Providing training and educational resources to members of the Tribe or CBO on the processes and

procedures of the CPUC, including how to participate in proceedings, how to access relevant information,

and how to engage with commissioners and staff. This can include engaging with community members

through public meetings, forums, or other outreach activities to raise awareness of the CPUC's role and

responsibilities and the importance of engaging with regulatory processes.

Networking and Collaboration

Facilitating networking and collaboration between the Tribe or CBO and other stakeholders, including other

community groups, advocacy organizations, and industry representatives, to help build alliances and increase

the Tribe or CBO's influence, effectiveness and amplify the voice of underserved or disadvantaged

communities in regulatory decision-making.

Resource Development

Developing the resources necessary to effectively engage with the CPUC, including providing access to legal

expertise, funding for research and analysis, and other resources as needed. Attaining industry specific

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expertise to help CBO’s and Tribes understand and navigate the regulatory landscape, including developing

comments, attaining party status, and other interventions in regulatory proceedings as well as accessing

funding opportunities, to engaging in long term policy advocacy.

Application Requirements And Submission

See Appendix 3 for a sample Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant Account Application Coversheet.

See Appendix 4 for the Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant Account Application Coversheet

Instructions.

The application coversheet and instructions for the EEE Grant Account, workplan table template, and

budget table template can be found on the E&A Grant Program webpage here:

www.cpuc.ca.gov/capacitygrants

Complete applications for the EEE Grant Account will have all the items listed in the checklist below.

Application Packet Checklist (no page limits):



Equity, Engagement, and Education Grant Account Application Coversheet (Appendix 3)

Must be signed by an individual who has the authority to sign on behalf of the applying organization.

 Proof of Eligibility

TYPE 1 APPLICANTS:

IRS Letter confirming status as a 501(c)(3) entity. The IRS letter must also include the applicant’s Tax

Identification Number.

TYPE 2 & 3 APPLICANTS:

Support letter from the Tribal administrator, chair, or council.

 Workplan Table (Appendix 7)

Must be formatted as separate page(s) from the application narrative.



Budget Table (Appendix 8)

Must be formatted as separate page(s) from the application narrative.

 Letters of Support

Two (2) letters of support from partner organizations or local community leaders that work in or are a part of

the communities or populations that the applying organization intends to serve with the EEE grant funds.

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Application Packet Checklist (10-page limit):



Project Narrative

The project narrative must include sections on: Vision Statement, CPUC Participation, Ability to Represent

Community, and Community Benefit.

Required formatting for application documents:

• Font: no less than 10-point font. Fonts smaller than 10-point font will not be reviewed.

• Paper Size: 8 ½” x 11” size paper and numbered consecutively.

• Stapled, not bound (for paper applications): upper left-hand corner.

• Edited and reviewed: Double-checked for grammar and spelling errors.

Submitting the EEE Grant Account Application

For electronic applications, please email completed forms, proof of eligibility, a project narrative, workplan

table, budget table, and two letters of support to [email protected]v and include “Equity,

Education, and Engagement Grant” in the subject line.

For paper applications, please mail completed forms and required documents to:

Business and Community Outreach

Attn: E&A Grant Program

California Public Utilities Commission

505 Van Ness Ave.

San Francisco, CA 94102

Application Review, Grant Agreement, and Notice to Proceed

1. Application Review – The Commission delegates ministerial review and approval authority to CPUC

staff for EEE Grant Account applications under $150,000. Staff are directed to evaluate grant

applications for eligibility, completeness, and score each application according to the Evaluation and

Scoring Criteria (see below). The CPUC will notify grantees of awards made via a letter. Award letters

will be posted to the Commission’s website.

For applicants that request $150,000 and above, the Commission reserves discretion to address such

applications through the Resolution process. CPUC staff will evaluate these applications for completeness,

ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, score each applicant according to the Evaluation and Scoring Criteria

set forth in the program guidelines, and recommend approval or denial of each applicant via Resolution.

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2. Grant Agreement – Following CPUC award, successful applicants will be provided with a Grant

Agreement, which will include an E&A Grant Program Manual, and Terms and Conditions. These

documents, along with the applicant’s approved Budget Table and Workplan, comprise the Grant

Agreement.

The signatory designated in the Application Coversheet will be required to sign the Grant Agreement

and return it to the CPUC

within thirty (30) days

from the date that it was sent (either electronically or

via mail).

3. Notice to Proceed – Once the applicant’s signed Grant Agreement is received and then executed by

the CPUC, a Notice to Proceed letter will be sent to the grantee as notification for approval to proceed

with project implementation and expenditures.

Evaluation And Scoring Criteria

Grant applications will be evaluated competitively based on the following scoring criteria. Additional

information on the application process will be provided in the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).

Project Narrative (65 Points)

A well-prepared application narrative will address each of the following:

• Vision Statement

• CPUC Participation

• Ability to Represent Community

• Community Benefit

See the scoring criteria below for specific information on how to address each section of the project

narrative. Each section should be concise and thorough and will pay specific attention to each of the points

listed in the scoring criteria.

Project narratives are limited to no more than 10 pages and will account for up to 65/100 points of the

evaluations score. The project narrative does not include:

• Application Coversheet

• Workplan Table

• Budget Table

• Letters of Support (x2)

• Proof of Eligibility

The applicant is responsible for supplying relevant data and concrete examples for the review panel to fully

evaluate the application.

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Supporting Documents (35 Points)

In addition to the project narrative, the following supporting documents will be evaluated:

• Workplan Table

• Budget Table

• Letters of Support (x2)

See the scoring criteria below for specific information on how to address each supporting document.

There are no page limits for supporting documents and they will account for up to 35/100 points of the

evaluations score.

Scoring Criteria

Applicants should refer to the scoring criteria below when developing the project narrative and supporting

documents for the EEE Grant Account Application, as CPUC evaluators will consult the criteria when

scoring applicants.

Scoring Criteria Points

Project Narrative: Vision Statement

The vision statement communicates concise desired outcomes that will result from the resources

gained and activities performed as described in the application. Desired outcomes should encompass

an advancement of equity, engagement, or education within the applying organization and/or the

community they serve. The Vision Statement must:

1. Effectively communicate equity, engagement, or education needs of under-resourced

communities served by the applicant.

2. Reflect objectives and principles of the E&A Grant Program.

3. Be achievable, while also communicating aspirational objectives.

4. Describe the communities or populations that will benefit from funding.

5 Points

Project Narrative: CPUC Participation

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Scoring Criteria Points

The applicant must demonstrate that funding obtained from an EEE grant will contribute to

enhanced participation in CPUC matters by the applying organization and/or the community that

they serve. The applicant must:

1. Identify CPUC decision-making processes, such as proceedings, workgroups, or other forums,

that the applying organization and/or the community they serve will have enhanced access to

and participation within.

2. Identify issues in relation to the CPUC’s regulatory authority that the applying organization will

address within CPUC decision-making processes. The applicant should describe potential

contributions and unique perspectives that the applicant or the community they serve will

contribute to the CPUC-related issues.

3. Describe how funding obtained from an EEE grant will support participation efforts in CPUC

matters.

4. Detail how the applicant’s project will allow the organization to participate in CPUC

proceedings and programs on an ongoing basis and as such be able to claim Intervenor

Compensation or other funding sources for future participation.

20 Points

Project Narrative: Ability To Represent Community

The applicant must demonstrate their experience as an advocate, representative, and steward of an

underserved or underrepresented community. The applicant must:

1. Identify the communities or populations that the applicant serves.

2. Provide demographic and geographical data on the communities or populations that the

applicant serves.

3. Provide evidence and data on the applying organization’s history of working with and serving

the communities and populations that have been identified within the application.

20 Points

Project Narrative: Community Benefit

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Scoring Criteria Points

The applicant must demonstrate how funded work or resources from an EEE grant will benefit the

communities or populations that they serve. The applicant must:

1. Illustrate the needs of the communities or populations served that will be addressed by an EEE

grant.

2. Describe how the applicant’s project will benefit the communities or populations that they

serve, including immediate and long-term benefits.

3. Describe how the applicant’s project will leverage and enhance the applicant’s existing work

efforts in relation to the communities or populations that they serve.

4. If applicable, describe whether the applicant is also representing the underserved community

before other state agencies, including the Department of Water Resources, the Office of Energy

Infrastructure Safety, the Energy Commission, the State Air Resources Board, and the

Independent System Operator. If the applicant is active before these agencies or intends to

become active before these agencies, the applicant should describe how its efforts before them

would align with the work proposed in this application.

5. Provide any additional information that will be pertinent to the applying organization’s ability to

represent an underserved community in CPUC matters. Additional information may include

bios on organizational leaders, evidence of established community relationships, and

demonstration of the organization's primary work efforts.

20 Points

Supporting Documents: Workplan Table

The workplan must detail all activities that will take place within the scope of the applying

organization’s project. The Workplan must align with the information presented in the Vision

Statement.

15 Points

Supporting Documents: Budget Table

The budget must detail all activity and resource expenses and should amount to the request grant

award. Note that grantees will receive an upfront payment of 25% of their grant award. Subsequent

budget requests will need to be made after the completion of project milestones.

15 Points

Supporting Documents: Letters Of Support

At a minimum, at least two (2) letters of support from partner organizations or local community

leaders that work in or are a part of the communities or populations that the applying organization

intends to serve with the EEE grant funds.

5 Points

Total

100 Points

Reporting Requirement

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Grantees are required to submit a progress report every six months, starting from the date of the grant

agreement. The purpose of this grant reporting requirement is to ensure that grantees provide timely

updates on the progress and achievements of their project.

The reporting periods will be as follows:

1. First reporting period: From the grant start date to the 6-month mark.

2. Second reporting period: From the 6-month mark to the 12-month mark.

3. Subsequent reporting periods: Every six months thereafter until the grant project concludes.

Grantees may combine these required reports with budget requests. Grantees may also choose to report the

accomplishments of project milestones outside of these required reports as a part of a budget request.

Eligible Expenses

Below are expenses that are eligible for support via an EEE grant. Applicants must ensure that proposed

expenses are eligible for funding. Expenses deemed ineligible in the application review process will be

removed and the project’s recommended total award will be adjusted accordingly.

Staff

The following are eligible staff expenses:

• Grant recipients, subgrantees, and their contractors’ staff costs, including salary at an hourly rate,

benefits, taxes, and leave.

• Staff may be full or part-time employees.

• If applicants wish to use grant funds to pay for interns, fellows, or other positions that are not on an

organization’s payroll, these costs should be classified in the budget as a direct cost via a consultant

contract.

• If applicants wish to use grant funds to pay for training staff on an organization’s payroll, these costs

should be classified in the budget as a direct cost via a consultant contract.

Travel

Travel reimbursements must adhere to the State rates and conditions established on the CalHR website,

except for “incidentals” and out-of-state travel, which will not be reimbursable under this grant. Each

claimant must complete a form STD-262A, Travel Expense Claim (TEC) Form, and follow instructions

therein. Expense claims must comply with the travel expense, limitation rules applicable to State of

California employees and contractors. Applicants are expected to choose the most cost effective and

reasonable lodging and modes of transportation consistent with State of California travel reimbursement

rates. An electronic copy of STD 262A, instructions, and current applicable information are available at:

https://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/Pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx.

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Administrative

Costs incurred by the recipient to administer the grant, or costs incurred by subgrantees to perform the

tasks necessary to fulfill the deliverables outlined in these guidelines. Administrative costs include, but are

not necessarily limited to:

• Office space

• Supplies

• Legal or management oversight

• Prorated general liability, Workers' Compensation (may be included in payroll), and automotive

insurance

Tools, Subscriptions, and Software

Subscriptions to tools and other software that will help increase capacity, facilitate communication, or

otherwise facilitate implementation of the project such as project management software, video conferencing

technology subscriptions, and mapping software.

Engagement, Outreach, Education, and Training

Costs related to the development and administration of engagement, outreach, education, and training

activities under the grant, including, but not limited to:

• Materials developed for outreach events, trainings, and other grant activities.

• Access to proprietary data or research materials.

• Facilitation for meetings.

• Translation and interpretation for meetings and written materials.

• Marketing and advertisements.

• Participant compensation is an exchange of payment for services rendered in the development of

community work products, and appropriately documented with deliverables such as sign in sheets or

written surveys.

• Transportation stipends and provision of transportation services for community residents, such as a

vanpool.

• Rental costs of equipment, facilities, or venues.

Ineligible Expenses

Grant funds may not be used for the following costs:

• Costs that occur outside of the Grant Agreement term.

• Direct and indirect construction costs.

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• Direct lobbying.

• Indirect costs in excess of 30 percent of the awarded funds.

• The following costs associated with community engagement and outreach:

» Direct cash benefits or subsidies to participants.

» Alcoholic refreshments.

» Participant incentives, such as door prizes, which are unrelated to specific community work

products.

» General meetings that do not specifically discuss or advance implementation of the grant project.

Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank

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CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION 24

Clean Energy Access Grant Account

Applicants will be awarded funds from the Clean Energy Access Grant Account for eligible activities up to a

maximum of $500,000 per grant award.

E&A Grant Program Funding Breakdown

Funding Account

Maximum Grant

Award*

Tribal Reserved

Funds**

General Non-

Reserved Funds

Total Available in

Account

Clean Energy Access

(CEA) Grant Account

$500,000

$1,950,000

$13,700,000

$15,650,000

Grant Timeline

The CEA Grant Account will commence accepting applications in 2023. Applications will be accepted and

awarded in two cycles. Specific dates for the two cycles will be posted to the program’s webpage.

Applications will be scored competitively by the CPUC.

Applicants who are awarded a grant will be sent a Grant Agreement which details the terms and conditions

of the grant. The applicant must sign and return the Grant Agreement to the CPUC prior to payment.

Examples Of Eligible Activities

Tribes and CBOs can utilize a CEA grant for project support activities or to make clean energy projects

more accessible or provide education on clean energy projects. The supporting activities funded by these

grants must be related to the following CPUC programs:

• Microgrid Incentive Program (MIP)

• Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)

• Technology and Equipment for Clean Heating (TECH) Program

The MIP, SGIP, and TECH program provide funding for hardware and infrastructure work. CEA funding

is to be used to conduct complementary, non-construction-related activities prior to, during, or after project

completion that is not directly funded by MIP, SGIP, and TECH program as well as provide education on

these clean energy programs. Below are examples of activities that qualify for an award through the CEA

Grant Account.

Capacity Building and Workforce Training

Providing capacity building and training opportunities for local stakeholders, such as opportunities for

youth, women, and veterans, and local building trades organizations, to increase their understanding and

skills related to clean energy planning and implementation.

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Community Engagement

Conducting stakeholder consultations and engaging with key community members, local organizations, and

government officials to ensure that planning and design processes are inclusive and participatory.

Developing a community-based planning process to identify their priority energy needs to develop clean

energy solutions.

Coordination with Existing Program Administrators

Coordination necessary with existing clean energy program administrators and storage developers to ensure

program success and maximum benefits to communities.

Marketing, Outreach, and Enrollment Support

Developing a marketing strategy that creates awareness about a clean energy program, explaining its

benefits, and encouraging people to enroll in the program. Create culturally relevant enrollment materials

such as brochures, flyers, that can be used to promote the state clean energy programs. Provide support for

enrollees throughout the enrollment process. This could include answering questions, providing guidance on

the application process, and offering technical support.

Resource Mapping and Needs Assessment

Map the specific energy needs of a community and conduct feasibility studies to assess the technical,

economic, and operational feasibility of implementing clean energy solutions in targeted communities.

Conduct technology assessments and evaluations to identify the most appropriate and effective clean energy

technologies for the target communities, taking into account the potential economic, climate, and

environmental justice benefits.

Project Design and Development

Supporting the development of clean energy projects, including the design of technical specifications and

establishment of project management structures. This may involve identifying a project manager or team,

defining roles and responsibilities, and establishing project governance structures. Specifying the type and

size of clean energy technology required, as well as any associated equipment and infrastructure needed to

support the technology.

Application and Implementation Technical Assistance

Due to the highly technical nature of the SGIP, MIP, and TECH program, CPUC will provide technical

assistance for applicants as well as for grantees. The CPUC will use a portion of the 5% program

administration funding to procure a Clean Energy Subject Matter Expert (SME). The SME will provide

technical assistance based on the specifics and needs of the Tribe’s or CBO’s community. Information on

how to obtain technical assistance will be available on the program’s website.

Application Requirements And Submission

See Appendix 5 for a sample Clean Energy Access Grant Account Application Coversheet. See Appendix 6

for the Clean Energy Access Grant Account Application Coversheet Instructions.

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The application coversheet and instructions for the CEA Grant Account, workplan table template, and

budget table template can be found on the E&A Grant Program webpage here:

www.cpuc.ca.gov/capacitygrants.

Complete applications for the CEA Grant Account will have all the items listed in the checklist below.

Application Packet Checklist (no page limits):

 Clean Energy Access Grant Account Application Coversheet (Appendix 5)

Must be signed by an individual who has the authority to sign on behalf of the applying organization.



Proof of Eligibility

TYPE 1 APPLICANTS:

IRS Letter confirming status as a 501(c)(3) entity. The IRS letter must also include the applicant’s Tax

Identification Number.

TYPE 2 & 3 APPLICANTS:

Support letter from the Tribal administrator, chair, or council.



Workplan Table (Appendix 7)

Must be formatted as separate page(s) from the application narrative.



Budget Table (Appendix 8)

Must be formatted as separate page(s) from the application narrative.

 Letters of Support

Two (2) letters of support from partner organizations or local community leaders that work in or are a part of

the communities or populations that the applying organization intends to serve with the EEE grant funds.

Application Packet Checklist (20-page limit):

 Project Narrative

The project narrative must include sections on: Executive Summary, Organization Background and

Qualifications, Project Need, Evaluation and Data Collection, and Community Engagement Plan.

Required formatting for application documents:

• Font: no less than 10-point font. Fonts smaller than 10-point font will not be reviewed.

• Paper Size: 8 ½” x 11” size paper and numbered consecutively.

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• Stapled, not bound (for paper applications): upper left-hand corner.

• Edited and reviewed: Double-checked for grammar and spelling errors.

Submitting the CEA Grant Account Application

For electronic applications, please email completed forms, proof of eligibility, a project narrative, workplan

table, budget table, and two letters of support to [email protected]v and include “Clean Energy

Access” in the subject line.

For paper applications, please mail completed forms and required documents to:

Business and Community Outreach

Attn: E&A Grant Program

California Public Utilities Commission

505 Van Ness Ave.

San Francisco, CA 94102

Application Review, Grant Agreement, and Notice to Proceed

1. Application Review – The Commission delegates ministerial review and approval authority to CPUC

staff for CEA Grant Account applications under $200,000. Staff are directed to evaluate grant

applications for eligibility, completeness, and score each application according to the Evaluation and

Scoring Criteria (see below). The CPUC will notify grantees of awards made via a letter. Award letters

will be posted to the Commission’s website.

For applicants that request $200,000 and above, the Commission reserves discretion to address such

applications through the Resolution process. CPUC staff will evaluate these applications for completeness,

ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, score each applicant according to the evaluation criteria set forth in

the program guidelines, and recommend approval or denial of each applicant via Resolution.

2. Grant Agreement – Following CPUC approval of the grant application, successful applicants will be

provided with a Grant Agreement which will include an E&A Grant Program Manual, and Terms and

Conditions. These documents, along with the applicant’s approved budget table and Workplan, comprise

the Grant Agreement.

The signatory designated in the Application Coversheet will be required to sign the Grant Agreement

and return it to the CPUC staff within thirty (30) days from the date that it was sent (either

electronically or via mail).

3. Notice to Proceed – Once the applicant’s signed Grant Agreement is received and then executed by

the CPUC, a Notice to Proceed letter will be sent to the grantee as notification for approval to proceed

with project implementation and expenditures.

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Evaluation And Award Criteria

Grant applications will be evaluated competitively based on the following scoring criteria. Additional

information on the application process will be provided in the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).

Project Narrative (65 Points)

A well-prepared application narrative will address each of the following:

• Executive Summary

• Organization Background and Qualifications

• Project Need

• Evaluation and Data Collection

• Community Engagement Plan

See the scoring criteria below for specific information on how to address each section of the project

narrative. Each section should be concise and thorough and will pay specific attention to each of the points

listed in the scoring criteria.

Project narratives are limited to no more than 20 pages and will account for up to 65/100 points of the

evaluations score. The project narrative does not include:

• Application Coversheet

• Workplan Table

• Budget Table

• Letters of Support (x2)

• Proof of Eligibility

The applicant is responsible for supplying relevant data and concrete examples for the review panel to fully

evaluate the application.

Supporting Documents (35 Points)

In addition to the project narrative, the following supporting documents will be evaluated:

• Workplan Table

• Budget Table

• Letters of Support (x2)

See the scoring criteria below for specific information on how to address each supporting document.

There are no page limits for supporting documents and they will account for up to 35/100 points of the

evaluations score.

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Scoring Criteria

Applicants should refer to the scoring criteria below when developing the project narrative and supporting

documents for the CEA Grant Account Application, as CPUC evaluators will consult the criteria when

scoring applicants.

SCORING CRITERIA Points

Project Narrative: Executive Summary

Describe the targeted community or tribal government, the project’s geographic location, high-level

relevant demographic data, the project and project goals, and the reasons why the project will benefit the

targeted community.

Points

Project Narrative: Organization Background And Qualifications

Provide a summary of the applicant’s:

A. Organization background and primary mission.

B. History of working with the targeted community and local stakeholder relationships that may lead to

the project’s success.

C. Demonstrated experience with planning and implementing community programs.

Points

Project Narrative: Project Need

Identity the problem the project is intended to address.

A. How does your solution address issues, such as energy resiliency, greater affordability, or the

environment? What are the proposed benefits for the targeted community?

B. Identify Environmental Justice issues addressed by the project and describe the targeted community.

Use demographic data to describe the environmental justice elements involved such as ethnicity; age

distribution; median household income; size and ethnicity of immigrant populations; or geographic

location. Cite your sources when using data.

C. How does the target community meet the eligibility rules for the clean energy program under

consideration? If grant funds are used to pursue a MIP incentive, is the community vulnerable to

outages and is it a disadvantaged or vulnerable community or does it have facilities serving such a

community?

Please see the MIP Handbook, which is anticipated October 2023, https://switchison.org/

for information on TECH, and

CPUC’s customer website for SGIP. See Glossary for links.

Please refer to the following resources: CalEPA’s CalEnviroScreen tool, US Census Quickfacts webpage for California data,

and the California Department of Finance's webpage for state demographic data.

Points

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SCORING CRITERIA Points

Project Narrative: Evaluation And Data Collection

A. Define project goals and objectives. Identify desired outcomes for the targeted community.

B. What baseline data will be used to establish a benchmark for evaluating the impact of the proposed

program?

C. What data collection methods will be used to measure the impact of the project on the targeted

community?

Be sure to align your answers to the goals, metrics, and expected outcomes stated in the Workplan.

Points

Project Narrative: Community Engagement Plan And/Or Technical Assistance Plan

If the project has a community engagement component, describe how the applicant will engage the

targeted community and involve them in the planning process and implementation process. Be sure to

include details of specific staff and activities planned in your community engagement process in your

Workplan.

If the project has a technical assistance component, describe the process that will be used to find a

qualified technical assistance provider as well as ensure that the technical assistance helps to overcome any

gaps or barriers that the community or Tribe faces in accessing the SGIP.

Points

Supporting Documents: Workplan Table

The Workplan must detail all activities that will take place within the scope of the applying organization’s

project. The Workplan must align with the information presented in the project narrative.

Points

Supporting Documents: Budget Table

The budget must detail all activity and resource expenses and should amount to the request grant award.

Note that grantees will receive an upfront payment of 25% of their grant award. Subsequent budget

requests will need to be made after the completion of project milestones.

Points

Supporting Documents: Letters Of Support

At a minimum, at least two (2) letters of support from partner organizations or local community leaders

that work in or are a part of the communities or populations that the applying organization intends to

serve with the CEA grant funds.

Points

Total

100

Points

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Reporting Requirement

Grantees are required to submit a progress report every six months, starting from the date of the grant

agreement. The purpose of this grant reporting requirement is to ensure that grantees provide timely

updates on the progress and achievements of their project.

The reporting periods will be as follows:

1. First reporting period: From the grant start date to the 6-month mark.

2. Second reporting period: From the 6-month mark to the 12-month mark.

3. Subsequent reporting periods: Every six months thereafter until the grant project concludes.

Grantees may combine these required reports with budget requests. Grantees may also choose to report the

accomplishments of project milestones outside of these required reports as a part of a budget request.

Eligible Expenses

Below are expenses that are eligible for support via a CEA grant. Applicants must ensure that proposed