The U.S. Department of Energy’s Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office (HGEO) has announced up to $10.75 million in federal funding for eligible U.S. colleges and universities, according to an official agency announcement. The funding is offered through HGEO’s University Training and Research (UTR) Program and is intended to support early-stage research and development projects while preparing the next generation of energy professionals.
Funding Targets Three Areas of Subsurface Energy Research
According to the announcement, the funding opportunity targets novel R&D projects in fields including engineering, chemistry, physics, mining, geosciences, computer science, and education — disciplines connected to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. All selected projects must fall under one topic area: Innovative Research and Training for Subsurface Energy Production. That topic area is divided into three subtopics covering coal, oil and gas, and geothermal energy, respectively.
DOE Acting Assistant Secretary Curt Coccodrilli stated in the announcement that investing in skills-based training emphasizing industry-driven strategies will help meet the needs of the evolving energy economy while strengthening America’s energy leadership and independence.
A key requirement of the program is that applicants must include a non-academic partner in their proposals. The DOE states this requirement is meant to ensure research relevance and provide real-world workforce experience for students. Projects are also expected to develop training modules intended to have a lasting impact on student education beyond the funded project period.
Who Is Eligible for the DOE Funding
The funding opportunity notice is designed as an annual recurring opportunity and will remain open for approximately three years, allowing applicants to apply during one of three submission periods. For the first submission period, Letters of Intent must be submitted by October 1, 2026, and full applications are due by October 16, 2026. HGEO is also seeking individuals to serve as reviewers for funding opportunities under the UTR Program.
Eligible institutions interested in the first funding round must submit a Letter of Intent by October 1, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET, followed by a full application by October 16 at 5 p.m. ET. DOE expects to announce selections in January 2027. The funding opportunity is expected to remain open for approximately three years with three application submission periods.
What to Read Next
California AG Bonta Slams Court Approval of $14 Billion HPE-Juniper Merger Settlement
Kentucky Landlord to Pay $150,000 to Settle Sexual Harassment Claims Against Female Tenants
The post DOE Offers $10.75 Million for University Energy Research and Workforce Training appeared first on .
