DOE Launches $100 Million Cybersecurity Initiative for Small Utilities

• •DOE's $100 million initiative targets small and rural electric utilities.
• •Funding aims to close cybersecurity capability gaps for resource-constrained operators.
• •Eligible organizations must partner with at least six utilities to apply.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $100 million funding initiative to enhance cybersecurity for electric cooperative, municipal, and small investor-owned utilities. The program, managed by the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), aims to address cybersecurity gaps faced by resource-constrained operators. Eligible not-for-profit organizations can apply to provide technical assistance, threat information sharing, and system hardening resources. CESER Director Andrew McClure emphasized the importance of equipping smaller utilities to combat sophisticated cyber threats. Awardees must partner with at least six qualifying utilities and demonstrate the capability to deliver cybersecurity improvements. The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen energy security in the U.S. and empower smaller utilities. The funding opportunity is available through the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity (RMUC) Advanced Cybersecurity Technical Assistance Partnership Intermediary Agreement.