Applications are reviewed through a two-phase process for each Program Cycle:
- Phase 1 evaluates an application’s eligibility.
- Phase 2 evaluates eligible applications for funding and deployment.
Pathways to Participate
In the Phase 1 application, applicants will discuss their needs, support, and discussions with the EDCs to help the Program Administration team and IAC determine which pathway is a best fit for the successful deployment of their proposed project.
1. Innovator
An Innovator is an applicant that is a product owner or entity other than a Connecticut EDC.
Innovator-led projects are expected to focus on innovative approaches or mechanisms that maximize electric grid flexibility and do not directly modify grid infrastructure owned and operated by the EDCs.
2. Electric Distribution Company (EDC)
EDC-led projects are expected to focus on innovative customer programs or tariff structures.
Examples include prototyping an advanced critical peak pricing tariff for commercial customers or developing a “bring your own device” program to enhance demand-side flexibility.
3. Collaborative Partnership
This pathway is for innovators seeking to partner with the Connecticut EDCs. A key goal of the IES Program is to create conditions that enable impactful collaboration between cutting-edge technology companies and the EDCs.
The EDCs have developed Market Outreach Plans to support these partnerships. Collaborative partnerships should be formed directly between the Innovator and the EDC and reflected in IES Program applications.
EDC Points of Contact
Phase 1: Who Can Apply
Both Connecticut-based and out-of-state innovators (who obtain authorization to practice business in Connecticut) may apply, provided they fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
- Avoids creating a competitive advantage for either EDC
- Avoids unreasonable ratepayer impacts
- Advances Connecticut’s decarbonization goals
- Is approved (or will be approved if selected) to conduct business in Connecticut
- Provides an innovative solution or addresses unmet needs in current Connecticut EDC offerings
- Addresses the needs of underserved communities.
There is no limit to the number of projects an applicant may to the IES Program, and each project application will be evaluated against the Eligibility and Project Selection criteria.
Prospective applicants can attend or watch recordings of information sessions to learn more.
Phase 2: Project Selection Criteria
Projects that meet Phase 1 eligibility criteria will receive a Phase 2 application from the Program Administrator by May 2026. For details on the Phase 2 process, pleae see the Program Details page. In Phase 2, the Program Administrator will score projects based on the following criteria:
Relevance: Demonstrates a clear connection to electricity service delivery in Connecticut.
Innovation: Tests a product, service, or business model not widely used in the Connecticut utility market, and has the potential to scale or serve as a model for broader adoption.
Readiness: Shows strong preparation for live testing, with well-developed testing plans, clear objectives and measures, and all required tools and resources in place at the time of application.
Economic Benefit: Provides a positive impact on Connecticut’s economy and ultimately reduces costs for Connecticut electricity customers.
Cost-Effectiveness: Identifies expected costs and benefits to customers, EDCs, and non-participant utility customers in a clear and measurable way.
Programmatic or Market Gaps: Demonstrates how the project addresses one or more market gaps and provides clear additional value beyond existing EDC investments.
Equity: Includes a credible plan for prioritizing underserved communities and, wherever possible, for hiring and partnering with vendors from underserved communities.
Please note that the Phase 2 application is the form used in a previous cycle. It is provided for reference only and should not be submitted. Eligible applicants will receive a Phase 2 application via the Beacon Bid platform.