USDA Rural Utilities Service – Powering Affordable Reliable Technology Energy Program
Tribal Entities May Apply for Loans of up to $100 Million with up to 40% Loan Forgiveness
LETTER OF INTEREST DEADLINE
October 9, 2026
TYPE OF PROGRAM
The Powering Affordable Reliable Technology (PART) Energy Program provides loans, with up to 40% loan forgiveness. These loan funds will be made to qualified applicants to finance power generation projects for Renewable Energy Resource systems or Energy Storage Systems. This will finance renewable energy generation and energy storage projects that increase affordable, reliable, and resilient electricity supplies. The program supports new renewable energy facilities and associated infrastructure that benefit rural and non-rural consumers while reducing future electric rate impacts.
FUNDING DETAILS
Total Funding Available: Approximately $410 million
Award Range: $1 million – $100 million (inclusive of the forgivable portion)
Loan Forgiveness: Up to 40% of the loan amount for eligible projects
COST SHARE LOAN STRUCTURE
Project Loans: USDA financing may cover up to 75% of total project costs; applicants must provide at least 25% equity (cash or equity investment)
System Loans: May finance up to 100% of eligible project costs
Projects serving Substantially Underserved Trust Areas may qualify for financing of up to 100% of project costs
PROJECT GOALS
Increase affordable and reliable electricity generation.
Expand renewable energy and energy storage capacity.
Improve electric system reliability and resilience.
Deliver measurable benefits to electric consumers.
Support long-term energy affordability for rural communities.
WHAT CAN YOU USE IT FOR?
Construction of new hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass energy facilities
Energy storage systems
New or upgraded transmission and distribution infrastructure
Microgrids associated with eligible renewable energy projects
Interconnection facilities and related project infrastructure
Engineering, project development, and other eligible capitalized project costs
IMPORTANT LIMITATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:
Only new projects with construction beginning after August 3, 2026, are eligible.
Merchant power projects and behind-the-meter projects serving only the owner's facilities are not eligible.
Existing renewable energy or energy storage facilities cannot be purchased with PART funding.
Ready to empower your Tribe’s energy future?
