The first grant solicitation notice for small-scale innovative research projects was released today by the California Energy Commission.

Maximum amounts of up to $75,000 each will be available under the Energy Innovations Small Grants Program, a part of the Commission's Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) Program.

A total of $5 million is available in the next two years for the program, including grants to qualifying individuals, small businesses and non-profits, and academic institutions that would not otherwise quality for PIER funding. This targeted funding source will give them a chance to engage in cutting-edge research designed to benefit California electricity consumers through projects that save energy, reduce costs and improve the environment.

"Individuals and small businesses have many innovative ideas for improving our energy production and the environment," said Vice Chair David A. Rohy, who heads the Energy Commission's research, development and demonstration committee. "The small grants program will give these energy trend setters a method to engage in cutting edge research."

More information, including a grant application package is available at the Commission's Web Site at: