On January 17, 2025, DOE’s LPO announced the closing of a $15 billion loan to PG&E, the first EIR project closed under the LPO’s flexible loan program. PG&E’s project aims to “expand hydropower generation and battery storage, upgrade transmission capacity,” improve grid connectivity and “enable virtual power plants throughout PG&E’s service area” across California. As part of PG&E’s Community Benefit Plan (CBP), the company will partner with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1245 to train members of underserved groups applying for operational roles within the company.
EIR projects are funded by IRA section 50144, appropriating $5 billion to DOE for loan guarantees to upgrade or replace energy infrastructure while improving environmental conditions within the communities in which loan recipients operate. EIR funds are available until September 30, 2026.