Request for Ideas

Process Load Project

The CalNEXT program routinely examines our project portfolio to identify technologies that could use additional focus. We will issue a Request for Ideas (RFI) and share why we are prioritizing these technologies, as well as the opportunities and considerations. In Q2 2025, the CalNEXT program is looking for a project submission for a Technology Support Research (TSR) project to support the 2025 portfolio. The deadline to submit is May 29, 2025. These submissions need to align with the Process Load TPM.

Opportunity

The purpose of this search is to build a strong portfolio based on a wide range of technologies and the prospect of completed project technology transfer. Each year the program seeks to have a balanced portfolio of projects. As we look ahead, the team is seeking a Technology Support Research Process Loads project that is anticipated to start in 2025 and be completed within 18 months.

• Technology Support Research is defined as research on market-ready technologies or products — addressing market barriers or developing the commercial capability to improve their ability to generate energy savings, reduce energy consumption or demand, or support new measures eligible for energy efficiency resource programs. Projects may address barriers like customer behavior, retro-commissioning, and operational efficiencies.
• Process Loads technology category encompasses a wide range of energy in non-residential services excluding general lighting, space conditioning, domestic water heating, appliances, and building envelope. This category is broadly focused on projects that will lead to expanded incentive program offerings (energy efficiency or fuel substitution) and/or the establishment of new codes and standards. High priority is given to projects that can provide significant savings in avoided greenhouse gas (GHG) production and/or demand flexibility.
  
  

Considerations

The selected project needs to be proposed by a submitter who is not a CalNEXT Program Partner. The selected project must be a TSR project with a budget that aligns with the level of effort and not exceeding $200,000.

Submissions will be evaluated based on whether it meets our timeline and budget requirements, and on factors such as meeting a high priority need in the technology research area and having high technology transfer potential. Please refer to CalNEXT’s Review Criteria for our evaluation metrics. For details on the needs for the Process Load TPM, please refer to the Process Load TPM.

Project submissions are also reviewed for redundancy. We advise all submitters to review the Approved Project List and the Energy Transition Coordinating Council (ETCC)’s Active Projects to avoid submitting redundant projects.

How to Participate

If you are interested in submitting, you can compile your submission information in the appropriate webform here. Please fill out the form titled “Submit a Project” and make sure you click on “Next” on the form pages to navigate to the end of the form.

Dates & Deadlines