U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm today announced that Criterion Energy Partners will receive funding as part of 259 Department of Energy grants totaling $53 million to 210 small businesses in 38 states. The awards include projects relating to particle accelerators and fusion technology, applied nanoscience, quantum information applications, and dark matter research, along with a wide range of other efforts.  

"Supporting small businesses will ensure we are tapping into all of America's talent to develop clean energy technologies that will help us tackle the climate crisis," said Steve Binkley, Acting Director of the DOE's Office of Science. "DOE's investments will enable these economic engines to optimize and commercialize their breakthroughs, while developing the next generation of science leaders and ensuring U.S. scientific and economic competitiveness that will benefit all Americans." 

Criterion Energy Partners plans to use the funds in partnership with the City of Baytown and small business incubator Bay TechWerx to research and develop industrial decarbonization technology that has a direct impact on meeting Baytown's economic development and sustainability objectives.  

"The City of Baytown remains committed to supporting technology that bolsters the economic advancement of our citizens and is socially responsible," said the City of Baytown's Community and Economic Development Manager, Bret Gardella. "We are excited to partner with Criterion Energy Partners to accelerate progress in these areas by bringing new renewable energy solutions to Baytown."

CEO of Bay TechWerx, Rick Harlow, commented that "Bay TechWerx is thrilled to work alongside Criterion Energy Partners in support of its community engagement in Baytown. This partnership provides Baytown's small business ecosystem a leadership role in the energy transition, offering a just and equitable approach that can be replicated in other communities.

"The management team at Criterion Energy Partners is honored to receive Department of Energy support to advance our unique technology in a way that amplifies our commitment to social responsibility," said the company's Co-Founder and CEO, Danny Rehg. 

KeyFacts Renewable Energy Directory: Criterion Energy Partners