Google Launches Ohio Grid Innovation Fund

COLUMBUS, OHIO — Recognizing the need for a reliable and affordable electricity supply to support economic and community development, Google today launched the Ohio Grid Innovation Fund with an initial contribution of $1 million. The fund is part of Google’s ongoing effort to foster new and innovative technologies to meet growing energy needs in Ohio.

Caroline Golin, Global Head of Energy Market Development and Innovation for Google, announced the fund prior to remarks at an energy workgroup organized by the Ohio Business Roundtable.

“America’s next generation of computing and manufacturing will flourish only with a reliable and affordable supply of electricity—one that meets the demands of both industry and consumers,” Golin said. “Google is proud to pioneer a fund that will support innovation that benefits all customers. We look forward to working with policy and business leaders across the state to fast-track modernization of Ohio’s electricity grid.”

With administrative support from the nonprofit Elevate and the Columbus Region Green Fund (CRGF), the Ohio Grid Innovation Fund will incentivize organizations developing new solutions for energy efficiency, workforce development, and technologies to enhance electric grid reliability. Google is also encouraging other Ohio businesses to join the effort to bring new energy solutions to the state.

“Energy efficiency measures are key to help reduce and stabilize the cost of living for our community,” said Zach McGuire, Executive Director of the Columbus Region Green Fund. “Deploying energy-saving also creates new workforce opportunities for many who are looking for quality, good-paying jobs. We look forward to collaborating with Google on this exciting initiative for the community.”

“Everyone should have access to affordable energy in their homes and businesses, but that’s only possible with a robust electric grid,” said Elevate CEO, Dr. Anne Evens. “We look forward to collaborating with Google and the CRGF in supporting vital initiatives that strengthen Ohio’s communities and drive lasting economic and environmental benefits for all Ohioans and beyond.”

Ohio Senator Michele Reynolds (OH-3) joined the announcement saying, “Reliable energy for all is a goal that we all want, without having to sacrifice the progress and innovation being made. The Ohio Grid Innovation Fund announced today from Google will motivate organizations to find new and innovative technology to meet growing energy needs for not just my area, but the entire state.”

To apply, visit CRGF’s website.

The Columbus Region Green Fund is an independent 501(c)3 organization that was founded through a collaboration between the Columbus Partnership, the City of Columbus, and Franklin County. Learn more at crgreenfund.org.

Elevate is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works nationally and is headquartered in Chicago. Elevate seeks to create a world in which everyone has clean and affordable heat, cooling, power, and water in their homes and communities. Learn more at elevatenp.org.