DOE FY2026 R1 Topics Delay and Updates

The Department of Energy’s Office of SBIR/STTR Programs confirmed a “slight delay” in the release of the FY 2026 Phase I Release 1 topics—originally expected last week, they now remain pending, with the DOE website not yet updated (as of July 14). The office forecasts publication “within the next one to two weeks.”

Historically, DOE Release 1 topics have centered on grid modernization, advanced materials, battery storage, carbon capture, solar and wind integration, and nuclear reactor prototypes. These themes reflected a policy focus on clean-energy deployment and climate resilience.

However, this fiscal cycle shows a marked pivot:

1. According to the DOE’s FY 2026 Budget in Brief, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy will be cut by 74 percent—from $3.46 billion in FY 2025 down to $888 million in FY 2026—eliminating funding for solar, wind, and hydrogen deployment programs.
2. Holland & Knight reports that the DOE is reallocating toward fossil energy, nuclear power, critical minerals, and grid security, with the Office of Fossil Energy refocused on expanding domestic fossil production while slashing climate-oriented programs.
3. Spectrum News confirms that the FY 2026 proposal “emphasizes utilizing the nation’s coal, natural gas, and petroleum resources, as well as expanding nuclear energy,” further signaling a decisive shift.

The budget still requests $595 million for fossil energy (a 31% cut), but restores the office’s original fossil-focused mission. Meanwhile, nuclear energy funding remains robust, with targeted investments in advanced reactor technologies and grid resilience.

Given these strategic realignments, the forthcoming SBIR/STTR topics are likely to reflect:

• Greater emphasis on fossil-related technologies and domestic resource development
• Continued backing for nuclear energy innovations and grid security
• Reduced funding and fewer solicitations in clean-energy deployment areas like renewables and hydrogen

Small businesses and innovators should adjust proposals accordingly.

🚨 Update as of 7/18/2025:

DOE has updated their SBIR FY25 Phase I Release II Timelines:

➡️ Award Notification:
Release 2 – Friday, August 29, 2025

➡️ Projected Grant Start Date:
Release 2 – Friday, September 26, 2025

➡️ Awardee Webinar, week of:
Release 2 – October 22, 2025