Dec. 2025 Solicitations

Gigawatt Paradox: Finding the Right Balance Between AI and Energy Capacity

Landmark Energy Acquisition Finalized, Securing Long-term Benefits for Minnesotans

Developing novel energy technologies is an Army imperative.

Close up photo of a gloved hand holding two test tubes with different colored liquid. Developing electrolytes capable of operating efficiently across extreme temperature will ensure reliability and performance of energy storage systems under varied environmental conditions. (Image credit: Zhiao Yu) — Developing electrolytes capable of operating efficiently across extreme temperature will ensure reliability and performance of energy storage systems under varied environmental conditions. (Image credit: Zhiao Yu)

BEST START provides the crucial support businesses need to rapidly bring mission critical technologies to the battlefield, which include smart grid technologies, renewable energy applications, and solutions for power generation. BEST START is a collaboration of three organizations – DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory, the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, and ETC, a nonprofit defense solutions provider.

New energy technologies provide the Army with more reliable and efficient power sources in the field, reduce dependency on traditional fuel supplies, and reduce the physical and logistical challenges for the warfighter. New energy technologies, especially those targeting distributed generation and storage, can also increase the resilience of military installations and operational capabilities against cyber and physical threats. BEST START provides funding and resources so companies can fast-track their prototypes to market.

Empowering innovation, energizing the future.

Backed by the Army’s commitment to resilient energy solutions, BEST START helps Minnesota businesses push the boundaries of energy technology innovation. The program advances cleaner, more efficient energy technologies while improving performance for military operations.

Technology in demand

Graphic depiction of a Solid State Battery. — Advancing the technology of solid-state batteries to offer safer, more efficient energy storage solutions.

The BEST START program supports a range of technologies that hold the potential to revolutionize energy systems both on the civilian front and in battlefield applications. From smart grid technology to renewable energy, the BEST START program is looking for innovation that not only supports the transition to a resilient energy future but also enhances the capabilities of military operations, ensuring energy resilience in diverse conditions.

View a list of BEST START’s preferred technology areas.

STEM Education & Workforce Development

The BEST START program offers curriculum and instruction about energy sciences. ETC also delivers summer camps, afterschool programs, and offers internships related to energy sciences and technology development.

Visit the STEM page for upcoming opportunities.

Resources at the University of St. Thomas START Center

Screen capture of the University of St. Thomas Applied & Renewable Technologies (SMART) Center Website — The START Center is a collaborative hub where researchers, startups, industries, and government research labs converge to translate fundamental energy research into applied and use-inspired solutions.

The St. Thomas Applied & Renewable Technologies (START) Center provides BEST START companies access to specialized research facilities, equipment, and expertise to advance innovation. The START Center brings together experts from UST’s Engineering Design Clinic, Center for Microgrid Research, Center for Applied AI, and School of Engineering to help with design, validation, prototyping, testing services, and consulting.

Current Projects

Photo depicting view of photovoltaic panel and battery instalation leaning on a beige white wall. Renewable energy concept — Investigating photovoltaic technologies that can operate across a wide bandgap spectrum, enhancing energy conversion efficiency.

BEST START business partners are creating new ways to provide efficient and reliable power in the field. While the Army is most interested in the application for the warfighter, many of these technologies have commercial applications.

Latest news

The Art of the Possible for Delivering Lower Costs and Resilience With Microgrids of All Sizes

Microgrids, along with other distributed energy resources, may supply as much as 50% of generation over the next decade, said panelists at a teleconference organized by the federal Department of Energy Onsite Technical Assistance Partnerships, which offers free resources for onsite energy developers.

Smart Transmission Tools Modernize America’s Power Grid

Dynamic line rating allows for a more agile and cost-effective approach to maintaining a reliable grid, increasing power transfer capabilities by 10-40%.

First Solar Investing $330M on New Module Finishing Plant in South Carolina

Anticipating higher U.S. energy demand incentivized through the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, and having benefitted from credits through the Biden-era Inflation, First Solar intends to build this facility to onshore part of their manufacturing process and create 600 jobs in South Carolina.