Technology Selection Process

 The BPA Technology Innovation (TI) Office delivers operational solutions that address key industry opportunities, risks, and strategic priorities. TI manages its research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) portfolio through four core disciplines: project management, portfolio management, technology transfer, and strategic roadmapping.

To align external research with agency needs, BPA’s technology roadmaps establish a clear pathway from current operational baselines to desired future states. By mapping critical drivers and capability gaps directly to targeted RD&D programs, these roadmaps guide focused investments in energy efficiency and distributed energy resources.

BPA’s Emerging Technologies program identifies and validates promising energy-saving innovations across residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors. By continually replenishing the conservation pipeline, the program provides local utilities with the data needed to design customer incentives and accelerate market adoption.

Our 4-Stage Evaluation Process

1. Scan: Collaborating with regional and national partners to identify emerging, high-potential technologies and R&D activities.
2. Screen: Prioritizing solutions based on energy savings, cost, grid benefits, ease of adoption, and alignment with regional strategic goals.
3. Assess: Conducting rigorous lab evaluations and utility field tests to verify real-world energy performance, reliability, and user experience.
4. Design Program: Transitioning validated technologies into the market through utility rebates, contractor training, and marketing support until standards or widespread adoption take over.