Energy Related Inventions Program (ERIP)

The Energy Related Inventions Program, or ERIP, is designed to encourage innovation in the development of energy technology. It is sponsored by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and is the implementation of the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-577).

The program provides an opportunity for inventors to obtain federal support in developing and commercializing promising energy related inventions. NIST evaluates the inventions and recommends those considered sufficiently promising to DOE. DOE then determines whether and how to support recommended inventions and provides the necessary support. Grants have averaged $85,000 per invention in recent years with a maximum grant of $100,000.

Any new concept, device, product, material, or industrial process can qualify. The invention need not be patented. The invention must be energy related and have commercial potential. The invention may be at any stage of development from concept to production. Under this program, the invention is energy related if use of the invention could result in saving energy, more efficient use of energy, or an increase in energy supplies. Inventions concerned with the production or use of nuclear energy do not qualify.

Detailed information on submission of applications is contained in the ERIP Application Kit available from the University Patent Officer. The kit contains the format required for submission and explains all details of the process.

This program provides an opportunity for MSU faculty and staff who have energy related ideas in any stage of development to obtain the necessary support for continued research in the area. Those interested in more information are encouraged to contact the University Patent Officer at 3521. The Patent Officer can provide assistance with preparation and submission of the application.