Smart energy and water efficiency pilot program

In this section: The term “eligible entity” means— The term “smart energy and water efficiency pilot program” or “pilot program” means the pilot program established under subsection (b). The Secretary shall establish and carry out a smart energy and water efficiency pilot program in accordance with this section. The purpose of the smart energy and water efficiency pilot program is to award grants to eligible entities to demonstrate unique, advanced, or innovative technology-based solutions that will— The Secretary shall make competitive, merit-reviewed grants under the pilot program to not less than 3, but not more than 5, eligible entities. In selecting an eligible entity to receive a grant under the pilot program, the Secretary shall consider— Subject to clause (ii), an eligible entity seeking a grant under the pilot program shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary determines to be necessary. An application under clause (i) shall, at a minimum, include— Not later than 1 year after December 27, 2020, the Secretary shall select grant recipients under this section. The Secretary shall annually carry out an evaluation of each project for which a grant is provided under this section that meets performance measures and benchmarks developed by the Secretary, consistent with the purposes of this section. Consistent with the performance measures and benchmarks developed under clause (i), in carrying out an evaluation under that clause, the Secretary shall— On the request of a grant recipient, the Secretary shall provide technical and policy assistance. The Secretary shall make available to the public through the Internet and other means the Secretary considers to be appropriate— The Secretary shall submit to Congress a report containing the results of each evaluation carried out under subparagraph (B). There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $15,000,000, to remain available until expended.