Fy 2026 Pipeline Emergency Response Grant (PERG)

The Pipeline Emergency Response Grant program is administered by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation. This federal agency is responsible for ensuring the safe and secure transportation of hazardous materials and energy products across the United States. Through this grant program, PHMSA aims to strengthen national preparedness and response capabilities for pipeline-related incidents, particularly in high consequence areas where failures could result in significant harm to people, property, or the environment. The purpose of the grant is to provide financial support to state, county, and local governments to train individuals who have statutory responsibility for responding to pipeline emergencies. These emergencies may involve the transportation of gas or hazardous liquids, and the program prioritizes preparedness in areas identified as high consequence under federal regulatory definitions. The program is designed to enhance the capabilities of emergency responders so they can effectively mitigate risks and protect communities during pipeline incidents. Funding under this program is specifically intended for training-related activities that have a direct connection to pipeline transportation safety. Eligible uses include the development and execution of emergency response plans, training exercises, and responder education programs. Additional allowable activities include the development and implementation of the Pipeline Emergency Responder Initiative, training focused on leak detection and evacuation procedures, and the creation or maintenance of training curricula. Funds may also be used to acquire training equipment, props, and supplies necessary to conduct effective instruction. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement associated with this funding opportunity, which lowers the barrier to entry for eligible applicants. However, applicants must demonstrate a clear plan for how training will be delivered to responders in communities impacted by pipeline infrastructure. All proposed activities must maintain a clear and direct relationship to pipeline emergency response, and proposals are evaluated based on the quality and relevance of their training approach. Eligibility is limited to governmental entities at the state, county, and local levels. For-profit organizations are explicitly excluded from participation. Applicants are expected to submit a complete application through the designated federal grants portal, and only one application per entity will be accepted. Submissions must adhere strictly to the deadline, and late applications may not be considered. The application period for the current cycle opened in May 2026 and closes in late June 2026. The opportunity is offered on a recurring basis as part of federal funding cycles, subject to appropriations. Awards are competitive, with approximately twenty grants expected to be distributed. The funding range for individual awards spans from moderate to substantial amounts, allowing recipients to implement meaningful training programs. Applicants may contact program officials via email or phone for clarification, and additional information is available through the official grants portal.