CenterPoint Energy's Request for Ideas for Fall 2026

CenterPoint Energy, Minnesota's largest natural gas distribution company, has announced plans to issue a Request for Ideas (RFI) in Fall 2026 to gather proposals for research and development (R&D) projects under Minnesota's Natural Gas Innovation Act. The RFI represents a key opportunity for vendors, researchers, and innovators to contribute to the future of natural gas delivery with bold ideas that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. CenterPoint Energy seeks to fund R&D efforts that may include market research, emerging technologies, small-scale demonstration level initiatives, and other projects that support future opportunities to accelerate emissions reductions solutions. This initiative is part of CenterPoint's innovation plan approved under the Natural Gas Innovation Act, which invests in a diverse set of innovative efforts and cleaner energy strategies for the benefit of customers and communities in Minnesota.

The RFI is expected to be released in Fall 2026, and no specific deadline for submission has been announced at this time. Interested parties are encouraged to prepare by reviewing the Natural Gas Innovation Act framework and CenterPoint Energy's innovation plan. To be added to the RFI distribution list and receive a copy of the RFI once it becomes available, interested parties should complete a short sign-up form provided by CenterPoint Energy. Questions related to the RFI can be directed to Esha Seth, Senior Project Manager, at esha.seth@centerpointenergy.com.

This RFI is focused on innovative approaches to natural gas distribution and emissions reduction, making it relevant for companies and organizations specializing in clean energy technologies, gas system innovation, carbon capture, renewable natural gas, hydrogen blending, leak detection, demand-side management, and related fields. The scope is limited to Minnesota, though national and international respondents may participate. CenterPoint Energy is the largest natural gas distribution utility in Minnesota and this RFI is a part of their regulatory commitments under state law.

No budget information, evaluation criteria, or technical specifications have been published yet, as the RFI is still in the planning stage. Vendors should monitor the distribution list for updates. The RFI will likely outline specific areas of interest, project types eligible for funding, and submission requirements. CenterPoint Energy expects to fund a range of projects from market research to small demonstrations, offering potential for both established firms and startups to engage with a major utility on cutting-edge natural gas innovation.