; and (B) to make grants to eligible entities so that the eligible entities may contract to obtain technical assistance to identify, evaluate, plan, design, and develop processes to procure energy storage systems. (2) Technical assistance (A) In general The technical assistance described in paragraph (1) shall include assistance with one or more of the following activities relating to energy storage systems: (i) Identification of opportunities to use energy storage systems. (ii) Assessment of technical and economic characteristics. (iii) Utility interconnection. (iv) Permitting and siting issues. (v) Business planning and financial analysis. (vi) Engineering design. (B) Exclusion The technical assistance described in paragraph (1) shall not include assistance relating to modification of Federal, State, or local regulations or policies relating to energy storage systems. (3) Information dissemination The information disseminated under paragraph (1)(A) shall include— (A) information relating to the topics described in paragraph (2), including case studies of successful examples; (B) computer software for assessment, design, and operation and maintenance of energy storage systems; and (C) public databases that track the operation and deployment of existing and planned energy storage systems. (b) Eligibility Any nonprofit or for-profit entity shall be eligible to receive technical assistance and grants under the program. (c) Applications (1) In general An eligible entity desiring technical assistance or grants under the program shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. (2) Application process The Secretary shall seek applications for technical assistance and grants under the program— (A) on a competitive basis