; and (B) can connect and disconnect from the grid to operate in both grid-connected mode and island mode. (5) Renewable energy source The term renewable energy source has the meaning given the term in section 609(a) of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 ( 7 U.S.C. 918c(a) ). (6) Rural electric cooperative The term rural electric cooperative means an electric cooperative (as defined in section 3 of the Federal Power Act ( 16 U.S.C. 796 )) that sells electric energy to persons in rural areas. (7) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of Energy. 3. Energy Storage and Microgrid Assistance Program (a) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a program under which the Secretary shall— (1) provide grants to eligible entities under subsection (c); (2) provide technical assistance to eligible entities under subsection (d); and (3) disseminate information to eligible entities on— (A) the activities described in subsections (c)(1) and (d); and (B) potential and existing energy storage and microgrid projects. (b) Cooperative agreement The Secretary may enter into a cooperative agreement with an eligible entity to carry out subsection (a). (c) Grants (1) In general The Secretary shall award grants to eligible entities for identifying, evaluating, and designing energy storage and microgrid projects that rely on energy from renewable energy sources. (2) Application To be eligible to receive a grant under paragraph (1), an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. (3) Use of grant An eligible entity that receives a grant under paragraph (1)— (A) shall use the grant— (i) to conduct feasibility studies to assess the potential for implementation or improvement of energy storage or mi­cro­grid projects