Question 1:
"Can you please clarify the following question?
• Can workspaces (e.g. final assembly facilities) be leased and those costs reimbursed under this grant?"
Answer 1:
DOE will not make a firm decision now as to the allowability of a cost. It is incumbent upon applicants to review the applicable regulations and cost principles. If selected for negotiations leading to award, all proposed costs will be thoroughly evaluated.
DOE will not make a firm decision now as to the allowability of a cost. It is incumbent upon applicants to review the applicable regulations and cost principles. If selected for negotiations leading to award, all proposed costs will be thoroughly evaluated.
Question 11:
Does this VTO solicitation exclude “air vehicles” (e.g. electrified aircraft) in terms of applications. I looked through the current VTO mission online and didn’t see anywhere where the scope is ground-only though most of the xEV references are to ground vehicles.
Answer 11:
Aircraft are not in scope for this announcement.
Aircrafts are not in scope for this announcement.
Question 12:
May teams include OEMs as vehicle suppliers?
Answer 12:
OEMs, as for-profit domestic entities, are eligible to participate as subrecipients in this announcement.
Question 15:
Can you clarify the cost share requirements for FFRDCs and National Labs described in the tables on page 55-56? Is “N/A” equivalent to 0%, meaning that national labs do not need to provide cost share?
Answer 15:
The cost share table in Section III.B of the FOA describes the minimum cost share requirements for entities applying as the prime applicant. There is no minimum cost share requirement for entities applying as a subrecipient. The N/A in the column for FFRDC's means that minimum cost share requirement for FFRDC's is not applicable because an FFRDC is not eligible apply as the prime to that AOI. The cost share table in section III.B of the FOA was updated to clarify this.
Question 16:
Does AOI 16 have a scope limited to the US, or would a sub-Saharan Africa project be considered? It would be electrified motorcycles for mass transit.
Answer 16:
Project scopes that focus outside of the US are strongly discouraged.
Question 19:
Iin AOI6, the FOA stated that technologies of interest included “advanced combustion and emission control research, thermal management (coatings, waste energy recovery, frictions reduction and lubricants), efficient fluid power, new system architectures, energy recovery, electrification and hybridization, and connectivity and automation of vehicles and/or work implements that demonstrate greater energy efficiency”. However this language was limited for AOI6a in the FOA, but retained for AOI6b. Should we interpret this change to mean that the technologies listed above are not highly encouraged for AOI6a, or is that list of technologies still valid, in addition to the specifically called out ones in the FOA for 6a?
Answer 19:
The list of technologies described in AOI 6b are also valid for AOI 6a.
Question 20:
We are interested in submitting a proposal for this new project (see link below) and would like to know if a faculty member is eligible to serve as the PI on this new project if they are already serving as the PI of a currently funded DOE project?
Answer 20:
A faculty member may serve as the PI on more than one DOE funded
project.
A faculty member may serve as the PI on more than one DOE funded project.
Question 21:
"It was mentioned in the FOA that “Each Concept Paper must be limited to a single concept or technology.” We therefore wonder if that “single concept” must pick only one central topic from the many anticipated technology approaches list in the FOA. Or the instruction is emphasizing that researchers should put together an cohesive concept rather than a bit of everything? I am putting the excerpt of the mentioned “anticipated technology approaches” in the AOI# 4 for your reference.
• Thermal and chemical aging mitigation and activity enhancement of PGM and wash coat components
• Active site optimization including optimal dispersion, single atom versus ensemble, and zirconia alternatives
• Improved wash coat promoters and stabilizers
• Palladium and rhodium substitution with other Platinum group metals (Ru, Ir), base metals, and other elements/compounds/alloys "
Answer 21:
A project described in a concept paper may include more than one technology and may include related technical approaches. The concept paper must make clear how the technologies and approaches are related and work together to achieve the targeted improvement.
Question 22:
I'm wondering whether a National Laboratory can be the prime in any AOI or not - more specifically AOI 3, 14 and 16. I went through the proposal document and didn't see anything specifically about it but wanted to confirm this point.
Answer 22:
An FFRDC or National Lab may apply as a prime applicant to topics 5 or 6a. They may apply as a subrecipient to any of the AOIs. Please see the table on page 53 of the FOA for more information.
Question 23:
On page 55 of the call, AOI #5 and 6a state that FFRDCs are required to provide 0-20% Cost Share**. The ‘**’ reference on page 56 states FFRDCs and/or Nationals Labs must provide 20% cost share. Those who can provide verification of their non-profit status are eligible for the reduced cost share.
On page 58 iv Cost Share Contributions by FFRDCs: it states because FFRDCs are funded by the federal government, costs incurred by FFRDCs generally may not be used to meet the cost share requirement.
We are a National Lab/FFRDC and we are non-profit. We have a proposal we are working on with an industry partner who is subject to their own 20% cost share requirement. Since we are exempt from providing Cost Share, will this partner be responsible for our 20% Cost Share in addition to their own 20% Cost Share requirement? Or will they only need to provide their own 20% Cost Share requirement?
Also, when would an FFRDC or National Lab ever be responsible for Cost Share as written on page 56? (are there any National Labs/FFRDCs that are not non-profit?)
Answer 23:
The cost share table on page 55 lists the cost share requirements for entities that apply as the prime applicant. The prime applicant has legal responsibility to insure that the required cost share for the proposed project is met. For topics 5 and 6a, an FFRDC has the opportunity to apply as the prime applicant at a reduced cost share provided they are a non-profit and perform at least 50% of the project work as measured by total project cost. For entities applying as a subrecipient, the FOA has no specific required cost share. Instead the project team, led by the prime applicant, must decide how to best allocate cost share among the project team.
Question 24:
"We have developed some “Long Endurance Solar-Fuel Cell Powered Electric Multirotor Drones”:
Are such systems considered for the “DE-FOA-0002197, Fiscal Year 2020 Advanced Vehicle Technologies Research Funding Opportunity Announcement”?"
Answer 24:
Drones are not considered within scope for this FOA.
Drones are not considered within scope for this FOA.
Question 25:
For applicants to AOI 5 and 6a, where per pg 55 the cost share for FFRDCs/Labs ranges 0-20% depending on the for-profit status of the entity. The footnote states that:
FFRDCs and/or National Labs must provide 20% cost share. Those who can provide verification of their non-profit status are eligible for the reduced cost share.
My interpretation of this is that for FFRDCs or National Labs that have non-profit status their portion of the cost share requirement is 0%. For example, in a $1MM total project, with 50% non-profit lab participation and 50% for-profit participation, the overall cost share requirement would be $100,000, or 0% of the $500,000 requested by the national lab, and 20% on the $500,000 budget of the for-profit.
Can you please confirm that this is correct?
Answer 25:
No. If the FFRDC is a non-profit and applies as the prime applicant to topics 5 or 6a, then the cost share for the prime applicant (and the project) is reduced to 0% provided the FFRDC performs at least 50% of the project work as measured by the total project cost. In this case none of the subrecipients, including for-profit companies, would be required to provide any cost share.
In other words, the cost share requirement for the prime applicant represents the cost share for the project. In this example, the cost share reduction to 0% for the prime applicant reduces the cost share for the project to 0% as well.
Question 26:
To clarify, if we as an FFRDC apply as the Prime applicant, and we being a non-profit are exempt from Cost Share, but the sub-recipient is from Industry, does the project still require the 20% Cost Share?
Answer 26:
No. If the FFRDC is a non-profit and applies as the prime applicant to topics 5 or 6a, then the cost share for the prime applicant (and the project) is reduced to 0% provided the FFRDC performs at least 50% of the project work as measured by the total project cost. In this case none of the subrecipients, including for-profit companies, would be required to provide any cost share.
In other words, the cost share requirement for the prime applicant represents the cost share for the project. In this example, the cost share reduction to 0% for the prime applicant reduces the cost share for the project to 0% as well.
Question 27:
Can you tell me what a concept paper requires. Is there a application, requirements of information, length of document?
Answer 27:
Please read the FOA for information regarding how to apply, including the Concept Paper requirements. The FOA may be found at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/#FoaId0479e8d2-3ad8-4964-ab4b-b665b77029d5
Question 28:
Can you clarify if FFRDC as a sub, has to come up with a cost share for a project lead by university (AOI #2)? Either by its non-federal source or by the other team members?
Answer 28:
The prime applicant has legal responsibility to insure that the
required cost share for the proposed project is met. For entities applying as a subrecipient,
the FOA has no specific required cost share. Instead the project team, led by the prime
applicant, must decide how to best allocate cost share among the project team
members. For FFRDcs, any cost share
would have to come from non-federal sources.
The prime applicant has legal responsibility to insure that the required cost share for the proposed project is met. For entities applying as a subrecipient, the FOA has no specific required cost share. Instead the project team, led by the prime applicant, must decide how to best allocate cost share among the project team members. For FFRDcs, any cost share would have to come from non-federal sources.
Question 29:
We plan to propose Solid State Li Ion Batteries using Silicon-based anode. The cell will contain the Si anode, a solid state electrolyte (separator), and a NMC cathode. It will an all-solid-state-battery (ASSB) without any liquids. Is it eligible for this topic?
Answer 29:
Please submit a concept paper to receive a recommendation regarding your proposed project.
Question 30:
Please clarify what is meant by “rebates or incentives” under Section I. C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest. For instance, are utility make ready programs or utility time of use rates considered “rebates or incentives”?
Answer 30:
A rebate is an amount paid by way of reduction, return, or refund
on what has already been paid or contributed. An incentive, on the other hand,
is intended to initiate action (i.e. without it, that action would likely not
occur). Make ready and time of use programs designed as rebates or incentives
are specifically not of interest for this AOI.
A rebate is an amount paid by way of reduction, return, or refund on what has already been paid or contributed. An incentive, on the other hand, is intended to initiate action (i.e. without it, that action would likely not occur). Make ready and time of use programs designed as rebates or incentives are specifically not of interest for this AOI.
Question 31:
" 1. Can we propose novel technologies related to manufacturing of tanks for automotive applications?
2. Can a University in another country be a partner?"
Answer 31:
1. Please submit a concept paper to receive a recommendation regarding your proposed project.
2. A foreign entity may be a subrecipient. Note that section IV.I.iii of the FOA requires that all work be performed in the United States.
Question 33:
We are interested in AOI 13 for EV demonstration. I have a question for item 2 in page 36 “Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) factory produced alternative fuel vehicle must be new”. Does this mean that this vehicle must be available now when proposal is submitted or it can be a vehicle to be in market in one or two years? We found an OEM which have the EV currently being tested which will be put to market in about one year. Please clarify if we are allowed to demonstrate this EV in the 3rd year of this project.
Answer 33:
The second General Requirement listed in AOI 13 states that Applications must include: “A description of the commercially-available, on-road alternative fuel and/or advanced technology light-, medium-, or heavy-duty vehicles to be demonstrated under the proposed project, including the number of vehicles the project will involve.” This means the proposed vehicles must be commercially available at the time of application submission.
Question 34:
Per the FOA, the goal is to increase Si content to a substantial amount > 30% (or 30-70%). I have identified a company Sienza Energy, a Caltech start up located in Pasadena that has developed an all-Si anode with good results (I still have to see). But we are planning to respond to this solicitation, partnering with this company and Quallion to make prototype cells for the 1B category.
The question I have is the FOA states that there is a limit on the project share (10%) for the FFRDC. Is this true. Does it mean that our funding share cannot be more than 10%? Please clarify this for me.
Answer 34:
Yes, for AOI 1b the limit on total federal lab participation is 10% of the total project costs.
Question 35:
I have a question about this FOA for AOI 10 on Enabling Vehicle and Infrastructure Connectivity. Is partnering with state DOTs allowed?
Answer 35:
Yes, teaming with state DOTs is allowed.
Question 36:
"We are interested in the above-mentioned FOA, and are trying to determine if one of our supporting entities can be involved with a different proposal, either as a supporting role or as a Primary for one of their own proposals.
Relatedly, are we able to submit multiple Concept Papers as the Primary if a proposed technology is generally applicable to multiple topics (requiring additional/different specifics for each)?"
Answer 36:
1.Entities may apply as a primary applicant and/or subrecipient on more than one application.
2. Each concept paper and full application must describe a unique, scientifically distinct project. See section III.F (page 61) of the FOA for more information.
Question 38:
I am interested to submit a concept paper for AOI 16 for the FOA 0002197 (Advanced Vehicle Technologies) on a topic related to the application of battery degradation models in the charging/discharging control of vehicles considering V2G and G2V. Can I please know whether you have any prescribed application form for the concept paper? Looks the website has only the form for full application.
Answer 38:
The form and content of the Concept Paper is described in section IV.C (page 63) of the FOA document.
Question 39:
We are interested in this FOA, and specifically AOI 10: Enabling Vehicle and infrastructure connectivity. My background is electric power system and my understanding of infrastructure is the electric grid. Could you please clarify for me what is meant about infrastructure. Our idea is to coordinate the electric fleet and the power system to optimize the cost (both electricity or energy cost and transportation cost) to improve movement of people.
Answer 39:
The infrastructure in the context of this Area of Interest is intended to be part of the transportation system that includes vehicle-to-highway system and/or vehicle-to-vehicle communication.
Question 40:
"I’m contacting you in regards to the Fiscal Year 2020 Advanced Vehicle Technologies Research Funding Opportunity Announcement. We’re looking at building H2 and RNG infrastructure, and I’m curious to get additional info on this opportunity. Specifically looking for;
• Overall better understanding of requirements for projects,
o Any capacity/dispensed volume requirements according to this funding with regards to an alt. fuel station?
o Emissions reduction requirements?
o Project implementation timing requirements?
o any geographic requirements?
o Etc…
• what is max funding that can be provided by this program as a % of costs?
• which costs are covered with an alt. fuel station project (equipment only, Equipment and labor, etc…)?
• is this funding stackable with other funding?"
Answer 40:
Please review the FOA for information regarding topics,
requirements, and funding.
Please review the FOA for information regarding topics, requirements, and funding.
Question 41:
Are proposals for AOI #8 required to use carbon fiber as the reinforcement or will solutions that create lightweight automotive parts using glass fibers also be considered?
Answer 41:
Reinforcements must not be metallic or ceramic. No other restrictions are placed upon the type of reinforcement, provided that the composite meets mechanical property requirements.
Question 42:
"I have a questions on FY20 VTO FOA 2197, AOI 15. The instructions for this AOI state:
Teaming Arrangements
Applicant teams must include at least one designated/active Clean Cities coalition as a lead applicant or key/primary partner. The combined work performed by the Clean Cities Team Member(s) must total to at least 30% of the total project costs. (https://cleancities.energy.gov/coalitions/locations/)
We are in an area with no Clean Cities. Is there any way to apply locally for AOI 15 without a Clean Cities coalition on the team? We have some unique challenges in Alaska, that even the nearest Clean Cities coalitions do not share, but solutions to, and research into, would fit well into this area of interest."
Answer 42:
For AOI 15, an applicant team must include a Clean Cities coalition as a lead applicant or team member and have at least 30% of the total project work performed by a Clean Cities coalition(s).
Question 43:
I am formulating a concept for AOI 2 ‘Low Cost Electric Traction Drive Systems Using No Heavy Rare Earth Materials’ and there a few things in the description that are not clear. I have listed them below:
1. Neodymium is not heavy rare earth metal, it is a rare earth metal, but is listed as something not to be used, although the AOI title mentions only heavy rare earth metals. So, are any rare earth metals allowed for this project?
2. Only kW/l is specified for power density. kW/kg is not specified, when this is a typical measure of power density for motors. Is kW/kg is not a concern and do we only have to aim for the kW/l target?
3. For power density calculation, is the thermal solution to be included?
4. If we come up with an innovative and very efficient motor inverter technology with cost a little higher than >$7/kW, but its efficiency results in lower battery cost by increasing range, is that acceptable? Or is cost of the motor inverter system the only target for this pursuit?
Answer 43:
1. As you correctly note, neodymium is not considered a heavy rare earth element. Per the AOI title, the intent of this AOI is to eliminate heavy rare earth materials. The FOA was amended to clarify this.
2. For this AOI kW/l is the designated measure of power density.
3. Thermal equipment external to the drive system is not to be included in the power density calculation.
4. The system cost calculation is up to the applicant, noting the general requirement that applications must “Describe how the proposed R&D will lead to specific improvements in comparison to the baseline system and address the technical targets, with particular emphasis and details on cost reduction".
Question 44:
Please consider the following question and clarification for AOI 2 of DE-FOA-0002197.
Page 10 of DE-FOA-0002197, line 3 to 5 of the 1st paragraph, reads, “This is in large part due to the high prices of heavy rare-earth elements (neodymium and dysprosium) which are needed to prevent demagnetization at high temperatures.”
According to the DOE 2011 Critical Materials Strategy, neodymium (Nd) is a light rare-earth element, not a heavy rare-earth element (see the last paragraph on page 45 and the Figures 3-4 and 3-5 on page 46.) The two heavy rare-earth elements used in the NdFeB-type permanent magnets to prevent demagnetization at high temperature are terbium (Tb) and dysprosium (Dy). However, neodymium (Nd) is reported in DOE's 2010 and 2011 Critical Materials Strategy (see bullet #2 on page 3) as one of the five rare earth elements facing supply challenges.
Is the goal of AOI 2 to eliminate only the heavy rare-earth elements (Tb and Dy), or Tb, Dy AND Nd together?
Page 10 of DE-FOA-0002197 states, “Approaches that minimize, or eliminate, the use of all rare-earth materials are also encouraged.” Can you specify which elements should be minimized or eliminated since this will change material and motor design to achieve the cost and performance targets?
Answer 44:
As you correctly note, neodymium is not a heavy rare earth element. The FOA was amended to clarify this. The primary goal of the AOI is to eliminate heavy rare earth elements from electric traction drive systems. In addition, "Approaches that minimize or eliminate the use of all rare earth materials are also encouraged".
Please submit a concept paper to receive a recommendation regarding your proposed technical approach.
Question 45:
We are submitting as 2 small businesses. Do you expect to see a teaming agreement or a collaborative agreement between us?
Answer 45:
Applicants are not required to submit subrecipient contracts as part of the application process. Please note that while the two entities may be preparing an application together, one of the entities must take the role of prime applicant. If the entities intend to submit an application as an unincorporated consortium, DOE may request a copy of the collaboration agreement as described in Section III. A. vi of the FOA.
Question 46:
Our company only produced 48 units in 2019, but has projected 345 units to be produced in 2020 and 911 total units in 2021, going up to >1500 units in 2023. Our vehicle design is novel, as it includes a single piece structural composite chassis produced by large scale extrusion deposition additive manufacturing, a process largely developed at ORNL MDF. This enables us to produce them profitably at low volumes, reduce embodied energy, maintain recyclability, and rapidly modify or customize the vehicle to customer's needs. I am interested in understanding if your office would consider our company as an OEM for the purpose of the proposal or if you would encourage that we pursue teaming with another large OEM along with national lab and university partners.
Answer 46:
The FOA defined an OEM as “a commercial manufacturer that sells at least 500 vehicles annually”. Projected sales are speculative and subject to market conditions, product development, and other factors beyond a developer’s control so are not sufficient to meet the requirement.
Question 47:
I wonder if you could share with me the template or requirements regarding the concept paper? I have some specific questions like what is the page limit, format requirements, whether budget information needed for the concept paper, etc.,?
Answer 47:
The form and content of the Concept Paper is described in section IV.C (page 63) of the FOA document.
Question 48:
I want to check if my company can have a quick call with the DOE representative within the next few days to go over these questions?
Answer 48:
All FOA related questions must be submitted through the FOA email address.
Question 49:
In AOI 10, the emission benefits through vehicle/infrastructure connectivity are mentioned, in addition to energy benefits. Does that imply the engine-type vehicles have to be applied in this topic? Namely, pure electric vehicles, which do not have emission issues with/without connectivity (thus no baseline for comparison), cannot be selected/applied in this topic?
Answer 49:
AOI 10 is open to both internal combustion engine vehicles and battery electric vehicles.
Question 50:
Which DOE National Laboratories do you consider have SCM expertise?
Answer 50:
DOE will not provide recommendations regarding FFRDCs to partner with. Applicants may search the EERE Annual Merit Review presentation database at https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/annual-merit-review-presentations to identify FFRDCs performing SCM projects for DOE. To assist in searching the database select Electrification as the technology area.
Question 51:
I am wondering if you can confirm whether there is a concept paper template available for applicants re: FOA-0002197 Advanced Vehicle Technologies Research Funding.
I just want to make sure we submit a concept paper with any/all required elements and formatting!
Answer 51:
A Concept Paper Template is not available for this FOA. Please see section IV.C (page 63) of the FOA for Concept Paper content and form requirements.
Question 53:
Regarding the recent FOA – For AOI 1a: can companies be subcontracted by the universities/non-profit organizations? Or is the entire program area limited to these entities.
Answer 53:
A university may subcontract a portion of the project work to one or more for-profit companies. Please note that for AOI 1a, universities are required to perform at least 50% of the project work as measured by total project cost.
Question 54:
"I am interested in applying for AOI 8: Lightweight and High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites for Vehicle Applications. I would like some clarification on the teaming requirement:
""At least one automotive or heavy-duty original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or Tier 1 supplier to provide automotive performance, cost, and manufacturing requirements. For the purposes of this area of interest, an OEM is defined as a commercial manufacturer that sells at least 500 vehicles annually.""
We have identified potential partner, but they have not sold 500 cars last year.
We have also identified another potential partner, but they are a separate from their parent company.
Would any of these be valid partners or would it disqualify us?"
Answer 54:
DOE will not provide feedback regarding proposed team members prior to full application submission. The FOA defines an OEM as “a commercial manufacturer that sells at least 500 vehicles annually.” Any proposed OEM that sells fewer than 500 vehicles per year would not meet the AOI 8 OEM teaming requirement.
Question 55:
We are interested in knowing if there is a teaming partner list for DE-FOA-0002197 (Fiscal Year 2020 Advanced Vehicle Technologies Research FOA) available.
Answer 55:
DOE is not providing a teaming partner list for this FOA.
Question 56:
I cannot download the SF-424: Application for Federal Assistance pdf listed on your Funding Opportunity Announcement for the DE-FOA-0002197: FY20 ADVANCED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES RESEARCH FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT. When I try to download it, the webpage keeps saying “Please wait…”. Any help on this matter would be appreciated.
Answer 56:
The hot links have been corrected in the amended version of the FOA currently posted at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/#FoaId0479e8d2-3ad8-4964-ab4b-b665b77029d5
Question 57:
I have a two-part question related to the cost share requirement for AOI 4, 5, or 6a of this FOA. My question is:
1) If a project team consists of a university and a company, where the university is the prime recipient and conducts more than 50% of the project work as measured by total project costs, then is the required cost share for the entire project 0%, or does the company need to provide 20% cost-share on their share of the project costs?
2) If the answer above is that the total required cost share for the project is 0%, then I have the following question. If a project team consists of two universities and a company, and each member contributes about 1/3 of the project work as measured by total project costs, then is the total project cost-share still 0%, or does the prime recipient university need to contribute more than 50% of the project work to be eligible for the reduced, 0% total required cost-share?
Answer 57:
1. When a university or non-profit is the lead applicant for AOIs 4,5 or 6a, and performs at least 50% of the project work, then lead applicant and the entire project team are eligible for the reduced cost share (0% in this case)
2. For part 2 of your question, the university or non-profit as lead applicant must perform at least 50% of the total project work to be eligible for the reduced cost share. Aggregating the work of other universities or non-profits on the team does not count towards the 50% total. If the team chooses to form an unincorporated consortium with a university or non-profit as the consortium lead or representative, then the cost share of the other universities or non-profits in the consortium may be aggregated to meet the 50% project work requirement. Please see the cost share table in section III.B of Amendment 00002 of the FOA for more information regarding this.
Question 58:
Is there any requirement of the minimum percentage of work that prime recipient mush perform under topics 4, 5, and 6 for FOA-OOO2197.
Answer 58:
Please see the notes at the bottom of the cost share table on page 55 of the FOA for more information regarding project work requirements for prime applicants.
Question 59:
"It is mentioned in the FOA that a baseline must be identified
Also, it is mentioned that the target is for operating voltages of 600V or higher
Excluding couple of the major Japanese OEMMs who have systems at these voltage levels, almost all other OEMS especially North American ones have lower voltage levels
Could you please clarify if it would be acceptable to use some of the domestic systems with lower voltages as baselines?"
Answer 59:
It is acceptable to use a lower
voltage system as the baseline system.
It is acceptable to use a lower voltage system as the baseline system.
Question 60:
Regarding the cost share requirement on page 55 of FOA-OOO2197 under topic 4, does the 20% Cost Share for all Other Applicants apply to the 20% of the total project cost (including cost share) or 20% of the portion that the individual applicant is getting (both federal share and cost share for that individual applicant)?
Answer 60:
The 20% cost share applies to the total project cost. The prime applicant has the legal responsibility to insure that cost share requirements are met. Each project team is free to determine how best to allocate the cost share requirement among the team members.
Question 61:
We are planning a submission to AOI5 from a consortium of 4 FFRDCs; three are managed by non-profit M&O contractors. The work/funds would be partitioned equally among all four partners. Based on the answer to question 4, we believe that because the lead FFRDC would have only 25% of the work, the reduced cost-share requirement does not apply, even though 75% of the work would be conducted by non-profits. Resources to meet the 20% cost-share requirement are not available.
There appear two possible remedies:
1. Submit 2 closely linked applications, each led by a non-profit FFRDC doing 50% of the individual application work, and hope that both are funded. Does this comply with DOE’s intent?
2. Submit a single application as an Unincorporated Consortium. In this case, can the Consortium be considered non-profit if the “prime recipient/consortium representative” is non-profit? If so, does the fact that 75% of the work is being done by non-profit part of the consortium satisfy the requirement for reduced cost-share?
Answer 61:
FFRDCs and/or National Labs must provide 20% cost share. Those who can provide verification of their non-profit status are eligible for the reduced cost share provided they perform at least 50% of the project work as measured by the total project cost. FFRDCs and/or National Labs who elect to form unincorporated consortia are also eligible for the reduced cost share if:
The unincorporated consortia has a non-profit holding the role of prime recipient/consortium representative and performs at least 50% of the project work.
or
The unincorporated consortia has a non-profit holding the role of prime recipient/consortium representative and has non-profit members whose aggregate share of the project work is at least 50%.
Question 63:
I have some questions regarding match requirements for AOI 14.
Our project already has Federal CMAQ dollars committed; I presume, but want to confirm, that those cannot be used as match dollars for this DOE opportunity. Secondly, we have funds committed by our utility for building out the make ready infrastructure for our project; can those utility funds be used as matching dollars? If the answer is yes, and we used the utility funds as match for DOE, what additional requirements (if any) would be brought to bear on the utility’s portion of the project?
Answer 63:
Federal funds may not be used as cost share for this FOA.
Please see section III.B.iii of the FOA regarding allowable cost share.
Question 64:
I have been contacted by a Faculty member at my university who is interested in being part of a team for this solicitation. However, he does not meet the US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident status to be a PI or Co-PI. He has inquired about being a part of the proposal in any capacity other than PI or Co-PI. It was my first instinct to say no, but felt it worth submitting the inquiry on his behalf.
Answer 64:
Typically the university is the legal applicant to the FOA, with the faculty member developing and preparing the application. Regardless, the proposed team members of the applicant project team, including the PI and co-PI, are not required to be U.S citizens or lawful permanent residents. Team members who are foreign nationals may be required to provide information to DOE before being approved for access to DOE sites, information, technologies and personnel. Please see section VI.B.iii (p.89) of the FOA for more information regarding foreign national access.
Question 65:
1. What projects and applicants have been competitive in the past? What organizations have won funding and how much were the awards?
2. What are examples of the “costs” that the award will fund?
Answer 65:
1. Applicants selected from prior FOAs and their associated funding may be found at https://www.energy.gov/eere/about-us/eere-news-releases
2. Please see 2 CFR 200 for more information regarding allowable costs. It may be found at https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/CFR-2014-title2-vol1/CFR-2014-title2-vol1-part200
Question 66:
It appears that the document "SF-424: Application for Federal Assistance" with filename SF424_2_1-V2.pdf is not loaded properly. The PDF that I have downloaded twice from your site on two different computers seems to show a PDF error from the software that created the document.
Answer 66:
Please update to the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader to access this file.
Question 68:
I am working on a concept paper for AOI-10 on Enabling Vehicle and Infrastructure Connectivity. I am suggesting to develop a simulation platform that accounts for humans psychology/cognitive process in decision making in mixed traffic environments (connected vehicle, connected/autonomous vehicles, and human driven vehicles). The platform will also account for communication latency and will aim to realistically test energy consumption in mixed traffic environments. I wanted to know whether this proposed research fits in this call for AOI 10.
Answer 68:
Please submit a concept paper to receive a recommendation regarding your proposed concept.
Question 69:
Can a Figure or schematic be placed on the cover page of the preproposal?
Answer 69:
The cover page should not include any technical content, including schematics or figures related to the proposed project.
Question 70:
In VTO FOA 2197, AOI 14, Special Requirements for vehicles, states, "1. Electric Vehicles must be used 100% for the project scope"
Does this mean that the project scope must rely 100% on electric vehicles? Or does it mean that any electric vehicles used in this project must be used only for this project? The latter interpretation would seem to preclude projects that involve EVs owned by independent driver-contractors who drive those vehicles for a TNC but also for personal use. Is that right?
Answer 70:
It means electric vehicles identified for the project may only be used for the project.
Question 71:
1. Could one person be a PI of two different projects which have different teams?
2. Could one person be a PI on one project and a Co-PI on another project?
3. Could one company be a recipient (role as Co-PI) of two different projects?
4. Could one company be a subrecipient of two different projects?
Answer 71:
1. Yes. The PI must have sufficient time to support both projects.
2. Yes. The individual must have sufficient time to support both projects.
3. Yes.
4. Yes.
Question 72:
Could you please tell me where we can access Q&As submitted and answered on this FOA?
Answer 72:
The FAQ for this FOA may be accessed at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/FAQ.aspx?FoaId=0479e8d2-3ad8-4964-ab4b-b665b77029d5.
Question 73:
"The city is planning on responding to one or more of the AOIs in FOA 0002197. We will be forming a project team with a technology company who has some concerns about the below copyright clause:
“The prime recipient and subrecipients may assert copyright in copyrightable works, such as software, first produced under the award without EERE approval. When copyright is asserted, the Government retains a paid-up nonexclusive, irrevocable worldwide license to reproduce, prepare derivative works, distribute copies to the public, and to perform publicly and display publicly the copyrighted work. This license extends to contractors and others doing work on behalf of the Government.”
The above copyright requirement is not acceptable to the software vendor/partner. The software that will be used for this project is already developed. The partner will need to customize the software to get the desired results for the city. The Copyright section in the FOA document is not acceptable to the partner. Partner wants to continue to own the IP to the software since they have developed it over several years and incurred millions of dollars in cost using their deep domain knowledge of the energy industry.
The proposed project would be similar to working with someone like Oracle, where the member organizations will use the grant funds to customize the Oracle software to do a proof of concept for the city to showcase the benefits that can be realized by the coalition of cities. This will act as a lighthouse project for the rest of the nation. But all rights to the software are retained by Oracle and the government cannot retain a paid-up nonexclusive, irrevocable worldwide license."
Answer 73:
In this case where the software was developed outside of the project, the copyright and license terms for the government do not apply. The software is considered "restricted computer software" which is defined as follows: “Computer software developed at private expense and that is a trade secret, is commercial or financial, and confidential or privileged, or is published, copyrighted computer software, to include modifications of the computer software.” If selected for negotiations potentially leading to award, the applicant would be required to identify the software as restricted computer software. See section IV.E of the FOA for more information. For more information on sample Intellectual Property Provisions, please visit https://www.energy.gov/gc/standard-intellectual-property-ip-provisions-financial-assistance-awards to review the applicable Intellectual Property Provision that will be in the resultant awards depending on the Area of Interest and the type of organization. See also Sections VIII.J.-N. of the FOA.
Question 74:
"We are a group of researchers who are planning to submit a concept paper to DoE EERE Call DE-FOA-0002197 Under AOI10: Enabling Vehicle and Infrastructure Connectivity.
We have a clarifying question regarding the definition of ""connectivity"" within the context of this AOI:
— Does the solicitation mean to research, develop, and validate vehicle connectivity methods such as DSRC and 5G with respect to applications that minimize energy? OR
— can we assume a technology independent V2V/V2I connectivity to develop technology for reducing energy consumption and emissions and therein identify requirements for communications?
With the vehicular technology and communications communities are still battling out the communication challenges (e.g., 5G vs DSRC), our proposed work might shed light into the communication requirements for achieving desired energy and emission reductions."
Answer 74:
Projects may utilize existing vehicle communications technology (e.g. DSRC, 5G) or propose new communications technology. In either case, the project must research, demonstrate and validate vehicle connectivity to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
Question 75:
1) If a baseline with lower voltage is acceptable, can the proposed system be also at the same voltage level?
2) If not and based on typical battery packs, a boost converter is typically needed to get to the 600 V levels, is this the assumption for the higher voltage systems?
Answer 75:
1) While the baseline system may be of a lower voltage, the proposed system should aim for meeting the targets described in the table.
2) The bus voltage is for drive system design only and it is not required to consider the voltage source, such as battery packs or boost converters.
Question 76:
We are a group of researchers working on transportation and wireless communication. Regarding the FOA, we have a question about AOI 10 “Enabling Vehicle and Infrastructure Connectivity”:
For AOI 10, we have a clarifying question regarding the definition of "connectivity" within the context of this solicitation: Does the solicitation mean to demonstrate the applications of traditional communication methods (DSRC, 5G, etc.), or we can go beyond those to explore other methods to enhance connectivity, such as exploiting the electromagnetic physical properties of the wireless signal (e.g., Bluetooth, cell phone, TPMS sensor signal, WiFi) to extract information that can be used to improve vehicle energy consumption? We believe that the latter way can significantly expand the sources of connectivity and can be applied to general vehicles (i.e., those not equipped with DSRC).
Answer 76:
Projects may utilize existing vehicle communications technology (e.g. DSRC, 5G) or propose new communications technology. In either case, the project must research, demonstrate and validate vehicle connectivity to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
Question 77:
I have a question regarding the FY20_VTO_FOA0002197_Amemdment_000001. I noticed that you have the statement “An entity may submit more than one Full Concept Paper and one Full Application to this FOA,”
My question is that I am leading on concept paper (I) from our university UF and join the other concept paper (II) leading by the other university. These two concept papers have interests on different AOIs.
If both of them are accepted for full proposal submission, could I still submit the full proposal led by me from our university and also join the full proposal submission led and submitted by the other university? Or I have to give up one?
Answer 77:
An individual may be a team member on more than one application. This includes serving as the PI on one application and a team member on another one.
Question 78:
Can you confirm that the “Authorization from cognizant Contracting Officer” is not required from FFRDC partners at the concept paper phase?
Answer 78:
That is correct. The authorization from the cognizant contracting officer is not required for concept papers, but is required at the full application stage.
Question 79:
Our team is wondering whether logging trucks fall within the FOA’s classification in area 6a “Off-Road Vehicles”? The forestry industry is mentioned in area 6a, but it is unclear whether the FOA’s intent is toward on-site vehicles or would include vehicles with mixed operation modes (like logging trucks)?
Answer 79:
Logging trucks are not considered off-road vehicles in the context of this AOI.
Question 80:
We are a private company and plan to apply for the "AOI 9: Improving Transportation System Efficiency Through Better Utilization" application. Do we need to partner with other companies from industry, transportation network companies, and/or National Laboratories for the concept paper submission?
Answer 80:
The applicant is not required to fully document the proposed team at the concept paper stage. However, one of the evaluation criteria is "Whether the Principal Investigator (PI) and the Project Team have the skills and expertise needed to execute the project plan." Lack of a team description in the Concept Paper may hinder DOE from fully evaluating your proposed project.
Question 81:
I am writing to find out what the appropriate concept paper template is to follow for the DE-FOA-0002197 "Fiscal Year 2020 Advanced Vehicle Technologies Research" funding opportunity announcement
Answer 81:
A Concept Paper Template is not available for this FOA. Please see section IV.C (page 63) of the FOA for Concept Paper content and form requirements.
Question 82:
Could you please clarify if electric vehicles qualify as eligible alternative fuel vehicles under AOI 13 in FOA-0002197?
Answer 82:
Yes, all alternative fuels listed at https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/, including electricity, qualify under AOI 13 of the FOA.
Question 83:
I’m hoping you might be able to answer a couple questions related to DOE FOA 0002197.
First, will the DOE consider a Concept Paper under an AOI with a request for funding less than the DOE’s anticipated minimum award size for that area?
Second, would DOE look favorably upon a Concept Paper that, while submitted under one AOI, also supports the goals of another AOI?
Answer 83:
1. The anticipated minimum award size identified for an AOI illustrates the minimum amount that DOE anticipates to fund awards selected under that specific AOI. Applicants may propose projects that request less DOE funding than the anticipated minimum award size.
2. Concept papers and full applications for each AOI are reviewed independently of the other AOIs.
Question 84:
One more question – is it possible to switch to another AOI for a full application after submitting a concept paper under one AOI?
Answer 84:
It is allowable, but not
recommended, to submit a concept paper to one AOI and then submit the
corresponding full application to a different AOI.
It is allowable, but not recommended, to submit a concept paper to one AOI and then submit the corresponding full application to a different AOI.
Question 85:
My entity is planning to submit a concept paper in response to VTO FOA DE-FOA-0002197. We’ve obtained DUNS number and we’re in the process of SAM registration. Validation from IRS etc. is complete. We’re fully aware that in order to receive the award, the entity must be registered in SAM, among other requirements.
My question is – if we’re unable to complete the SAM registration verification process before the concept paper deadline (Feb 21) then can we still submit the concept paper? We’re of course 100% confident that before submitting the final application (if encouraged) we’ll have completed the SAM registration. We also have the EERE account setup.
Answer 85:
SAM registration is encouraged but not required prior to submission of the concept paper.
Question 86:
What reporting requirements (e.g. technical performance data) are required for natural gas and hydrogen projects under AOI 12?
Answer 86:
No special reporting requirements are required for AOI 12; however, the general reporting requirements including those found on page 93 of the FOA, apply.
Question 87:
Regarding the term of “physical implementation and validation” in FOA, what level of implementation and validation is qualified for “physical”. For example, is hardware-in-the-loop (e.g., real vehicle integrated with simulation software) considered as “physical implementation and validation”?
Answer 87:
The “physical implementation and validation” should be whatever is appropriate for the proposed technology. If HIL is appropriate, it can be considered.
Question 88:
Please see our two concepts below. Both of these focus on electrification, hybridization, connectivity, and automation. Because they are in the same area, we would like to submit only one. We have two teams that would support the different concepts. Each concept would have a different team and company (with a little overlap) involved. We need to formulate the team and start on the concept paper asap. Can you review the concepts and advise as to which concept better aligns with DOE’s RFP in this topic area? Any suggestions, guidance, information would be greatly appreciated!
Answer 88:
DOE will not provide recommendations regarding what projects to propose in the concept paper or full application process.
Question 89:
Some of our cost share partners are asking how much of the work for projects funded under AOI 5 or 6a needs to be openly reported. Can cost share partners report their work privately to DOE or does it all need to be reported openly? Our partners want to confirm their cost share contributions can remain proprietary.
Answer 89:
Please refer to Section VI.B.xi of the FOA regarding standard intellectual property provisions for financial assistance awards. These data protection provisions apply to tasks performed with both Federal and recipient cost share. Project status reporting should not include any proprietary data or other information not subject to public release. Private reports will not be accepted.
Question 90:
Can applicants use VW Settlement funds as match?
Answer 90:
Yes. VW settlement funds, as non-federal funds, are allowable as cost share.
Question 91:
We are interested in submitting a concept application for AOI 1B under Battery R&D.
1. We understand that the standard DOE financial assistance intellectual property provisions applicable to the various types of recipients are located at http://energy.gov/gc/standard-intellectual-property-ip-provisions-financial-assistance-awards. Please confirm which IP provisions apply for this particular grant. Is CDSB-115 the correct Set Number?
2. Regarding the performance targets listed below for AOI 1B, please help to clarify the following questions on how the targets are to be measured?
a. What is the operating voltage range used to measure the cycle life with c/3 deep discharge?
b. Please help to clarify more details on how the calendar life should be measured?
Answer 91:
The IP sets would depend on the type of organization applying (non-profit, small for-profit, or large for-profit). Also, it would be depend if the organization wants to request EPAct Special Data Protection.
The operating voltage for cycle life will be determined by the developer. i.e. The developer will declare their Vmax and Vmin. These values will be used to determine the Specific Energy, Energy Density, as well as the C/3 cycling conditions.
Calendar life will be measured with the cells storage at Vmax. Cells will be subjected to the calendar life test described in United States Advanced Battery Consortium Battery Test Manual for Electric Vehicles: https://www.uscar.org/guest/article_view.php?articles_id=86. The data from this test will be used to estimate calendar life. Procedures for this calculations can be found: https://www.uscar.org/guest/article_view.php?articles_id=659.
Question 92:
Would the inclusion of an existing Fuel Cell technology into a new equipment type (e.g. moving from Light Duty to Medium/Heavy Duty vehicle) be an eligible project type under AOI 12?
If a piece of equipment is manufactured overseas and shipped to the applicant (a US subsidiary), would the cost of the truck be an eligible cost under AOI 12?
Answer 92:
1. Fuel Cell Hydrogen vehicles qualify under AOI 12.
2. To the greatest extent practicable, all equipment and products purchased with funds made available under this FOA should be American-made. Regardless of the equipment's origin, the equipment cost may be allowable subject to the applicable federal cost principles. Please see section IV.I.vi (p. 79) of the FOA for information regarding the purchase of materials and supplies and section IV.I.i (p.77) of the FOA regarding the allowability of costs.
Question 93:
I'm working on a new two-stroke opposed-piston invention which I have not yet patented and I would like to know if what I submit for the initial application is submitted and kept in full confidentiality.
Also, I am a single employee small start up company and I don't have the means to share 20% of a large amount. Can I offer my income as a contribution to the cost share for the project duration?
Finally, for the initial deadline, are all the documents mandatory? Since I don't have very much time to the deadline, could you kindly indicate which one are absolutely necessary?
Answer 93:
Application information is treated as confidential. Please read section VIII.D (p. 95-96) of the FOA for more information regarding the treatment of application information.
Personnel wages and salaries may be utilized as cost share for the project.
Question 94:
If for the cost share it says 0%, N/A and N/A, does this mean we cannot have a cost share?
Answer 94:
The cost share table in Section III.B of the FOA describes the minimum cost share requirements for entities applying as the prime applicant. The N/A means that type of entity is not eligible to apply to the topic, so the cost share is not applicable.
For example, in AOI 1a, eligibility is restricted to Universities and Colleges. In this case, FFRDCs and all other types of entities are not allowed to apply as the prime applicant. So the cost share for them is not applicable. The 0% cost share for AOI 1a means neither the eligible university nor their subrecipients would be required to provide cost share.
Question 95:
Our organization is planning to submit a concept paper under AOI 14. Under the section describing Applications Not of Interest, it notes "applications that include rebates or incentives."
Does this mean that it would not be allowable to include applicable state rebates/incentives as part of the prime applicant's cost share, or is this simply noting that the project should not involve creating new incentives or rebates?
Answer 95:
Applications under AOI 14 that include rebates of any kind are not of interest.
Question 95:
Our organization is planning to submit a concept paper under AOI 14. Under the section describing Applications Not of Interest, it notes "applications that include rebates or incentives."
Does this mean that it would not be allowable to include applicable state rebates/incentives as part of the prime applicant's cost share, or is this simply noting that the project should not involve creating new incentives or rebates?
Answer 95:
Applications under AOI 14 that include rebates of any kind are not of interest.
Question 96:
"1. Although no budget is required, from your FAQS sheet, I see that during submission, budget information IS required to process the application. If our team doesn't provide one, will the application process stop until we provide budget information? Can we save/submit without a budget?
2. Are biosketches required at the Concept Paper level? "
Answer 96:
1. Although the Concept Paper itself does not require budget information to be included, the EERE Exchange system will require applicants to enter a requested federal share and cost share. These estimates may be changed when a full application is submitted.
2. Biosketechs or resumes are not required at the concept paper stage.
Question 97:
I have completed word documents of two concept papers for FOA-0002197. I have a company, technology, lab, and team identified for the projects of the two concept papers. I have been working with some government lab(s) to discuss the concepts, and hope to submit today or early tomorrow, after I complete some details. I also noticed a web portal on EERE that seems to allow for inputs of team members, percentage contributions, etc. I am waiting to coordinate those answers with the full team. I was also told that there may be some way to submit concept papers as pdfs directly. If this is true, can I submit a pdf in some way? Or must this EERE portal be used and does it in fact generate a pdf or concept paper?
Answer 97:
All concept papers must be submitted through the EERE Exchange website and must be in pdf format.
Question 98:
I have a few questions as to who can apply to the program. I understand that there is a certain level of qualification and experience expected from the applicants. Can the applicants apply as individuals or does it have to be as a company? Does one person need to be identified as the principle investigator or can it be multiple? Is the PI or other applicants that are part of the company required to work full time on the project? Can multiple people work part time on the project as well as have their existing full time jobs?
Answer 98:
1. Please see section III.A (p. 51) of the FOA for information regarding eligible applicants.
2. A single individual must be identified as the PI.
3. The prime applicant and team members are not required to devote 100% of their time to the project. The work time to be committed by each team member must be described in the budget justification in the full application.
Question 99:
I had a question about the FOA for the AOI 8: lightweight composites for vehicle applications. I was wondering what the percent distributions were for research and development? Is it 100% development of a component or split between research and development.
Answer 99:
There is no set distribution
between research and development (as defined under 2CFR 200.87.)
Applicants should structure their approach to meet the AOI objectives, as appropriate
for the level of maturity for their specific approach.”
There is no set distribution between research and development (as defined under 2CFR 200.87.)
Applicants should structure their approach to meet the AOI objectives, as appropriate for the level of maturity for their specific approach.”
Question 100:
"I am trying to upload the concept paper.
In the FOA it says 3 pages and can include figures, and must be a PDF file.
But when I use the site, it only accepts .doc and no figures.
What am I doing wrong?"
Answer 100:
This FOA (FY20 Advanced Vehicle Technologies Research Funding Opportunity Announcement, DE-FOA-0002917) is configured to only accept pdfs for the concept paper. Make sure you are attempting to upload your concept paper to the correct FOA in EERE Exchange.
Question 101:
For Topic Area 5, non-engine technologies such as emissions treatment systems are listed. Can you confirm that the addition of a pneumatic power delivery system to a natural gas engine would also be eligible as it would also increase efficiency/reduce emissions?
Answer 101:
All engine technologies that increase medium and heavy-duty truck NG/LPG engine efficiencies will be considered. However, Systems that do not directly impact engine efficiency – e.g., improved tires – would not be considered within scope for this AOI.
Question 102:
Are applications that include rebates or incentives acceptable for AOI 3? Would incentives paid under a project resulting from an AOI 3 application be an allowable cost for reimbursement?
Answer 102:
Rebates and incentives may be included in an AOI3 project, but rebates and incentives are not allowable as a project cost.
Question 103:
"On page 55 of the FOA, in column with the heading “Cost Share for Universities and Non-Profits as Prime Applicant” for project 6a, the cost share is listed as 0%.
The question is: Does that mean that the cost share for ALL partner organizations would have a cost share of 0% (including for-profit partners) or is the 0% only for the prime applicant University for that project? "
Answer 103:
For AOI 6a, if the prime applicant is eligible for the reduced cost share and performs at least 50% of the total project work, then the cost share for the entire project, including team members is 0%.
Question 104:
What is to be understood by “Lead Organization Percent” in the EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange portal for submission of the concept paper?
Additionally, is the percent listed there considered final and unalterable if a full application was to be submitted?
Answer 104:
The lead organization percent field in EERE Exchange is an estimate of the percentage of project work to be performed by the lead applicant. This may be changed when the applicant submits a full application.
Question 105:
Is the specified minimum grant $2.5 million mandatory or can it be lower for a project with proper merits?
Answer 105:
The anticipated minimum funding is a guideline to help applicants establish the scope of their project. Applicants are free to submit a proposed project that requests less funding.
Question 106:
Funding Opportunity DE-FOA-0002197 was recently brought to my attention and I was wondering if there was any flexibility with the submission deadline for concept papers?
Answer 106:
The deadline for concept paper
submission cannot be extended.
The deadline for concept paper submission cannot be extended.
Question 107:
"We are a startup focused in the field of Microgrids and Electrification of Transportation.
We have been developing hardware and software solutions for this sector and have ongoing research partnerships with local universities as well as national labs like Lawrence Berkeley National Lab and National Renewable Energy Lab.
We have multiple products that are exact match to the “Areas of Interest” of this FOA but, they are at different stages of development (prototype, fully functional alpha, etc.).
My questions is to find out if this solicitation is the right one for further development of the product or is this one strictly for demonstration of an already complete product.
Please let us know if there is any guidance available on that aspect and we will proceed accordingly."
Answer 107:
Please submit a concept paper to receive a DOE recommendation regarding your proposed project or technology.
Question 108:
1. Is a control number required for the concept paper and if so, how is it generated?
2. Do the formatting instructions for the application apply to the concept paper? If not, what are the formatting requirement for the concept paper?
Answer 108:
1. The control number is generated when the applicant logs into EERE Exchange and begins the Concept Paper submission process. It may be included on the cover page of the Concept Paper or in the footer or header.
2. The formatting instructions for the Concept Paper and Full Application may be found in section IV.A (p. 62) of the FOA.
Question 109:
We are a group of 4 DOE owned national laboratories planning to propose a project with no other contributors in AOI5. Our understanding is that our required cost share contribution will be 0%. Can you please confirm?
Answer 109:
For AOI 5, FFRDCs applying as the prime applicant and providing verification of their non-profit status are eligible for the reduced (0%) project cost share provided they perform at least 50% of the project work as measured by the total project cost. Please see section III.B (p.55-56) of Amendment 0002 of the FOA for more information.
Question 110:
Our organization is planning on submitting a concept paper in response to FOA 0002197.
We would like to ask about the eligibility requirements of the PI / Co-PI.
The only information we were able to find in the FOA document regarding this was:
"Whether the Principal Investigator (PI) and Project Team have the skill and expertise needed to successfully execute the project plan;"
Is any minimum degree level required ?
Are early-career / young researchers accepted / encouraged / discouraged ?
Answer 110:
No minimum degree is required and no applicant is encouraged/discouraged based on their career level. However, DOE will evaluate the skill and expertise of the PI and the project team. Applicants must ensure that the Technical Qualifications and Resources section of the Technical Volume clearly support the relevant qualifications of the PI and the Project Team.
Question 111:
Does an entity need to be registered on Sam.gov to submit a concept paper? Or do you only need to have a completed registration for the full application?
Answer 111:
Registration in SAM, Grants.gov and Fedconnect is not required to
submit a concept paper. However, it is
recommended that applicants register at these sites as soon as possible given
the time it takes to complete the registrations.
Registration in SAM, Grants.gov and Fedconnect is not required to submit a concept paper. However, it is recommended that applicants register at these sites as soon as possible given the time it takes to complete the registrations.
Question 113:
"May I know what time tomorrow is the deadline for the submission of the Concept Paper under the VTO-FOA-0002197?
Sorry, if the details are mentioned in the FoA and if I am missing it. Thanking all in advance,
Sincerely and with regards, "
Answer 113:
Concept papers are due at 5:00 pm EST on 2/21/2020.
Question 114:
"Our office is preparing a concept paper to submit for AOI 14 for the DOE FOA number 0002197. We have approximately 8 partners who have expressed support for the project and have committed to assisting should it move forward.
Can we include a one page letter of support from each partner beyond the 4 pages allowed (cover page and technical description)? Or should we list them in the body of the concept paper?"
Answer 114:
The concept paper is limited to a cover page and 3 pages of content, so letters of support should not be included. It is acceptable to list the proposed team in the content section of the concept paper.
Question 115:
Does the Concept Paper require an abstract?
Answer 115:
The concept paper does not require an abstract.
Question 116:
I am assisting a research team in applying, as the lead, from a State university to AOI #1a. Our percentage of the effort is estimated to be 40%. Does our application have any requirement for cost sharing? If so, at what percentage of total project costs
Answer 116:
For AOI 1a, a university must perform at least 50% of the project work to be eligible for the reduced cost share of 0%.
Question 117:
In section III.E of the FOA document it states that for FFRDCs to be sub recipients on the proposed project, an authorization must be submitted with the application. Is this referring to the full application or the concept paper or both?
Answer 117:
The FFRDC authorization must be submitted with the full application.
Question 118:
Does the concept paper require the submitter not to be the PI? Or does the university business office have to submit the concept paper?
Answer 118:
Submission is up to the discretion of the submitting
organization.
Submission is up to the discretion of the submitting organization.
Question 119:
Can you please point us to additional information related to Special Data Protection under EPAct? We’ll evaluate whether this is something we need to request, or not.
Also, can you please let us know which IP provisions apply if we do request Special Data Protection, and which apply if we do not?
Answer 119:
The standard Intellectual Property Provisions are at this link: https://www.energy.gov/gc/standard-intellectual-property-ip-provisions-financial-assistance-awards
A large business who elects data protection would have set CDLB-115, and without data protection would have set CLB-115. When you review both sets of provisions, compare “Rights in Data – Programs Covered under Special Data Statutes” (in CDLB-115) against “Rights in Data – General” (in CLB-115). EPAct data protection allows a Financial Assistance Recipient and DOE to negotiate a set of data resulting from the project that the Recipient can keep protected for a defined period of years and a set of data that the Recipient will report on.
Question 120:
Can software license costs associated with performing a project be counted toward the required cost share?
Answer 120:
Please refer to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 31 for For-Profit entities for allowable costs.
Question 121:
Can trucks deployed under AOI 12 operate under a special/experimental permit (i.e. not be the final homologated design)?
Answer 121:
If the vehicles are currently operating under a special permit, they may be considered compliant. Please note that for this AOI, engine/vehicle conversion systems must be compliant with all applicable Federal and state safety and emissions standards for the states in which they are intended to operate. New (original equipment manufacturer, or OEM) factory-produced alternative fuel vehicles or converted vehicles that have been up-fitted by OEM authorized/warranted Qualified Vehicle Modifiers (QVMs) are strongly preferred.
Question 122:
" I have a question on the timing of the funding payment if the application is accepted.
The budget period is listed below. Would the funding for a budget period occur at the beginning of that period or at the end of the period?
At the start of the project, would funding for period 1 be made upfront when the project begins? Or, would funding for period 1 be made at the end of the 15 month period?
Budget Period Budget Period Length
1 15 months
2 12 months
3 12 months
4 12 months "
Answer 122:
Funding is obligated at the beginning of the budget period, so funds are available for reimbursement of project expenses as soon as the project begins.
Question 123:
1) For AOI 14, can funding be used for outreach and education efforts encouraging EV adoption? Can outreach and education efforts encouraging EV adoption be used as cost share? Must all projects deploy vehicles or charging stations?
2) For AOI 14, if the project’s geographical deployment area will be determined based on state-funded grant program which ensures they meet certain criteria (and cost share funding from the State), then the exact electric vehicle and charging station deployment types and locations will be unknown at the time of application. Therefore, the specifics must be determined during the project using the proposed allocation of funding towards vehicles and charging stations. Is this allowable, or would it be viewed as an incentive which is not permitted?
3) For AOI 14, if the intent is “to create an enduring local ecosystem in a given geography to support increased business and consumer use of electric vehicles”, wouldn’t any electric vehicle operating in the ecosystem help promote this (i.e., used 100% for the project scope) even if an EV was used partially for ride hailing services and partially for personal use?
4) For AOI 14, if a project’s deployment of EVs, Level 2 or DCFC charging infrastructure is in a state or utility territory that is offering an incentive, would that incentive not be counted as cost share? If not, what motivation does the project have to take advantage of that incentive?
Answer 123:
1) Funding may be used for outreach and education efforts. The costs for outreach and education efforts may be used as cost share provided the efforts are consistent with the narrative in the AOI and the costs meet the requirements of 2 CFR 200. All projects must deploy vehicles and/or charging stations.
2) The question is unclear. If you are asking whether an application may be submitted without knowing the location of charging stations, the answer is yes, but no funds could be used until the NEPA process for those locations are completed. Additionally, please note that applicants must have a letter from each third party contributing cost share stating that the third party is committed to providing a specific minimum dollar amount of cost share.
3) Regardless of the intent, electric vehicles used under this AOI must be used 100%.
4) Applications that include rebates or incentives are not of interest.
Question 124:
Can a (non-prime) partner be added to the team during the full proposal if they were not included in the concept paper submission?
Answer 124:
Yes, new team members may be added in the full application.
Question 125:
The question I have is the FOA states that there is a limit on the project share (10%) for the FFRDC. But I heard from Tony that this limit applies only to DoE laboratories, but not to non-DoE laboratories. Can you clarify if that is the case and if so, can our funding share be more than 10% in our proposal (if we get to submit a full proposal)? I heard that you are the program executive for this effort, hence the request.
Answer 125:
For this AOI, participation as a subrecipient for all federal laboratory types is limited to 10% of total project costs.
Question 126:
When will we know the outcome of this application?
Answer 126:
As stated in the FOA, Concept Paper recommendations are anticipated to be sent on 3/17/2020.
Question 127:
Is there a complete set of Terms and Conditions associated with the award that is available for review?
Answer 127:
The EERE Model Cooperative Agreement is at this link:
https://www.energy.gov/eere/funding/eere-funding-application-and-management-forms
This is a sample and the actual terms and conditions of those selected for awards could differ.
Question 128:
Does VTO discourage project teams from proposing less than the anticipated minimum award size for any one individual award (Fed Share)? In order words, would proposing less than the anticipated minimum amount lower the probability of VTO awarding a project?
Answer 128:
The anticipated minimum and maximum award sizes are provided to assist applicants in establishing the scope of their proposed projects. These are not hard limits, so an application for less than the minimum anticipated award size would be considered.
Question 129:
"Are there any restrictions on including Letters of Support from community, state or Federal elected officials that are supportive?
For AOI 12, can applicants include a US Manufacturing Plan even if one is not required? (Will the web portal allow that and if so will it be reviewed and taken into consideration?)"
Answer 129:
Letters of support are not considered as part of the merit review process and are not a component of the application process. However, letters of commitment for confirming cost share are considered.
As stated on page 74 of the FOA, applicants to AOIs 12-16 are not required to submit a manufacturing plan. However, they must submit a placeholder document in order for the application to be accepted in Exchange.
Question 130:
Is a Concept Paper required to be submitted in order to submit a Full Application?
Answer 130:
Yes, an applicant must submit a concept paper in order to submit a full application.
Question 132:
If an overseas office lends office, lab or manufacturing support--- does that location need to be included in the Environmental Questionnaire? Or can it be omitted because it is not in the U.S.?
Answer 132:
Overseas locations of work need to be included in the environmental questionnaire.
Question 133:
VTO FOA 2197 AOI 10 - The language below is unclear to me, so I have a couple of questions.
"Vendors/contractors may not provide cost share. Any partial donation of goods or services is considered a discount and is not allowable..."
"Allowable in-kind contributions include, but are not limited to: the donation of volunteer time or the donation of space or use of equipment. "
Questions:
1. Does this mean that equipment, vehicles, services are only allowed to be used as cost share if the entire value of the good/service is contributed? As an example, if our proposal included donated staff time and equipment, 100% of each would have to be donated and not just a portion?
2. What do you mean by vendors/contractors cannot provide cost share? How do you define a vendor/contractor, and how do you differentiate between a vendor/contractor and a project participant that is eligible to contribute cost share?
Answer 133:
Third party contributions of labor or equipment must meet the definition identified in 2 CFR 200 §200.96 and the criteria set forth in 2 CFR 200 §200.306.
Applicants should be aware that DOE will have an interest in real property or equipment contributed as cost share proportional to the Federal participation in the project as defined in 2 CFR § 200.910.360(d).
Question 135:
We would like to request a debrief for the following proposal.
Answer 135:
As described in your notification, the notification letter comprises the sole debriefing the DOE will provide with regard to your Concept Paper.
Question 136:
I just read this sentence in the letter.
Receipt of a discouragement notification regarding your concept paper does not prohibit your organization from submitting a full application in accordance with the instructions and requirements contained within the FOA.
I am assuming we can still submit a full application based on the feedback. Please confirm.
Answer 136:
Yes you are eligible to submit a full application even through your concept paper was discouraged.
Question 137:
How many applicants were encouraged to submit Full Applications for AOI 12?
Answer 137:
Yes you are eligible to submit a full application even through your concept paper was discouraged.
Question 138:
I have decided to switch institutes after I have submitted the concept paper in response to this call. We are encouraged to submit a full proposal. I wonder if it is okay to change the leading organization when I submit the full proposal, as I will propose to start the project after I move to the new university.
Answer 138:
A concept paper and full application may not be transferred from one institution to another after it has been submitted to DOE.
Question 139:
We have a project team composed of four FFRDCs, three of which are non-profits. If the prime applicant (a non-profit FFRDC) is only performing 25% of the work, but the total work performed by non-profit FFRDCs is 75% of total project costs, does our team qualify for the reduced cost share of 0%? Or (per Question 61) do we need to form an unincorporated consortia with a non-profit to hold the role of prime recipient to meet the reduced cost share requirements?
Answer 139:
Only unincorporated consortiums with a non-profit as the prime recipient are allowed to aggregate the work of other non-profits within the consortium to meet the 50% project work requirement for eligibility for the 0% cost share.
Question 140:
Thank you very much for your encouragement of submitting a full proposal in response to the subject FOA.
I have a quick question regarding the budget. We proposed a $1.5 million budget for 3 years in our concept paper, which is lower than the anticipated minimum award size $3.75 million as listed in the FOA for AOI 8. Will our smaller budget disqualify our proposal?
We would appreciate your clarification on this matter.
Answer 140:
The anticipated minimum funding is a guideline to help applicants establish the scope of their project. Applicants are free to submit a proposed project that requests less funding.
Question 141:
Would you have a sample full application that we could review that could help us prepare for our grant application?
Answer 141:
DOE does not have sample applications for applicants to use.
Question 142:
We are in the process of filling out the required documents to provide the Full Application. Unfortunately, the link for the SF-424 Applicant form template does not work. Please provide us the correct template for the form.
Answer 142:
The SF-424 form works with the current version of Adobe Reader. Please download the current version to complete this template. Older 3rd party utilities may not be able to open the file.
Question 142:
Can you please provide clarification around the definition of a third party? In the FOA it is defined two ways:
- P. 57: entities that do not have a role in performing the scope of work
- P. 74: a party other than the organization submitting the application
According to the second definition, every participant (including a participant with a role in the scope) other than the applicant is considered a third party, but according to the first, only entities not performing a role in the scope are third parties.
Answer 142:
According to 2 CFR 200.96, third-party in-kind contributions are those “contributed by non-Federal third parties”. While page 57 splits out subrecipients and third parties, subrecipients are also considered to be third parties. With that in mind, we acknowledge that the definition on page 74 is more clear and we commend you for reading the FOA so closely.
Question 144:
1. Is the deadline for grant proposals in response to DE-FOA-0002197 going to be extended?
2. Will AEA need to submit an FFRDC-FWA form? We are not working with a National Nuclear Security Administration Organization or other Federally Funded Research and Development Center for our proposal.
3. Are In-kind contributions from vendors of EVSE allowed as a cost match for this grant?
4. Specifically, can the labor of an EVSE vendor offered as an In-kind contribution be used as a match for this grant if it is in direct support of grant/project objectives?
5. Do all sub-recipients need to fill out an SF-LLL lobbying activities disclosure form, or is it just for sub recipients that need to fill out a budget justification?
6. Regarding the filename, can you clarify whether the control number is supposed to include the hyphen? The example on page 63 seems to indicate we should not include a hyphen. “ControlNumber_LeadOrganization_Project_Part_1
7. Electric utilities and other key stakeholders will need to invest time into an EV corridor development plan, as we proposed in or concept paper. Likely some of their activities will occur before summer 2020, when EERE is expected to provide notice and negotiate with recipients regarding the grant. Can these costs be used as cost match?
Answer 144:
1. EERE is currently fully operational and does not anticipate an adverse operational impact due to COVID-19 in the near term that will necessitate extending FOA deadlines at this time. However, EERE understands that the situation with applicants varies greatly and may change quickly and will continue to monitor and evaluate further as the situation evolves.
2. An FWA is only required if an FFRDC is participating on the project team.
3. Please see 2 CFR 200.306 regarding cost sharing allowability
4.Please see 2 CFR 200.306 regarding cost sharing allowability
5. All subrecipients are required to submit an SF-LLL form.
6. As described on page 65 of the FOA, applicants are not required to follow a specific file naming convention other than to ensure the file has the correct file type extension. The control number is not required to be included in the file name. If referenced inside the document itself, the control number should include the hyphen.
7. Cost incurred prior to award may be allowed as pre-award costs (and cost share) subject to the requirements listed in section IV.I.ii (p. 77) of the FOA and approval of the contracting officer.
Question 145:
Regarding the attached letter (Encourage to Apply) for this funding opportunity.
I like to know what is the local match share/split? Is it a 20/80% or 50/50%?
Answer 145:
The cost share requirements for each AOI in the FOA are listed on pages 55-56 of the FOA.
Question 146:
I am writing to see if there is a cap on the value of capital equipment that may be purchased under DE_FOA-0002197. For example, our previous NSF award limited capital asset purchases to $5k or less.
Answer 146:
There are no caps on the dollar value of capital equipment purchased for any AOI in this FOA.
Question 147:
For the FY20 ADVANCED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES RESEARCH FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT, AOI 15 currently shows a cost share of 50 percent for all contracting entities, including not-for-profit. As per previous projects, will DOE accept a cost share of 80 percent DOE funding and 20 percent Contractor (not-for-profit majority) cost share for projects that are focused on training?
Answer 147:
No. The cost share for all applicants for AOI 15 is 50%.
Question 148:
Our company anticipates including FFRDC’s as participants in our proposed programs. Please clarify whether a Field Work Proposal and letter from the cognizant Contracting Officer are needed for the full application submission.
Answer 148:
As noted on page 73 of the FOA, a Field Work Proposal and letter from the cognizant Contracting Officer are required for each FFRDC participating on the project team.
Question 149:
Does the participation/ project cost of a Clean Cities Coalition Stakeholder count towards the 30% project cost minimum for AOI 15?
Answer 149:
The participation of Clean Cities Coalitions is measured by project cost and at least 30% of the project work (as measured by project costs) must be performed by one or more Clean Cities team members. This requirement is in addition to the cost share requirement of 50%.
Question 150:
We are trying to clarify when a Commitment Letter is required under this call. It is clear that a Commitment Letter is required when providing Cost Share. However, on pages 82-84 of the call, it references project partners and key participants validating resources by letters of commitment. Please explain if this means that all partners/subrecipients are required to provide Letters of commitment or if this is only required under certain criteria.
Answer 150:
As noted, letters of commitment are required for subrecpients providing cost share. They may also be submitted by subrecipients not providing cost share as evidence of the organization's commitment to the project.
Question 151:
"The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) an FFRDC for the US Department of Energy is working on a proposal as a subrecipient in response to the subject FOA.
Is the funding portion for PNNL going to be awarded directly under an FWP (Field Work Proposal)?
Thank you for your response."
Answer 151:
As described in section II.B.ii (p. 51) of the FOA, FFRDCs will be funded directly by DOE using the FWP process.
Question 152:
In one instance it sounds like 20/80% then the following note sounds like 50%.
Also please confirm that the local share match cannot come from a federal source
“The cost share must be at the required percentages identified in the table below and is calculated based on the total allowable costs (i.e., the sum of the Government share, including FFRDC costs if applicable, and the recipient share of allowable costs equals the total allowable cost of the project) and must come from non-federal sources unless otherwise allowed by law. (See 2 CFR 200.306 and 2 CFR 910.130 for the applicable cost sharing requirements.)”
Answer 152:
The required cost share varies by Area of Interest in this
FOA. Please specify the Area of Interest
that you will be applying to.
The required cost share varies by Area of Interest in this FOA. Please specify the Area of Interest that you will be applying to.
Question 153:
We are an FFRDC and working on a submission for AOI10. On pages 52 and 53 of the call, it stipulates that the limit for FFRDC participation is 25% of total project costs. We cannot find a clear definition in the call of what to include in ‘total project costs’. Would the total be all Federal and Non-Federal (Cost Share) costs or just Federal costs?
Answer 153:
Total project costs are the total of the federal share and non-federal share of project costs.
Question 154:
Can you provide a definition of a Clean Cities Team Member(s)? It is not clear if there is a difference between Coalition Stakeholders and Clean Cities Team Members.
Answer 154:
Clean Cities Coalitions are designated by DOE. A list of these designated coalitions may be found at https://cleancities.energy.gov/coalitions/designation/
Question 155:
I’m looking into the grant FOA DE-FOA-0002197, and specifically area AOI 14: Electric Vehicle and Charging Community Partner Projects. Page 39 states:
For a charging station installer and operator like Tesla, what data is required to be shared? The definition is rather broad, and wonder what the extent and limitations of this requirements are.
Answer 155:
The term “sharable data” is broad and the definition will vary with each specific project scenario and purpose. The collection of real world data from demonstrations is necessary to evaluate how to scale those demonstrations to the next level. The applicant must propose the data to be collected, the plan to protect what data needs protecting (PII, for example) and the plan for sharing the data with the DOE National Laboratory.
Question 156:
Q1. Is the topic on road based vehicle only? Is, electric aviation vehicle possible?
Q2. If one has an electric traction drive manufacturer but not working on road-based vehicles, can they be part of the manufacturing support?
Q3. Can the team for above topic have foreign nationals for the project (e.g., students in the university; researchers in the industry)? Or, we have to have US citizens only for the project?
Q4. Does the “Export Control” copied from the FOA applies for the Topic AOI 2?
Answer 156:
1 - The topic is focused on meeting the technical targets, and while they are intended for on-road vehicles other applications can be proposed provided that the project is focused on achieving the technical targets described.
2 - We do not limit or disallow participation in regards to manufacturing support.
3 - Foreign nationals are allowed to work on the project subject to the foreign national access requirements on page 89 of the FOA.
4 - The Export Control requirements on p. 100 of the FOA apply to all AOIs in the FOA.
Question 157:
For AOI 16, can we set the performance period to be 27 months (i.e., just period 1 and period 2)?
Answer 157:
A single project period of 27 months would not be acceptable. In this case, it should be structured as a 1st budget period of 15 months and a second budget period of 12 months.
Question 158:
Would you be able to let me know who else submitted concept letters specific to AOI 13?
Answer 158:
DOE does not release the names of applicants to our FOAs.
Question 159:
May we start counting cost share as of the date of the Notice of Award, not the actual award date?
Answer 159:
Costs incurred prior to the award date may be allowed as pre-award costs (and cost share) subject to the requirements listed in section IV.I.ii (p. 77) of the FOA and approval of the contracting officer.
Question 160:
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), a DOE Federally Funded Research & Development Center (FFRDC) is putting together a proposal for topic area 6a (Research to Transform the Efficiency of Off-Road Vehicles) on VTO FOA 2197 (full FOA attached), and will be partnering w/a University. PNNL will be the Lead/Prime Recipient should this proposal be selected for award. But we do not see in the FOA how subrecipients of PNNL will be funded. Will they be funded separately by DOE, or will all funding for the proposed project flow to PNNL, to disperse to any subrecipients?
Answer 160:
In the case where the FFRDC is the prime recipient, all funding will flow to the lab with the lab then disbursing funds to their subrecipients.
Question 161:
"1. If a FFRDC is a subrecipient to a University, does the FFRDC have to also fill out a Budget Justification (in addition to the Field Work Proposal)?
2. Who should the Letter of Authorization from the FFRDC be addressed to?"
Answer 161:
"1. If the FFRDC will be expending $250K or more or at least 25% of the total project work, they must submit a subrecipient budget justification in addition to the FWA.
2. The letter of Authorization should be addressed to the FOA Contracting Officer, Susan Miltenberger."
Question 163:
Re “1” below, one of our large industry team member is GE and their unit GE Aviation has overlap with the electric traction drive for aviation application. So, can electric aviation be our application focus as well since it provides us a strong T2M partner as well? We will of course target DOE metrics stated in the FOA.
Thanks re “2”.
Re “3”, please note that we are a public university and freedom of publication is important. We also have students that come from abroad that work towards their PhDs here. What specifically, do we have to do regarding “3” and “4”? We appreciate guidance from DOE and any help in this regard. The technology we are proposing is primarily associated with UIC and GE IPs. We have no national lab in our team currently. At UIC, both myself (lead PI) and my co-PI are both US Citizens.
Answer 163:
1. DOE will not provide a specific recommendation regarding your proposed technology. The concept paper recommendation is the only guidance you will receive.
3. If a selected applicant (including any of its subrecipients or subcontractors) anticipates involving foreign nationals in the performance of its award, the selected applicant may be required to provide to DOE with specific information about each foreign national to ensure compliance with the requirements for access approval.
4. To ensure compliance with Export Controls, it is the prime recipient’s responsibility to determine when its project activities trigger Export Controls and to ensure compliance. You may want to contact the University Legal Office for more information regarding application of Export Controls.
Question 164:
We were encouraged to submit a full application for this FOA. I have two questions
(1) We request a budget of $2.4million in the concept paper. Could we increase the budget to $2.7 million in the full application? Or we need to stick to what we proposed in the concept paper.
(2) Could we add one more team member?
Answer 164:
1. Yes, the requested funding for your proposed project may be changed (increased or decreased) in the full application
2. Yes, the applicant may add, remove or change team members between the concept paper phase and the full application phase.
Question 165:
I am working on a proposal for DE-FOA-0002197. In the section of the FOA where it described the technical volume (pages 68-71) it states that 1 SMART technical milestone is required per year and one regular milestone per quarter. However the SOPO template calls for one SMART technical milestone per quarter. Also, the technical volume indicates that the Go/No-go decision points count as a SMART milestone for that quarter, but the SOPO suggests that 4 SMART milestones plus on Go/no-go decision is required. Since the technical volume should be consistent with the SOPO, can you clarify what exactly is needed for milestones and go/no-go decisions?
Answer 165:
The SOPO template is the primary document for documenting milestones and go/no-go criteria. Please use the SOPO template rather than the technical volume to document these.
Question 166:
Is there a possibility to be more specific on the definitions for the AOI 14: Electric Vehicle and Charging Community Partner Projects? The data reporting requirements really define whether we apply for this funding. Is it possible to setup a call and discuss?
Answer 166:
This email address is our sole means of communication regarding FOA questions. Please submit your questions to this email address.
Question 167:
I have clarification questions related to the requirement to provide a separate budget for any vendor/subrecipient with a value above of $250,00. Please see the scenarios below -
Scenario 1: A vendor provides equipment only, and it costs $500,000. Doe that expense remain in the equipment tab, and is a separate budget needed?
Scenario 2: A vendor provides equipment and labor, and it costs $500,000 combined. Should the labor or equipment be separated between the contractual and equipment tabs and is a separate budget needed if the labor costs are less than $250,000?
Answer 167:
1. : A contractor, as defined in 2 CFR 200 § 200.330, should be accounted for in the “Contractual” tab for the entity (prime or sub-recipient) purchasing the equipment. A quote is required for all equipment with a price over $50,000. Budget justifications are not required for contractors. Applicants should be aware that DOE will have an interest in real property or equipment acquired or contributed as cost share for the award proportional to the Federal participation in the project as defined in 2 CFR § 200.910.360 and 2 CFR 200.313.
2. A contractor, as defined in 2 CFR 200 § 200.330, should be accounted for in the “Contractual” tab for the entity (prime or sub-recipient) purchasing the equipment and services. A quote must be provided for total project costs of $250,000 or more and equipment with a price of $50,000 or more. The cost of the labor and the cost of the equipment should be noted separately in the section under “Purpose and Basis of Cost”. Applicants should be aware that DOE will have an interest in real property or equipment acquired or contributed as cost share for the award proportional to the Federal participation in the project as defined in 2 CFR § 200.910.360 and 2 CFR 200.313.
Question 168:
I have a follow-on question regarding funding mechanisms to sub-recipients on this FOA. For our proposal, PNNL as an FFRDC is partnering w/a University that already has existing DOE projects w/VTO, that were funded directly to the University. Should PNNL’s proposal be selected for award, is there any possibility the University would be funded directly by DOE vs. flowing through PNNL and being subcontracted out? I ask because a subcontract requirement would greatly increase the overhead/administrative costs that PNNL will have to include on the proposed project, which could be avoided if the University was funded separately by DOE on the effort.
Answer 168:
Universities participating as subrecipients will not be funded separately by DOE. They should be included for funding as a subrecipient in the FFRDC budget.
Question 170:
We were recently awarded a non-provisional patent for a drivetrain assembly that we believe will improve engine efficiency and thus improve mileage as well as reduce emissions. We would like to perform a technical assessment and, if positive, construct a prototype for testing.
Having just now seen the announcement on 2197, we would like to know if it is too late for us to pursue this DOE opportunity. If it isn’t too late, do we first submit a concept paper?
If it is too late, would we be able to submit an unsolicited application?
Answer 170:
The deadline for submitting a Concept Paper to FOA 2197 has expired. Unsolicited proposals may be submitted at: https://www.netl.doe.gov/business/unsolicited-proposals
Question 171:
We got the letter of encouragement for submitting a full proposal for AOI11. My question is can we change the partnering transit agency to a different one from the transit agency we proposed in our concept paper? Can we add new partners?
Answer 171:
It is allowable to change or add team members between the concept paper and the full application.
Question 172:
"1. As proposed in the concept paper, we would like to demonstrate the use of EVs in various private business applications, such as a rental fleet, taxi fleet, or shuttle bus. The deployment of these vehicles will also be used to test and collect data on the EV charging corridor that is proposed. Can DOE clarify if it is allowable to: 1) name private businesses as sub recipients, and 2) use the 50% private business investment in the EVs as cost share?
2. Electric utilities will be investing time and materials that we would like to use as Third-Party cost match and we have the following specific questions:
a. Are estimated personnel and fringe costs associated with EV Corridor Development Planning allowable as cost share?
b. Are estimated personnel and fringe costs associated with EVSE site development allowable as cost share?
c. Are equipment costs associated with EVSE site development, for example a transformer upgrade, allowable as cost share?
i. Can you confirm the accounting treatment listed in Appendix A, DOE Financial Assistance Rules 2 CFR Part 200 as amended by 2 CFR Part 910, (B)(4) on page 105 of the FOA is what should be applied to this equipment?"
Answer 172:
1. Private businesses may participate as subrecipients
2. These private businesses may contribute cost share
3. Please review 2 CFR 200.306 and 2 CFR 910.130 for allowability of cost share. DOE cannot make specific determinations of cost share allowability absent receipt of a full application. If selected for negotiations potentially leading to award, DOE will review the and negotiate the proposed cost share.
Question 173:
Just to confirm, the response below points us to IP provisions related to large business (with and without data protection). We are a small for-profit business, though our co-applicant is Argonne National Lab. Do the large business IP provisions apply to us, even though we are a small business (approx. 60 employees)?
Answer 173:
For small domestic business, please review CSB-115 and CDSB-115 at https://www.energy.gov/gc/standard-intellectual-property-ip-provisions-financial-assistance-awards
Question 174:
One follow-up question, also to be sure we’re considering the proper set of IP provisions. We are submitting a proposal under DE-FOA-0002197, AOI 1B under Battery R&D. As it relates to the IP provisions chart, are we applying for a “Cooperative Agreement” or a “Grant”? In this context, I do not understand the difference. I thought we were applying for a Grant, though the guidance below points us to the IP provisions for a Cooperative Agreement. Maybe I’m mistaken. Please clarify."
Answer 174:
As stated in section II.B.i (p.
50) of the FOA, DOE intends to use cooperative agreements.
As stated in section II.B.i (p. 50) of the FOA, DOE intends to use cooperative agreements.
Question 176:
Will you please confirm if Toll/Transportation Development Credits (TDCs) are an eligible source for a local match?
Answer 176:
Transportation Development Credits are not allowable as cost share for this FOA.
Question 178:
For the grant application to AOI 14: Electric Vehicle and Charging Community Partner Projects, are applications eligible if no data on the DCFC projects is shared? If not, what is the minimum DOE wants to see?
Answer 178:
Application eligibility is not contingent on the proposed data sharing plan. However, the Technical Review Criteria in
section V.A.iv of the FOA may include criterion or subcriterion regarding any
proposed data sharing plans. The extent
and limitations on sharable data is dependent upon each specific project
scenario and purpose.
Application eligibility is not contingent on the proposed data sharing plan. However, the Technical Review Criteria in section V.A.iv of the FOA may include criterion or subcriterion regarding any proposed data sharing plans. The extent and limitations on sharable data is dependent upon each specific project scenario and purpose.
Question 179:
Can you give any examples of reporting data or metrics that will be required for ‘AOI 12 Gaseous Fuels’ during the project period?
Answer 179:
For awarded projects under AOI 12, metrics and data specific to the proposed project should be provided. These include, but are not limited to Energy Efficiency improvement data and metrics, Emissions data, Refueling data, Maintenance costs, Operating Costs.
Question 180:
We have a question regarding area of interest (AOI) #15, Open Topic, for the USDOE Clean Cities related funding opportunity announcement, (FOA) Number: DE-FOA-0002197.
In our careful review of the description under AOI 15, we did not see any guidance language regarding whether requests for federal support for actual equipment, including EVSE or other refueling/recharging station infrastructure and/or vehicles, along with installation expenses, are either eligible or not eligible categories of federal support. We note that these specific expenses were not eligible for support in the 2019 version of this FOA under the open topic AOI. In our review, we also did not see any language regarding whether this category of expense is suggested, encouraged, or allowed by discouraged. We also did not see whether this type of expense is allowed as cost share for budgeting purposes.
In light of eligibility rules for equipment and installation in 2019 was discussed, we believe it is important to explicitly clarify this question of eligibility for equipment and installation-related expenses in project budgets, including federal share and non-federal match.
Answer 180:
Please see 2 CFR 200.306 for information regarding allowable cost share.
Question 181:
Am kenyan staying in kenya and could like to pilot my engine, can I apply for the grant?
Answer 181:
As stated in section II.A.ii of the FOA, applicants who are individuals must be U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents. In addition, the deadline for submitting a Concept Paper has elapsed.
Question 182:
We have a question regarding area of interest (AOI) #15, Open Topic, for the USDOE Clean Cities related funding opportunity announcement, (FOA) Number: DE-FOA-0002197.
In our careful review of the description under AOI 15, we did not see any guidance language regarding whether requests for federal support for actual equipment, including EVSE or other refueling/recharging station infrastructure and/or vehicles, along with installation expenses, are either eligible or not eligible categories of federal support. We note that these specific expenses were not eligible for support in the 2019 version of this FOA under the open topic AOI. In our review, we also did not see any language regarding whether this category of expense is suggested, encouraged, or allowed by discouraged. We also did not see whether this type of expense is allowed as cost share for budgeting purposes.
In light of eligibility rules for equipment and installation in 2019 was discussed, we believe it is important to explicitly clarify this question of eligibility for equipment and installation-related expenses in project budgets, including federal share and non-federal match.
Answer 182:
Please see 2 CFR 200.306 for information regarding allowable cost share.
Question 183:
We (BNL) are participating in a submission, not as Lead, whereby our budget is under the 250K threshold. Is an FWP required from BNL at the time of submission or expected when and if an award is made?
Answer 183:
The FWP must be included with the full application at the time of submission.
Question 185:
Could we use a different scientist as the PI?
Answer 185:
Yes it is allowable to change the PI between the concept paper and
full application phases of the process.
Yes it is allowable to change the PI between the concept paper and full application phases of the process.
Question 186:
"I have been working on the DE-FOA-0002197 with Argonne National Lab, a city in Indiana, and a stakeholder. The stakeholder registered as the prime and submitted the concept letter. However, they have asked to step down as prime. They are still participating, but as a partner. How do we get the prime changed?
Is there a form or person we can contact to get this switched over?"
Answer 186:
The prime applicant may not be changed between the concept paper and full application phases.
Question 187:
We submitted a concept paper and were encouraged to submit, is it acceptable to change our project title for the full proposal?
Answer 187:
Yes it is allowable to change the title of your proposed project.
Question 188:
"Our area of interest is
AOI 11: Improving Mobility, Affordability, and Energy Efficiency Through Transit
Also, we mentioned a 50/50 split in our Concept Paper (or we entered 50/50 on the website) does that matter if we do a 20/80 split."
Answer 188:
As stated in the FOA on pages 55-56, the minimum required cost share for applicants FOR AOI 11 is 20%. It is allowable to change the proposed cost share between the concept paper phase and the full application phase as long as it meets the minimum requirement.
Question 189:
Would it be possible for you to provide some additional information about what you are looking for with regard to, “A cost analysis of the proposed technologies that validates a reduction in the total cost of ownership” for AOI 6a?
Answer 189:
We are looking for financial analysis to show how the proposed technology reduces the total cost of utilizing the equipment over time. For example, the cost of the proposed system may increase the cost of the equipment, but over time how utilizing the equipment with the system would require less energy for utilization saving $x over time.
Question 190:
What weight does cost share carry with regard to a proposal’s overall responsiveness? Higher education and non-profits have little or no ability to provide cost sharing as high as 50%. The economic of COVID-19 is affecting private sector organizations’ ability to commit to cost-sharing, from a financial perspective complicated by new work-from-home logistics. How will this new economic and work reality be factored into cost share requirements as high as 50%? Will cost share difficulties alone cause a proposal to receive no further consideration as non-responsive? Also, is any consideration being given to extending the deadline again to accommodate this issue?
Answer 190:
1. Cost share is not an evaluation criteria in this FOA,
2. EERE is currently fully operational and does not anticipate an adverse operational impact due to COVID-19 in the near term that will necessitate extending FOA deadlines at this time. However, EERE understands that the situation with applicants varies greatly and may change quickly and will continue to monitor and evaluate further as the situation evolves.
Question 190:
What weight does cost share carry with regard to a proposal’s overall responsiveness? Higher education and non-profits have little or no ability to provide cost sharing as high as 50%. The economic of COVID-19 is affecting private sector organizations’ ability to commit to cost-sharing, from a financial perspective complicated by new work-from-home logistics. How will this new economic and work reality be factored into cost share requirements as high as 50%? Will cost share difficulties alone cause a proposal to receive no further consideration as non-responsive? Also, is any consideration being given to extending the deadline again to accommodate this issue?
Answer 190:
1. Cost share is not an evaluation criteria in this FOA,
2. EERE is currently fully operational and does not anticipate an adverse operational impact due to COVID-19 in the near term that will necessitate extending FOA deadlines at this time. However, EERE understands that the situation with applicants varies greatly and may change quickly and will continue to monitor and evaluate further as the situation evolves.
Question 191:
We're one of the teams encouraged to submit a full application for topic 9. A critical component of our application is utilizing connected vehicle data from automotive OEM partners. Due to COVID-19, one of our key automotive partner teams has shut down for the coming four weeks, making it challenging for us to finalize the details of our engagement, including securing a support/commitment letter. As such, we wanted to inquire whether an extension can be made to accommodate for this unique case? We're also open to any other guidance you can provide.
Answer 191:
EERE is currently fully operational and does not anticipate an adverse operational impact due to COVID-19 in the near term that will necessitate extending FOA deadlines at this time. However, EERE understands that the situation with applicants varies greatly and may change quickly and will continue to monitor and evaluate further as the situation evolves.
Question 192:
I am assisting a professor at Stanford University with the budget justification EERE 335.
Stanford University has IDC and benefit rates agreements with ONR in PDF format.
Since EERE 335 is an Excel spreadsheet, I couldn’t find a way to attach the PDF rates agreement.
I included a link to the rate agreement in the comment section of benefit and IDC tab.
Is it acceptable this way?
Please advise if there’s a way to attach the rate agreement PODF file to this proposal?
Answer 192:
It is acceptable to include a link to the indirect rate agreement on the fringe benefit and IDC tabs.
Question 193:
I’m seeking guidance on the SF-LLL form for the FOA 2197 application. No lobbying will be done in connection with this grant, but it looks like this is a required form. How do you suggest it be completed?
Answer 193:
If no lobbying will be performed, then enter "Not Applicable" or "None" in boxes 10a and 10b of the SF-LLL form.
Question 194:
We will be working with private businesses that provide electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) and develop EVSE sites. Two of these private businesses would like to donate time and material as cost share to support our grant proposal. DOE’s response to a similar question on this matter directed us to review the CFRs. We have done so, and have found the CFRs allow for the recipient to determine whether private businesses such as these can be classified as a third party or as a contractor. We believe the two private parties can be classified as third party, however as the potential cost share is significant, we would like to receive clarification as to whether the cost share as described is allowable. Please let us know if you need additional information to make a determination.
Answer 194:
DOE cannot make specific determinations of cost share allowability absent receipt of a full application. If selected for negotiations potentially leading to award, DOE will review and negotiate the proposed cost share.
Question 195:
Can you confirm that tasks must be contained to a single budget periods? Can tasks cross into two or more budget periods?
This question is specific to AOI12.
Answer 195:
It is allowable for tasks to cross budget periods.
Question 196:
Is the environmental questionnaire required for sub-recipients whose contribution is less than $250K or 25% of the total award costs?
Answer 196:
An environmental questionnaire (EQ) is required for all subrecipients, regardless of the size of their contribution.
Please note that subrecipient locations of work are now included in the lead applicant's EQ. Subrecipients do not have to submit a separate EQ.
Question 197:
RE: requirement " The combined work performed by the Clean Cities Team Member(s) must total to at least 30% of the total project costs."
Our Clean Cities partner has suggested that they may not need 30% of the total costs to complete the project work and that they would prefer more of the project funds go towards the grant. Will applications be considered if Clean Cities partners are less than 30% if the application includes a justification from the Clean Cities partner?
Answer 197:
Applications with less than 30% of the work being performed by Clean Cities coalitions will not be considered.
Question 198:
We need clarification whether GOGO federal labs must provide both a Field Work Proposal and an Authorization Letter.
Per the FAQs
Question 148: Our company anticipates including FFRDC’s as participants in our proposed programs. Please clarify whether a Field Work Proposal and letter from the cognizant Contracting Officer are needed for the full application submission.
Answer 148:
As noted on page 73 of the FOA, a Field Work Proposal and letter from the cognizant Contracting Officer are required for each FFRDC participating on the project team.
What about GOGO labs such as the Army Research Laboratory.
Is a Field Work Proposal and letter required for this type of entity?
If so, where should this information be included in the application portal?
Answer 198:
A field work proposal (FWA) and an authorization letter are required for GOGOs (Government Owned, Government Operated) labs. The authorization letter should be signed by a someone in an appropriate position of authority. There are separate upload "slots" for this FOA in Exchange for the FWA and the authorization letter.
Question 199:
The CFDA number of this FOA is 81.086. Would you please confirm that the corresponding CFDA title to this FOA is indeed “Conservation Research and Development” (not “Renewable Energy Research and Development” (81.087).
Answer 199:
The CFDA title for this FOA is Conservation Research and Development.
Question 200:
One more question, do you have a suggested start date for this proposal?
Answer 200:
Applications may use a start date of 10/1/2020.
Question 201:
I’m writing with a question in response to DOE FOA #DE-FOA-0002197. The budget we are preparing includes vendors in excess of the $250,000 amount at which point the budget justification form says we must provide a quote from these vendors. How should these documents be provided and labeled?
Answer 201:
An upload slot has been created in Exchange for vendor quotes. The uploaded quote must be in pdf format. The Exchange system will automatically rename the file once it is uploaded, so the filename is not important.
Question 202:
Does the budget of the full proposal need to be the same as the concept paper or are we allowed reasonable modifications (+/- 20%)?
The timeline for AOI 11 says the anticipated project period to be 39 months - can the project period be shorter than that? We mentioned the project period to be 30 months in our concept paper.
Answer 202:
1. The applicant may modify the proposed budget between the concept paper phase and full application phase. There is no specific limit as to the magnitude of the change.
2. The project period is provided to assist applicants in establishing the scope and duration of their proposed projects. These are not hard limits and a proposed project may be shorter than 39 months.
Question 203:
"Hope all is well with you under the pandemic situation.
Our team's LOC was accepted (encouraged to apply for a full application) so we are preparing a full application now. One question we have is the following.
In the full application, can we correct our budget proposed in LOC since we found now it is outside of the minimum and maximum federal funding range?
We found it now while we are preparing our full application."
Answer 203:
As noted on page 65 of the FOA, any project costs, including cost share, proposed in the concept paper may be changed when the full application is submitted.
Question 204:
Can you please clarify if letters of collaboration from unfunded partners (that are not subrecipients and are not contributing to cost share) are allowed? If so, in what section would these be included in the submission, with the cost share commitment letters, even though they are not committing cost share?
Answer 204:
This FOA is not accepting letters of collaboration. Only letters of commitment from cost sharing subrecipients are being accepted.
Question 205:
You previously informed proposal applicants for DE-FOA-0002197 that there would be a 2-week extension for the full application submission. We have tried to make the most of this extra time, but with the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to hamper business operations nationally, we’re still facing significant challenges impeding our ability to assemble high-quality proposals in time for the April 28 deadline. With several additional weeks, we believe these issues could be overcome.
Whether or not project partners are directly financially impacted by the situation, every organization involved is struggling to overcome underlying uncertainty in returning to normal operations. An extension would allow more time to assess the budgetary impacts on their organizations and capital planning capacity in project years. It would also allow more time to get the attention of leadership within partner organizations, which is currently pre-occupied with critical irregular operations and contingency planning. Moreover, all project partners still have remote work mandated for the entirety of our organizations, and, though absolutely necessary, remote collaboration continues to hinder progress.
We expect these and other coronavirus-related impacts are affecting other proposal teams, including both private and public sector partners. For these reasons we are asking for another extension on the full application submission beyond the current April 28 deadline.
Answer 205:
EERE is currently fully operational and does not anticipate an adverse operational impact due to COVID-19 in the near term that will necessitate further extending FOA deadlines at this time. However, EERE understands that the situation with applicants varies greatly and may change quickly and will continue to monitor and evaluate further as the situation evolves.
Question 206:
Regarding DE-FOA-0002197, would you please clarify who should be considered as a “key participating team member”. Does it go by the effort of % they put into this project? I have a 15% Research Staff and a 40% Post-doctoral Staff who will be working on this project for my PI (if awarded). Are they qualified to be key participating team members? I need to know if I should include their resumes in the submission process.
Answer 206:
DOE does not prescribe who should be considered a key team member. It is the responsibility of the applicant to make that determination. In general, it can be based on how critical the individual is to the project success. If an individual is determined to be critical to the project, it is advisable to include their resume in the application.
Question 207:
Regarding DE-FOA-0002197, AOI #11, I have two subrecipients in my PI’s proposal. Do they also need to provide a US Manufacturing Plan?
Answer 207:
The lead applicant is required to submit a single manufacturing plan that represents the entire project team.
Question 208:
I have a couple of follow-up questions regarding Special Data Protection.
• When is the scope of any Special Data Protection negotiated, and with whom? I assume this is handled after an award has been granted, and is negotiated with the DOE. But wanted to confirm this is the case.
• We are in the process of preparing our Final Application for submission by the April 28 deadline. Is the information contained in the application public, or is there any way to request that at least certain information remain confidential? We are struggling to convey certain technical ideas while at the same time preserving critical trade secrets of the company. Can you provide any guidance?
Answer 208:
1. Data protection will be negotiated with DOE as part of the award process if an applicant is selected for negotiations potentially leading to award.
2. Application information is not made public. Please see section VIII.D (Treatment of Application Information) on p. 95 of the FOA for more information regarding the inclusion and marking of proprietary information in the application.
Question 209:
Could you please answer my following questions about the FOA? We are applying for AOI1b.
1. If we have support from an auto manufacturer, do we need a letter of support from them for this application?
2. For SF-424, what is the agency's congressional district?
Answer 209:
1. DOE is not accepting letters of support for this FOA. However, a letter of commitment is required for each team member providing cost share to the project.
2. In line 16 of the SF-424, the congressional district is the one in which the applicant is located.
Question 210:
Good evening sir!! We are working on a few proposals for the DOE FOA and are going to have to include (I guess for all of them?) our indirect rate proposal. Per the section below and the first sentence, I am wondering if you know of an approved format? We’ve reviewed numerous files and believe we have everything on one page that lays out what we see as the total expenses for the past year, and the separates those into direct, indirect, unallowable and claimed indirect columns, before making the calculations at the bottom for the actual IDC rate.
*When this option is checked, the entity preparing this form shall submit an indirect rate proposal in the format provided by your DOE contact, or a format that provides the same level of information and which will support the rates being proposed for use in performance of the proposed project. Additionally, any non-Federal entity that has never received a negotiated indirect cost rate, except for those non-Federal entities described in Appendix VII to Part 200—States and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost Proposals, paragraph D.1.b, may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct costs (MTDC) which may be used indefinitely. As described in §200.403 Factors affecting allowability of costs, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs, but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If chosen, this methodology once elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non-Federal entity may apply to do at any time.
Answer 210:
DOE does not provide an approved format for the rate submission that is part of the application. Applicants should use a format of their choice and ensure it clearly and appropriately details the elements that constitute the rate calculations. If selected for negotiations leading to award, the submitted rate calculation will be reviewed and discussed during negotiations.
Question 211:
For question 2, I actually wanted to know what to input for box 16b (Program/Project).
Answer 211:
In line 16b of the SF-424, the congressional district is the one in which the project will be performed. Unless the project will be performed at a location other than the applicant's congressional district, this should be the same as 16a.
Question 212:
Thank you! You mention only letters from subrecipients committing cost share are being accepted. There could be cost share commitments from other organizations involved that are not subrecipients though, correct? A letter would need to be provided from any third part contributing to cost share (ie a party other than the organization submitting the application) per the solicitation. Just wanted to confirm.
Answer 212:
Yes, any third party contributing cost share is required to submit a letter of commitment.
Question 213:
The call states that awards will be made for proposals up to 51 months in length and then states the number of months as 15-12-12-12 for BP1-4. Is it required that the months for each budget period equal these amounts or can a Budget Period be less? For example, for the first Budget Period, does it have to be 15 months in length or can it be 12? If it can be 12, can it start in October 2020, or should it start in January 2021?
Answer 213:
Proposed budget periods must match the period of performance table on page 50 fo the FOA. The proposed project start date should be 10/1/2020.
Question 214:
"
In the Instructions and Summary tab of the supplied budget justification template (attached), are we using the FOA number as the “Award Number” ? Or should we just leave the “Award Number” blank?"
Answer 214:
Proposed budget periods must match the period of performance table on page 50 fo the FOA. The proposed project start date should be 10/1/2020.
Question 215:
In addition to the previous question, I have a couple more:
• For the cost share, if an FFRDC is a subrecipient, then should the non-FFRDC prime recipient make up for that portion of the cost share? e.g. $4M award to small business prime recipient, 10% FFRDC subrecipient amount, 20% cost share. Small business prime recipient makes $1M cost share.
Is this calculation correct?
• Is the SF-424 only required by the prime applicant? Do subrecpients also need to file?
Answer 215:
1. As stated in section II.B.i of the FOA, "The prime recipient is solely responsible for managing cost share contributions by the project team and enforcing cost share obligation assumed by project team members in subawards or related agreements." This means the prime applicant is responsible for negotiating the cost share contributions of each team member.
2. The SF424 is only required to be submitted by the applicant.
Question 216:
"Page 71 of FOA 2197 states the following in the Technical Qualification and Resources section of the Technical Volume:
“Describe the technical services to be provided by DOE/NNSA FFRDCs, if applicable. For multi-organizational or multi-investigator projects, describe succinctly: • The roles and the work to be performed by each PI and Key Participant; • Business agreements between the applicant and each PI and Key Participant; • How the various efforts will be integrated and managed; • Process for making decisions on scientific/technical direction; • Publication arrangements; • Intellectual Property issues; and Communication plans”
Since we are proposing with a National Lab as a subrecipient, is this section applicable to the National Lab/FFRDC as a subrecipient or is it only applicable to FFRDCs who are prime applicants with multi-investigator projects?"
Answer 216:
This language may be broken into two parts.
1. If an FFRDC is participating in the project, describe the technical services they will provide.
2. Regardless of whether an FFRDC is participating, address the requested information regarding multi-organizational or multi-investigator projects.
Question 217:
The reguirement for this application is to have a partner who is an OEM or a Tier 1 Supplier and if possible develop a relationship at ORNL. With the current shut down of business we have been unable to make these contacts. Is it possible to submit a proposal and complete that information when the country is open for business again
Answer 217:
All partners must be identified at the time of submission of the full application.
Question 218:
If a project has two PIs and a separate technical lead; whose name should be listed on the web submittal form under “PI/Technical?”
Answer 218:
The PI or technical lead who has primary responsibility for managing and completing the project should be entered into Exchange. Typically this is the PI for the lead applicant.
Question 219:
We respectfully request a 2-week submittal extension.
Answer 219:
EERE understands that the situation with applicants varies greatly and may change quickly and will continue to monitor and evaluate further as the situation evolves.
Question 220:
We are preparing an application for AOI 13 - Alternative Fuel Proof-of-Concept in New Communities and Fleets. Page 46 of the FOA says that “Applications that use pre-commercial vehicles and light-duty gasoline hybrid electric vehicles” are not of interest. Could you define the phrase “pre-commercial vehicles”? Could you also provide more detail on the definition of “light-duty gasoline hybrid electric vehicles”? Specifically, would a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle be considered a light-duty gasoline hybrid electric vehicle?
Answer 220:
1. “Pre-commercial” in this context means a vehicle that was not available for purchase as of the release date of this solicitation.
2. “Light-duty gasoline hybrid” refers to a vehicle of less than 8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight (light-duty) having a propulsion system that combines an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.
3. Plug-in hybrids would be considered “light-duty gasoline hybrids” in the context of this funding opportunity.
Question 221:
We just recently (Friday) learned of the potential opportunity for submitting an application for a grant under DE-FOA-0002197. I noticed that the deadline for submitting an application is 4/28/2020 - is that for entities who previous submitted a concept paper, or is it still open so that we could submit an application?
Any assistance and additional guidance you could provide in this regard is greatly appreciated.
Answer 221:
The 4/28/2020 deadline for full applications is for those applicants who submitted the required Concept Paper. If you did not submit a Concept Paper by the 2/21/2020 Concept Paper deadline, you will not be allowed to submit a full application.
Question 222:
On page 79 of the subject FOA document, under the section for Technical Qualifications & Resources there is a requirement for IP Issues: Communication Plan. What is meant by Communication Plan? Is this aimed at how the awardee will communicate updates on IP status to DOE or is there a different intent?
Answer 222:
In this context, the communications plan describes how the lead applicant will communicate with other team members and subrecipients. It is not specifically related to IP.
Question 223:
I have a number of questions regarding this program and the potential to qualify for it.
I/we are developing a transit system that uses ultra capacitors instead of batteries to power the transit vehicles in a way that eliminates the need to stop for recharging.
Our energy source is going to be solar from a large array located along the route or at the intersection of two or more routes.
As I interpret the goals, I believe we suit the "new mobility technologies (energy efficient mobility systems)”. However, I’d like some validation of that interpretation.
The project site is Albany NY, and the looming deadline is of great concern even taking the 26 day extension into account.
I look forward to a call to discuss how to make our efforts suit the program qualifications.
Answer 223:
Please submit all FOA questions to this email address. Please note that all applicants were required to submit a Concept Paper by 2/21/2020. Anyone not submitting a concept paper will not be allowed to submit a full application.
Question 224:
Please clarify followings.
• Principle investigator’s roll is managing the project and coordinating all funding for sub-contractors.
For project budget, is it able to include administrative cost? If so, is there a guideline or limitation for the percentage of total project cost?
Answer 224:
Administrative costs may be allowed. There is no specific limit for indirect costs. Please see 2 CFR 200.56 and 2 CFR 200.57 for information regarding indirect costs.
Question 225:
I’m seeking guidance on cost share requirements for FOA 2197, AOI 13. The application requires a 50% cost share, but on the EERE Exchange Application portal, the “Funds and Costs” tab appears to require at least a 100% cost share (e.g. that non-federal amount is equal to or greater than the federal cost share amount). The budget spreadsheet, EERE_T_540, however, shows that the non-federal 50% cost share equals half of the federal share. Which cost share formula is DOE using?
Answer 225:
The cost share requirement for AOI 13 is 50% of the total project
costs.
The cost share requirement for AOI 13 is 50% of the total project costs.
Question 226:
The Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) is preparing a full proposal as encouraged by the DOE to FOA-0002197, and we have two questions regarding possible cost share commitments for our project (AOI 15; Control #2197-1960):
1) We understand that applications that include E-bikes are not of interest to this funding opportunity. However, the Zero Emissions Delivery Zone concept that LACI proposed did mention the inclusion of E-cargo bikes as one element of a proposed ZEDZ project. LACI has already secured funding support from the CA Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) for the e-cargo bikes and related infrastructure to accommodate this technology. DOE funds would not be used to support E-cargo bikes in the zone.
• Should LACI eliminate mentions of E-cargo bikes in the full proposal altogether, although this is an element of the broader pilot project to be deployed?
• Can we use the committed GO-Biz funds as cost-share/match funding for the proposal?
2) LACI is anticipating rebates from the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power for Level 2 EVSE charging equipment &/or commercial battery-electric vehicles. Can we count these incentives toward our match funding?
Answer 226:
1) DOE has stated in the FOA that it has no interest in E-bikes for this AOI. It is up to the applicant to decide whether to include E-bikes in their proposal.
2) DOE will not recognize cost share for project tasks and activities that are not of interest.
3) Rebates are not allowed as cost share for this AOI.
Question 227:
We are partnering with another National Lab on a proposal where we are lead. The other Lab does is stating they do not disclose their Fringe Rate information and that their Indirect Rates are proprietary. Is this acceptable on the Budget Justification for the submission?
Answer 227:
In this case, please note
on the budget justification that the fringe benefit and indirect rates for the
partner lab are proprietary and will be submitted directly to the government
upon request.
In this case, please note on the budget justification that the fringe benefit and indirect rates for the partner lab are proprietary and will be submitted directly to the government upon request.
Question 228:
We appreciate the 2 week deadline extension already put in place for FA submission. However, our teaming arrangements are moving extremely slowly given that multiple partners are experiencing furloughs and part-time work requirements due to COVID-19. We would greatly appreciate an additional 2 weeks to submit a FA. Is the FOA team considering any additional extensions to the deadline?
Answer 228:
DOE does not anticipate any additional extensions to the full application deadline for this FOA.
Question 229:
In reviewing the FOA (specifically Section D. Content and Form of the Full Application) it states that the budget documents required are the .XLS workbook files for the PRIME and subrecipients receiving $250k or more.
However on the EERE exchange application site there is a an additional upload place holder for Vendor Quotes (.PDF format)? Is this strictly for vendors or should this also include proposed equipment quotes? Can you elaborate what should be included here, if anything?
Answer 229:
The place holder in Exchange for vendor quotes is strictly to upload vendor quotes that exceed $250K. Vendor quotes less than that do not need to be uploaded.
Question 230:
Greetings! I am an Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University. I previously submitted a white paper to the DE-FOA-0002197 opportunity (Fiscal Year 2020 Advanced Vehicle Technologies Research Funding Opportunity Announcement) and received the encouragement letter. I was working on the full application but just noticed that the “individuals” section under “Eligibility Information” says that only US citizens and lawful permanent residents are eligible to apply. I am current in a H1B working visa and was wondering if I am eligible to serve as a PI or Co-PI?
Answer 230:
The eligibility requirement you describe is for individuals who are applying on their own behalf. Since you are applying as part of a Mississippi State application, it does not apply. As a result, you are eligible to participate as a PI or co-PI.
The eligibility requirement you describe is for individuals who are applying on their own behalf. Since you are applying as part of a Mississippi State application, it does not apply. As a result, you are eligible to participate as a PI or co-PI.
Question 231:
I am having trouble downloading the SF-424 template from EERE’s website. Is it possible for you to send the template to me for submission with the final application?
Answer 231:
The SF-424 form works with the current version of Adobe Reader. Please download the current version to complete this template. Older 3rd party utilities may not be able to open the file.
Question 232:
We have a subrecipient in our budget who is required to fill out the EERE budget spreadsheet and we are running into a couple of issues. 1) The sub is using the 10% de minimis MTDC rate but is not applying overhead to the vendor costs because the vendor appears on the contractual tab of the budget. According to MTDC, vendor costs can be charged overhead. What is your recommendation? 2) If a sub is using the 10% de minimis, can they use that overhead as cost share? The EERE budget spreadsheet says that "recipients" can't use this as cost share if using the de minimis rate. Any clarification on DOE's position is appreciated.
Answer 232:
1) As you noted, the 10% de minimis rate is applied against the MTDC. By definition, 100% of vendor costs are included in the MTDC. The sub should therefore include the vendor cost when calculating the MTDC to apply the 10% rate against.
2) The prohibition on using the claimed 10% de minimis indirect costs as cost share flows down to subrecipients.
Question 233:
In looking at the program announcement for the Fiscal year 2020 Advanced Vehicles Technology Research Funding opportunity (DE-FOA-0002197), there doesn't appear to be an available "Apply" link to submit the application through. Is this because the previous end date was 4/14/20? Please let me know how to proceed with submission to the extended deadline date of 4/28/20.
Answer 233:
All applicants were required to submit a concept paper by February 21 in order to be eligible to submit a full application. If you did not submit a concept paper, the Apply button will not be available to you.
Question 234:
We note that there is no category for the submission of supplementary materials such as letters of support, or detailed equipment lists, etc via the EERE Exchange submission portal.
Are applicants unable to submit supporting documentation such as letters of support?
Answer 234:
Letters of support are not considered as part of the merit review process and are not a component of the application process. However, letters of commitment for confirming cost share are considered.
Question 235:
Our institution will be submitting to the FOA: DE-FOA-0002197 and was hoping to get clarification on the cost sharing requirement. We will have a subreceipent from NREL, however they mentioned they cannot contribute to the cost sharing. There is conflicting information in the call that states, “FFRDCs and/or National Labs must provide 20% cost share. Those who can provide verification of their non-profit status are eligible for the reduced cost share”. We are hoping you can clarify if NREL is permitted to provide cost share.
Answer 235:
When FFRDCs apply as the prime applicant they must provide 20% cost share unless they are eligible for the reduced cost share. When an FFRDC applies as a subrecipient, as in your case, the division of the cost share among the team members is up to the lead applicant, UC-Davis. Please see section III.B.i and II.B.ii on page 56 of the FOA for more information regarding the allocation of cost share.
Question 236:
Where do we provide verification of non-profit status in the proposal application submission?
Answer 236:
Verification of FFRDC non-profit status can be submitted along with the authorization from the cognizant DOE Contracting Officer.
Question 237:
The PDF for the SF-424 does not allow digital signatures or image stamps of signatures. Does DOE want applicants to just type the signee’s name?
Answer 237:
A hand signed version that has been scanned is acceptable.
Question 238:
1. Is DocuSign an acceptable form of signature on Cost Share Commitment Letters?
2. We are submitting an application as the Prime with one subrecipient beneath us. We will submit Lobbying Forms both for ourselves, a University, and our sub with our application. Our subrecipient, in turn, has 4 subs beneath them that they are managing. Are those subs of our sub also required to hand in Lobbying forms and should we also upload them with our application?
Answer 238:
1) Yes, Docusign is acceptable.
2) All subrecipients, regardless of their position in the project, are required to submit an SF-LLL lobbying form.
Question 239:
We are a National Lab and lead on a proposal. One of our sub-recipients is another National Lab (FFRDC). The other Lab is providing an FWP for their part of the proposal. Do we still include their cost in our FWP since they are a sub-recipient to us in the call, or do we not include them since they have their own FWP?
Answer 239:
All FFRDC participants will be funded directly through DOE HQ. So FFRDCs applying as the prime should not include the cost of another FFRDC in their FWP. However, the cost of the other lab should be included in the detailed budget justification.
Question 240:
I have had issues with the environmental questionnaire PDF fillable form document, specifically in the 2b section on locations of activities. The text in the table does not seem to allow multi-line responses. Should I assume that if the text is there, your staff and reviewers will be able to read the text that isn’t visible? Or, do I need to do something different to create and submit this questionnaire?
Answer 240:
The EQ form has been updated to allow multi-line entry of text into section 2b. Please download the updated copy from EERE Exchange.
Question 241:
I am assisting a faculty member here at UCF with putting together the full proposal package for this FOA.
My question is in regards to cost share. He has let us know his plan is to utilize UCF owned and operated buses, from our transportation department, as part of his data collection. This would represent approximately 66% of his cost share commitment. Calculated by the cost of owning and operating the busses for his anticipated length of usage.
In the eyes of this FOA, would that be considered 3rd party? The entity submitting is UCF and this is UCF property receiving no direct benefit by providing the use of the busses as a source of data collection, not an outside source receiving any benefit to their organization.
Additionally, if it is considered 3rd party, I have a follow-up question regarding the “when usage fees or usage rates in the form of in-kind contributions from a third party are proposed, DOE will review the benefit calculations and such project costs may be limited to a maximum of 45% of the usage rate.”
UCF provides these busses to students free of usage rates. As such, is there another way UCF would be able to calculate that 45% maximum usage rate? Would it become 45% of the current cost share amount?
Thank you and let me know if you have any questions!
Answer 241:
Please review 2 CFR 200.306 and 2 CFR 910.130 for allowability of cost share. DOE cannot make specific determinations of cost share allowability absent receipt of a full application. If selected for negotiations potentially leading to award, DOE will review the and negotiate the proposed cost share.
Question 242:
1) How is this uploaded in eere-Exchange, is it to be in 1 (one) complete PDF or is it uploaded as sections, e.g., SF-424form; budget justification; SOPO, etc. on the website?
2) FFRDC Work Authorization - this is listed in the FOA as "optional" but in the eere-Exchange it's listed as "required"
Answer 242:
1) The application is uploaded as separate files. Some files are required while others are optional. Please see page 66 of the FOA for a listing of required and optional files.
2) Please refer to the FOA for application requirements.
Question 243:
Can you confirm if the submission is though grants.gov or through EERE Exchange? Thank you.
Answer 243:
The application must be submitted through EERE-Exchange.
Question 244:
I have two subrecipients and each of them has provided me with their fringe benefits and indirect cost rate agreements in pdf. However, they do not have url links. Can I submit their rate agreements with their letter of commitment or letter of support as the EERE 335 is an Excel spreadsheet, I couldn’t find a way to attach the PDF rate agreements?
Answer 244:
The indirect rate agreements may be combined with their letter of commitment.