Frequently Asked Questions

Per Section III of the FOA, eligible applicants include" All types of domestic entities, except nonprofit organizations described in section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that engaged in lobbying activities after December 31, 1995.  Eligible applicants include but are not limited to:  (1) institutions of higher education; (2) National Laboratories and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs); (3) nonprofit and for-profit private entities; (4) State, local governments, and tribal governments; and (5) consortia of entities (1) through (4).  If applying as a consortium, an established member of the consortium must be designated as the lead applicant.

A foreign legal entity may be proposed as a team member on a domestic entity’s application. Eligible foreign legal entities include but are not limited to:  (1) institutions of higher education; (2) nonprofit and for-profit private entities; (3) foreign governments; and (4) consortia of entities (1) through (3).  If the foreign team member is a consortium, an established member of the consortium must be designated as the lead applicant."

If a National Laboratory and Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) is selected, the funding will be made available through an interagency agreement.

On the first page of the Funding Opportunity Announcement for this FOA, (https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#338aaba1-7e1c-4c5c-bee7-d5d2490ffd88), please reference “Required Application Documents”.  While this list is not inclusive of all the required documents (See “Summary of Required Forms/Files”  in the FOA), all the template documents that are required for submission are included in a format that can be saved to the hard drive and then edited. Additionally, please ensure that you are utilizing the most current version of Adobe, (http://www.adobe.com/downloads/). 

Yes, the link to the press release is in reference to this Funding Opportunity Announcement:  Advancements in Sustainable Algal Production (ASAP)   Funding Opportunity Announcement Number:  DE-FOA-0000615.

For purposes of this FOA, “Heterotrophically” is defined as the growth of algae that occurs with plant-derived carbon sources (i.e. carbohydrates) without undergoing photosynthesis.

Organisms which are solely heterortrophic will not be considered. Mixotrophics will be allowed, however, applicants are advised to carefully consider the criteria which will be used in the evaluation of applications. Evaluation criteria are listed in Section V- Application Review Information.

An existing cultivation facility or algae strain development is required in order to be considered under this FOA.

Per Section I of the FOA, “Applications seeking funding for the construction of new cultivation facilities or algae strain development are NOT eligible for funding and will not be considered under this FOA.”  Also, described in Section I, “Projects may not use more than 15% of the total project cost for capital expenditures to improve/expand the existing cultivation system capacity (new ponds, photobioreactors (PBR), etc.).”

Partnerships applying under Topic Area 2 must be capable of producing at least 500kg ash-free dry weight algal biomass per year. The requirement is listed in Section I-Funding Opportunity Description,  under the Background section.

“ Topic Area 2 will establish Regional Algal Feedstock Testbed (RAFT) partnerships.  For purposes of this FOA, a “Testbed Facility" is defined as a single geographical location within the United States equipped with instruments and expertise for testing a variety of algal biomass processes. The RAFT Partnerships must have a total production capacity equal to or exceeding 500 kg ash-free dry weight (afdw) algal biomass per year and have the flexibility to accommodate the testing of innovative algal process configurations.”

Responsiveness to the objectives of the FOA will be evaluated in the initial review and the merit review of applications as outlined on Section V - Application Review Information.

“Prior to a comprehensive merit review evaluation, DOE will perform an initial review to determine that (1) the applicant is eligible for an award; (2) the information required by the announcement has been submitted; (3) all mandatory requirements are satisfied; and (4) the proposed project is responsive to the objectives of the funding opportunity announcement.”

As stated in Section  I – Funding Opportunity Description under Topic Area I Reducing Water and Nutrient Use in Algae Cultivation, “The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods”.

While it is expected that some activities may be performed indoors, the objective of the FOA is to support outdoor phototrophic algae research and development.

For Topic Area 1 the FOA states  “The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods” and “Open, closed or novel outdoor cultivation systems are eligible for this topic.”    

For Topic Area 2 the FOA states “Partnership cultivation facilities should largely be situated outdoors, exposed to the natural elements, and simulate future production conditions.”

 This FOA was issued to support the Biomass Program goals to significantly increase the volume of algal biofuels as stated in the FOA Objective in  Section I- Funding Opportunity Description.

“The objective of the Advancements in Sustainable Algal Production Funding Opportunity Announcement is to support outdoor phototrophic algae research and development in two areas: 1) nutrient and water use in algal production systems and 2) the development of algal technology testbed facilities. This research will support the Biomass Program’s goals to model pathways for significant (>1 billion gallons per year) volumes of cost-competitive algal biofuels by 2022.” 

1.       Per Section III of the FOA, eligible applicants include" All types of domestic entities, except nonprofit organizations described in section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that engaged in lobbying activities after December 31, 1995.  Eligible applicants include but are not limited to:  (1) institutions of higher education; (2) National Laboratories and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs); (3) nonprofit and for-profit private entities; (4) State, local governments, and tribal governments; and (5) consortia of entities (1) through (4).  If applying as a consortium, an established member of the consortium must be designated as the lead applicant.

A foreign legal entity may be proposed as a team member on a domestic entity’s application. Eligible foreign legal entities include but are not limited to:  (1) institutions of higher education; (2) nonprofit and for-profit private entities; (3) foreign governments; and (4) consortia of entities (1) through (3).  If the foreign team member is a consortium, an established member of the consortium must be designated as the lead applicant."

2.     If the question is in reference to indirect rates, each entity should follow their indirect rate policy for applying indirect rates.

Yes.  Applicants may submit an unlimited number of applications.  However, each  application must address only one Topic Area, and all applications must, in the Project Summary/Abstract file and on the cover of the Project Narrative file, designate the specific Topic Area under which that application is being submitted (See Part IV.C., Content and Form of Application).

The applicant must  make the determination on whether to apply to this Funding Opportunity Announcement. For questions regarding whether your company or technology meets the eligibility requirements, please see Section III-Eligibility  Information.  Additionally, you may search for grant opportunities through the EERE eXCHANGE website at:  https://eere-exchange.energy.gov or through grants.gov (click on Find Grant Opportunities on the left hand side of the screen).

The DOE also cannot make recommendations or suggestions for potential partners to applicants.

Limited modifications are allowed for existing cultivation systems as stated in Section I – Funding Opportunity Description, Topic Area 2:  Regional Algal Feedstock Testbed Partnership; “Projects may not use more than 15% of the total project cost for capital expenditures to improve/expand the existing cultivation system capacity (new ponds, photobioreactors (PBR), etc.).”

The FOA does not specify a minimum size for the outdoor cultivation systems for Topic Area 1; however, applicants are encouraged to consider all the criteria which will be used to evaluate proposals, (Section V).  Also, keep in mind that “The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods,” (Section 1).

1.“Applications seeking funding for the construction of new cultivation facilities or algae strain development are NOT eligible for funding and will not be considered under this FOA,” (Section I)

2.  Any existing strains will be considered. Projects using GMO algae must comply with all pertinent local, state and federal regulations.

A “single geographical location” means one site with GPS coordinates. Partnerships formed under Topic Area 2 are expected to have more than one site in order to compare algal production in a variety of conditions. The number of sites, the geographic distribution of sites, and the strains produced are elements determined by the applicant.

Yes, eligible applicants are also eligible recipients. Partnerships, (or consortia) may be comprised of any combination of entities that meet the eligibility requirements.  Please reference Section V of the Funding Opportunity Announcement for the Merit Review Criteria which will be used to evaluate applications.

1)  An individual project may have work performed at more than one site.

2)  The project design and designation of the go/no go review point are the responsibility of the applicant.

3)  Please see Appendix C for Cost Share information including what qualifies for cost sharing ,and rules that must be followed for in-kind contributions.

4)  Budget formulation, including the split between years, is the responsibility of the applicant.

5) Please see the chart, “Period of Performance per Program Area” under Section II – Award Information, which gives performance periods for both Topic areas

Regrettably, DOE does not engage in private discussions concerning specific applications of  potential applicants. All questions must be submitted to the FOA mailbox and answered in a public manner.

Please see question 16:   The FOA does not specify a minimum size for the outdoor cultivation systems for Topic Area 1; however, applicants are encouraged to consider all the criteria which will be used to evaluate proposals, (Section V).  Also, keep in mind that “The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods,” (Section 1).

The applicant must  make the determination on whether to apply to this Funding Opportunity Announcement. For questions regarding whether your company or technology meets the eligibility requirements, please see Section III-Eligibility  Information.  The DOE cannot make recommendations or suggestions to applicants .

1.       As stated in the FOA:

“This FOA seeks to accelerate the development and demonstration of integrated cultivation and recycling technologies for algal biomass production that demonstrate minimal water and external nutrient inputs through the use of nutrient-laden source water and/or nutrient and water recycling systems. Projects cultivating algae heterotrophically are NOT eligible for funding under this FOA. 

The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods that:

·         Significantly reduces external nutrient input requirements (eg: Nitrogen and Phosphorus) relative to the baseline presented in the application (see suggested table below).

·         Returns carbon to the cultivation system.

·         Primarily uses a non-potable water source such as waste water from agricultural run-off, municipal or industrial waste sources, produced water, brackish water, or seawater.  Freshwater consumption should be shown to be a great deal less than applicant’s baseline and/or current practices in biofuel production[1].

·         Cultivates an algae strain(s) (appropriate for downstream conversion into biofuels) using the identified water source.

·         Has the potential to be scaled economically.”

Applicants are responsible for choosing appropriate scale to  address the stated goals of the FOA.

2.       Applicants are responsible for the selection of TRL level for their proposals.

3.       Same as answer to Question 1 above.

4.       There is not a target for oil accumulation.

The DOE is  not seeking fermentation testbeds.

Per the FOA. “The intent of Topic Area 2 is to fund the creation of Regional Algal Feedstock Testbed partnerships (RAFT). RAFT Partnerships are defined as collaborations among two or more organizations that have the relevant expertise, facilities, permitting, and partnership structures in place to perform the two basic functions addressed below. Applications to perform only one of the two functions will not be considered for funding. For purposes of this FOA, a “Testbed Facility” is defined as a single geographical location within the United States equipped with instruments and expertise for testing a variety of algal biomass processes. Each RAFT Partnership must have a total production capacity equal to or exceeding 500 kg afdw algal biomass per year and have the flexibility to accommodate the testing of innovative algal process configurations. RAFT Partnerships must be able to provide several cultivation units at multiple sites to provide datasets in replicates, and to compare datasets between sites. RAFT Partnership cultivation facilities should largely be situated outdoors, exposed to the natural elements, and simulate future production conditions.” 

Please see Section I, “Funding Opportunity Description”  for additional information.

The applicant must make the determination on whether to apply.  Please see Section I - Funding Opportunity Description and Section III – Eligibility Information.

1)and 2) Please see answer #13:  The FOA states “The objective of the Advancements in Sustainable Algal Production Funding Opportunity Announcement is to support outdoor phototrophic algae research and development” in Section I-Funding Opportunity Description.  Macroalgae is considered algae and would be acceptable.  Duckweed is an aquatic plant with lignin and cellulose. Duckweed is not algae, therefore not eligible for the current FOA.

3) Applicants are urged to consider all the criteria which be used for evaluation of submitted proposals,  please see Section V - Application Review Information.  The DOE cannot make recommendations or suggestions to applicants.

Ash-free dry weight is one of several metrics specified in the FOA which will be used in the evaluation of submitted proposals. Applicants are encouraged to consider the entire list of criteria which will used in the application evaluations,  please see Section V - Application Review Information.

 1)The chart referenced in Section II – Award Information, is specific to funding, not the period of performance of individual awards, please review all of  Section II – Award Information. Below the referenced chart, the FOA states, “Topic Area 1 projects will be fully funded for all Phases, with funding for Phase II released only after successful go/no go review. Topic Area 2 project funding for Phases II and III will be dependent on successful go/no go reviews and the appropriation and availability of funds to DOE in out years. ”  

The period of performance is separate from the funding. As stated in the “Period of Performance by Program Area”, “…..the anticipated period of performance for projects under each Program/Topic Area in this announcement is: Topic Area 1 - FY12-FY15 and  Topic Area 2 – FY 12-FY17”. The Period of Performance should be based on these time periods, not the funding dates in the referenced chart. 

2) As stated above, the period of performance for Topic Area 1 can be up to 3 years, and Topic Area 2 can be up to 4 years.  Applications should be based on the full amount of the cost of a project, and the appropriate time for the period of performance, up to the allowable amount of time referenced in the first question above.

3)Applications should include an appropriate period of performance to complete the project, up to the allowable amount of time referenced in the first question above.

The FOA is only funding algal biomass production research as described in  Section I – Funding Opportunity Description:

 “To build upon the R&D activities already underway, the Biomass Program announces the availability of funding for two topic areas in the Advancements in Sustainable Algal Production (ASAP) Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA).  Topic Area 1 will support the development and demonstration of integrated cultivation and recycling technologies for algal biomass production that demonstrate minimal water and external nutrient inputs and/or the use of waste/effluent nutrients.  Topic Area 2 will establish Regional Algal Feedstock Testbed (RAFT) partnerships.  For purposes of this FOA, a “Testbed Facility" is defined as a single geographical location within the United States equipped with instruments and expertise for testing a variety of algal biomass processes. The RAFT Partnerships must have a total production capacity equal to or exceeding 500 kg ash-free dry weight (afdw) algal biomass per year and have the flexibility to accommodate the testing of innovative algal process configurations.”

This FOA is seeking algal biomass production data in an outdoor setting as described in Section I – Funding Opportunity Description:

The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods that:

• Significantly reduces external nutrient input requirements (eg: Nitrogen and Phosphorus) relative to the baseline presented in the application (see suggested table below).
• Returns carbon to the cultivation system.
• Primarily uses a non-potable water source such as waste water from agricultural run-off, municipal or industrial waste sources, produced water, brackish water, or seawater.  Freshwater consumption should be shown to be a great deal less than applicant’s baseline and/or current practices in biofuel production[1].
• Cultivates an algae strain(s) (appropriate for downstream conversion into biofuels) using the identified water source.
• Has the potential to be scaled economically.

Open, closed or novel outdoor cultivation systems are eligible for this topic.

1.      As stated under  Topic one  in Section I – Funding Opportunity Description, “  The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods that:

·         Significantly reduces external nutrient input requirements (eg: Nitrogen and Phosphorus) relative to the baseline presented in the application (see suggested table below).

·         Returns carbon to the cultivation system.

·         Primarily uses a non-potable water source such as waste water from agricultural run-off, municipal or industrial waste sources, produced water, brackish water, or seawater.  Freshwater consumption should be shown to be a great deal less than applicant’s baseline and/or current practices in biofuel production[1].

·         Cultivates an algae strain(s) (appropriate for downstream conversion into biofuels) using the identified water source.

·         Has the potential to be scaled economically.

2.      As referenced above, suitability for biofuel production is a consideration. Bioproduct production from algae is not the focus of this FOA. Additionally, “Applicants must identify the intended biofuel(s) including arguments for the suitability of the selected strain(s) for the production of the identified biofuel(s).”

Regrettably, DOE does not engage in private discussions concerning specific applications of potential applicants. All questions must be submitted to the FOA mailbox and answered in a public manner. The DOE also cannot make recommendations or suggestions for potential partners to applicants.  For questions regarding whether an applicant meets the eligibility requirements, please see Section III-Eligibility  Information.  Additionally, the DOE cannot make recommendations or suggestions to applicants.  Projects selected for negotiations will be based on criteria listed in Section V – Application Review Information.

Regrettably, DOE does not engage in private discussions concerning specific applications of  potential applicants. All questions must be submitted to the FOA mailbox and answered in a public manner.

Regrettably, DOE does not engage in private discussions concerning specific applications of  potential applicants. All questions must be submitted to the FOA mailbox and answered in a public manner.

As defined in Appendix A – Definitions, “"Cost Sharing" means the respective share of Total Project Costs to be contributed by the Applicant and by DOE.  The percentage of Applicant Cost Share is to be applied to the Total Project Cost (i.e., the sum of Applicant plus DOE Cost Shares) rather than to the DOE contribution alone.”  It is not the intention of DOE to flow-down the cost share requirement to sub recipients. DOE only has a relationship with the prime recipient, not sub recipients.

It is the responsibility of the  prime recipient to ensure  the sub-recipient meets the cost share requirements of the FOA.  As stated in the FOA under Topic Ares 2, Second Function: Institutions of Higher Education, US National Laboratories, and FFRDC’s, (Recipient or Sub-Recipient) have a 0% Cost Share requirement.

You may search for grant opportunities through the EERE eXCHANGE website at http://eere.energy.gov/financing/exchange or through grants.gov (click on Find Grant Opportunities on the left hand side of the screen).

The DOE does not generally release names of  companies and universities that sign up or ask questions for Funding Opportunity Announcements.

At this time, there have not been any revisions or modifications to DE-FOA-000615.  However, you may monitor this website for any future changes.

Regrettably, DOE does not engage in private discussions concerning specific applications of  potential applicants. All questions must be submitted to the FOA mailbox and answered in a public manner.

For-Profit private entities are eligible.  However, as stated in the FOA under  Eligible Applicants, “ A foreign legal entity may be proposed as a team member on a domestic entity’s application. Eligible foreign legal entities include but are not limited to:  (1) institutions of higher education; (2) nonprofit and for-profit private entities; (3) foreign governments; and (4) consortia of entities (1) through (3).  If the foreign team member is a consortium, an established member of the consortium must be designated as the lead applicant.”

There are no restrictions on the number of institutions involved in the proposed project.

Applicants are urged to consider all the criteria which be used for evaluation of submitted proposals,  please see Section V - Application Review Information.  The DOE cannot make recommendations or suggestions to applicants.

As stated in Section  I – Funding Opportunity Description under Topic Area I Reducing Water and Nutrient Use in Algae Cultivation, “The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods.”  If the system is inside a structure, it will not meet the intent of this FOA.

Percent dry weight is one measure of biomass yield. Both the baseline and the targets proposed by the applicant will be considered in evaluating the proposed projects.

All FFRDC’s (Federally Funded Research and Development Centers) will receive their funding directly from DOE, even if they are a subrecipient.  Other federal agencies will be funded directly through an inter-agency agreement between the DOE.  If a university or other company is a subcontractor or vender to the FFRDC, those funds will be included in the funding from the DOE  to the FFRDC, and the FFRDC will be responsible for passing those funds to the university or company.

Section I – Funding Opportunity Description, under Topic 1, the FOA states, “Projects awarded as a result of this FOA will be phased. Projects proposed under Topic Area 1 will have two Phases, separated by a go/no review.  Applicants must propose baseline measures, propose specific Phase targets and designate the go/no go decision point between Phases. Applicants are responsible for determination of the sources of data used in submitted proposals. Applications must include descriptions of each Phase, including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives. A go/no go review will be used to determine project readiness to advance from initial Phase into each subsequent Phase. Funding, subject to availability of funds, for subsequent Phases will be released to the project only after a successful go/no go review. This review will be performed by the awardee, DOE and/or outside reviewers to verify accomplishment of proposed Phase goals and project readiness for next Phase. DOE will make the determination of project readiness to advance based on results and recommendations of the Review.”

Multiple subaward budgets  and budget justifications maybe added individually by naming each according to the subawardee’s name.  Please review the file naming structure.

1.       It is the applicants responsibility to propose the protocols for carbon use and measurement. Applications will be evaluated based on the published criteria on pages 29 – 31. The DOE cannot make recommendations or suggestions to applicants on specific technologies.

2.    Please see the answer above.

3.    Both are needed as stated in Section I Funding Opportunity Description, under  Background, “The ASAP FOA will accelerate efforts to increase the scalability of algae production and help the Biomass Program meet its aggressive goals for algal biofuels by: supporting the development of innovative technologies to capture and recycle water and nutrients; developing testbed facilities that serve as engines for algal technology innovation, job training, and validation; and creating long-term cultivation data necessary to understand and promote algae biomass production.”

4.   As stated in the FOA, Section I – Funding Opportunity Description, under Topic Area 2, “It is not the intent of this FOA to support the creation of new models and DOE will not fund the creation of new models with this FOA.”

5.   Applicants may use existing GMO strains but are cautioned that the project must be in compliance with all permitting required by state, local and other Federal agencies. Strain development will not be supported by this FOA, as stated in Section I – Funding Opportunity Description, under Topic Area 1, “Applications seeking funding for the construction of new cultivation facilities or algae strain development are NOT eligible for funding and will not be considered under this FOA.”

6.   Yes, you may use matching funds for capital equipment purchases, and these matching funds contribute to the 15% cap on capital expenditures.  Please see Appendix C in the FOA, and 10 CFR Part 600, for additional information on cost sharing and matching funds.

 The budget should reflect the entire project period. As stated in the FOA, “Approximately $14,300,000 is expected to be available for new awards in FY 2012 and an additional $6,700,000 is expected to be available for awards made under this announcement in FY 2014. All awards under this announcement are subject to the appropriation and availability of funding.”

Also stated in the FOA, “Note that recipients in both Topic Area 1 and 2 must successfully undergo a go/no go review to become eligible to receive funds for subsequent Phases.  Topic Area 1 projects will be fully funded for all Phases, with funding for Phase II released only after successful go/no go review. Topic Area 2 project funding for Phases II and III will be dependent on successful go/no go reviews and the appropriation and availability of funds to DOE in out years.”

Other Federal Agencies may apply to this FOA, but are still required to meet the 20% non-federal cost share requirement.

1. For purposes of this FOA, a “partnership” is “a business relationship between two or more entities, each of whom has a financial interest in the successful outcome of the project.”

2. Yes, a prime recipient and subrecipient relationship between two entities is a partnership in the context of this FOA; however, a prime recipient and vendor relationship is not considered a partnership in the context of this FOA.

3. According to the FOA, the discussion of the site access plan mentions the requirement to provide equitable access to the testbed. If the applicant proposes to charge variable user fees (tiered fee schedule), an explanation of the basis for the differing rates is required.

4. As provided in Section VI – Award Administration Information, below is the link to the common DOE Special Terms and Conditions for Use in Most Grants and Cooperative Agreement:  http://energy.gov/management/office-management/operational-management/financial-assistance/financial-assistance-forms.   Special Terms and Conditions for these awards are not standardized and will be negotiated and provided to awardees at the time of selection and negotiation.

5. The disposition of the biomass produced under the Second Function area of Topic Area 2 is not pre-determined and not controlled by this FOA.  As described in the FOA,  “DOE intends to use Federal funds to support the operation of existing outdoor algae cultivation systems to allow researchers access to real-world conditions for algal biomass production for biofuel.”

 Regrettably, DOE does not engage in private discussions concerning specific applications of potential applicants. All questions must be submitted to the FOA mailbox and answered in a public manner.  Additionally, the DOE cannot make recommendations or suggestions to applicants.  Projects selected for negotiations will be based on criteria listed in Section V – Application Review Information.

1.       The period of performance should be the amount of time needed to complete the project, up to the allowable amount of time.  Less time can be requested.

2.      Section I – Funding Opportunity Description, under Topic 1, the FOA states, “Projects awarded as a result of this FOA will be phased. Projects proposed under Topic Area 1 will have two Phases, separated by a go/no review.  Applicants must propose baseline measures, propose specific Phase targets and designate the go/no go decision point between Phases. Applicants are responsible for determination of the sources of data used in submitted proposals. Applications must include descriptions of each Phase, including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives. A go/no go review will be used to determine project readiness to advance from initial Phase into each subsequent Phase. Funding, subject to availability of funds, for subsequent Phases will be released to the project only after a successful go/no go review. This review will be performed by the awardee, DOE and/or outside reviewers to verify accomplishment of proposed Phase goals and project readiness for next Phase. DOE will make the determination of project readiness to advance based on results and recommendations of the Review.”

The budget for applications should propose expenditures in all years. As stated in the FOA, “Note that recipients in both Topic Area 1 and 2 must successfully undergo a go/no go review to become eligible to receive funds for subsequent Phases.  Topic Area 1 projects will be fully funded for all Phases, with funding for Phase II released only after successful go/no go review. Topic Area 2 project funding for Phases II and III will be dependent on successful go/no go reviews and the appropriation and availability of funds to DOE in out years.” 

This FOA seeks to accelerate the development and demonstration of integrated cultivation and recycling technologies for algal biomass production that demonstrate minimal water and external nutrient inputs through the use of nutrient-laden source water and/or nutrient and water recycling systems.  

The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods that:

• Significantly reduces external nutrient input requirements (eg: Nitrogen and Phosphorus) relative to the baseline presented in the application (see suggested table below) .
• Primarily uses a non-potable water source such as waste water from agricultural run-off, municipal or industrial waste sources, produced water, brackish water, or seawater.  Freshwater consumption should be shown to be a great deal less than applicant’s baseline and/or current practices in biofuel production[1].
• Has the potential to be scaled economically.

Any proposed systems must respond to the stated goals of the FOA as discussed on pages 4 - 6 and address the criteria presented in Section V. The National Algal Biofuels Technology Roadmap (footnote on page 4) which serves as guidance for DOE algal research needs and direction, includes cyanobacteria in the definition of algae.

You can add additional optional document upload fields to capture the Sub recipient budget and justification file.  The additional document upload fields will appear in the Upload and Submit tab.

1.  The budget should reflect the entire project period. The anticipated period of performance for projects under each Program/Topic Area in this announcement is: Topic Area 1,  FY12-FY15 and Topic Area 2, FY12-FY17.

2.  As stated in the FOA, “Note that recipients in both Topic Area 1 and 2 must successfully undergo a go/no go review to become eligible to receive funds for subsequent Phases.  Topic Area 1 projects will be fully funded for all Phases, with funding for Phase II released only after successful go/no go review. Topic Area 2 project funding for Phases II and III will be dependent on successful go/no go reviews and the appropriation and availability of funds to DOE in out years.”

3.  See above.

4.  From the FOA,  for Topic Area 1:

“The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods that:

• Significantly reduces external nutrient input requirements (eg: Nitrogen and Phosphorus) relative to the baseline presented in the application (see suggested table below).

• Returns carbon to the cultivation system.

• Primarily uses a non-potable water source such as waste water from agricultural run-off, municipal or industrial waste sources, produced water, brackish water, or seawater.  Freshwater consumption should be shown to be a great deal less than applicant’s baseline and/or current practices in biofuel production[1].

• Cultivates an algae strain(s) (appropriate for downstream conversion into biofuels) using the identified water source.

• Has the potential to be scaled economically.

Projects awarded as a result of this FOA will be phased. Projects proposed under Topic Area 1 will have two Phases, separated by a go/no review.  Applicants must present baseline data, propose specific Phase targets and designate the go/no go decision point between Phases. Applications must include descriptions of each Phase, including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives.”

From the FOA for Topic Area 2:

“The intent of Topic Area 2 is to fund the creation of Regional Algal Feedstock Testbed partnerships (RAFT). RAFT Partnerships are defined as collaborations among two or more organizations that have the relevant expertise, facilities, permitting, and partnership structures in place to perform the two basic functions addressed below. Applications to perform only one of the two functions will not be considered for funding. For purposes of this FOA, a “Testbed Facility” is defined as a single geographical location within the United States equipped with instruments and expertise for testing a variety of algal biomass processes. Each RAFT Partnership must have a total production capacity equal to or exceeding 500 kg afdw algal biomass per year and have the flexibility to accommodate the testing of innovative algal process configurations. RAFT Partnerships must be able to provide several cultivation units at multiple sites to provide datasets in replicates, and to compare datasets between sites. RAFT Partnership cultivation facilities should largely be situated outdoors, exposed to the natural elements, and simulate future production conditions.”

Projects awarded as a result of this FOA will be phased. Topic Area 2 projects are expected to have three Phases, each of which will be separated by a go/no go review.  Applicants must present baseline data, propose specific Phase targets and designate the go/no go decision point between Phases. Applications must include descriptions of each Phase including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives.”

5.  It is the responsibility of the applicant to determine goals, tasks, targets and go/no go decision points of proposals as stated in the FOA.

We are not clear exactly what your question is in reference to the FOA, however, all applications to the FOA are from individual applicants that direct their own research. Unfortunately, we are not able to connect research students and potential applicants.

Please feel free to contact us again, if this doesn’t address your question.

Please see answer to question #59.

Applicants are responsible for determining the type and parameters of models in their applications/proposals. Applicants are encouraged to address to the criteria listed within the FOA.

Applications which addresses the areas described in the FOA will be evaluated for possible funding.

"Topic Area 1 will support the development and demonstration of integrated cultivation and recycling technologies for algal biomass production that demonstrate minimal water and external nutrient inputs and/or the use of waste/effluent nutrients.  Topic Area 2 will establish Regional Algal Feedstock Testbed (RAFT) partnerships.  For purposes of this FOA, a “Testbed Facility" is defined as a single geographical location within the United States equipped with instruments and expertise for testing a variety of algal biomass processes. The RAFT Partnerships must have a total production capacity equal to or exceeding 500 kg ash-free dry weight (afdw) algal biomass per year and have the flexibility to accommodate the testing of innovative algal process configurations.

The ASAP FOA will accelerate efforts to increase the scalability of algae production and help the Biomass Program meet its aggressive goals for algal biofuels by: supporting the development of innovative technologies to capture and recycle water and nutrients; developing testbed facilities that serve as engines for algal technology innovation, job training, and validation; and creating long-term cultivation data necessary to understand and promote algae biomass production."

Applicants are urged to consider all the criteria which be used for evaluation of submitted proposals,  please see Section V - Application Review Information.  The DOE cannot make recommendations or suggestions to applicants.

If there is some fractionation of the overall productivity (in AFDW) with one portion being an intermediate fuel product and the other portion a residual (inorganics, etc.) that will be recycled; the target biomass yield is the fraction of the productivity that will converted into fuel.

As described in the FOA, it is the responsibility of applicants to propose targets for each phase.

“Projects proposed under Topic Area 1 will have two Phases, separated by a go/no review.  Applicants must present baseline data, propose specific Phase targets and designate the go/no go decision point between Phases. Applications must include descriptions of each Phase, including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives.”

The table on page 8 is a suggested format. Applicants may use any format to provide the required information.

If you edit the document at this link:  https://www.eere-pmc.energy.gov/procurenet/FinancialAssistance/Forms/Standard_Forms/SF-424.pdf, it will allow you to save your changes.  However, make the changes before you download the document.

1) As stating in the FOA, “Applicants must present baseline data, propose specific Phase targets and designate the go/no go decision point between Phases. Applications must include descriptions of each Phase, including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives. A go/no go review will be used to determine project readiness to advance from initial Phase into each subsequent Phase.” It is the responsibility of the applicant to determine goals, tasks, targets and go/no go decision points of proposals as stated in the FOA.

2)  Please see the  “Summary of Required Forms/Files” for a listing of all required documents. Responsiveness to the objectives of the FOA will be evaluated in the initial review and the merit review of applications as outlined on Section V - Application Review Information.

Yes, the cost share may be provided by the subrecipient.  Please see Appendix C in the FOA, and 10 CFR Part 600, for additional information on cost sharing and matching funds.

Please see questions #52 and #57.

Applications will be evaluated against the guidance provided in Section V.  The location of any additional information within the application is the decision/responsibility of the applicant.

Per the FOA, “Projects awarded as a result of this FOA will be phased. Topic Area 2 projects are expected to have three Phases, each of which will be separated by a go/no go review.  Applicants must present baseline data, propose specific Phase targets and designate the go/no go decision point between Phases. Applications must include descriptions of each Phase including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives. A go/no go review will be used to determine project readiness to advance from initial Phase into each subsequent Phase. Funding, subject to availability of funds, for subsequent Phases will be released to the project only after a successful go/no go review. This review will be performed by the awardee, DOE and/or outside reviewers to verify accomplishment of proposed Phase goals and project readiness for next Phase. DOE will make the determination of project readiness to advance based on results and recommendations of the Review. “  Each phase in not restricted to a one year period of time.

Applicants are responsible for determining project/proposal baselines for nutrient and fresh water consumption levels. The sources of nutrients and the methods/technologies proposed to reduce/recycle nutrient and water consumption compared to the baselines are to be determined by the applicants.

Applications will be evaluated against the criteria published in Section V of the FOA.

Prime Applicants and Subrecipients have two options.  Applicants can sign confidentiality agreements with Subcontractors/Team Members, stating they will maintain the confidential information (i.e. salary and indirect rate information) in a confidential manner, and only share the information with the Department of Energy. 

The second option is that the subcontractors can submit this information directly to the question mailbox for each FOA, if necessary.  However, we will need a letter from the Prime Applicant to give the Subcontractor permission to submit the information separately and give the Department of Energy permission to speak to the Subcontractor directly should we have any questions.

1 a. Yes, eXCHANGE does require a percent of effort for team members.

1 b. Please review the PMC 123.1, Budget Justification.  As outlined in the PMC 123.1, Budget Justification, under the Contractual Tab,  “Sub-recipients (partners, sub-awardees):  For each sub-recipient with total project costs of $100,000 or more, a separate budget form and justification must be submitted.  These sub-recipient forms may be completed by either the sub-recipients themselves or by the preparer of this form.  The budget totals on the sub-recipient's forms must match the sub-recipient entries below.

The preparer of this form need only provide further support of the completed sub-recipient budget forms as they deem necessary.  The support to justify the budgets of sub-recipients with estimated costs less than $100,000 may be in any format, and at a minimum should provide what Statement of Project Objectives task(s) are being performed, the purpose/need for the effort, and a basis of the estimated costs that is considered sufficient for DOE evaluation.”

Under the Cost Share tab of the PMC 123.1 Budget Justification, it states, “A detailed presentation of the cash or cash value of all cost share proposed for the project must be provided in the table below.  Identify the source & amount of each item of cost share proposed by the award recipient and each sub-recipient or vendor.  Letters of commitment must be submitted for all third party cost share (other than award recipient).”

Keep in mind that all work involved in this project, regardless of who performs the work, (prime recipient, sub-recipient, team member, etc.),  must be included in the total project cost, and budget justification, whether or not the prime recipient intends to provide Federal funding to the sub recipient or team member.  These costs may be used as recipient cost share.

 1.       It is the responsibility of the applicant to determine the work/tasks necessary to fulfill each of the functions under Topic Area 2

 2.       The answer to #39 has been amended to reflect the following:  It is the responsibility of the  prime recipient to ensure  the sub-recipient meets the cost share requirements of the FOA.  As stated in the FOA under Topic Ares 2, Second Function: Institutions of Higher Education, US National Laboratories, FFRDC’s, (Recipient or Sub-Recipient) have a 0% Cost Share requirement.

Applicants are responsible for determining the content and arrangement of information within their respective applications.   The FOA provides guidance for application submissions including the paragraph regarding the merit review criteria:

·         Merit Review Criteria

This section should be formatted to address each of the merit review criterion and sub-criterion listed in Part V. A. Provide sufficient information so that reviewers will be able to evaluate the application in accordance with these merit review criteria. DOE WILL EVALUATE AND CONSIDER ONLY THOSE APPLICATIONS THAT ADDRESS SEPARATELY EACH OF THE MERIT REVIEW CRITERION AND SUB-CRITERION.

As stated in the FOA under Topic Area 2, Second Function: Institutions of Higher Education, US National Laboratories, and FFRDC’s, (Recipient or Sub-Recipient) have a 0% Cost Share requirement. All other entities  have a 20% cost share requirement.  It is the responsibility of the  prime recipient to ensure  the sub-recipient meets the cost share requirements of the FOA. 

The term ‘budget period” and phases are used interchangeably in this FOA.  Applications must include descriptions of each Phase, including all necessary work and targets to accomplish objectives. A go/no go review will be used to determine project readiness to advance from initial Phase into each subsequent Phase. Funding, subject to availability of funds, for subsequent Phases will be released to the project only after a successful go/no go review.

Yes.  The budget documents should reflect the entire project cost:  federal and non-federal.  As stated in the PMC 123.1, “The total budget presented on this form and on the application  must include both Federal (DOE), and Non-Federal (cost share) portions, thereby reflecting TOTAL PROJECT COSTS proposed.”  In order to do this, all costs must be entered by the appropriate object class category.

Applications will be evaluated against the guidance provided in Section V.  The location of any additional information within the application is the decision/responsibility of the applicant.

Example: Total Requested Federal Share = $1,000,000

Entity                                    Proposed DOE                   DOE Share           Required Cost   Required Cost

                                                Share                                    (%)                         Share (%)            Share ($)

Prime Recipient                $800,000                              80%                        20%                        $200,000

(For Profit)

Subrecipient 1                   $100,000                              100%                     0%                          $0

(Institution of Higher Education)

Subrecipient 2                   $100,000                              80%                        20%                        $25,000

(For Profit)

Total DOE Share                $1,000,000

Total Recipient Share     $225,000

Total Project Cost            $1,225,000

DOE share in $ divided by DOE share % = Prime or Subrecipient Cost

These totals should be reflected in the prime recipient’s budget justification.

As stated in Section I, under  Topic Area 2,  “RAFT Partnerships must be able to provide several cultivation units at multiple sites to provide datasets in replicates, and to compare datasets between sites. RAFT Partnership cultivation facilities should largely be situated outdoors, exposed to the natural elements, and simulate future production conditions.”

 The number and arrangement of facilities is to be determined by the applicant.

Additionally, in Section  I – Funding Opportunity Description under Topic Area I Reducing Water and Nutrient Use in Algae Cultivation, “The goal of Topic Area 1 is to demonstrate an outdoor cultivation system for extended (i.e. 90 plus days) cultivation periods.”  If the system is inside a structure, it will not meet the intent of this FOA.

The PMC 123.1 Budget Justification, states, “All costs incurred by the preparer's sub-recipients, vendors, contractors, consultants and Federal Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), should be entered only in section f. Contractual.”  Although these costs are included in the Budget Justification, (and should also be included in the SF-424),  since the DOE directly funds the FFRDC’s, the FFRDC costs should NOT be included in the 424A.

Yes, in regards to Topic 2, Second Function, Institutions of Higher Education  and US National Laboratories, (FFRDC’s) have a 0% cost share.  All other entities have a 20% cost share.

As stated in the FOA,  "Projects cultivating algae heterotrophically are NOT eligible for funding under this FOA."  The determination of which techniques to include in an application is the sole responsibility of the applicant.

As stated in the FOA, "DOE anticipates notifying applicants selected for award by end of June 2012 and making awards by end of August 2012."  However, depending on negotiations,  not all the funds may be released by August 2012.

Topic Area 1 will support technologies as outlined in the FOA. Projects are expected to be primarily  research/development and demonstration with limited capital expenditures as outlined in the FOA.

Additionally, Topic Area 1 will support the development and demonstration of integrated cultivation and recycling technologies for algal biomass production that demonstrate minimal water and external nutrient inputs and/or the use of waste/effluent nutrients. 

Projects may not use more than 15% of the total project cost for capital expenditures to improve/expand the existing cultivation system capacity (new ponds, photobioreactors (PBR), etc.).  pg9

The DOE  cannot provide advice or suggestions to potential applicants.

The system has now been revised to accept Non-Federal cost share for Topic #2.  You may now update your information.