{"text_format":"2","workbook":"xlsx","n_sheets":3,"sheets":["INSTRUCTIONS & TIPS","FOA CONTENT QUESTIONS","Admin Pick List"],"not_rendered":{"charts":0,"images":0,"macros":0,"external_links":0,"defined_names":2,"comments":0,"pivot_tables":0},"unopened":[],"bounds":{"document_bytes":16777216,"sheet_cells":100000,"run_cost":"one","rows_first":2000,"rows_last":500,"rows_between":2000,"halvings":0,"cell_chars":16384,"cell_head_chars":4096},"cells_cut":0,"cells_raw":0,"read":"whole","date_system":"1900"}

{"sheet":"INSTRUCTIONS & TIPS","index":0,"n_rows":12,"n_cols":2,"rows_kept":12,"cut":false,"hidden":false,"merged":[[0,0,0,1],[9,0,9,1]]}
["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this funding opportunity announcement should be emailed under the DE-FOA-0002654 - FY22 Carbon Utilization Technology: Improving Efficient Systems for Algae submit questions link at  FY22CarbonUtilizationFOA@ee.doe.gov. "]
[2,"All questions pertaining to EERE Exchange should be emailed to EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov. Include FOA name and number in subject line."]
[3,"All questions and answers pertaining to this FOA will be posted on EERE Exchange within this spreadsheet."]
[4,"DOE will attempt to respond to a question within 3 business days, unless a similar question and answer has already been posted in this spreadsheet. "]
[5,"All questions should be submitted not later than 3 business days prior to the application due date. Questions submitted after this date will not be answered."]
[6,"Questions are assigned a number in accordance with when they are reviewed by DOE.  "]
[7,"Questions are assigned a topic area by DOE when reviewed."]
[]
["TIPS"]
[1,"Applicants may sort questions and answers in the question tabs of this spreadhseet by selecting the drop-down box arrow on the column headers and selecting any of the listed attributes."]
[2,"Applicants may search for questions and/or keywords by holding CTRL+F on the keyboard and typing in a phrase or keyword."]

{"sheet":"FOA CONTENT QUESTIONS","index":1,"n_rows":104,"n_cols":5,"rows_kept":104,"cut":false,"hidden":false,"merged":[[1,0,1,4],[0,0,0,4]]}
["ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
["DE-FOA0002654 - FY22 Carbon Utilization Technology: Improving Efficient Systems for Algae"]
["Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
[1,"2022-02-12","Other","We would like to be a sub-contractor for this solicitation opportunity.\nHow can we find out the possible Main contractor for this project?","The Prime Applicant determines the composition of the project team for their application submission, DOE does not make this determination."]
[2,"2022-02-13","Webinar","Could someone add me to the registration list or provide a link to do so? I wasn’t able to find the registration link on the FOA.","The DE-FOA-0002654 informational webinar registration link has been added to the FOA listing on the EERE Exchange website at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov. Note, no pre- registration for the webinar is needed, however the link listed on the EERE Exchange website may be accessed directly to participate in the webinar on February 17th, 2022 at 3:00 PM ET."]
[3,"2022-02-14","Cost Sharing","Could you let me know what the cost sharing percentage is for this grant? ","Please see FOA Section III.B.Cost Sharing for guidance pertaining to cost share requirements and contributions."]
[4,"2022-02-15","Webinar","Will a recording be made available after the webinar?","Yes, a link to the recording will be posted on the EERE Exchange website, along with a transcript of the recording."]
[5,"2022-02-15","Technical Topics","\n\nDoes the project must produce aviation fuels as the final product? Can we produce biopolymer or other chemicals rather than SAF?\n\n","The final product requirements differ by topic area. \n       i.\tThe overall objective of Topic Area 1, funded by BETO, is to support the development of algal biofuels.  Per Requirement #6 of Topic Area 1, applicants are not required to propose  the physical production of finished products (fuel or otherwise) in the project scope; however, they are required to propose the delivery of TEA and LCA results for their future-envisioned products.  To be responsive to BETO’s programmatic objectives, work on SAF from photosynthetically-generated algal lipids is encouraged.  Applicants may refer to section V.C.i of the FOA for an explanation of how Program Policy Factors, such as programmatic objectives, may be used in the selection of proposals for award.  \n      ii.\tThe overall objective of Topic Area 2, funded by CUP, is to support the development of technologies for maximizing CO2 utilization by creating algal bioproducts.  Unlike Topic 1, characterization of algal bioproducts  produced in the project scope is required: “Considering the final product, supported R&D must produce sufficient algae to create and characterize the final product.” (Pg 16 of the FOA). For Topic Area 2, “bioproducts are the desired primary end-products; while biofuels are eligible in Topic Area 2 as secondary outputs, they are not the primary objective.” Pg 14."]
[6,"2022-02-15","Technical Topics","\n\n\nCan we use algae-heterotroph coculture for fuel production? The heterotroph will be the product synthesis platform while algal is used for CO2 capture and cross-feeding a heterotroph.   \n\n\n\n.","Yes. Note that the scope of projects proposed for Topic 1 should not include separate work on product (fuel or otherwise) synthesis. To the extent the co-culturing scope is required for the carbon capture technology development, it would be allowable; however, stand-alone scope on heterotrophic conversion is not of interest. "]
[7,"2022-02-15","Technical Topics","For Topic a, the final size of cultivation is unclear (1000L?). We do not have large algal cultivation system. Can multiple small photo-bioreactors be used and added for final tests in order to fulfill the production metrics? ","Topic 1 does not specify a minimum cultivation size or volume. The applicant must determine how best to respond to the requirements of the topic which include #4: “Propose to deliver a carbon and nitrogen mass balance of the outdoor field research system that will be based on at least two independent 30 day or longer cultivation campaigns.”"]
[8,"2022-02-15","Technical Topics","1. Our algal end products will not be energy related (feed or fertilizer). The NOI describes energy products so does that mean our approach can use artificial lighting for the cultivation?\n\n2.  If the answer to the above is still no, can one take the parathentical exception?  That is, use artificial lighting to speed up the production of sufficient quantities of algae to evaluate our multiple product choices.","Artificial light is acceptable if the final product, including any final products made from algae fractionations, are not energy products.  The finished product, including fractionates, must have a LCA advantage compared to existing or similar products.\n\nIt is a requirement of Topic 1 to “Propose a research plan guided by ongoing TEA and LCA to ensure that the proposed approaches can be integrated into industrially relevant algae cultivation systems”.  Topic 2 requires that “Applicants must provide a baseline discussion of sustainability, life cycle analysis, and techno-economic analysis for the proposed pathway”. "]
[9,"2022-02-17","Technical Topics","1.\tIs production of bioproducts, biofuels, and/or precursors required?  The FOA TA1 focuses on carbon uptake and biomass yield, but also refers to the production of products. \n2.\tIf so, is demonstration of bioproducts or biofuel/SAF precursor production from macroalgal polysaccharides allowable/acceptable?  The FOA specifically calls out using lipids as SAF precursors but macroalgae are much more effective at making polysaccharides.  ","1)\tThe FOA requires that proposals have a market transformation plan that specifies the envisioned products and requires that TEA and LCA analysis be completed with algae growth and composition data generated in the project, however it does not require the actual conversion of algae biomass to products provided that sufficient literature or other information is available to complete the TEA and LCA analysis.  \n2)\tLipids are encouraged but they are not required. A pathway from macroalgae polysaccharides to biofuels is acceptable. "]
[10,"2022-02-17","Webinar","I could not attend the live webinar yesterday but read that it would be recorded. After following the link this morning I was asked for a zoom ID for the meeting. \nIs it possible to get access to this? ","A recording will be posted in the FOA listing at the EERE Exchange Website within a few days. "]
[11,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is this webinar going to be publicly shared?","Yes. "]
[12,"2022-02-17","Webinar","can we get a copy of the PPT?","The webinar and slides will be posted on EERE Exchange. "]
[13,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Will research utilizing archaea be considered? Specifically anaerobic methanotrophs.","No, this FOA is for algae only."]
[14,"2022-02-17","Webinar","What about a technology that utilizes the photosynthetic properties of phytoplankton to produce chemicals directly from algae secreting the product into the medium?   Rather than costly steps of processing biomass . Could this qualify for the FOA?","If all the other requirements are met, yes. Each topic has specific requirements that must be met regardless."]
[15,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is the carbon utilization efficiency referenced an obligation?","The carbon utilization efficiency (CUE) referenced is required to be a proposed target end state of the project."]
[16,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Would Topic 2 cover generation of electricity using the process heat and syngas from creating biochar from wood waste obtained from forest and watershed restoration projects? The biochar would be used in regenerative agriculture to sequester carbon and increase the capacity of soils to capture more carbon.","R&D under Topic 2 is intended to support the development of algae based bioproducts (utilizing CO₂ from utility and industrial sources)."]
[17,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is it lab and fundamental based or creating technology that would lead to scale solutions? Or both?","For both topic areas, the required beginning Technology Readiness Level (TRL – see Appendix E) is 3 and the target state is 4 by the end of the project."]
[18,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Where can one find all open FOAs?\n","You can search EERE Exchange for all open EERE FOAs, or grants.gov for all  open federal FOAs. "]
[19,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Could you explain briefly if and how foreign entities could get involved?","Please see section III.A.iii of the FOA for details."]
[20,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Do we need to respond to both topic area 1 and 2, or can we select just one topic area? Is a proposal that responds to both topic area more favorable?","You must select one topic or the other for a proposal. You may submit more than one unique proposal. See section III.F of the FOA for details."]
[21,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Are biofuels the only considered value-added products? Will this FOA consider other products that may permanently store CO2 (vs fuels, concumption of which emits CO2)?","TA1 and TA2 have different value-added product requirements. Yes, other products are eligibile for consideration."]
[22,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Are those targeted CUE and areal produtivity maximum? average? and under outdoor condition?","The targets are the average under outdoor conditions during the 30 day campaign."]
[23,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Do we need to have significant preliminary data to apply for a specific area? If there is enough background and expertise in CO2 capture area, do the applicants need to show work in Algae growth or it can be proposed as next step?","Yes, baseline data is required, including on algae growth. "]
[24,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Could algae grow on the open sea?","Macroalgae (seaweed) is eligible, provided the proposal meets the other requirements of the topic area."]
[25,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is CO2 capture to purify a contaminated gas stream a desireable \"product\" of the algal growth?","A gas stream purified by algae growth is not an allowable algae product. The products of interest that result from the carbonutilization must be made from algae. "]
[26,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Could you please give an example of how to plan to include underserved communities or stakeholders in the research process?","Please refer to section IV.D.xv of the FOA, the diversity, equity, and inclusion plan content requirements, as well as section V.A.ii for the evaluation criteria. "]
[27,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Could you expand on non-responsive applications primarily producing biofuels etc?","For Topic Area 2, bioproducts are the desired primary end-products; while biofuels are eligible in Topic Area 2 as secondary outputs, they are not the primary objective."]
[28,"2022-02-17","Webinar","What is the throughput requirement? kg/d of CO2 to algae?","There is not a throughput requirement."]
[29,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is Hydrogen gas or  Oxy-hydrogen gas (HHO) gas considered a biofuel for the purpose of this FOA?","Yes, however see the language regarding sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) on page 7 of the FOA. "]
[30,"2022-02-17","Webinar","When and where will these slides be posted?","We intend to make the slides available on EERE Exchange shortly after the webinar. A transcript will be posted soon  thereafter."]
[31,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Will genetic solutions be more favorable than process related research?","No."]
[32,"2022-02-17","Webinar","The lanuage for the 30 day field trials was a little unclear.  Do you have to actually get the CO2 from the process.  For example there aren't really direct air capture (DAC) systems available.  Could the CO2 be simulated (as though it had come from a DAC system)?","Under Topic Area 1, per Requirement #1, the CO2 source must be one of the listed sources. In practice, development work can use simulated sources, however there must be a plan to use the actual identified CO2 source in the required trials. Under Topic 2, \"the integrated testing with a CO2 source may be a continuous real emission stream or a synthetic representative of the selected emissions stream(s).\" (pg 15). "]
[33,"2022-02-17","Webinar","FOA Topic 1:  Is Agiculture biomass eligible?","No. Per the FOA requirements for both topics, only algae biomass is eligible. "]
[34,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Will this powerpoint be available for reference after the webinar?","The webinar and slides will be posted."]
[35,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Are photobioreactors in scope?","Yes."]
[36,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Are vendors doing research able to contribute time as in-kind cost share? (Slide on cash vs. in-kind showed unallowed vendor contributions only under cash)","Vendors/contractors may not provide cost share. See section of the FOA III.B.iii for details. "]
[37,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Would fertilizers be included in the definition of 'bioproducts' ?","Yes."]
[38,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is regenerative agriculture to sequester carbon and increase the soil capacity to capture carbon acceptable?","Biochar made from algae for land application is an example of an acceptable bioproduct. "]
[39,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is a laboratory-scale demonstration sufficient?","No. "]
[40,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Will this FOA encourage modeling work?","Techno-economic and life cycle modeling work is required. "]
[41,"2022-02-17","Webinar","For topic area 2, are wastewater treatment systems considered \"utility scale\"? What size community should the plant serve, if applicable?","From the question, it is unclear what CO2 stream is being captured. Please follow-up with a clarifying details if this remains uncertain. "]
[42,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Artitcial lighting for algae growth is non-responsive? Why?","The energy balance of artifical lighting is not compatible with the scale of algae cultivation necessary for biofuel production and the requirements for a positive LCA impact. "]
[43,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Is NETL the same as NREL?","No, NETL refers to the National Energy Technology Laboratory. NREL is the National Renewable Energy Laboratory."]
[44,"2022-02-17","Webinar","For the 30 day field trial do you need to actually make a \"bioproduct\" or can do you just get a dry weight to meet the conversion and productivity requirements?  With the assumption that further processing could produce a \"bioproduct\".","For Topic Area 1, product synthesis is not required. For Topic Area 2, product synthesis is required. "]
[45,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Would the FOA cover a technology for electrochemical CO2 utilization using derivatives from algael biomass as a catalyst?","There is not enough information to answer this question. Please follow-up with a clarifying details if this remains uncertain. See sections I.B.i and I.B.ii of the FOA for topic area requirements. "]
[46,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Can you elaborate a bit more on the 30 day research campaign and how that fits into the timeline of an award?","The timeline of the award must include several budget periods, as prescribed by the FOA, separated by Go/No Go decision points that will be used by DOE to evaluate progress towards the project objectives (see section II.A.ii of the FOA for details). It is the applicant's responsibility to propose a workplan that incorporates the trials with adequate time to complete any develpoment that must precede them. "]
[47,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Would you please post the link where the PPT slides will be posted?  Thanks!","The slides will be available at EERE Exchange. "]
[48,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Do you have to harvest the biomass in the 30 day trial or can the harvestability be exptrapolated from tests?","This question is very dependant on the applicant's system, but generally, DOE assumes that harvest will be required during a 30 day trial. "]
[49,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Please show last slide with contact info.","All question must be submitted to the FOA mailbox, FY22CarbonUtilizationFOA@ee.doe.gov."]
[50,"2022-02-17","Webinar","I would like to ask if i have filed a patent for a development  , if it the intellectual property will be taken into consideration.","Access to suitable IP is considered during the technical review as a part of Criterion 3, team and resources. "]
[51,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Does Spirulina count as \"algae\" for the purposes of these grants?","Yes. "]
[52,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Do you need to demonstrate algae cultivation to CO2 to final bioproducts?","For Topic Area 1, product synthesis is not required. For Topic Area 2, product synthesis is required. "]
[53,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Within what time span for the 30 day trial?","The timeline of the award must include several budget periods, as prescribed by the FOA, separated by Go/No Go decision points that will be used by DOE to evaluate progress towards the project objectives (see section II.A.ii of the FOA for details). It is the applicant's responsibility to propose a workplan that incorporates the trials with adequate time to complete any develpoment that must precede them. "]
[54,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Topic Area 2 says field trials need to be 1000L.  What about Topic Area 1 ?","Topic 1 does not specifiy a minimum volume."]
[55,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Thank you Dan and Amishi!","You're welcome. "]
[56,"2022-02-17","Webinar","What is the size of the demonstration unit? land area in acres?","This is not specified for either topic. "]
[57,"2022-02-17","Webinar","Thank you!!","You're welcome. "]
[58,"2022-02-18","Technical Topics","Is the carbon utilization efficiency the utilization efficiency of carbon dioxide alone or of carbon from all sources. The latter would include carbon in nutrient, e.g., if urea is used as a nitrogen source; carbon flowing in with the water source; or carbon added to the media, e. g., as added alkalinity which may flow out of the system.","The overall goal of the FOA is to increase CO2 utilization in algal systems. However, the target metric for carbon utilization efficiency in each topic is carbon out/carbon in.  The FOA requires carbon and nitrogen balances as deliverables, which should include all the sources listed in the question. "]
[59,"2022-02-18","Technical Topics","We are asking for clarification about the first bullet in Section C. Application Specifically Not of Interest: ‘Topic Area 2 only’, which states “Post-combustion CO2 capture technologies”. As it is clear that capturing CO2 from chimneys and growing algae in novel Photobioreactors is a goal of the FOA, this statement has led some in our group to wonder what the statement thus refers to. Please clarify. ","Applicants cannot propose to conduct novel R&D on post combustion capture technology such as new membranes, solvents, or sorbents. "]
[60,"2022-02-22","Technical Topics","Hello, I am interested in the Carbon Utilization Funding Opportunity, and am unclear on the Topic 1's relationship to algae systems. I am interested in developing a coupled electrochemical and biocatalytic solution for CO2 DAC and chemical production (methanol, e.g.).  Is this development within scope of the FOA, which will largely focus on CO2 capture and conversion optimization, so long as there is a clear connection on the \"back-end\" of the technology to algae systems? ","The FOA is not intended for the development of novel CO2 capture technology. However, research and development related to the integration of an existing carbon capture technology to an algal system is within the scope, including for example the fabrication and operation of a suitably scaled DAC unit. The FOA requires growth of algae suitable for the production of products such as biofuels (as described in TA1) or other bioproducts (as described in TA2), using the identified CO2 source."]
[61,"2022-02-22","Application Content/Format","The FOA provides a version of Table X in the PDF format. Is an editable Excel version available?","No, an Excel version is not available. Per the instructions in Appendix G of the FOA, the table must be in a PDF file."]
[62,"2022-02-24","Webinar","I am wondering if there is a recording of the informational webinar for the Carbon Utilization Technology: Improving Efficient Systems for Algae FOA","\nPlease check EERE Exchange under the FOA number DE-FOA-0002654 for the webinar slides and written Q&A. An accessible transcript will be posted there soon once it is complete.  \n\n"]
[63,"2022-02-24","Technical Topics","Topic Area 1 includes \"waste CO2 emissions from a stationary point fermentation source (e.g., a biorefinery) [and] from biogas cleanup (e.g., purification of landfill gas to renewable natural gas) [.]\" Topic Area 2 includes \"exhaust gas produced from thermal conversion.\" So, although not explicitly stated, if we used a food waste-fed anerobic digester making biogas (i.e., methane and carbon dioxide) and separated the gasses, we would submit to Topic Area 1? But if we burned the biogas to CO2, then we would submit to Topic Area 2? Correct?","Yes, the use of combustion flue gas from biogas engine would fall under topic 2. "]
[64,"2022-02-24","Technical Topics","Related to point C of this FOA, page. 18, pre- and post-combustion CO2 capture technologies considered nonresponsive.  Our group is wondering if precipitates of carbon compounds from flue gases is considered responsive for this FOA?","No, precipitates of carbon compounds from flue gases are not responsive to the FOA. "]
[65,"2022-02-24","Technical Topics","Is cyanobateria in scope for either TA1 or TA2?","Yes, cyanobacteria is defined as a type of algae in the FOA and thus eligible for both Topics.  "]
[66,"2022-02-25","Technical Topics","I was wondering if the new call, DE-FOA-0002654 FY22 Carbon Utilization Technology: Improving Efficient Systems for Algae was restricted to microalgae, or if you might consider macroalgal-based applications?","Macroalgae (seaweeds) are eligible per the FOA definition of algae.  "]
[67,"2022-03-01","Technical Topics","If we propose surface growth on vertica panels, should we calculate the areal productivity based on footprint or panel area?","The FOA does not provide or require a specific method to calculate areal productivity. The applicant must determine suitable methods to respond to the FOA requirements."]
[68,"2022-03-01","Technical Topics","This FOA seeks to increase the utilization efficiency of algal growth systems. Can a proposed system use bottled CO2 to grow algae? Or does the concept have to create and contain CO2 for algae growth?","Each topic area has specific requirements regarding the source of CO2 used to cultivate the algae, For example, synthetic or bottled CO2 is acceptable if it is representative of the targeted flue gas. "]
[69,"2022-03-04","Cost Sharing","I am trying to apply DE-FOA-0002654 grant opportunity, however for this grant 20% matching fund is a requirement. Is that correct?","Correct. The cost share must be at least 20% of the total allowable costs for research and development projects (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. Please see FOA section III.B Cost Sharing for more information on the cost sharing requirements."]
[70,"2022-03-06","Technical Topics","Regarding Topic Area 1, would you accept CO2 waste gas sources not listed, such as CO2 exhaust from steam reformed methane? (SRM)","No, SMR is driven through the combustion of natural gas (methane) and would therefore be applicable to Topic Area 2. "]
[71,"2022-03-08","Technical Topics","I was wondering if you would you consider energy use in commercial buildings for heating and cooling an industrial source of CO2 under topic area 2?  The technology being involved in bioremediation of CO2 in indoor buildings. ","Combustion derived flue gas streams viable sources for topic two possibly for example, heating a building. However targeting the CO2 in the ambient air inside the built environment is out of scope."]
[72,"2022-03-09","Concept Paper","Is it possible to receive a concept paper draft format?","No, a concept paper draft is not available, please see FOA section IV.C Content and Form of the Concept Paper for concept paper requirements."]
[73,"2022-03-09","Concept Paper","For this Grant there is a 20% Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement. Is that correct?","Please see answer to question #69 above."]
[74,"2022-03-10","Technical Topics","From the FOA, for both topic areas, the expectation is that the project will advance the cultivation system from technology readiness level (TRL) 3 to TRL 4. Based on the TRL definitions in Appendix E, TRL 4 is defined as 'Component and/or system validation in laboratory environment'. Both topic areas require 30-day field trials, with some degree of carbon accounting, which one could argue would be considered TRL 5 - 'Laboratory scale, similar system validation in a relevant environment'. Will an application be considered non-responsive or disadvantaged if the proposed process could be considered to be starting at TRL 5 or higher?","The TRL definitions are broadly applicable to varied technology development efforts. For the purposes of the FOA, a “laboratory environment” can be generalized to encompass outdoor field trials performed using laboratory-type equipment, such as miniature raceway ponds or other laboratory-scale algae-growth equipment, for algae cultivation.  While TRL 4 and 5 are both “Technology Development”, TRL 5 is defined so that: \n“The basic technological components are integrated so that the system configuration is similar to (matches) the final application in almost all respects… The major difference between TRL 4 and 5 is the increase in the fidelity of the system and environment to the actual application. The system tested is almost prototypical.”  \nFor this FOA, it is not anticipated that the scale of R&D proposed will allow the proposed system configuration to match the ultimate final application, as this would generally mean substantially different configurations and integrations of inoculum, media preparation, culture monitoring, liquid and solids handling, and waste disposal than what may occur at lower TRLs, such as TRL 4.  If an applicant believes that their project configuration is starting at TRL 5, it is likely not responsive to this FOA.  Please read the Notice of Intent for DE-FOA-0002637 at GRANTS.GOV for information about the Bioenergy Technologies Office intent to support scale-up of Advanced Algal Systems in FY22. "]
[75,"2022-03-10","Application Content/Format","let m ","An abstract is required in the EERE Exchange web template. You may also include this abstract on the concept paper cover page along with the other requested information.  This consolidates information in different files for the convenience of the reviewer.  The content of the cover page does not count towards the page limit for the technology description.  "]
[76,"2022-03-10","Application Content/Format","There also doesn't seem to be anywhere to actually attach the concept paper with the cover page and addendum. I can't see anywhere to attach the concept paper. Does that appear after I press submit Is there maybe a 2nd page of the general form that I can't see?","The Concept Paper must be submitted through EERE Exchange System, if technical problems persist in submitting this, please contact the EERE Exchange Helpdesk at ExchangeHelp@hq.doe.gov."]
[77,"2022-03-15","Concept Paper","Is there a specific template/file we need to use to submit the Concept Paper? If not, what is the preferred format to receive it?","No, there is no template provided for the Concept Paper. See Section IV.C.i  of the FOA for specific content requirements. Please note page limits and upload the Concept Paper as a single PDF document."]
[78,"2022-03-23","Concept Paper","Are concept papers required for this FOA or can an application alone be sufficient?","Concept papers are required for this FOA, as outlined in FOA section IV.C."]
[79,"2022-03-30","Other","I am trying to obtain a package for the grant opportunity at the office's earliest opportunity","The funding opportunity announcment document for DE-FOA-0002654 can be found at the  EERE Exchange website at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov. "]
[80,"2022-04-01","Other","Could you tell me if we can participate in Carbon Utilization Funding Opportunity?","Please see FOA section III.A  Eligibility Information for FOA eligibility requirements."]
[81,"2022-04-14","Other","I welcome an opportunity to learn further about DE-FOA-0002654 under the understanding our intent to consider applying has not lapsed due to the stated due dates for Concept Papers and Full Applications in the FOA","Please see the FOA for due dates related to the Concept Paper and Full Application. Please note, submission of a Concept paper by the stated due date in the FOA document is required to be eligible to submit a Full Application."]
[82,"2022-04-19","Application Content/Format","SF-424 Form – On page 40 of the FOA, there is a link that references the Energy.gov forms for applicants. On that page under DOE budget forms, there is a SF 424 R&R form linked. Just to be sure, this is not the form we are to use and instead we should complete the form found on the EERE page correct?","Correct. The SF424 form to be used can be obtained under the DE-FOA-0002654 listing on the EERE Exchange website at https://eere-Exchange.energy.gov/. The link referenced on page 40 of the FOA can be used to access the list of certifications and assurances in Field 21 of the SF424."]
[83,"2022-04-19","Application Content/Format","Subrecipient Budget Justification – On page 41 of the FOA, the subrecipient budget justification is noted as a separate document for each sub. Am I correct to interpret that since my project has 2 subrecipients, I will be submitting 3 budget justification workbooks (attached)? One for the main institution with the subs listed in part f - Contractual, and two others (one per sub) each with their detailed information for parts a-e and g-j?","Yes, that is correct. Please also note the threshold required for subrecipient budgets noted on tab f. Contractual of the budget justification workbook."]
[84,"2022-04-22","Concept Paper","We missed the deadline for filing our concept paper, are we still able to file for the May 27 full application?","No. Per the FOA requirements listed on the cover page of the FOA, applicants must submit a Concept Paper by 5:00pm ET on the due date of 3/18/2022 to be eligible to submit a Full Application."]
[85,"2022-04-25","Other","Is the 3-month initial verification period included in the maximum 36-month period of performance?","Correct, the 3-month initial verification period should be included in the period of performance, please see FOA section II.A.ii for reference. However, please also note there is no hard-limit to the maximum project length to achieve the project scope."]
[86,"2022-04-26","Other","1)\tHow to handle the performance periods: TA2 should have two performance periods; I suspect they must both be 18 months if your project duration is 36 months\n2)\tWhether the Performance Data Table should be an appendix in the Technical Volume as stated in Appendix G or its own document as stated on pg. 45","Please see FOA section II.A.ii. for more information on the general parameters for project budget periods. Please note, there are no specific requirements per the FOA as to the length of performance/budget periods.\nThe Performance Data Table should be submitted as a separate document, but is considered an appendix to the project’s narrative."]
[87,"2022-04-28","Other","In the past I have had to do the NEPA certification before the project starts, but section VI.B.vi says that funds for the NEPA certification can be charged to the project. Does this mean that I will not need to do the NEPA certification until after the project starts and funds are released, and that I should anticipate the completing the NEPA certification is an early task in the SOPO.","The NEPA Environmental Questionnaire (EQ-1) will be required to completed if a project is selected for award and should be completed during award negotiations phase, and before the project begins. Per FOA section VI.B.vi, If DOE determines addtional certain records must be prepared to complete the NEPA review process (e.g., biological evaluations or environmental assessments), the recipient may be required to prepare the records and the costs to prepare the necessary records may be included as part of the project costs."]
[88,"2022-04-28","Other","The FOA does not mention the need for a PMP.  Is one required?  Should I budget for it?   Should it be a task in the SOPO.","A Project Management Plan will be required to be developed during award negotiations , if a proejct is selected for an award, and the applicant should account for project management costs in the budget"]
[89,"2022-04-28","Other","I am working on the travel budget.  I realize that I am funded, I am required to attend the CO2/AMR and the BETO/AMR.  But the instructions also say that I am supposed to also present to the program officer yearly.  Should I budget travel budget for that or will it be done by video conference?","Applicants should include travel costs related to attending the Bioenergy Technologies Office Biennial Peer Review in their project budget."]
[90,"2022-04-28","Other","Can I change the PI?  I am now listed as the PI but another worker in my company would be a better PI.","Yes. Principal Investigator designations may be changed. If changed after a project is selected and begins, during the award phase, prior contracting officer approval will be required."]
[91,"2022-04-28","Other","Does the PI need to be an employee of the company that is submitting the proposal.","The Principal Investigator should be an employee of the company that is submitting the proposal (prime recipient)"]
[92,"2022-04-29","Other","Regarding the BETO funding opportunity DE-FOA-0002654, please clarify the requirement for \"Current and Pending Support.\" Per the FOA, the \"principal investigator and senior/key personnel at the applicant and subrecipient level must provide a list of all sponsored activities, awards, and appointments...\" \n\nShould the list really include all sponsored activities? Or only those activities that are directly related to and/or overlap with the work being proposed to this FOA?\n\nThere will be many unrelated activities listed if teams are truly required to provide comprehensive lists of all sponsored and pending activities. Please advise if this is the intention of the requirement. ","Current and Pending support should be submitted for all sponsored activities, awards, and appointments, etc, directly supporting the individual’s research or indirectly supporting the individual by supporting students, research staff, space, equipment, or other research expenses. This would apply to those activities that are directly related to and/or overlap with the work being proposed to this FOA."]
[93,"2022-05-12","Application Content/Format","Could you please clarify whether each subrecipient should fill out SF-424?\nAlso, our project subrecipients say that they merely need to submit a SF-424A (budget justification) to us,  the PRIME.  \n\nThere is no link to SF-424A or mention of this form under the required application documents section in the FOA. If this is the form that our subrecipients need to fill out, where can I find it, please?\nLastly, how should I process those forms for the submission?\n","Subrecipients do not need to complete an SF-424 (application for federal assistance), this form should be submitted under the prime recipient's submission for the project. The SF424A tabs (SF424A and SF424A-Minus FFRDC) are tabs on the EERE budget justification automatically linked from the individual cost category tabs in the budget. This form can be found under the full application submission files document section of the FOA on the EERE Exchange website. Please note the total budget thresholds indicated on the instructions section of the contractual tab of the budget justification workbook for information on whether an individual (by subrecipient) entity budget justifcation workbook is required. If required for a certian subrecipient, the subrecipient budget justifcation may be submitted as a separate file under the prime's overall submission."]
[94,"2022-05-16","Due Dates","I am writing to request if an extension to the due date of the full submission is possible.","At this time, the full application due date will remain as stated on the cover page of the FOA, 5/27/2022, 5:00pm ET. "]
[95,"2022-05-17","Other","Regarding Topic area 1, I was wondering if you could help with a budget related query, since the maximum award under this topic area is $3,000,000, is this excluding the amount contributed via cost share?","Yes - as stated under FOA section II.A.i, the anticipated Federal share maximum funding under Topic Area 1 is $3,000,000. This amount is the anticipated Federal Share, and excluding Cost Share."]
[96,"2022-05-18","Other","Which B&R should we cite on the FWP?","Please consult your applicable FFRDC Contracting Officer for obtaining this code for use on the Field Work Proposal (FWP)."]
[97,"2022-05-19","Other","In reading the FOA, I am unsure if a DOE budget justification workbook is required for a subrecipient whose Federal budget is under $250,000, but with cost share the total budget is over $250k. Would they need to supply the DOE justification worksheet?","Per the budget justification workbook instructions, \" Subrecipients (partners, sub-awardees): Subrecipients shall submit a Budget Justification describing all project costs and calculations when their total proposed budget exceeds either (1) $250,000 or (2) 25% of total award costs.\" This threshold would apply to total project costs for a subrecipient budget, including cost share."]
[98,"2022-05-19","Other","Is there a downloadable template for the required Performance Data Table (Table X) shown in Appendix G of the FOA?  The instructions indicate that the table is to be populated with current and projected data, but I could not find a template — e.g. excel or pdf file — to populate.","No, there is no template provided for the the Performance Data Table, please see the required information in the table located in Appendix G of the FOA."]
[99,"2022-05-23","Other","I am working in this budget and realized that the budget justification (attached) does  not compute the “contractual” category in the totals for the summary or the SF424. Could you please hep us? ","Please see the EERE Exchange website for the revised 3 Budget Period Budget Justificaiton workbook, a corresponding 5 Budget Period Budget Justification workbook has also been uploaded to the EERE Exchange website."]
[100,"2022-05-25","Application Content/Format","We could not find specifics on whether the references cited are included in the 25-page limitation for the technical volume. Could you please provide clarification?","Citations/references do not count toward the 25 page limit of the Technical Volume, and may be submitted as an appendix to the Technical Volume. Please see FOA section D.ii for the Content and Form of the Full Application - Technical Volume requirements. "]
[101,"2022-08-11","Other","When is the selections for this FOA going to be made?","The updated timeframe of Selections from this FOA is Early September 2022."]

{"sheet":"Admin Pick List","index":2,"n_rows":17,"n_cols":1,"rows_kept":17,"cut":false,"hidden":true,"merged":[]}
["Pick List"]
[]
["Registration Requirements"]
["Webinar"]
["Concept Paper"]
["Eligibility"]
["Labs/FFRDCs"]
["Foreign Entities/Work"]
["Cost Sharing"]
["Due Dates"]
["Application Content/Format"]
["Intellectual Property"]
["Data Management"]
["Other"]
["U.S. Manufacturing Plan"]
["Application Reviews"]
["Technical Topics"]