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["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this funding opportunity announcement should be emailed under the DE-FOA-0003371 - FY 24 Scale-up of Integrated Biorefineries submit questions link at FY24BETOSCALE-UP@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 spreadsheet 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."]
[3,"Applicants who are unable to open pdf documents are advised that it could be due to an error with the user's web browser or the user's Adobe software.  We recommend closing your web browser and then opening a different web browser to navigate to the Exchange website to open/download the document.\" If that doesn't work, please contact the Exchange Help Desk at the web address provided on the FOA in Exchange. "]

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["ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
["DE-FOA-0003371 - FY24 Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries"]
["Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
[1,"2024-09-12","Eligibility","For topic area one we have part of he reactors and past data in our pilot plant. For the SAF portion and the whole project is it viable to speed up the go no go review. If not and we have the money can move as fast as we want via private money and still o through your process.","Topic Area 1 is focused on project definition, development and execution plans for the scaling of pre-pilot technologies to new pilot scale biorefineries. Utilizing existing equipment is allowable if the equipment is in good working condition and can be provided to the project in an unburdened state for the extent of the project. FOA Section I.C. Verifications explicitly states that all applications selected for award negotiations are required to participate in a verification process.  The “Verification & Design Basis Definition” phase is designed to verify prior-scale data and readiness to proceed to the next phase.  Only projects selected by DOE as a result of the down-select process will be eligible to receive additional Phase 2 funding, subject to future appropriations and availability of funds and be permitted to proceed into the 36–60-month design/construction/operation phase (Phase 2). These critical decision points will be executed in a timely manner by the DOE but will not be expedited.\n\nWhile an applicant may perform scope at risk without DOE reimbursement, DOE will perform their due diligence in a timely manner, the process will not be expedited at the expense of either the initial verification or down-select process."]
[2,"2024-09-17","Technical Topics","1.  For Topic Area 3, can you confirm that the \"Cumulative Time on Stream\" and \"Continuous Time on Stream\" minimum requirements are not requirements at the Phase 1 application stage? These are target minimum requirements for the facility constructed in Phase 2?                                                                  2.  Is ethanol an acceptable feedstock, if it is produced from \"Lignocellulosic Feedstocks\" or \"Sorted Municipal Solid Waste\" or \"Grain Starch\" (corn)? ","1.  Yes, as indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 Section I.B. iv. Table 5, the requirements for cumulative and continuous time on stream are an expectation for a facility that may be constructed and operated in Phase 2, subject to the application’s down-selection from Phase 1.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             2.  As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, Ethanol is an allowed intermediate feedstock if produced as described from the list of Acceptable Feedstocks listed in Appendix E.\n"]
[3,"2024-09-17","Concept Paper","The 1 page limit for Addendum described in section \"IV. Application and Submission Information\", subsection: \"C. Content and Form of the Concept Paper\", page 50-51 of  Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Number: DE-FOA-0003371, does that cover the entire addendum, or is it 1 page pr. bullet point mentioned in the description?","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 Section C, the Concept Paper Addendum is limited to one (1) page and should address all of the bullets listed in the Section description."]
[4,"2024-09-18","Other","\nIs there a FOA template you can share?\nBelow are some documents recommended to submit for the grant. Do we include these with the FOA as well (see below).\nAlso, some of the files are corrupted and cannot be opened. I’ve highlighted in yellow.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, all questions regarding DE-FOA-0003371 must be submitted to FY24BETOSCALE-UP@ee.doe.gov and responses will be made publicly available on EERE Exchange.  DOE will not take individual calls to discuss the FOA.  Please ensure that you have the current version of Adobe Acrobat to open the application forms and templates.                          "]
[5,"2024-09-18","Labs/FFRDCs","With respect to required documents for participating FFRDCs:  1. Do participating FFRDCs need to submit an SF-LLL?    2. Do FFRDCs need to submit letters of commitment? My understanding is that LOCs are for cost share providers ONLY, whether they are a third-party providers of cost share or a subrecipient providing cost share.  FFRDCs would not be required to submit an LOC as in most cases they are not allowed to provide cost share.  ","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 Section IV.D. xv., “Prime recipients and subrecipients are required to complete and submit the SF-LLL, ‘Disclosure of Lobbying Activities.                                                                                                                                                                                     See FOA Section III.B. Cost Sharing for guidance pertaining to cost share requirements. Cost share may be provided by the prime recipient, subrecipients, or third parties (entities that do not have a role in performing the scope of work).  “Because FFRDCs are funded by the federal government, costs incurred by FFRDCs generally may not be used to meet the cost share requirement,” and therefore are not required to submit Letters of Commitment."]
[6,"2024-09-23","Labs/FFRDCs","Based on your response to question 5 (below). . . Even though by definition FFRDCs cannot lobby they are still required to submit an SF-LLL. Correct?                                                                                              ","Yes, they are required to complete and submit the SF-LLL as indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 Section IV.D. xv., “Prime recipients and subrecipients are required to complete and submit the SF-LLL, ‘Disclosure of Lobbying Activities.                                                                                                                                                                                  "]
[7,"2024-09-24","Eligibility","I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the DE-FOA-0003371 FY24 Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries funding opportunity. I am interested in applying and would appreciate any further details regarding eligibility, application procedures, and specific areas of focus within this FOA, particularly related to Topic Area 3 on scaling biochemical technologies.  I have attached my CV with this mail. Thank you for your assistance, and I look forward to your response.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 Section III. A. contains information regarding eligibility, and Section IV for application and submission information for all topic areas. "]
[8,"2024-09-24","Eligibility","Our technology and proposed project can meet the minimum requirements for topic areas 2 and 3, and the facility will produce both fuels and edible fats (or fatty acids).  Can DOE provide guidance about which topic area might be a better fit for this project?                                                                                                                                 ","Please refer to the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/.  For specific information about the technologies this FOA supports, see Sections I.A. and I.B. For eligibility and application submission details, see Sections III and IV.  Topic Area specific requirements can be found in FOA section I.B.ii, I.B.iii, and I.B.iv and Applications Specifically Not of Interest in FOA section I.D.  See FOA Section VII. Questions and Agency Contacts, “upon the issuance of a FOA, EERE Personnel are prohibited from communicating (in writing or otherwise) with applicants regarding the FOA except through the established question and answer process..."]
[9,"2024-09-26","Eligibility","Does liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or renewable natural gas (RNG) qualify as targeted fuel types for Topic Areas 1 or 2?","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 Topic Areas 1 and 2 allow for transportation fuels that are not liquid at standard temperature and pressure; e.g., liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or renewable natural gas (RNG).  Fuel types for Topic Areas 1 and 2 must meet the requirements described in Sections I.B.ii. and I.B.iii respectively and be  shown that they can be used for the transportation modes listed."]
[10,"2024-10-01","Concept Paper","Are we allowed to use AI for the Concept Paper and other written components of the application strictly supporting the professional wording of our answers, not for any research or quantitative information? ","Any use of artificial intelligence in the creation of any part of an application for this FOA must be appropriately attributed.  Even with the use of artificial intelligence, each applicant is responsible for and is representing to the U.S. Government that the information in its application documents is accurate, that the applicant is fully capable of performing the work described in the application, and that the submission of the application does not and will not infringe or violate any rights of any third party or entity.   "]
[11,"2024-10-02","Eligibility","Can DOE provide guidance about which topic area might be a better fit for this project?                                          ","Topic Area specific requirements can be found in FOA section I.B.ii, I.B.iii, and I.B.iv and Applications Specifically Not of Interest in FOA section I.D.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         See FOA Section VII. Questions and Agency Contacts, “upon the issuance of a FOA, EERE Personnel are prohibited from communicating (in writing or otherwise) with applicants regarding the FOA except through the established question and answer process... "]
[12,"2024-10-02","Eligibility","Seeking federal resources for a Public-Private Biomass Gasification Project.  I would like to coordinate a virtual meeting with the appropriate officials to discuss this initiative in further detail.  Your guidance and counsel on this matter is greatly appreciated.  I can be reached via email and by telephone directly.","Please refer to the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/.  For specific information about the technologies this FOA supports, see Sections I.A. and I.B. For eligibility and application submission details, see Sections III and IV.  Topic Area specific requirements can be found in FOA section I.B.ii, I.B.iii, and I.B.iv and Applications Specifically Not of Interest in FOA section I.D.  See FOA Section VII. Questions and Agency Contacts, “upon the issuance of a FOA, EERE Personnel are prohibited from communicating (in writing or otherwise) with applicants regarding the FOA except through the established question and answer process..."]
[13,"2024-10-02","Concept Paper","Anticipated TAT in weeks for encourage/discourage notice upon submittal of Concept Paper?","EERE aims to provide encourage/discourage notifications approximately 2 weeks after submission. This is subject to change based upon review requirements and applicants should check EERE eXCHANGE for updates on submission feedback."]
[14,"2024-10-02","Technical Topics","Are feedstocks derived from those listed allowed?","Yes, intermediate products derived from allowable feedstocks are permitted as long as the original feedstock, and its downstream form, meets the \"Acceptable Feedstocks\" and their definitions as described in Appendix E of the FOA. Pilot- and demonstration-scale facilities should mimic the envisioned form of the eventual commercial-scale facility in terms of supply chains and front end feedstock handling. "]
[15,"2024-10-02","Other","Please can you further explain what you mean by \"Teaming Partners\".  Apologies, this is not a term we are familiar with.","Please see DE-FOA-0003371 Section I.A.iii for more details on the Teaming Partner List. The Teaming Partner List is intended as a collection point for interested parties that wish to develop new collaborations on a proposal to meet the intent of the FOA. A submission to the Teaming Partner List is not required and completely optional. EERE does not endorse the skills or individuals within the Teaming Partner List."]
[16,"2024-10-02","Eligibility","Are LEA's eligible? ","If LEAs is the acronym for Local Education Agencies, yes, LEAs are eligible entities so long as they meet all the requirements of Section III.A.i of the FOA."]
[17,"2024-10-02","Technical Topics","If we already have a pilot plant but it is smaller than 20,000 gal/year, could we still apply for Topic Area 2 even though we don't meet the maximum 50X scale up?","Applicants are responsible for providing prior scale data that justifies their readiness to scale-up to either pilot-scale or demo-scale. A project does not have to already have the time on stream and throughput metrics listed in Section I.B.ii, as those are end of project goals from awards under this FOA. Applicants should be designing their new/retrofitted pilot plant to meet these end of project metrics. "]
[18,"2024-10-02","Eligibility","Are LEA's with a current Biomass still eligible to apply? ","If LEAs is the acronym for Local Education Agencies, yes, LEAs are eligible entities so long as they meet all the requirements of Section III.A.i of the FOA. Applicants should develop teams that can provide all resources to execute on the project that meets the intent of the FOA and Topic Area including initial feedstocks, such as biomass, for operation of the pilot or demo pending a successful down-select process and subject to future appropriations. "]
[19,"2024-10-02","Application Content/Format","How open is the DOE to hiring of key personnel after application, in instances where a firm does not presently have capacity?","Applicants do not have to have all required personnel in house prior to award. Applicants may hire additional employees as needed after award so long as the initial applications lists key personnel for the Technical Reviewers to determine if an applicant as the expertise, skills, and resources available to meet the proposed scope."]
[20,"2024-10-03","Other","I have a project proposal that I would like to submit for DE-FOA-0003371","Please refer to the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/.  For specific information about the technologies this FOA supports, see Sections I.A. and I.B. For eligibility and application submission details, see Sections III and IV.  Topic Area specific requirements can be found in FOA section I.B.ii, I.B.iii, and I.B.iv and Applications Specifically Not of Interest in FOA section I.D.  "]
[21,"2024-10-03","Eligibility","[Redacted] Is this integrated biorefinery system concept acceptable?  If it is not acceptable, what do I need to change to be acceptable?","The intent of DE-FOA-0003371 is to scale technologies that have the relevant prior scale data to convert biomass and organic wastes into biofuels and organic chemicals. The FOA Topic Areas intend to provide funding for Applicants to design integrated pilot- or demonstration-scale biorefineries. It is up to each applicant to describe their prior scale data and why their technology is ready to scale to a TRL 6 or 7 biorefinery. Each applicant should determine if their proposal meets eligibility requirements such as allowable feedstocks, allowable carbon into the finished biofuel or biochemical, and allowable end products. DOE will not provide guidance on specific projects as this feedback will be provided during the Concept Paper phase. "]
[22,"2024-10-04","Other","[Redacted] Interested in participating in the FOA Number DE-FOA-0003371.","Please refer to the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/.  For specific information about the technologies this FOA supports, see Sections I.A. and I.B. For eligibility and application submission details, see Sections III and IV.  Topic Area specific requirements can be found in FOA section I.B.ii, I.B.iii, and I.B.iv and Applications Specifically Not of Interest in FOA section I.D.  See FOA Section VII. Questions and Agency Contacts, “upon the issuance of a FOA, EERE Personnel are prohibited from communicating (in writing or otherwise) with applicants regarding the FOA except through the established question and answer process..."]
[23,"2024-10-04","Eligibility","We would like to know if our technology which creates more DCO feedstock for SAF is eligible for Topic area 2 under this DE-FOA-0003371 to assist scaling our pilot scale technology to a demonstration scale to help meet the 2050 SAF goal.","It up to each applicant to review the full FOA document to determine if their proposed project meets the intent and eligibility requirements of the FOA. Please review Sections I.B and Appendix E to determine if technology improvements at ethanol facilities meet the feedstock eligibility requirements. Please also review the GHG reduction metrics for going to SAF as all proposal should provide >70% GHG reductions.  "]
[24,"2024-10-06","Webinar","Was not able to get to the webinar – but wanted to know when it will be posted as a link  -  Wanted to get an idea of level of interest in this opportunity.","Webinar documents have been uploaded to EERE eXCHANGE."]
[25,"2024-10-07","Eligibility","1.  Substrate:[Redacted] plans on using DE95 (Dextrose) for the project which is derived from Lignocellulosic Material. A colleague in my team recalls in the webinar that “model substrates” are not allowed. I am unable to find that language in the FOA. I request clarity on this matter.                                                                                                             2.  TRL Levels: Our core technology for the organic petrochemical that we will be applying for is at a TRL level above 6; however, the catalysis part of it is at TRL 4 and will advance to a higher TRL due to the support of this program. As it relates to the second part, are advancements of TRL during the performance period allowed as such? ","1.  Please reference Section I.D “Applications Specifically Not of Interest”, bullet #3, and Appendix E – Acceptable Feedstocks for information on the use of model feedstocks. It is up to the applicant to show that their feedstock meets these definitions and that a “commercial-scale” facility could be economically operated using the feedstock to conversion operation proposed within the application.                                                                                                                                                                                                               2.   Please reference “Topic Area Specific Requirements” for each of the Topic Areas. Specifically, the bullet that states “Applications cannot include greater than 10% of the total project budget for earlier stage RD&D (<TRL 6), including expenses for equipment, salaries, and supplies.”. Advancement of the technology and integrated process’s TRL is expected under projects awarded from this FOA. However, the intent of the FOA is to advance technologies and systems from TRL 5 to 7 depending on the Topic Area. "]
[26,"2024-10-07","Eligibility","Can a previous confidential engineering study that a private company paid for a 1000t/day biomass conversion unit be used as cost share for the design of a new 200t/day biomass conversion unit? It will be used constantly during the new 200t/d DOE engineering study.","See FOA Section III.B.iii Cost Share Types and Allowability for examples of cost share. \" In-Kind Contributions are those where a value of the contribution can be readily determined, verified and justified but where no actual cash is transacted in securing the good or service comprising the contribution."]
[27,"2024-10-09","Application Content/Format","1.  Are we allowed to use AI for the Concept Paper and other written components of the application strictly supporting the professional wording of our answers, not for any research or quantitative information?                                                                                                                                                                                                2.  Are citations required for the Concept Paper and Technical volume, and if so - what form of citation/reference should be used?","1.  Any use of artificial intelligence in the creation of any part of an application for this FOA must be appropriately attributed.  Even with the use of artificial intelligence, each applicant is responsible for and is representing to the U.S. Government that the information in its application documents is accurate, that the applicant is fully capable of performing the work described in the application, and that the submission of the application does not and will not infringe or violate any rights of any third party or entity.                                                                                                                                                                                           2.  As indicated in FOA-DE-0003371, please review Section IV.D.iii. Technical Volume which states \"Applicants must provide sufficient citations and references to the primary research literature to justify the claims and approaches made in the Technical Volume. However, EERE and reviewers are under no obligation to review cited sources.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          The Technical Volume to the Full Application may not be more than 40 pages, including the cover page, table of contents, and all citations, charts, graphs, maps, photos, or other graphics, and must include all information in the table below. The applicant should consider the weighting of each of the technical review criteria (see Section V.A.ii. of the FOA) when preparing the Technical Volume."]
[28,"2024-10-10","Technical Topics","On page 23 of the FOA (DE-FOA-0003371) says that “Scale-up factors per unit operation can be no greater than 50x.”  Does this apply to an already operational pilot plant that the applicants should already have, which, given that for Topic Area 2 (demonstration) the minimum capacity is 1,000,000 gallons/year, that means that applicants should provide data from an already operational pilot plant of at least a 20,000 gallons/year to not exceed the 50X scale up factor and thus be eligible for an award under Topic Area 2?  Or is there some wiggle room and data from a smaller pilot plant than 20,000 GPY allowed to apply for Topic Area 2 (demonstration plant)?   ","The end of project throughput equivalents in the tables of Section I.B.ii are minimum values. A proposed project can exceed these values. For example, an integrated pilot that generates 1,000,000 gallons per year of qualified products is allowable under Topic 1. From DOE and Industry best practices, a maximum scale up factor of 50x for first of a kind technology is suggested for demonstrations. It is up to the Applicant to document and justify why a scale-up factor greater than 50x is reasonable, perhaps on the basis of using advanced modeling that has been validated on the previous scale data or examples of the Applicant successfully managing larger scale-up projects, and that this rational is thoroughly explained in the application. Appropriate risks and mitigation strategies should be discussed so the Technical Reviewers can score the proposal appropriately. It is up to the applicant to ensure their proposal meets all requirements and intent of the FOA."]
[29,"2024-10-16","Eligibility","1.  Substrate:[Redacted] plans on using DE95 (Dextrose) for the project which is derived from Lignocellulosic Material. A colleague in my team recalls in the webinar that “model substrates” are not allowed. I am unable to find that language in the FOA. I request clarity on this matter.                                                                                                             2.  TRL Levels: Our core technology for the organic petrochemical that we will be applying for is at a TRL level above 6; however, the catalysis part of it is at TRL 4 and will advance to a higher TRL due to the support of this program. As it relates to the second part, are advancements of TRL during the performance period allowed as such? ","Please see answer to question #25."]
[30,"2024-10-16","Eligibility","Our process consists of several unit operations. Some of these are standard unit operations (distillation, ion-exchange, etc.) with little meaningful at-scale technical risk, but have not been executed at pilot scale by our own team. Do these count as having a low TRL (< 6)? Can the application focus on the TRL of the actually innovative unit operations?","Please review the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) guidance for each topic under Section I.B of the FOA. Each Applicant should address the TRL for each unit operation in the proposed pilot- or demonstration-scale integrated process. For commercial unit operations such as distillation, each Applicant should evaluate and describe the potential risks for integrating these with the novel unit operations for the first time, with potential mitigation strategies and the readiness for scale-up and integration. It is up to each Applicant to determine the form and content of their application in terms of background discussion on commercial unit operations. Please also review the technical review criteria for full applications under Section V.A.ii. to assist with application development."]
[31,"2024-10-17","Technical Topics","Is there any guidance on what constitutes a pilot versus a demonstration for the purposes of this FOA, particularly for the requirement for a demonstration for Topic Area 2 - Demonstration Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries? Do you have a definition for a pilot and/or a definition for a demonstration for the purposes of this FOA.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, please review the tables within Section I.B for the applicable end of project metrics as it relates to pilot- vs demonstration-scale facilities. Primarily, a nameplate throughput equivalency is the determining factor for the associated scale of the facility. I.e., 20,000 vs 1,000,000 gallons per year equivalent. In the header of each topic within Section I.B, is a discussion on the associated Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) anticipated as the starting and ending point for the project. Please see Appendix F for definitions on TRLs. It is up to each Applicant to describe their process/technology and their results to date along with the reasoning and readiness to scale. It is expected that each Applicant has sufficient prior scale data to justify their readiness to scale-up. "]
[32,"2024-10-19","Technical Topics","Topic Area 3 targets production of organic chemicals, in contrast to transportation fuels in Topic areas 1 and 2. Few guidelines are given for the organic chemicals to be produced, other than production volume > 0.5 million short tons. I can find no further help in the 2023 MYPP. How will BETO define organic chemicals? Is synthesis gas an acceptable product? Is activated carbon/biochar/metallurgical coke an acceptable product? ","An organic chemical is defined as a molecule containing one or more carbon atoms. As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, please review the references under Section I.B.iv for additional resources on a non-exhaustive list of potential organic chemicals. Each Applicant should describe the U.S. domestic production that their process/technology is equivalent to, and all Applications should adhere to the associated metrics within the respective topic area. In particular, the domestic production capacity and potential for greenhouse gas reductions. Intermediates, such as synthesis gas, are not an allowable end product under Topic Area 3. “Applications proposing pathways to produce non-drop-in chemicals are encouraged if they address markets >0.5 million short tons."]
[33,"2024-10-21","Eligibility","Under Topic area 2 \"scaling of pilot (TRL 6) biofuel technologies to demonstration scale (TRL 7-8) is scaling up for production of intermediates (such as alcohols and/or olefins) for SAF production eligible under this FOA? ","Please see Question #9 for a similar question on allowable end products for Topic Areas 1 and 2. Specifically for Topic Area 2, please review Table 3 under Section I.B.iii for ‘Fuel Types’. The proposed product for each Application under Topic Area 2 should meet the definition of the allowable ‘Fuel Types’ under Appendix J and be shown that they can be used for the transportation modes listed."," "]
[34,"2024-10-22","Registration Requirements","Do we need a UEI and SAM in place to file the Concept Paper or only prior to filing the Full Application due in January 2025?","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, each applicant (unless the applicant is excepted from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110) is required to: (1) register in the SAM prior to submitting an application; (2) provide a valid UEI number in the application; and (3) maintain an active SAM registration with current information when the applicant has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency.    If an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time DOE is ready to make a federal award, DOE will determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant.   Due to the high number of UEI requests and SAM registrations, validations are taking longer than expected to process and entities should start the UEI and SAM registration process as soon as possible."," "]
[35,"2024-10-22","Eligibility","Please advise if all feedstocks to a finished fuel must be included the Table 1 of allowable feedstocks. For example, waste CO2 or CO2 captured directly from the air can be synthesized with electrolytic hydrogen. Would such a project be deemed ineligible?","Appendix E – Acceptable Feedstocks provides a listing of specific feedstock requirements for each Subtopic Area in this FOA.  Applications proposing the use of any feedstock not identified as an acceptable feedstock for the particular Topic Area may not be further considered.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Per FOA Section III.G. Questions Regarding Eligibility, “EERE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted."]
[36,"2024-10-23","Technical Topics","Within the technology description section, is the proposed technology's target level of performance the same as the technological readiness level? ","Yes, the Target Level of Performance is the same as the Technology Readiness Level. "]
[37,"2024-10-25","Technical Topics","Is there any guidance on what constitutes a pilot versus a demonstration for the purposes of this FOA, particularly for the requirement for a demonstration for Topic Area 2 - Demonstration Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries? Do you have a definition for a pilot and/or a definition for a demonstration for the purposes of this FOA.","Please see answer to question #31. "]
[38,"2024-10-25","Eligibility","Under Topic area 2 \"scaling of pilot (TRL 6) biofuel technologies to demonstration scale (TRL 7-8) is scaling up for production of intermediates (such as alcohols and/or olefins) for SAF production eligible under this FOA?","Please see Question #9 for a similar question on allowable end products for Topic Areas 1 and 2. Specifically for Topic Area 2, please review Table 3 under Section I.B.iii for ‘Fuel Types’. The proposed product for each Application under Topic Area 2 should meet the definition of the allowable ‘Fuel Types’ under Appendix J and be shown that they can be used for the transportation modes listed."]
[39,"2024-10-29","Concept Paper","1.   In the FOA, the \"anticipated minimum award size for any one individual award\" for phase I, topic area 3 is stated as \"$2,000,000\". Does this mean that a proposal would have an overall budget of $4M, with $2M being the fed share and $2M being the cost share from the other parties in the application?                                                                                                                                                              2.   Should the Concept Paper be written to address both the phase I and phase II components of the application?                                                                                                                                                                                                                            3.  The  anticipated period of performance for phase I of a topic area 3 grant is 12-24 months, is this correct?  In the table on page 39 of the FOA, the \"anticipated period of performance is stated at 24 months for a topic area number 3, while table 6 states \"12-24 months\".  Which is the correct guidance?                                                                                                                                                                      4.   Is there a clear definition for each of the following and/or a delineation between the terms \"pilot scale\" and \"demonstration scale\"?                                                                                                                                                                                         5.   Can capital equipment be purchased for phase I projects? If so, what is the cost threshold of equipment in overall amount of the grant or of the % of the grant total?                                                                                   6.    Can foreign entity (Mexico) originated biomass be used as a biomass material for the grant application?","1.   As indicated by DE-FOA-0003371 Section III.B. Cost Sharing, the cost share must be at least 50% of the total project costs for demonstration projects and must come from non-federal sources unless otherwise allowed by law.  Please view the sample cost share calculation within Appendices A and B to this FOA.                                                                                                                                                                                             2.  Per FOA Section II.A.i. Estimated Funding, EERE anticipated making Phase 1 awards from this Funding Opportunity.  “Project continuation into Phase 2 will be contingent upon several elements, including future appropriations and availability of funds, satisfactory performance, and Go/No-Go Decision.                                                                                                                                                                                                                    3.  As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 Section II.A.ii., Period of Performance EERE anticipates making Phase 1 awards that will run from twelve (12) up to twenty-four (24) months, comprised of one or more budget periods. Project continuation into Phase 2 will be contingent upon several elements, including future appropriations and availability of funds, satisfactory performance and Go/No-Go decision. For a complete list, see Section VI.B.xv.                                                                                                                      4.  Per FOA Section I.B.ii. Topic Area 1, “Pilot-scale facilities developed under Topic Area 1 must produce, at the plant’s rated capacity, a minimum quantity of 20,000 gallons per year of liquid biobased hydrocarbon fuel for aviation, marine, rail, off-road, or heavy duty applications.” Per FOA Section I.B.iii. Topic Area 2, “Demonstration scale facilities developed under Topic Area 2 must produce at the plant’s rated capacity, a minimum quantity of 1,000,000 gallons per year of liquid biobased hydrocarbon fuel for aviation, marine, rail, or heavy-duty applications.                                                                                                                                                                    5.   As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, applications cannot include greater than 10% of the total project budget for earlier stage RD&D, including expenses for equipment, salaries, and supplies.  Per FOA Sections I.B.ii. and I.B.iii. Topic Area 1 and 2 Specific Requirments, all major equipment being utilized in the pilot- or demonstration-scale plant must be based on the equipment that will be used in the eventual commercial facility.                                                                                                                                                       6.  Per FOA Section J.vi. Equipment and Supplies, all equipment and products purchased with funds made available under this FOA should be American-made.   "," "]
[40,"2024-11-01","Technical Topics"," The FOA states on page 12 (and in Table 1) that “applications submitted under Topic Area 1 must meet a minimum neat biofuel throughput of 20,000 gallons per year equivalent.”   Does this mean that the applicant must already have demonstrated the production of  20,000 gallons per year or does this mean that after the funded effort the applicant has to demonstrate the production of 20,000 gallons per year?","After the funded effort. The metrics show in Tables 1, 3, and 5 are minimum metrics that should be met for the eventual facility that may be constructed and operated in Phase 2, subject to the application’s down-selection from Phase 1. Each applicant should describe the Technology Readiness Level of their current process and describe why it is ready to scale to the proposed target."]
[41,"2024-11-02","Eligibility","Could you please confirm if hydrogen is an eligible fuel for the Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries funding opportunity? It’s worth noting that hydrogen is currently being developed for various transportation applications.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371,  Appendix E – Acceptable Feedstocks provides a listing of specific feedstock requirements for each Subtopic Area in this FOA.  Applications proposing the use of any feedstock not identified as an acceptable feedstock for the particular Topic Area may not be further considered.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Per FOA Section III.G. Questions Regarding Eligibility, “EERE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted."]
[42,"2024-11-04","Other","When this opportunity's awards have been exhausted, will the opportunity be listed as closed or remain open until the closed date? ","DE-FOA-0003371 Cover Page reflects both the Submission Deadline for the Concept Paper (November 7, 2024, 5:00 p.m. ET), as well as the Submission Deadline for the Full Applications (January 16, 2025, 5:00 p.m. ET). This opportunity will remain open until the Full Application Submission Deadline."," "]
[43,"2024-11-05","Registration Requirements","If my account is not fully processed by the November 7th deadline for the concept paper will my application be accepted? Thank you for your help! ","Please see answer to question #34."]
[44,"2024-11-06","Due Dates","I wanted to see if we could receive an extension to apply for the grant. I would welcome talking to someone on the phone about our predicament. I would also be open to submitting our application through the EERE Exchange while we await our UEI number. ","As indicated on the DE-FOA-0003371, All required submissions must be submitted in EERE eXCHANGE no later than 5 p.m. ET on the dates provided on the cover page of this FOA."]
[45,"2024-11-07","Other","Two problems:  1. The Project Location box erases any text I try to put into the company name box.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       2. The portal grays-out and does not recognize my file when I browse to upload","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 problems with EERE Exchange? Email EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov Include FOA name and number in subject line."]
[46,"2024-11-07","Technical Topics","Question #1:  In a variation to the question #2 which was focused on Topic #3, can you please:  1. Confirm that the answer is true for Topics 1 and 2 as well, i.e. that the FOA does NOT require 1000 hours continuous + 1500 hours cumulative have been completed PRIOR to award, that it is instead an objective of the use of funds.                                                                                                                                                                                                                If so, then  2. Please clarify if the intent is not that we should propose the use of funds to achieve those hours of physical testing at current scale, but rather to focus the use of funds to design the pilot/demonstration plant to be able to operate for that long, after it is constructed using the contingent Phase 2 funds.                                                                                                                                                                                          Question #2: In the EERE Exchange, there is a statement that all key participants must be named at the concept paper stage, in order to clear conflicts of interest.  While we have a good idea of who many of our key partners will be for this project, we won’t have definitive information on exactly which are committed and who their key persons will be until we get closer to the final full proposal.  Can you clarify the intent of this requirement in the concept paper submission? What flexibility is there for change of entities and key persons between concept and full proposal?","1.  As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, “Please see question #40 for a similar question on end of project metrics. The metrics listed in Tables 1, 3, and 5 are end of project goals that applicants should target if successfully award Phase 1 and after a successful down-select into Phase 2 to construct and build the biorefinery. Final operational goals are those included in Tables 1, 3, and 5.                                                                                                                                                                                                                       2.  As indicated in DE-FOA-EE0003371 Section VI.B.xxiii, Interim Conflict of Interest Policy for Financial Assistance, “It is understood that non-federal entities and individuals receiving DOE financial assistance awards will need sufficient time to come into full compliance with DOE’s interim COI Policy. To provide some flexibility, DOE allows for a staggered implementation. Specifically, prior to award, applicants selected for award negotiations must: ensure all Investigators complete their significant financial disclosures; review the disclosures; determine whether a FCOI exists; develop and implement a management plan for FCOIs; and provide DOE with an initial FCOI report that includes all FCOIs (i.e., managed and unmanaged/unmanageable). Recipients will have 180 days from the date of the award to come into full compliance with the other requirements set forth in DOE’s interim“ COI Policy. Prior to award, the applicant must certify that it is, or will be within 180 days of the award, compliant with all requirements in the COI Policy.\n"," "]
[47,"2024-11-07","Application Content/Format","The FOA states the period of performance for Phase 1 is up to 24 months, and Phase 2 (depending on the topic) up to 60 months.  The budget for Phase 1 is $3 million, and the budget for Phase 2 (for topic 1 for example is $15 million), but is subject to both go/no-go decision and to funds appropriation.  In the concept paper submission field for project federal funds budget and project duration, should we list for only Phase 1, or both Phase 1 and 2 cumulative? In other words,. $3 or $18 million, and in the POP should we list 24 or 74 months?  And how should we treat Phase 2 POP and budget estimate in the full proposal?","As indicated in DOE-FOA-EE0003771 Section II.A.ii Period of Performance, EERE  anticipates making Phase 1 awards that will run from twelve (12) up to twenty-four (24) months, comprised of one or more budget periods. Project continuation into Phase 2 will be contingent upon several elements, including future appropriations and availability of funds, satisfactory performance and Go/No-Go decision.   For a complete list, see Section VI.B.xv.                                                                                    "]
[48,"2024-11-08","Eligibility","I am emailing you because we are the Americas representative for a proven 15-year technology that takes one-use plastic and returns it to oil – diesel, home heating oil, jet fuel, etc.  I am unclear as to whether we would qualify for the above mentioned grant.   I was hoping you could clarify the possible opportunity.","As indicated in DE- FOA-0003371 Cover Page applicants must submit a Concept Paper by 5:00 p.m. ET on November 7, 2024  to be eligible to submit a Full Application.  Per FOA Section III.G. Questions Regarding Eligibility, “EERE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted."]
[49,"2024-11-11","Application Content/Format","The full application requirement for Impacted Indian Tribes Documentation does not suggest documentation submission only if applicable. Therefore, is documentation required to prove steps have been take to ensure no Tribal Lands or Tribal Resources will be impacted? ","As indicated in DOE-FOA-EE0003371 Section D.i, Full Application Content Requirements table provides the file format and page limitation required to submit the  Impacted Indian Tribes Documentation.                                                                                                                                                                                               Section D.vi. Impacted Indian Tribes Documentation, \"For any application that potentially impacts Indian Tribes or is on Tribal land, including when the potentially impacted Indian Tribe is the applicant, applicants are required to submit additional documentation at the time of application, and possibly during negotiation and prior to award. For any project that potentially impacts Indian Tribes, applicants are required to submit documentation demonstrating that an authorized representative47 of each potentially impacted Indian Tribe is, at a minimum, aware of the nature of the application and its potential impacts to the relevant Indian Tribes."]
[50,"2024-11-11","Eligibility","[Redacted] interested in applying for the DE-FOA-0003371 FY24 Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries grant. We wanted to touch base with you and confirm eligibility and interest.                                                          [Redacted] is the only carbon-negative flooring company in the US, it uses healthy building materials of hemp and soy, and it is 95% biobased. Everything is sourced within 100 miles of the factory. We would love to be considered for this grant, and please let me know your thoughts and if you have any further questions whenever you get a chance. ","Please see answer to question #48."]
[51,"2024-11-14","Application Content/Format","Is there a specific format that should be used for the LCA?","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, please review Appendix H, Section iii, for details and requirements on the life-cycle analysis (LCA) submission. Applicants may use any standardized approached, with a few examples provided. The LCA should provide sufficient data, descriptions, references, and backup to justify the potential reduction in life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) to show that the proposed pathway meets the GHG reduction requirements of the Topic Area."]
[52,"2024-11-15","Other","I found DE-FOA-0003371 at your site. There this industry is called \"biorefineries,\" but it seems to be the same thing I have in mind. I also see that I just missed the deadline. However, I looked over your listings and if I understand correctly there was an offer back in March as well. Will there be another FOA for which the concept paper is due in March of 2025?","The Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) supports organic waste to energy projects at all scales and offers multiple funding opportunities per year. All future funding opportunities are subject to congressional appropriations and will be announced on BETO’s website, EERE Exchange, and Grants.gov. BETO aims to provide advanced notification of funding opportunities through notices of intent. Interested parties are encouraged to subscribe to BETO’s newsletter to receive email notifications of funding opportunities and other bioenergy and waste to energy updates."]
[53,"2024-11-19","Application Content/Format","The FOA requires a DEIP as outlined in section IV. D. viii. pages 62-63 and says it should include the following:                                                                                                                                                                                                        •  Equity Impacts: the impacts of the proposed project on underserved communities, including social and environmental impacts.\n•  Benefits: The overall benefits of the proposed project, if funded, to underserved communities; and \n•  How diversity, equity, and inclusion objectives will be incorporated in the project.                                                                                                                                                                              However, the review criteria for that section, see pages 86-87, is far more rigorous and inclusive of the same review criteria as for CBPs from FY24. This includes Energy Equity and Environmental Justice, Workforce Implications, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA).                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Should proposal teams follow the review criteria section on pages 86-87 to write a CBP for the DEIP requirement, or the more simplistic DEIP description found on page 62-63 of the Content and Forms of the Full Proposal section?","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, it is up to each Applicant on the form and content of their application. Applicants are encouraged to include details and discussion for all aspects in their full application as listed in Section IV.D of the FOA. Applicants are also encouraged to review the criteria to which these aspects will be reviewed against as described in Section V.A. These two sections align as this FOA was announced in FY24."]
[54,"2024-11-25","Other","Please find below (and attached) my exchange with EERE/Exchangesupport trying to find a solution to the problem created by the fact that my ID.me email address is different from the one used to file our concept paper submission to DE-FOA-000337: FY24 Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries “3371-1533:HydroCatalytic Continuous Conversion.”  Neither EERE/Exchange/support nor ID.me seems to have an answer, but there has to be some way to change the existing login.gov email link for this FOA submission in order to work with ID.me so I can access my submission after January 1, 2025!  Your assistance would be much appreciated.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371 problems with EERE Exchange? Email EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov Include FOA name and number in subject line."]
[55,"2024-11-25","Other","I have experienced similar issues (stated above), and I remain unable to access the system despite repeated attempts and careful compliance with all required procedures and documentation. The security system is non-functional.\n","Please see answer question #54."]
[56,"2024-11-27","Other","Can the length of Budget Period 1 be up to six months?  Pages 14, 21, and 28 of the FOA say, “It is anticipated that the initial verification can take up to six months; Applicants must include this task in their schedule as Budget Period 1.” Other pages of the FOA suggest only zero to three months (32, 34) should be allocated for BP1.","As stated in DE-FOA-0003371, Section II, Aii Period of Performance that states \"EERE anticipates making Phase 1 awards that will run from twelve (12) up to twenty-four (24) months, comprised of one or more budget periods. Project continuation into Phase 2 will be contingent upon several elements, including future appropriations and availability of funds, satisfactory performance and Go/No-Go decision.\"  The initial verification effort can take up to six months and will result in a Go/No-Go decision.  This task must be included in the applicant's schedule as Budget Period 1."]
[57,"2024-12-01","Other","I found DE-FOA-0003371 at your site. There this industry is called \"biorefineries,\" but it seems to be the same thing I have in mind. I also see that I just missed the deadline. However, I looked over your listings and if I understand correctly there was an offer back in March as well. Will there be another FOA for which the concept paper is due in March of 2025?","Please see answer to question #52."]
[58,"2024-12-02","Application Content/Format"," Should the SOPO for the full application cover phase 1 and phase 2? Or just phase 1, given that phase 2 awards are contingent on a variety of factors?\n","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, the Statement of Project Objectives (SOPO) should only cover work to be completed during Phase 1 activities. It is expected that as part of Phase 1 award scope, the scope for Phase 2 will be determined in conjunction with DOE staff and DOE’s Independent Engineer."]
[59,"2024-12-03","Due Dates","With the year end breaks for some companies and universities as well as family vacations, would DOE BETO consider an extension to late January?  Thank you for your consideration.","Please see answer to question #44."]
[60,"2024-12-04","Application Content/Format","Is it possible to change Topic Areas when writing the full proposal? Project continues to meet specific requirements. ","Yes, an Applicant can change Topic Areas between the Concept Paper phase and the full application phase. Note, Concept Paper comments and encourage/discourage notifications were provided based on the original Topic that the Concept Paper was submitted under. Each Applicant should review the intent of the new Topic they would like to apply under to ensure Programmatic alignment. Additionally, an eligible Concept Paper must have been submitted for each Full Application. Please see Section VI.A.ii for more information on Concept Paper notifications."]
[61,"2024-12-04","Technical Topics","What scale is the Block Flow Diagram analysis intended to be for? Should we give estimates for a commercial plant, or for the FOA proposal (pilot or demo)? The material balance will slightly differ based on the scale.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, The Block Flow Diagram (BFD) should describe the envisioned pilot- or demo-scale facility that would be further designed under the award. DOE expects that the BFD will be refined during Phase 1 activities, but the initial version will help to assess the merits of the selected technology and the status of the process technology to understand project risks and viability of the proposed project."]
[62,"2024-12-04","Application Content/Format","Should the budget justification for this proposal only reflect spending related to phase1?","Yes, the budget justification should only include the proposed budget for Phase 1 activities. Please review Section III.B of the FOA for cost sharing requirements for each Topic Area. It is expected that as part of the Phase 1 scope, a detailed budget for Phase 2 activities would be developed.\n"]
[63,"2024-12-05","Technical Topics","Could you please clarify what is considered as the product to meet “20,000 gallons of biofuel per year equivalent” capacity? Is it the liquid product directly existing a synthesis reactor (such as a Fischer–Tropsch reactor) or the final product after fractionation (such as SAF).","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, the volumetric goals within Table 1 and Table 3, 20,000 and 1,000,000 gallons per year respectively, of the FOA are end of project volumetric goals for the allowable fuel types listed within the same table; sustainable aviation fuel, heavy-duty truck fuel, sustainable marine fuel, off-road vehicle fuel, and/or sustainable rail fuel. If an Applicant’s proposed process produces multiple fuel types, these volumes can be combined to meet the volumetric goal so long as the biofuels meet the definition of the acceptable fuel types. Products that do not meet these definition, such as light duty on road fuels or heavy waxes, are not an allowable fuel type and do not count towards the volumetric goal."]
[64,"2024-12-05","Technical Topics","1.  Economic analysis of the feedstock for the ethanol to jet process                                                                          It is technically possible to reach a 72-73% CI reduction vs. fossil jet is possible using forest and ag residue as feedstocks to produce SAF through an EtJ pathway. However, as this low CI ethanol is not currently a commodity that we have pricing sets for, we cannot completely model the pathway of this feedstock. We are looking into what it would take to get this information from a 3rd party, but it seems we will need more time than is allotted for a full submission. Does the DOE maintain any pricing sets or supply curve data around these forest and agricultural residue feedstocks?                                                                                                                                                                                      2.  Feedstock allowances\nIn your Weaknesses section, it is highlighted that Ethylene is not an allowed feedstock. We are interested in piloting the conversion step beginning with ethylene, which would be considered an intermediate in an ethanol to jet process that has the potential to use a number of feedstocks at commercial scale, including but not limited to forest and agricultural residues. Does using ethylene as our proposed pilot scale plant’s feedstock  prohibit us from qualifying to receive funding for this grant?  I saw in question 14 of the Q&A section, that intermediates are indeed allowed, so looking to get clarity on why this is considered a weakness.","1.  It is up to each application on the form and content of their application. As one source of feedstock supply vs pricing curves, the DOE recently released their 2023 update to the “Billion Ton Study” which includes many biomass supply scenarios for assumed pricing models. Please see: https://bioenergykdf.ornl.gov/document/2023-billion-ton-report.                                                                                                                   2.   Ethylene can be produced from many sources. For the purposes of DE-FOA-0003371, each Applicant should show that their starting feedstock is derived from an allowable feedstock listed in Appendix E of the FOA. If the starting feedstock is not biogenic in nature, it is considered an ineligible feedstock. While Phase 1 awards are for design and permitting, a Phase 2 facility will need to use those allowable feedstocks in the facilities envisioned commercial scale state. Fossil based ethylene is considered an ineligible feedstock.\n"]
[65,"2024-12-06","Due Dates","Can you please consider extending the Phase I full proposal due date of Jan 16 because of the high number of federal holidays? Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s day are all scheduled between the time of concept paper notification and the full proposal due date. This timeline is further compounded by the high frequencies of additional paid time off (e.g. vacation) that correlate with these holidays. A small extension to the due date may have significant benefits to proposal qualities and quantities.","The Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) is extending the full application deadline for eligible applicants of the FY24 Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries funding opportunity.  For eligible applicants, the deadline for full applications is now January 31st, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. ET."]
[66,"2024-12-10","Application Content/Format","We are working with an organization who would like to be considered a subcontractor rather than a direct subrecipient of the grant award.                                                                                                                                      1) Is there a need for these subcontractor to also provide all the forms and documentation required of direct grant subrecipients?                                                                                                                                                            2) Can they still be listed on the grant as handling a certain % share of the project work, and on the cover page as a member of the team?                                                                                                                                                          3) This also applies to independent engineering consultants we are engaging.","It is up to each application to determine the form and content of their application. EERE distinguishes between Subrecipients and Vendors/Contractors. Please reference 2 CFR 200.331 Subrecipient and contractor determinations. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.331.  Additionally, please reference the separate sections on the Contractual tab with the Budget Justification Excel Workbook provided as a template on EERE-Exchange. Subrecipients are considered to have a vested outcome in the results of the project. Any entity providing cost share is considered a subrecipient by default. Vendors and Contractors are providing “off the shelf” goods and services and do not hold a vested interest. As such, Vendors and Contractors are not held to the same requirements of inclusion within the full application process such as Subrecipients."]
[67,"2024-12-11","Technical Topics","What scale is the Pro Forma cash analysis intended to be for? Should we give estimates for a commercial plant, or for the FOA proposal (pilot or demo)? THe economics will differ based on the scale.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, the Proforma Cash Flow Analysis, which is required with a full application as per Section IV.D, as described in Appendix H, should be for the envisioned future commercial scale facility. This information will be used by DOE and the Independent Reviewers to determine the economic viability of the technology pathway to support derisking at the lower scale pilot- or demo- facility."]
[68,"2024-12-11","Application Content/Format","There are a lot of instructions referencing items that we need to download and follow, but I am not finding the information on the website as advertised. The one listed below is just one of many examples - please advise where these forms can be found on the EERE Exchange site. ","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, to access the application forms and templates on EERE eXCHANGE, go to https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/ and select the appropriate funding opportunity number.  Application Forms and Templates are accessible from the front page of the FOA."]
[69,"2024-12-11","Technical Topics","In the provided Pro Forma template, only operating cost/ cash flow guidelines are provided. Is a detailed CapEx/capital cost breakdown and estimate required?","A detailed CapEx/capital cost breakdown and estimate is not required.  Background on the how the capital cost estimate was derived may be provided in the Technical Volume",null," "]
[70,"2024-12-12","Application Content/Format","The link to the Q & A log for DE-FOA-0003371: FY24 Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries opens to a blank page with no information. (See attached screenshot)  This is increasingly important given of the subject of my previous query, dated 11/25/2024 concerning the issue I have encountered when attempting to login with ID.me.  As you can see below, the EERE/Exchange team had instructed me to submit this query to you for resolution, and I noted your response that all answers would be posted to the Q &A log.  Since the log is apparently empty, I am not sure how to proceed."," Please refer to the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/.  The Q&A log is accessible under DOCUMENTS."]
[71,"2024-12-13","Other","I am writing to seek clarification regarding our application for the FY24 Scale-Up of Integrated Biorefineries funding opportunity (Control Number - 3371-1515).  We submitted our concept paper and received feedback discouraging us from submitting a full application. However, we recently received an email (attached for your reference) addressed to \"Accepted Concept Paper Applicants,\" which mentions an extension of the full application deadline.  Could you kindly confirm if this email was sent specifically to selected applicants, or if it is a general notification shared with all concept paper submitters?  ","Applicants in receipt of the Concept Paper Encourage/Discourage notification on EERE eXCHANGE will have to prepare and submit a Full Application by the amended deadline date of January 31, 2025."]
[72,"2024-12-16","Application Reviews","How do you sign up as a potential reviewer? I do not see how to do so in the system.","Thank you for your interest in being a Merit Reviewer for the Funding Opportunity. Please email your interest, along with a resume/CV, to FY24BETOScale-Up@ee.doe.gov for consideration. BETO will review the expertise of all interested Reviewers against Reviewer needs based on the total number of anticipated full applications. BETO will reach out via email to all invited Reviewers in the coming weeks. Please also register as a Reviewer in EERE-Exchange if you aren’t already registered."]
[73,"2024-12-16","Other","Might I land on your calendar to discuss the Concept Paper project proposed according to the information below? We have accepted the result of not being recommended to submit a full proposal, but we have—as stated in the Concept Paper—a project with substantial public and private investment and appreciate the opportunity to discuss our approach / potential synergies with DOE.","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, DOE staff are not allowed to meet individually with Applicants to discuss project scope while there is an active Solicitation. DOE aims to provide a level playing field and an individual conversation could be considered an advantage. As noted in Section VI.A.ii, a “discouraged” Concept Paper does not disqualify an Applicant from submitting a Full Proposal."]
[74,"2024-12-17","Other","We are interested in DE-FOA 0003371, where we can learn more about this funding opportunity.   ","The information pertaining to DE-FOA-0003371 is available through EERE-eXCHANGE located at https:\\\\eere-eXCHANGE.energy.gov; however, to be eligible to submit a full application for this announcement you must first submit a Concept Paper.  The deadline date to submit the Concept Paper has now passed (November 7, 2024 5:00 p.m. ET); therefore, the opportunity to submit a full application to this opportunity is unavailable."]
[75,"2024-12-18","Application Content/Format","Is a separate BFD & SD for a commercial scale system not required with the application?","The block flow diagram (BFD) should be for the envisioned pilot- or demonstration-scale facility that would be designed under these Phase 1 awards, and built under Phase 2 pending a successful down-select and subject to future appropriations. A BFD for the eventual commercial-scale system is not required with the application as the data from the proposed pilot- or demonstration-scale facility would feed into that."]
[76,"2024-12-19","Technical Topics","Can you elaborate on whether the piping isometrics and one line diagrams deliverables must be complete during Phase 1?","Yes, all of the deliverables listed in Appendix I are required to be in hand and reviewed as part of the Critical Decision #2 down-select process. DOE expects detailed design to continue into Phase 2."]
[77,"2024-12-20","Application Content/Format","1. Land acquisition will be used for both a demonstration facility as well as a production facility, are we able to ask for funds to cover the percentage of the land that will be used for the demonstration-scale part of the project?                                                                                                                                                                                                            2. If there are employees who are funded at 100% on another DOE project for this technology, but this funding only covers a portion of the actual salary, are we able to claim the remaining percentage for this project?","Response Pending."]
[78,"2024-12-20","Other","Could you please clarify to whom letters of support and commitment should be addressed?","Letters of Commitment should be addressed to the “Selection Official” or to the Prime Applicant."]
[79,"2024-12-20","Application Content/Format","Are the pro-forma and LCA intended for the demo facility that would be constructed in Phase 2, or are they for the commercial-scale system? ","Please see question #64 for a similar Q&A. The pro-forma and LCA should be for the envisioned commercial scale facility."]
[80,"2024-12-30","Application Content/Format","Should the Prime applicant’s budget for NEPA preparation during Phase I and include this prep in the Phase I planning (SOPO/WBS)?","As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, Applicants should plan for 2 NEPA determinations under their Phase 1 scope. The first NEPA determination will occur at the start of the award and will be specific for Phase 1 activities including the initial verification and design phase. This first determination is expected to be straight forward due to existing applicant’s facility to verify the prior scale process and design nature (office setting) of the scope. The second NEPA determination will be more involved and will occur near the end of Phase 1. This second determination will include the design details, including site location and local impacts, for the planned pilot- or demonstration-scale facility that will be constructed in Phase 2. If an awardee is not able to obtain a NEPA determination for construction in Phase 2, the project may not be successful through the down-select."]
[81,"2024-12-31","Other","Please clarify the Vertification Process.","Please see Q&A #85 for additional details on the verification requirements. DOE will need to update Section I.C of the FOA on the verification process to align with the phased approach to the awards as structured in Tables 2, 4, and 6. Applicants should include an initial verification to demonstrate prior scale data as presented in the applications and a Comprehensive Project Review as part of Critical Decision #2 (CD-2) at the end of Phase 1. Q&A #85 lays out the agenda for the CD-2 verification. As such, applicants should plan for 2 verification activities as part of a Phase 1 award."]
[82,"2025-01-07","Application Content/Format","It is possible for to submit our full application in the absence of an SAF (Ethanol to Jet Fuel) provider?","As indicated in DE-FOA-000371, Topic Area 3 applications should target organic chemicals that have a U.S. domestic production exceeding 0.5M short tons/year as detailed in Table 5. If the applicant’s technology produces a co-product, that co-product’s volume cannot be added to the main product to count towards the 0.5M short tons/year metric. If the main product does not exceed the domestic production metric, it is deemed ineligible and not of interest."]
[83,"2025-01-07","Application Content/Format","A prior scale performance test is performed during the initial verification period, is there another performance test later in the process? If so, what are there required metrics?","Please see Q&A #40 for a similar question on metrics and please see #85 for details on project verification requirements. You are correct that the initial verification should be a performance test of the prior scale system to verify application data. The intermediate verification will align with Critical Decision #2 (CD-2), as discussed in more detail in Q&A #85. There will be another performance test as part of CD-4. However, the Statement of Project Objectives should not include any Phase 2 activities. The applications should focus on prior scale and Phase 1 activities only. As part of the down-select process, successful awardees will negotiation Phase 2 scope with DOE pending future appropriations."]
[84,"2025-01-10","Application Content/Format","For subrecipients providing direct cash cost sharing (i.e. direct funds, not as contributed supplies/personnel/equipment...) - is the Subrecipient Budget Justification.xlsx required, or just the Letter of Commitment?","As indicted in DE-FOA-3371, if a project partner is only providing cash cost share and is not performing any direct scope of work, then that partner would only be required to submit a Letter of Commitment consistent with the Section IV.D.v of the FOA. Only subrecipients that is expected to perform work estimated to be more than $250,000 or 25% of the total work effort, whichever is less, are required to submit a subrecipient budget justification as detailed in Section IV.D.xii of the FOA."]
[85,"2025-01-12","Application Content/Format","1. During the Intermediate and Final Verification for Topic Area 3, the applicant will present progress towards targets established during the initial verification. First, are these targets technical (i.e. process optimization) and do they include scaling unit operations further?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              2. Is this initial work counted as TRL-5 or TRL-6?                ","1. As indicated in DE-FOA-0003371, please review Tables 2, 4, and 6 for guidance on when the verifications will occur and a bit of background on the intent. Note, these tables are the same for each Topic Area. The initial verification will include a site visit and should demonstrate and replicate previous scale experiments/processes included within the application to verify the technology’s readiness to scale. The intermediate verification will align with Critical Decision #2 (CD-2). This verification will not be technical in terms of process replication, but will involve a Comprehensive Project Review of 1) Company Structure and Project Management (Project Management, Performance Against Baseline – Scope, Budget, and Schedule, and Risk Mitigation), 2) Technical Performance (Process Operations, Technical Targets, and Feedstock Supply) and 3) Financial Health and Marketing Approval/Commercialization Plans (Marketing Approval, Commercialization Plans, Project Financing, and Project Economics). This should be the extent of Phase 1 scope as detailed within the Applicant’s Statement of Project Objectives. As part of the CD-2 down-select process, Phase 2 scope will be negotiated with the awardee, if successful and subject to future appropriations.                                                                                            2. Any verification activities does not count towards the limitation of ‘Applications cannot include greater than 10% of the total project budget for earlier stage RD&D (<TRL 6), including expenses for equipment, salaries, and supplies."]
[86,"2025-01-13","Application Content/Format","1. For Topic 3, can the Intermediate Vertification targets include additional RD&D < TRL 6 that is being done with < 10% of the project funds?                                                                                                                 2. Or must they all strictly be towards FEL requirements as listed in Appendix I.?                                        3. Is there time for additional technical process optimization during BP2?","Please see Q&A #81 for additional background on the verification requirements as it relates to the Phased project approach. Critical Decision #2 can include milestones towards additional process optimization so long as the budget for this additional R&D is below 10% of the total projects."]
[87,"2025-01-15","Application Content/Format","Where in the application can we specify the TRL of each unit operation proposed as well as the risk?","It is up to each applicant to determine the form and content of their application. One area that the Technology Readiness Level for each unit operation could be included is the required Block Flow Diagram (BFD). Please see Section IV.D.xx and Appendix H for more information on the BFD requirements. There is an optional BFD template available on the FOA page of EERE-Exchange. The potential unit operation risks, including first of a kind integration risks, can also be included in the BFD or the Technical Volume. Please see Section IV.D.iii for more information on the Technical Volume."]
[88,"2025-01-15","Application Content/Format","What is the intended difference between these three sections, so that the applicant can avoid the risk of repeating the same goals several times in the application?","It is up to each Applicant to determine the form and content of their application. The Technical Volume Part 1 could describe the eventual commercial scale facility and broader industry impacts, Part 2 could describe the outcomes from a smaller scale pilot- or demonstration-scale facility, and Part 3 could describe the specific work plan."]
[89,"2025-01-16","Application Content/Format","Is there an email address that we can send completed forms directly to the office for confidentially including in our partner’s application?  Can we use this current                 FY24BETOSCALE-UP.ee.doe.gov email for this?","As indicated in Section IV of DE-FOA-0003371, all required application documents must be submitted in EERE eXCHANGE no later than 5 p.m. ET on the deadline date reported in FOA Amendment 000001, January 31. 2025. The SF-LLL and Transparency of Foreign Connections are required documents for the Prime applicant and all subrecipients. These forms are not required for Vendors."]

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["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"]