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["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this funding opportunity announcement should be emailed to WETOFOA@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."]

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["ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
["DE-FOA-0002828 - Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) FOA to Address Key Deployment Challenges for Offshore, Land-Based, and Distributed Wind"]
["Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
[1,"2022-12-06","Technical Topics","Bird Diverter Deployment: while the current solicitation highlights the threat wind turbines pose to bats, they also are problematic for birds. Utilities often use mitigation measures (including bird diverters) on power-lines to prevent the death of more birds than are killed by wind turbines. While research on bat collisions with power lines is lacking, there is some evidence that bird diverter installation may also help bats. We are working to reduce the cost of deploying bird diverters via our drone (which today are often deployed by helicopters at $5000+ per hour) and have already demonstrated elements of the technology. Would bird/bat diverter deployment on power lines as an conservation mitigation measure for wind turbine fit within the considered scope?","The intent of Topic Area 4 is to improve and validate deterrents that keep bats away from areas of highest risk directly related to wind turbine operation.  While powerlines are essential to wind power, the focus of this Topic Area is specific to deterring bats from wind turbines. Per “Applications Specifically Not of Interest” (Section I.C) pgs. 38-39 , applications for research projects not specific to bats are not of interest under this Topic Area."]
[2,"2022-12-06","Technical Topics","Wind Turbine Blade NDT: While the current solicitation does not consider maintenance of wind turbines, we have a unique technology that could be of value in this area. Our drone can position an active thermography sensor up-close to wind turbine blades and detect subsurface delamination of the composite. Today this is done by technicians rappelling down the blades via ropes and manually tapping the structure. We have already demonstrated both of these technologies independently and would be eager to do the system integration required for field demonstrations. Is there another solicitation that this technology might fit? ","Thank you for your interest in the Wind Energy Technologies Offices and the related funding opportunities.  \n\nThe Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable posts funding opportunity announcements (FOA) on EERE eXCHANGE, at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/. \n\nYou may want to monitor the EERE Exchange website for opportunities you are interested in and eligible to apply -  https://eere-exchange.energy.gov. Note that there are drop-downs near the top of the homepage that allow you to search by Program.                                    \nIn some instances, DOE does accept unsolicited proposals. Information can be found here - https://www.netl.doe.gov/business/unsolicited-proposals"]
[3,"2022-12-07","Technical Topics","In terms of partnering with industry to test the results of behavioral acoustic bat deterrent experiments in situ, are US-based (domestic) partners preferred? Are there any complications regarding working with foreign industry partners?","As set forth in Section IV.I.iii, all work for projects selected under this FOA must be performed in the United States. However, in cases where a portion of work to be performed under a project is unable to be performed in the U.S., a waiver of this requirement can be requested as detailed in Appendix B of the FOA. Appendix B also lists the requirements for foreign entity participation under this FOA."]
[4,"2022-12-10","Other","There appears to be no entries in the Teaming Partners List. Is that correct? ","Access to the Teaming Partners List has been changed in the EERE Exchange Website. To view the current entries, ensure you are logged in to EERE Exchange, and then search by either the FOA number \"DE-FOA-0002828 Teaming Partner List\" or Teaming Partners List number \"TPL-0000002\". Alternatively, you can also click this link on the bottom of the FOA page: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/TeamingPartners.aspx?foaid=2efba24a-66aa-42f9-89ba-9d443a366d75  "]
[5,"2022-12-10","Cost Sharing","If a sub-recipient is a for profit but the prime is a higher education or non-profit, is the cost share requirement waived?","If the Prime recipient is an institution of higher education or a non-profit organization, for-profit subrecipients are NOT required to provide cost share. "]
[6,"2022-12-10","Other","About Subtopic 1c: The target for training curriculum is specified as engineers, technicians, and operators, and specifically called out is power system engineers. \n\nDo you intend that electrical construction contractors and trades-persons also be in the target group? You mention Community Colleges, which suggests you might intend to include this important group; but on the other hand your list of curriculum topics is very oriented toward power system engineers. What is your intent?","Our intent is that applicants under this Subtopic would create materials tailored to a variety of different groups, including electrical construction contractors and trades-persons, and not just be limited to power systems engineers."]
[7,"2022-10-12","Concept Paper","The FOA indicates submission of the application package via EERE Exchange. It does not specifically speak to the Concept Paper. Is the Concept Paper to also be submitted via EERE Exchange or will this be an email submission?","See FOA Section III.C. The Concept Paper must be submitted via EERE Exchange. "]
[8,"2022-12-13","Other","Can you email me the PDF version of the FOA? I can download it from EERE, save it onto my computer, but when I try to open it, Adobe says it’s corrupted.","DOE is prohibited from sending any documents directly to potential applicants, and others have been able to access the FOA document. It is recommended that you utilize either Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge when accessing the EERE Exchange website. If you continue to experience technical difficulties, contact the EERE Exchange Helpdesk at EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov."]
[9,"2022-12-14","Other","I'd like to add my organization to the teaming partner list for DE-FOA-0002828. How does this process work? ","Access and process to the Teaming Partners List has been changed in the EERE Exchange Website. Teaming Partner Organizations are now responsible for requesting their entity to the list via Exchange. A quick guide for Applicants is on the “Manuals” page of EERE Exchange, labeled “How_to_Submit_Teaming_Partner_List_Entry”. Note, write just one topic per Teaming Partner entry. Submit multiple entries to be considered for multiple Topic Areas, if applicable. DOE will review your submission, and if relevant to the Topic Area, will approve and post your Teaming Partner entry. Ensure you are logged in to EERE Exchange when beginning this process. See also Section I.B.v. Teaming Partner List in the FOA. \n\nAs a reminder, for technical issues, contact the EERE Exchange Helpdesk at EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov.  "]
[10,"2022-12-14","Technical Topics","In Subtopic 3b[...]Can we propose to collaborate with local power utilities to 1) provide workforce training and 2) create the tools that can address utility concerns to improve power system security and reliability and accommodate a large-scale wind integration in local communities?","1) Yes, provided you can demonstrate that your proposed work does not simply target local utilities but is conducted “in partnership with communities” to “target needs expressed by community members,” per the language of the subtopic. \n\n2) Power system security and reliability projects that accommodate a large-scale wind integration in local communities are beyond the scope of this subtopic area. Proposals should focus on bridging communities with the full offshore wind development process through community-driven, collaborative capacity building. Proposals should engage community members other than industries that are directly engaged in the offshore wind development process. Tools developed are intended to connect the wider community with the offshore wind development process."]
[11,"2022-12-14","Other","I would like to speak realtime with someone from your department regarding the latest [FOA] to help wind adoption in the US which I am totally in favor of.  Specifically I am looking for info around the assistance for small wind turbines.  The description is somewhat vague as to what you will fund.  Is there someone specific I can speak to?","Unfortunately, this FOA is a competitive solicitation and private discussions while the announcement is open, are prohibited. Per Section VII of the FOA: DOE personnel are prohibited from communicating (in writing or otherwise) with applicants regarding the FOA except through the established question and answer process. \n\nThe Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) posted at EERE eXCHANGE is comprehensive and designed to allow prospective applicants to assess their proposed projects versus the requirements and criteria of the FOA. If you have specific questions related to how your ideas may fit into this Funding Opportunity, please submit them to the FOA mailbox. "]
[12,"2022-12-15","Technical Topics","We did not see the great lakes specifically mentioned in the FOA, and wanted to confirm before proceeding further that the Great Lakes would be an eligible and welcomed study area for proposal on Topic Area 3, and/or if there may be special considerations or advice that may be useful to us in designing a proposal that focuses on the great lakes context. ","As noted in the Topic Area 3 description, WETO seeks proposals for longitudinal work that encompasses multiple stages of offshore wind development, but notes that such work could focus on pre-operational stages of development where there is a lower likelihood of large-scale operational offshore wind projects during the study period, such as the Great Lakes. Note that for subtopic 3A, WETO will prioritize proposals that capture impacts through multiple phases of offshore wind development. From the Subtopic 3A description: “WETO invites research proposals that aim to first define impacts (positive and negative) of offshore wind development on communities and second assess the magnitude and reach (temporal and geographic) of those impacts over time and through multiple phases of offshore wind development, from planning to construction to operations.”"]
[13,"2022-12-15","Technical Topics","We have a couple of  questions on how we could proceed regarding Topic Areas (TA) 3a vs 3b, as we our proposed project might combine elements of both Topic Areas 3a and 3b:\nA) Could we propose separate TA 3a and 3b projects that utilize many of the same project team members and study locations (although obviously the aims of the projects would be different)? \nB) Could we propose a TA 3a project that also includes or combines elements from 3b (such as extension-led wind energy education and outreach, and community forums and planning sessions, needs assessments, design tools, etc.) - and if so, how might this inclusion affect how the proposal is reviewed?\nC) Would you have any other advice on how to navigate a TA 3a project that would be naturally be well-positioned to accomplish TA 3b as well?","A) We acknowledge the potential for some overlap between Subtopics 3a and 3b given the focus on community-driven approaches related to offshore wind development in both. The goals of each subtopic, however are distinct—3a aims to characterize impacts of offshore wind development, while 3b aims to build the capacity of communities to engage in the offshore wind development process. Applicants should direct their proposals to the subtopic that best fits the goals and methods of their proposed work. \nB) For Subtopic 3a “Cross-sectional approaches, mixed-methods strategies (e.g. surveys, case studies, focus groups, and/or expert elicitations), and participatory approaches are encouraged where appropriate.”\nC) We cannot offer coaching related to how certain aspects of proposals could be reviewed, or guidance on how to develop a proposal that would serve the goals of both subtopics. "]
[14,"2022-12-15","Cost Sharing","What is the match [cost] sharing requirement for this following FOA?","See FOA Section III.B Cost Sharing. The requirement varies by entity type and Topic Area."]
[15,"2022-12-15","Cost Sharing","For the referenced FOA, does a national lab need to cost share for Topic 1b? Same query for a university (which appears to be 0%)","For Topic Area 1b, the cost sharing requirement for National Labs as a Prime applicant is 20% and cost share for Universities as a Prime applicant is 0%. See also Q&A #5. "]
[16,"2022-12-16","Application Content/Format","The Concept Paper requirement in the FOA does not ask for a budget and period of performance. Would you please confirm that you do not want this information in the Concept Paper?","Period of performance and a detailed project budget are not specifically required in the Concept Paper itself. However, project duration and topline budget (Total Project Costs, Federal share, cost share) are required fields in EERE Exchange when submitting a Concept Paper."]
[17,"2022-12-20","Eligibility","Can someone be the PI on more than concept paper/application, as long as they are different topic/subtopic areas (for instance subtopics 1b and 1c)?","Per Section III.F., Limitation on Number of Concept Papers and Full Applications Eligible for Review of the FOA, limitations are by entity, not by Principal Investigators. Please review this information for limitations by Topic Area.  This limitation does not prohibit an applicant from collaborating on other applications (e.g., as a potential subrecipient or partner) so long as the entity is only listed as the applicant on one Concept Paper and one Full Application for each Subtopic Area under Topic Area 1 of this FOA. "]
[18,"2022-12-21","Application Content/Format","I am trying to find out if Tribal Nations, who will be a subcontractor on the above-referenced FOA, if they need to be registered in SAM and have a UEI number?","Yes, all subrecipients must have a UEI number regardless of entity type. Vendors are not required to have an UEI. "]
[19,"2022-12-21","Cost Sharing","Relevant to Subtopic 3a: Can you please clarify the cost share waiver for institutions of higher education? On page 45 of the FOA, footnote 80 states that the cost share waiver exemption is available for the two-year period beginning August 9, 2022. How shall we budget this waiver, given that it expires on August 9, 2024 and not knowing exactly when the research will start? Do you recommend we budget the first year of work with no cost share, then the 20% after that?","The cost share waiver exemption applies to awards issued prior to August 9, 2024 and will last the life of the award. The entire budget should reflect the waiver if it is applicable to your organization. "]
[20,"2022-12-21","Application Content/Format","Relevant to Subtopic 3b: If we partner with community organizations as subcontractors, do they need to be registered with both a UEI and through SAM?","See Q&A #18, above.  "]
[21,"2022-12-22","Technical Topics","Under subtopic 1a, one project may develop a benchmark system involving HVDC networks. \n\nIn the bottom table on page 41, it lists the estimated period of month for subtopic 1a is 36 months. However, on page 13, it states “the draft benchmark test system must be completed within 18 months of project initiation so that it can be used by recipients of subtopic 1b for functional requirements testing”. So, I am wondering that for a project developing the benchmark system, the target period of performance should be 18 months or 36 months?","Topic Area 1a has two components:  1) the development of standards and standardization and 2) development of a benchmark test system.  The benchmark test system must be developed within the first 18 months; however, other activities related to standards can be completed over 36 months.  It is also anticipated that modifications may be needed related to the test system once it is being used for functional testing, so there may be the need for minor updates to the system after the first 18 month period.  There must be a major milestone for completion of the test system within 18 months, with additional time afterwards for any modifications which may extend to 36 months."]
[22,"2022-12-22","Cost Sharing","Given that non-profits and institutes of higher education are exempt from the cost share requirement in Topic 4, can FFRDCs operated by non-profits or institutes of higher education likewise be considered exempt as prime award recipients?","If the Prime applicant is registered as an Institution of Higher Education or a Non-Profit Organization, the cost share requirement is 0%. An FFRDC is not subject to the exemption for Institutions of Higher Education and Non-Profit Organizations. See question and answer #5 above."]
[23,"2022-12-27","Foreign Entities/Work","With respect to our corporate structure, our entity is based in [a U.S. state] and is incorporated in the U.S.  Our immediate parent company (100% ownership) is also a U.S. based entity, but that entity’s parent is based in [an European Company].  Given this, could you please confirm a few questions we have:\n\n1. Given the requirement of “…have majority domestic ownership and control…”, based on our corporate structure we understand we do not meet the eligibility criteria and would need to complete the foreign waiver process, could you please confirm?\n\n2. Assuming we need to, we are ready and willing to complete the waiver process as we have all required IP protections in place (active TCP), all work will be done in the US, etc.  It looks like the waiver is submitted with the full application – is it possible to complete the waiver process earlier to have certainty there are no issues with our submittal?\n","1. This is up to the recipient to determine based on the guidance provided in the FOA. If during the application review, it is determined a Foreign Work Waiver was not required, the submittal of the waiver will not negatively impact the application's score. DOE reviews the applicant's UEI (Unique Entity Identifier)/SAM registration to confirm entity information. \n\n2. Yes, the waiver, if applicable, is required to be submitted with the Full Application before the specified deadline. Unfortunately, we cannot pre-review any application documents. If you have specific questions related to the Foreign Work Waiver, please submit them to the FOA mailbox and/or review Appendix B of the FOA."]
[24,"2023-01-02","Concept Paper","I would like to include some links, instead of references, to external sources in my concept paper. May I do this?","Per Section IV. C. Content and Form of the Concept Paper, Applicants may provide graphs, charts, or other data to supplement their Technology, Process, or Project Description. Graphs, charts, or other data contribute towards the maximum page limit. "]
[25,"2023-01-02","Application Content/Format","The solicitation imposes requirements on font size on p. 53, i.e., “a font size of 12 point or larger”. But it says nothing about condensing fonts, which I have done in past submissions in response to DOE FOAs, without any issue. WORD allows font condensing, which does not change the height of a font but does change the width (and therefore allows more characters per line). \n\nMay I use a slightly condensed font?","See Section IV. A. Application Process regarding the form and content requirements. "]
[26,"2023-01-07","Cost Sharing","The solicitation states that “Institutions of Higher Education and Non-Profit Organizations” are not required to have cost share under Subtopic 1(a) and 1(b). We were wondering if we were to include Industry Stakeholders as a subaward, would the industry partner then have to provide the 20% cost share? Since they wouldn’t be Higher Education or Non-Profit? ","See Q&A #5, above."]
[27,"2023-01-09","Application Content/Format","I have a question regarding the FOA. Would reviewers consider funding only one task of a project? \n\nI have a proposal idea that includes first localized experimental testing (task 1). Cost of task 1 would be relatively minimal. If we elicit a response from bats, I would then like to expand the project in task 2, which will cost considerably more.\n\nMy question is if funds are not available for the entire project, could task 1 be considered for funding independent of task 2? My options are to only request funds for task 1 for this FOA if the final budget with both tasks would decrease the chances of funding.","DOE will not make any funding determinations for potential concept papers or full applications. The decision whether to submit an application in response to one or more interest areas under Topic Area 4 of this FOA lies solely with the applicant. However, DOE does have the ability to select awards for negotiation at UP TO the requested funding amount should that be in the best interests of the WETO program.\n\nDOE seeks to fund the highest quality applications based on the Technical Review Criteria (Sec. V.A.). Section I.B.iv. Topic Area 4: Bat Deterrent Technology Development notes that “[a]pplications to Topic Area 4 of this FOA can address one or more of the three interests” and that “[a]pplications that include research under more than one interest will not be given higher priority or additional preference over applications for only one interest.” Please also refer to section VI.B.xiv of the FOA for additional information on Go/No-Go Reviews and continuation into subsequent budget periods."]
[28,"2023-01-10","Other","Is the contract type for this award expected to be on a time and materials basis?  Or cost reimbursement?","Per Section II.B.i of the FOA, EERE generally uses cooperative agreements to provide financial and other support to prime recipients."]
[29,"2023-01-14","Cost Sharing","We will be submitting a concept paper in a category where a cost-share match is not required. However, we intend to seek foundation funding to leverage the DOE funding to expand the project. Even though cost-share is not required, should we include this additional amount in the project budget?","The cost share waiver exemption applies to the type of entity per Section III.B Cost Sharing. Exempt applicants may choose to report cost share as part of the application but it is not required."]
[30,"2023-01-15","Technical Topics","In terms of the scope of \"capacity building\" outlined in subtopic 3B, it seems to be primarily geared towards community education and accessibility/familiarity with the OSW development process to enable broader community engagement with the process. Is there any openness in this funding opportunity to capacity building related to support for Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (THPOs) dealing with the workload of the consultation process? For example marine science tools/data to explore possible cultural sensitivities, or legal support for staying on top of the consultation process for OSW development. Or is this grant subtopic more firmly focused on filling community information gaps? ","Subtopic 3b is open to activities that address community-identified needs and can support local preparation for and engagement with current and future offshore wind development. Tools and resources that support a community’s ability to communicate topics of concern fall within the scope of the topic area. This topic area will not fund proposals relating to legal representation (litigation, lobbying, policy advocacy, etc.)."]
[31,"2023-01-18","Other","We are interested in submitting a concept paper due Jan 20 for this grant opportunity. But it is not clear the format or the forms or the procedure for submitting the concept paper. Can you please direct me to the place on this FOA where I can find that information?","Please see the EERE Exchange website, https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/, for the FOA and associated documents. See Section IV. C. Content and Form of the Concept Paper. "]
[32,"2023-01-24","Other","In order to move on to the application phase, what are the next steps? Do we need to receive an official invitation to apply or are we able to move forward based on the submission of our concept paper? ","Per Section VI.A.ii. Concept Paper Notifications, DOE will notify applicants of its determination to encourage or discourage the submission of a Full Application. DOE will post these notifications to EERE Exchange. Applicants may submit a Full Application even if they receive a notification discouraging them from doing so. The purpose of the Concept Paper phase is to save applicants the considerable time and expense of preparing a Full Application that is unlikely to be selected for award negotiations."]
[33,"2023-01-30","Application Content/Format","1.\tI noted that in your table on the components of the full application, you allow five pages for “community partnership documentation”, but I didn’t see this described anywhere else in the FOA. What do you mean by “community partnership documentation”?\n\n2.\tThe FOA states that letters of commitment are needed to address cost share. If we’re not providing cost share, can we provide letters of commitment, e.g., from potential members of a technical advisory board?","1. See FOA Modification 0002 for further details in Section IV.D.xix. Community Partnership Documentation \n\n2. See Section IV.D.iv. Letter of Commitment, \"Letters of support or endorsement for the project from entities that do not have a substantive role in the project are not accepted.\""]
[34,"2023-01-30","Application Content/Format","Question for Subtopic Area 3a \nPage 41 of the modified FOA indicates the period of performance for subtopic Area 3a is an estimated 60 months, with 5 budget periods.  Is it correct to infer that the term “budget periods” means “up to five years of funding?”  Would it be acceptable to standardize the format of the proposal with two budget periods and one Go/NoGo at the end of BP1? \n\nQuestion for Subtopic Area 3b\nSimilar question to above. The period of performance for subtopic area 3b is indicated as 18-36 months, with one to three budget periods. Is it acceptable to simply and format/submit the proposal with one budget period? ","Subtopic 3a - Section I.B.iii. Topic Area 3: Offshore Wind Energy Social Science Research states that projects will have a SOPO milestone at the end of Budget Period 1 which will require recipients to share study design with DOE and LBNL for review and feedback. At a minimum, each project in Subtopic 3a  must have at least one project-wide Go/No-Go decision point for each budget period (12 to 18-month period) of the project, see Section IV.D.ii. Technical Volume. If a proposal is 60 months, then there should be at least three  Budget Periods and two Go/No-Go Decision Points based on these guidelines. \n\nSubtopic 3b - The decision whether to propose one, two or three budget periods for this Subtopic lies solely with the applicant. At a minimum, each project must have at least one project-wide Go/No-Go decision point for each budget period (12 to 18-month period) of the project, see Section IV.D.ii. Technical Volume. If a proposal spans more than 18 months, then there should be more than one Budget Period and at least one Go/No-Go Decision Point. \n\nSee FOA Modification 0003 for further details in Section I.B.iii. Topic Area 3: Offshore Wind Energy Social Science Research - Budget Period for Topic Area 3. "]
[35,"2023-02-06","Application Content/Format","I am writing to inquire as to which budget template to use when applying for DE-FOA-0002828: BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LAW (BIL) FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT (FOA) TO ADDRESS KEY DEPLOYMENT CHALLENGES FOR OFFSHORE, LAND-BASED, AND DISTRIBUTED WIND opportunity,  the website template link says look at the FOA to make the determination of which to use. \n\nI cannot see the reference within the FOA as to which template to use (there are over 140 pages in the FOA and it was not obvious with a text search. Should I use  ERE_T_540.132.01 Budget Justification (THREE_BPs) or ERE_T_540.132.02 Budget Justification?  ","See Question #34.\n\nThe appropriate budget form should reflect the proposed period of performance based on the Topic/Subtopic area. "]
[36,"2023-02-06","Other","For FOA DE-FOA-0002828, Page 1 (or PDF page 8)\n“WETO and this FOA in particular, BIL section 41007(b)(1) invests appropriations of $60 million”\n\nWill WETO be issuing a FOA in future years for the remaining balance?","You may want to monitor the EERE Exchange website for opportunities you are interested in and eligible to apply -  https://eere-exchange.energy.gov. Note that there are drop-downs near the top of the homepage that allow you to search by Technology Office.\n\nIn some instances, DOE does accept unsolicited proposals. Information can be found here - https://www.netl.doe.gov/business/unsolicited-proposals\n\nYou can also visit Wind Energy Technologies Office | Department of Energy and sign up to receive updates, https://www.energy.gov/eere/wind/wind-energy-technologies-office "]
[37,"2023-02-09","Application Content/Format","Do you have an anticipated start date of the funded WETO projects? Understanding the start date would help us properly budget for students and other salaries. ","Revised Response based on FOA Modification 0004. WETO recommends using January 1, 2024 as an anticipated start date based on the current schedule in the published FOA. "]
[38,"2023-02-13","Application Reviews","We have received the reviews for our concept paper. We believe that there are conflicting statements, and we would like to discuss the review with the program director.\nCan you please connect us to the appropriate person(s)?","Per Section VII. Questions/Agency Contacts, \"Upon the issuance of a FOA, DOE personnel are prohibited from communicating (in writing or otherwise) with applicants regarding the FOA except through the established question and answer process as described below.\"\n\nPer Section VI.A.ii. Concept Paper Notifications, \"Applicants may submit a Full Application even if they receive a notification discouraging them from doing so. By discouraging the submission of a Full Application, DOE intends to convey its lack of programmatic interest in the proposed project.\""]
[39,"2023-02-14","Application Content/Format","I am unable to open up the SF-LLL, SF-424, and Slide templates. I have tried using a different browser but nothing seems to work.","Contact the EERE Help Desk, EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov,  for technical issues regarding the EERE Exchange Website. Please make sure to include the FOA number and title in the subject line of your email."]
[40,"2023-02-15","Application Content/Format","In topic Area 4, it states that applications can address one or more of the 3 areas of interest. \n\nIt also states that The proposed project performance period will be up to 60 months for awards that address only a single described interest, and up to 72 months for awards that address two or more described interests.\n\nIf a proposal covers two or more topic areas, is the budget the maximum of the two topic areas, or the sum of the two  topic areas?\n\nIn other words, what is the maximum budget for a proposal addressing targeted behavioral research (max 1M) and In situ bat deterrent testing (max 2.75M)?","The maximum total budget for an application addressing the referenced research interests under Topic Area 4 would be up to $3.75M. If an applicant chooses to address more than one research interest(s) the totals are additive based upon the research areas addressed. \n\nSee FOA Modification 0004 for further details in Section II.A.i Estimated Funding for Topic Area 4"]
[41,"2023-02-15","Application Content/Format","The summary slide for the DE-FOA-0002828 is in an old format of PowerPoint (MS 1997-203) and cannot be converted as it is locked. Is there a way for it to be posted or shared in a newer version of PowerPoint? ","A newer version of the summary slide has been posted to EERE Exchange. Either .ppt or .pptx versions of the file will be accepted. "]
[42,"2023-02-16","Application Content/Format","[I am] assisting my PI with submitting full papers to Topic 1(a) and Topic 1(b). It’s not clear in the solicitation exactly what information we will need to provide as the lead from our subs, I was wondering if you could  please clarify which documents will be needed from each sub? The only thing I can find in the solicitation is that a budget justification is needed – we’re curious if anything else is required as well? (i.e. CV, Current and Pending, etc.)","Subrecipients shall submit a Budget Justification Workbook describing all project costs and calculations when their total proposed budget exceeds either (1) $250,000 or (2) 25% of total award costs. Submit letters of commitment from all subrecipient and third-party cost share \nproviders. Additionally, SF-LLL, Current and Pending Support, and Locations of Work are required for subrecipients. See Section IV.D. of the FOA. "]
[43,"2023-02-16","Application Content/Format","If a concept paper is encouraged for full application submission, can the applicant include a new partner that was not originally included in the project team in the concept paper application?","Yes, applicants may include a new partner from Concept Paper phase to Full Application phase."]
[44,"2023-02-16","Application Content/Format","My PI is planning to include non-budgeted partners. What would be required from them? Just a letter of commitment?","The requirements of what to submit for non-budgetary partners can be found in Section IV.D.xix - Community Partnership Documentation"]
[45,"2023-02-20","Application Content/Format","For non-funded partners, do we only need a letter of commitment or is there more required from them? Also, is there a template you require to be used for the LOC?","See Question #44, and there is not a specific template required for Community Partnership Documentation letters. \n\nSee Question #33, Letters of Commitment apply to subrecipient and third-party cost share providers. \n\nLetters of Commitment and Community Partnership Documentation are different Full Application Content Requirements, please see each applicable section in Section IV.D. to determine the appropriate content and form requirements. "]
[46,"2023-02-20","Cost Sharing","Would software be allowable as cost share?","See Section III. B. Cost Sharing for cost share requirements and allowability.\n\nSee Section IV. I. i. Allowable Costs regarding applicable federal cost principles. "]
[47,"2023-02-21","Application Content/Format","Could you clarify where the budget justification form is located on the EERE Exchange website? ","The budget justification template files are located under the “Application Forms and Templates” section of the FOA on the EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange website. "]
[48,"2023-02-23","Labs/FFRDCs","As an FFRDC, Do we need to submit both a Subrecipient Budget Justification and a DOE WP?  Or are we required to only submit a DOE WP for our portion of the work?","FFRDCs participating as a subrecipient on an application must submit  the following documents under Section IV. D. Content and Form of the Full Application - xi. Budget for DOE/NNSA FFRDC and xii. Authorization for non-DOE/NNSA or DOE/NNSA FFRDCs\n\nSee Section III.A. Eligible Applicants to determine if an FFRDC is eligible to apply as a prime recipient or a subrecipient. "]
[49,"2023-02-23","Eligibility","I have a question about Subtopic 3b:\n\nWhen submitting a project proposal with a 24-month period of performance (one budget period), is a Go/NoGo required, or is that a negotiable checkpoint? I understand the purpose of a Go/No Go to be determining performance so DOE allows the recipient to proceed to the next budget period. But if we are proposing just one 24-month project period, I am assuming there is no Go/No Go required?","If an applicant is proposing one Budget Period for a length of 24 months, then a Go/No-Go Decision Point is not required at this time. Please see FOA Modification 0005 for further details on Budget Period timeframes. \n\nIf selected for negotiations, DOE may ask for clarifying information per Section IV.E. Anticipated Notice of Selection and Award Negotiation Date and may recommend changes per Section VI.B.ix. Substantial Involvement. "]
[50,"2023-02-23","Eligibility","Our concept paper was encouraged to submit the full application. Before submitting the full application, the project team has a question about the prime recipient. Could we switch the prime recipient  to another team member before/when submitting the full application?","The team roles can be modified between the Concept Paper and Full Application, please see specific responses below. The Primary Applicant can change between the Concept Paper and Full Application submission.  In order to be compliant with the Concept Paper submisison requirement, ensure the control number remains the same for the Full Application submission. Note, there may be updates required if the type of organization changes (ie: University to For-Profit). Also, ensure the Personnel Table aligns with any changes for the Full Application submission.  See Section III. A. Eligible Applicants for further information on eligible applicants by Topic Area. \n"]
[51,"2023-02-27","Application Content/Format","I am working with a PI on applying to 1(a) and 1(b). We had a question regarding the SOPO form. \n\n1)\tSection E : DOE Marine Energy Data Repository Plan : are we allowed to remove this from the SOPO if it’s not applicable to us? \n2)\tWe are not able to find the template of the Milestone Summary table, only the Work Breakdown Structure table. Is a separate Milestone table required in addition to the WBS?","The SOPO template has been updated and is located under the “Application Forms and Templates” section of the FOA on the EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange website. \n\nSection E is not included in the Template, and the updated version has the Milestone Summary table which is a required part of the SOPO. "]
[52,"2023-03-01","Other","Is it possible to make significant changes to the overall amount asked in the final proposal compared what was estimated in the concept paper, as long as we stay within the maximum amount allowable?","Federal share can be modified between the Concept Paper and Full Application submission. See Section II.A.i. Estimated Funding for further information on topic and subtopic area federal share amounts. "]
[53,"2023-03-06","Other","It appears there was a modification for this FOA but no new documentation added to the documents section. Is there somewhere else I should be looking for the modified document?","The updated FOA is  located under the “Documents” section of the FOA on the EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange website and displays the date of the most recent update. "]
[54,"2023-03-07","Application Content/Format","I have a question about how to complete the SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities form. We do not do, nor have we ever done or paid for any lobbying. \n\nWhat do I enter into items 10a and 10b?  Since we have no lobbyists, is it sufficient to enter \"NOT APPLICABLE\"?  Or  should we write something else? Or should we just leave it blank?","It is sufficient to enter \"Not Applicable\" when appropriate. \n\nSee Section IV.D.xiii. SF-LLL: Disclosure of Lobbying Activities for additional information. "]
[55,"2023-03-09","Cost Sharing","We are submitting a proposal for topic 3a as a group of universities lead by the local city government. The city government will be the prime and the universities will be subrecipients. Is a 20% cost-share required?"," A local governmental entity is not subject to the exemption for Institutions of Higher Education and Non-Profit Organizations as identified in Section III.B Cost Sharing. See question and answer #5 above, and Section III.A.i. Domestic Entities."]
[56,"2023-03-09","Application Content/Format","For this opportunity will DOE cover other than personal expenses i.e. , workshops, equipment, domestic travel etc..? Or does the recipient have to cover this?","All expenditures must be allowable, allocable, and reasonable in accordance with the applicable federal cost principles. See Section IV.I.i. Allowable Costs for the cost principles by entity type. "]
[57,"2023-03-13","Application Content/Format","I just wanted to ask if the control number that we need to use in the name of each file we submit is of the form:  2828-XXXX or is it simply the four digit code following the 2828?\n\nAnd, is it acceptable to use an abbreviation of our name instead of writing out our full name in each file name? ","Applicants must use the full eight digit control number issued by EERE Exchange. See Section IV.A. Application Process for more information. \n\nApplicants may use an abbreviation as long as it is consistent across all file names and headings. "]
[58,"2023-03-14","Application Content/Format","My PI is preparing to submit a proposal in response to funding opportunity DE-FOA-0002828.\n\nWe are wondering if all of the travel details in tab C of the budget (departure, destination, number of travelers, cost per trip) are all required. I am not sure if he has all of those details nailed down.\n\nAlso, are we required to break expenses down by task as shown in the examples? Again, I am not sure if my PI has broken them down in such detail at this point. Please advise.","All fields are required within the Budget Justification Workbook. Per Section IV.D.vii. Budget Justification Workbook \"Applicants must carefully read the “Instructions and Summary” tab provided within the Budget Justification Workbook.\""]
[59,"2023-03-16","Application Content/Format","I am assisting a PI  on a  Topic 1 (b) submission. \n\nThe PI would like to know if Open Source Software Distribution Plan is mandatory for Topic 1(b). ","\"While an open source software distribution is not required for any Topic Area under this FOA, if an applicant chooses to include open source software distribution as part of their project, the applicant must submit an Open Source Software Distribution Plan as part of their Full Application,\" per Section IV.D.xv. Open Source Software Distribution Plan.\n\nSee FOA Modification 0007 for revised information on Open Source Software."]
[60,"2023-03-16","Application Content/Format","On page 57 of the solicitation (DE-FOA-0002828), it mentions “Community Partnership Documentation”. If we do not have community partnership for this project, do we still need to prepare this document? I can not find any instruction about this document in the solicitation.\n\nFor the “Open Source Software Distribution Plan”, if open source software distribution is required for our project, is the Open Source Software Distribution Plan still required or not?","The Community Partnership Documentation component is marked as if applicable in Section IV.D.i. Full Application Content Requirements. See Section IV.D.xix. Community Partnership Documentation for more details about the content of the component. \n\nSee Question #59. "]
[61,"2023-03-17","Application Content/Format","We have a question regarding the waiver for foreign entity participation.  Would this be required for consultants?  The proposed project has consultants from the United Kingdom and Canada.  ","Yes, this is required for consultants who are performing any work outside of the United States. "]
[62,"2023-03-17","Application Content/Format","I am seeking clarity on how many different kinds of milestones DOE is requiring for the proposal.\n\nAs I move deeper into this proposal, I realize that the FOA talks about milestones in different ways. On the one hand, in the Technical Volume Content Requirements on p61 - Section Workplan, sub-bullet Technical Scope Summary it mentions milestones to achieve the Community Benefits Plan (CBP)  (DEIA, Energy justice, and Workforce development). And under the Milestone Summary portion of the same table it speaks of milestones that demonstrate project success (presumably success at meeting the project objectives?).\n\nLikewise, the CBP says there must be at least one milestone per budget period to measure progress on the CBP goals, but it also speaks of \" a milestone-based plan for identifying future implications of their research on energy equity, including, but not limited to, benefits for the U.S. workforce.\"  \n\nCan you help me to understand if milestones only refer to the CBP or if they refer also to the project objectives?","Applications to this FOA should include a set of milestones throughout the life of the project which can be used to define and demonstrate project success (i.e. meeting critical path and overall project objectives). Milestones may either be a progress measure (which can be activity-based) or SMART milestones (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely) that demonstrate technical achievement rather than completion of a task. Each project must have at least one milestone per quarter for the duration of the project. Of these milestones, at least one per year must be a SMART technical milestone and at least one per Budget Period must measure progress on CBP goals.\n\nSee Section IV.D.ii. Technical Volume and Section IV.D.xvi. R&D Community Benefits Plan. "]
[63,"2023-03-17","Cost Sharing","Can you clarify, as it is not clear in the FOA if the Cost Share that is considered not required for Institutions of Higher Education and Non-Profit Organizations are waived if that organization type is not the Prime Applicant of the proposal.\n\nExample:  \nIf a FFRDC is the Prime Applicant, but has partner organizations (subrecipients) that are Institutions of Higher Learning and/or Non-Profit organizations, are those partner organizations federal funds reduced from the total cost share calculation? ","An FFRDC as the prime applicant is not subject to the exemption for Institutions of Higher Education and Non-Profit Organizations. See Section III. B.i. Legal Responsibility for more information.\n\nSee Questions 14, 15, 22."]
[64,"2023-03-20","Application Content/Format","For the Technical Volume submission, does the page count include the Cover Page, or is the page count excluded from the total pages identified for the Topic Area’s Technical Volume?","The Technical Volume page limit includes the cover page. See Section IV.D.i Full Application Content Requirements and Section IV.D.ii. Technical Volume for more information."]
[65,"2023-03-20","Application Content/Format","I am in middle of completing my application for the referenced Grant and I deleted couple support letters and now I want to add new support letters, the system will not allow.","Per Section IV.D.iv. Letters of Commitment \"Save the letters of commitment in a single PDF file using the following convention for the title “ControlNumber_LeadOrganization_LOCs”.\""]
[66,"2023-03-20","Application Content/Format","1.\tWhen completing the Current and Pending Support document is SciENcv, the output of the Disclosure Statement reads as identified below:\n\nCertification:\nWhen the individual signs the certification on behalf of themselves, they are certifying that the information is current, accurate, and complete. This includes, but is not limited to, information related to current, pending, and other support (both foreign and domestic) as defined in 42 U.S.C §§ 6605. Misrepresentations and/or omissions may be subject to prosecution and liability pursuant to, but not limited to, 18 U.S.C. §§ 287, 1001, 1031 and 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733 and 3802.\n\nCertified by [Name] in SciENcv on [Date}\n\n\n2.\tThe statement from the FOA reads as follows:\nI, [Full Name and Title], certify to the best of my knowledge and belief that the information contained in this Current and Pending Support Disclosure Statement is true, complete, and accurate. I understand that any false, fictitious, or fraudulent information, misrepresentations, half-truths, or omissions of any material fact, may subject me to criminal, civil or administrative penalties for fraud, false statements, false claims or otherwise. (18 U.S.C. §§ 1001 and 287, and 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733 and 3801-3812). I further understand and agree that (1) the statements and representations made herein are material to DOE’s funding decision, and (2) I have a responsibility to update the disclosures during the period of performance of the award should circumstances change which impact the responses provided above.\n\n\nIs the certification statement as it reads from the SciENcv system (1.) when the document is populated, acceptable to use?","Yes. See Section IV.D.xvii of the FOA.  "]
[67,"2023-03-20","Application Content/Format","Since FFRDCs are prohibited from lobbying, would FFRDC’s participating as a Prime Applicant or subrecipient be required to provide a signed SF-LLL:  Disclosure of Lobbying Activities?","All prime applicants and subrecipients must submit a signed SF-LLL. See Question 54"]
[68,"2023-03-24","Cost Sharing","If a sub-recipient is a non-profit or institution of higher learning but the prime is another type of organization, is the subrecipient required to provide cost share? Does the subrecipients federal funding get included in the cost share calculation?","The prime recipient is responsible for all cost share on the project. Subrecipients may elect to provide cost share, but are not required. The prime recipient must provide the minimum required cost share. Although the cost share requirement applies to the project as a whole, including work performed by members of the project team other than the prime recipient, the prime recipient is legally responsible for paying the entire cost share. Cost sharing is calculated as a percentage of the Total Project Costs. FFRDC costs must be included in Total Project Costs. See Appendix A of the FOA for more information. "]
[69,"2023-03-24","Other","We are attempting to submit a full proposal for a concept paper that was submitted by a different PI, encouraged for a full proposal, and recently transferred to our organization to submit.  \n\nIs there something that needs to be done within the Exchange to that we may complete the application under a new PI at our organization?  Under the FOA, there is no “Edit/Apply” options.","The prime applicant will need to share access to the submission as identified on page 17 of the EERE Exchange Applicant Guide (https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Manuals.aspx) for the users at the partner institution to have access to the submission in Exchange and be able to modify the prime applicant. \n\nSee Question 50 for more information about modifying roles. "]
[70,"2023-07-12","Other","I submitted a proposal to Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) FOA to Address Key Deployment Challenges for Offshore, Land-Based, and Distributed Wind (DE-FOA-0002828) for Topic 3a. I think the timeline is to make funding announcements this summer and was wondering about the status of decisions.","Decisions are now expected in late September"]
[71,"2023-08-08","Other","I'm wondering if there is a timeline for decisions on DE-FOA-0002828?","See Q&A #70."]
[72,"2023-08-21","Other","I'm just following up to this recent email to see if there is an update on decisions regarding this FOA. ","See Q&A #70."]

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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"]