Frequently Asked Questions

Select a FOA to view questions and answers for the specific funding opportunity. Alternatively select "Non-FOA related items" to view system FAQ items.

Question 1: On page 10 of the FOA, it says: Applicants can submit applications to perform both Task 1 and Task 2, or may submit applications to perform just Task 1 or Task 2 alone. Each Task must be clearly delineated in work scope and have a separate budget. “ Will the Department of Energy accept more than one application to either/both tasks?
Answer 1:

The Department of Energy will accept more than one Concept Paper for either or both Tasks from the same applicant. Each Task must be clearly delineated in work scope and have a separate budget.   Following completion of the Concept Paper phase, applicants will be notified as to whether or not they are encouraged to submit a full application.  DOE will accept more than one Application for either or both tasks, if a Concept Paper was submitted as required by the due date.

Question 2: Could you please email me a copy of the full announcement for the Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India RFP?
Answer 2:

When viewing the Synopsis for this Funding Opportunity Announcement on http://www.grants.gov, please reference the Section named "Link to Additional Information”.  The following link is available under this Section: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/. This link will direct to the home page of the EERE eXCHANGE website to access the full announcement for Funding Opportunity No. DE-FOA-0000697.

Question 3: I would like know what process for applying for this FOA are.
Answer 3:

Please access the following link: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/. This will direct to the home page of the EERE eXCHANGE website to access the full announcement for Funding Opportunity No. DE-FOA-0000697 and the process for applying for the FOA.

Question 4: (1). Since we have not worked with any US government agency before, please do explain in further detail what the concept paper should include. What should the length of the paper be? Any samples/resources you can provide will be very helpful. (2). Please confirm: We are to submit the following documents by 26 July 2012: § SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance § SF424A Budget Information § PMC 123.1 Budget Justification File § SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities § FOA000697
Answer 4:

The following link will direct you to the home page of the EERE eXCHANGE website to access the full announcement for Funding Opportunity No. DE-FOA-0000697  https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/. Please see Section IV – Application and Submission Information, B. Concept Papers – Content and Form, for Concept Paper requirements.  Applicants must have submitted a Concept Paper by the required due date, passed the Concept Paper initial compliance review, and received DOE feedback to be eligible to submit a Full Application.  Once the Concept Paper FOA closes and DOE has provided feedback on the initial Concept Papers, Full Application submissions are to be made via the EERE Exchange website at http://eere.energy.gov/financing/exchange.  The required documents for the full application submissions can be found in the FOA, Section IV – Application and Submission Information, C. Full Application – Content and Form.
Question 5: We are a for profit private organization registered in India. Are we eligible to apply for this funding ?
Answer 5:

Applicants under this funding opportunity must be a domestic entity. DOE defines a domestic entity as one that is incorporated or formed under the laws of a State within the United States; DOE generally recognizes it as a domestic entity even if it is partially or wholly owned by a foreign entity.  It is not clear that you meet this requirement. 

 

As stated in the FOA, Section III – Eligibility Information, A. Eligible Applicants, Domestic Entities Including DOE/NNSA National Laboratory Contractors

·         The following domestic entities are eligible to apply for this FOA:  (1) institutions of higher education; (2) nonprofit and for-profit  entities; (3) State and local governments; and   (4) consortia of entities (1) through (3).  All types of domestic entities, including DOE/NNSA National Laboratory Contractors, are eligible to apply, except other Federal agencies, non-DOE Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) Contractors, and nonprofit organizations described in section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that engaged in lobbying activities after December 31, 1995.
Question 6: We are very interested in exploring the above-referenced funding opportunity. In particular, we have experience and expertise in the Mumbai-Pune-Nashik corridors in the State of Maharashtra and are curious to learn more about the “comprehensive energy plan” drafted for the city of Pune (as per DE-FOA-0000697 page 9; relevant section pasted below). Is the text of this energy plan available to review? If so, can you please direct us to the appropriate web link, send as attachment, or otherwise advise as to how to acquire it? Many thanks in advance and we look forward to pursuing this exciting opportunity.
Answer 6: Information referenced in the FOA was given to provide an example of projects that DOE is currently engaged in.  At this time DOE does not have any more information to share publically about this project as it is ongoing. Applicants are encouraged to research into publically available information on any similar type project or do a literature review on what has been published on the subject matter.
Question 7: As it relates to the Sustainable Cities open grant submission for Smart Growth in China and India can an applicant submit more than 1 response for consideration? For example if our concept submission could be applied to both India and China would we include both locations in our concept response or would we need to submit two separate responses?
Answer 7:

Applicants may submit a separate Concept Paper for each Task with a total of two Concept Papers.  If the Applicants plan is the same for both Tasks and they are planning to cover it in one full application, one Concept Paper would then be encouraged.
Question 8: Am I able submit multiple applications for each country? For example, a submission for geothermal and an additional one for outdoor lighting? I understand applicants may apply to both India and China, however, did not know if it was limited to two total submissions.
Answer 8:

Applicants are limited to two Concept Papers, one for each Task.  Applicants are asked to combine all available options into one Concept Paper per task.

Question 9: Could DOE provide any additional guidance on the extent to which DOE wants to see partnerships with cities that have already begun elements of planning for smart growth? If a city has begun planning efforts, but would like to expand this and in particular, develop more practical and market-driven implementation options, would this be acceptable (for example, is a city in a government-sponsored energy conservation pilot effort acceptable)? Also, could DOE provide any additional guidance on the size of cities that it is considering? Are smaller cities with typical challenges a priority, or is DOE looking primarily for medium to large cities (i.e., 3+ million)?
Answer 9:

Proposed projects should build on current work in India and China where possible. Applicants are encouraged to expand on and leverage existing efforts. 

Applications must show how the proposed activities will increase capacity, building for sustainable urban energy planning and development, and enable cities in China and India to adopt initiatives that integrate energy and resource management into housing, land use, infrastructure, and transportation planning for smart and sustainable growth. 

DOE will consider different city sizes given that all FOA criteria are met. Applicants must detail why a proposed city is ideal for implementation of a proposed sustainability plan, and describe how activities funded through this FOA can become a replicable model for sustainable programs to be employed in other cities and regions in the two subject countries.
Question 10: I came across the Sustainable Cities FOA and am sincerely interested in being part of a project involved with energy planning in India. Have you by chance received interest from other institutions/groups that I could contact to potentially team up with? Additionally, the FOA mentions that the DOE has helped the cities of Pune and Jaipur draft energy plans - could I trouble you for a copy of those documents? They would be extremely helpful in getting an idea of what cities there are taking into consideration when planning.
Answer 10:

This FOA mailbox is for questions regarding technical or administrative problems and we will not give information on other potential applicants. 

Information referenced in the FOA was given to provide an example of projects that DOE is currently engaged in.  At this time DOE does not have any more information to share publically about this project as it is ongoing. Applicants are encouraged to research into publically available information on any similar type project or do a literature review on what has been published on the subject matter.
Question 11: Can one applicant be on more than one proposal for one country? For example, can one organization be a sub on a proposal focused on China, and a Prime on another proposal also focused on China? Or, can one organization be a sub on two proposals, being submitted by two different organizations, but focusing on China?
Answer 11:

The Prime applicant is restricted to one Concept Paper per Topic.  There are no restrictions as to how many Concept Papers an applicant is listed as a sub awardee.
Question 12: Is the final up loaded file to contain: 1 - Cover Page (1 page) 2 - Narrative File (3 pages max) For a total of 4 pages (max)? or is the Cover page counted as part of the Narrative File, leaving 2 pages (max) for the non-cover page portion of the Narrative File?
Answer 12:

As stated in FOA0000697 Section IV – Application and Submission Information, B. 1 – 2.  The Concept Paper must not exceed 3 pages, including cover page, charts, graphs, maps, and photographs etc.
Question 13: Does DOE encourage to build on and expanding work in those cities that DOE is currently working in Or is the guidance to focus largely on new cities?
Answer 13:

Proposed projects should build on current work in India and China where possible. Applicants are encouraged to expand on and leverage existing efforts.  Applications must show how the proposed activities will increase capacity, building for sustainable urban energy planning and development, and enable cities in China and India to adopt initiatives that integrate energy and resource management into housing, land use, infrastructure, and transportation planning for smart and sustainable growth. 

DOE will consider different city sizes given that all FOA criteria are met. Applicants must detail why a proposed city is ideal for implementation of a proposed sustainability plan, and describe how activities funded through this FOA can become a replicable model for sustainable programs to be employed in other cities and regions in the two subject countries. 
Question 14: Do you anticipate any extension in the June 7th, 2012 due date for the concept paper?
Answer 14:

Unfortunately, due to time restraints, there will not be an extension to the June 7, 2012 due date for the concept paper.
Question 15: Can DOE provide guidance on whether DOE would prioritize working with new U.S., Chinese or Indian cities that have not been beneficiaries or part of existing DOE activities or cities that are part of current DOE activities?
Answer 15:

 DOE will consider all proposed projects for new or existing activities for cities given that all FOA criteria are met.  Applicants must detail why a proposed city is ideal for implementation of a proposed sustainability plan, and describe how activities funded through this FOA can become a replicable model for sustainable programs to be employed in other cities and regions in the two subject countries.
Question 16: 1. Please explain the difference between the Abstract paper and the Concept paper. 2. Can you please confirm that the funding ceiling on this opportunity is $750K over a two-year period, which would be applied, per the discretion of DOE and based on congressional appropriations, across Tasks 1 and 2? 3. Can we submit one proposal with separate tabs (Technical and pricing) for each task? 4. If we provide separate concept papers each for Task 1 and Task 2, is it acceptable/feasible to combine these into a single proposal, pending approval from DOE on the approach outlined in the separate concept papers?
Answer 16:

Answer 1. As stated in: SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION, B Concept Papers – Content and Form, 2. Concept Paper Narrative File,  The Concept Paper should identify task, and provide a clear, concise statement of the specific objectives, primary approaches, and expected outcomes and impacts of the proposed project.  The Concept Paper should include a description of the proposed project areas and activities, as well as a description of the current targeted markets and how the proposed efforts are expected to impact these markets.  The Concept Paper should also include a description of the intended partnerships and collaboration opportunities.  Finally, the Concept Paper should address each of the Merit Review Criteria for Concept Papers listed in Section V, A.1.  It must provide sufficient information that reviewers will be able to evaluate the technical merits of the Concept Paper in accordance with these merit review criteria. 
SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION, C Full Application – Content and Form, 2. Project Summary/Abstract File The project summary/abstract must contain a summary of the proposed activity suitable for dissemination to the public.  It should be a self-contained document that identifies the name of the applicant, the project director/principal investigator(s), the project title, the objectives of the project, a description of the project, including methods to be employed, the potential impact of the project (i.e., benefits, outcomes), and major participants (for collaborative projects). 
Applicants must have submitted a Concept Paper by the required due date, passed the Concept Paper initial compliance review, and received DOE feedback to be eligible to submit a Full Application. 

Answer 2: The funding available for FOA0000697 is $750,000 over a two-year period.  DOE expects to make 1-3 awards ranging between $0 - $750,000 for Tasks 1 and 2.

Answer 3: If the Concept Paper meets the requirement as stated in: SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION, B Concept Papers – Content and Form, 2. Concept Paper Narrative File, (3-page limit), The Concept Paper must not exceed 3 pages, including cover page, charts, graphs, maps, and photographs when printed using standard 8.5” by 11” paper with 1 inch margins (top, bottom, left, and right), single spaced.  EVALUATORS WILL REVIEW ONLY THE NUMBER OF PAGES SPECIFIED IN THE PRECEDING SENTENCE.  

Answer 4: Questions regarding Full Applications will be addressed after the Concept Papers FOA closes and DOE has provided feedback on the initial Concept Papers.
Question 17: 1) If a team is encouraged to send a full proposal, to what extent are they held to the ideas in the concept paper? For example, if a team was originally focusing on city x but then feels city y may be better suited would that disqualify them from consideration? 2) Are there any examples of previous urban planning related winning proposals that are available for us to review?
Answer 17:

1. A team can change details from Concept Paper to Full Application and they will not be disqualified.
2. There are no examples of previous urban planning proposals for review at this time.
Question 18: I remembered that I had actually sent a message previously regarding the energy plans that were mentioned in the FOA for Sustainable Cities. If those are available online, would you be able to direct me to them? I'm not having much luck finding them myself. Or is there someone else I could contact to inquire about these documents?
Answer 18:

Information referenced in the FOA was given to provide an example of projects that DOE is currently engaged in.  At this time DOE does not have any more information to share publically about this project as it is ongoing. Applicants are encouraged to research into publically available information on any similar type project or do a literature review on what has been published on the subject matter. 

Question 19: I’m having trouble locating the referenced funding opportunity in the EERE Exchange system. I would like to submit the pre-application On June 7, 2012, and as of Friday the information is not in the system. Please advise.
Answer 19:

Questions related to the registration process and use of the EERE Exchange website should be submitted to:  EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov

 

 
Question 20: 1) Is the total amount the DOE has set aside for this competition $750K, anticipating awarding 1-3 awards. If DOE awards 3, then about $250K each? 2) Can we set aside part of the grant for researchers in a university in China or India—if so, do we need to list them as sub-recipients for the concept paper? We haven’t decided yet. 3) References—can we include them as a fourth page?
Answer 20:

1) The funding available for FOA0000697 is $750,000 over a two-year period.  DOE expects to make 1-3 awards ranging between $0 - $750,000 for Tasks 1 and 2.  No determination has been made as to the exact amount for each award at this time.
2) Until the Concept Papers are reviewed, we are not able to answer this question.
3)  As stated in FOA0000697 Section IV – Application and Submission Information, B. 1 – 2.  The Concept Paper must not exceed 3 pages, including cover page, charts, graphs, maps, and photographs etc.
Question 21: We have been working on the concept paper for the Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India (DE-FOA-0000697). Today we have discovered that the link https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/ does not list this opportunity (though it did when we first found out about it). - Is this a system problem or was this opportunity canceled?
Answer 21:

FOA0000697 can be found at the website: http://eere-exchange.energy.gov/  titled: Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India. Questions related to the registration process and use of the EERE Exchange website should be submitted to:  EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov  This FOA has not been canceled.

 

 
Question 22: Regarding DE-FOA-0000697 “Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India” posted on grants.gov on 5/7/2012. My organization is registered on the EERE Exchange (https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/) . However, this opportunity is not listed under “Funding Opportunities.” Can you please advise as to why the opportunity is not listed? Concept papers are due 6/7/2012 and are supposed to submitted through the EERE Exchange website.
Answer 22:

FOA 0000697 can be found at the website: http://eere-exchange.energy.gov/  titled: Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India. Questions related to the registration process and use of the EERE Exchange website should be submitted to:  EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov

 
Question 23: I am in the process of applying to DE-FOA-0000697: Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India. I would like clarification regarding the document guidelines for the Concept Paper.
Answer 23:

As stated in: SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION, B Concept Papers – Content and Form, 2. Concept Paper Narrative File,  The Concept Paper should identify task, and provide a clear, concise statement of the specific objectives, primary approaches, and expected outcomes and impacts of the proposed project.  The Concept Paper should include a description of the proposed project areas and activities, as well as a description of the current targeted markets and how the proposed efforts are expected to impact these markets.  The Concept Paper should also include a description of the intended partnerships and collaboration opportunities.  Finally, the Concept Paper should address each of the Merit Review Criteria for Concept Papers listed in Section V, A.1.  It must provide sufficient information that reviewers will be able to evaluate the technical merits of the Concept Paper in accordance with these merit review criteria.  SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION, B Concept Papers – Content and Form, 2. Concept Paper Narrative File, (3-page limit), The Concept Paper must not exceed 3 pages, including cover page, charts, graphs, maps, and photographs when printed using standard 8.5” by 11” paper with 1 inch margins (top, bottom, left, and right), single spaced.  EVALUATORS WILL REVIEW ONLY THE NUMBER OF PAGES SPECIFIED IN THE PRECEDING SENTENCE.   
Question 24: I would like clarification on submitting a proposal for both Tasks 1 & 2 (referred to as Topics 1 & 2 on EERE eXCHANGE). I understand from the announcement that a concept paper can be submitted to perform both Tasks 1 & 2. We have created a proposal to do that. But when I go to the EERE eXCHANGE website, there is only options to select one or the other Tasks, and not both. Please clarify how we should proceed to submit an application for both Task 1 & 2.
Answer 24:

Please go to the website: http://eere-exchange.energy.gov/  titled: Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India. Questions related to the process and use of the EERE Exchange website should be submitted to:  EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov

Question 25: I was trying to submit a pre-proposal to DOE to respond FOA DE-FOA-0000697. But, my student told me a wrong logging info, and the cite is expired. Do you still accept the pre-proposal?
Answer 25:

The due date for Concept Papers was June 7, 2012, 5pm ET and we will not accept Concept Papers after that time.

 
Question 26: I just submitted the concept paper with the control number listed. But when I check its status again, it said not submitted because of the error of missing the period of performance.
Answer 26:

Questions related to the registration process and use of the EERE Exchange website should be submitted to:  EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov

 

 
Question 27: On the exchange site, it asks for either a concept note for China or India. We are interested in submitting something for both nations. Should we submit the same concept for both countries? Unless we hear otherwise this is how we will submit. We hope to be able to clarify later.
Answer 27:

You can submit a Concept Paper for Topic A and/or Topic B.  If you are planning on submitting two different full applications, you should submit two separate concept papers.  However, if your submission could be applied to both India and China, and you plan to cover it in one full application, one Concept Paper is encouraged.
Question 28: I just became aware of DE-FOA-0000697 application and that its initial deadline had just passed yesterday (June 7, 2012). Many aspects of our program match the description and intent mentioned in the FOA. While I can send you many details, are we too late to register and submit an initial application? Alternately, are there similar programs being considered by the DOE for such initiatives?
Answer 28:

We are no longer accepting Concept Papers for FOA0000697.   Please check http://grants.gov/ for Funding Opportunity Announcements related to the programs you are interested in.  You may also sign up for notifications in Grants.gov.  You will then be notified if something in your area of interest becomes available at a later date. 

Question 29: Finall questions on DE-FOA-0000697: Do we include a two-page CV for the PI for the concept paper application? Do we include CVs for all the key personnel?
Answer 29:

Please resend question with the acronym CV spelled out.
Question 30: Is it permissible to pay foreign partners in China and India for logistics and other support under this FOA? Should this be done with the partner as a sub-contractor or through the use of another mechanism?
Answer 30:

Foreign partners would be considered sub recipients and those expenses would be classified on the budget as Contractual costs.  Please reference, Section IV – Application and submission information, C. Full Application – Content and Form, 5. Budget File and 6. PMC 123.1 Budget Justification File.
Question 31: We submitted a Concept Paper for DE-FOA0000697: Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India. We had the understanding that we would receive notification or comments would be posted on the website 6 days after the due date of June 7, indicating whether we should submit a Full Application. We have not received notification nor can I find anything on the website. Can you tell me if we should begin working on a Full Proposal?
Answer 31:

The Concept paper review response will be available to the applicants in EERE Exchange when the FOA managers publish the information to applicants.  To find the Concept Paper Response locate your concept paper in the My Submissions section and click on the control number.  The concept paper response information will be published under the general details.
Question 32: I am wondering when and how we can hear back about the comments on our concept paper. Somewhere I remember it was within a week, but now it has passed that date. Thanks for letting me know so that I am not missing something here.
Answer 32: The Concept paper reviews are available in EERE Exchange as of June 22, 2012. To find the Concept Paper Response locate your concept paper in the My Submissions section and click on the control number.  The concept paper response information will be published under the general details.
Question 33: We have gone past the submission date for the "Concept Paper". I was wandering if you would consider reviewing our general proposal, to see if we could be considered for the opportunity to participate in your sustainable cities, energy efficiency and renewable information, outreach, training, technical analysis and assistance. We understand that the "Concept Paper" was due on June 6, 2012 and the final submission is due on July 26, 2012.
Answer 33:

Thank you for your question but, the deadline for Concept Papers was June 7, 2012 and no exceptions are being considered.  The FOA states in Section IV – Application and Submission Information, B. Concept Papers – Content and Form, CONCEPT PAPERS RECEIVED AFTER THE SPECIFIED DEADLINE OR BY ANY OTHER MEANS WILL NOT BE REVIEWED OR CONSIDERED FOR AWARD.  Please check http://grants.gov/ for Funding Opportunity Announcements related to the programs you are interested in.  You may also sign up for notifications in Grants.gov.  You will then be notified if something in your area of interest becomes available at a later date. 

Question 34: Can team members include materials/activities developed outside of this FOA but that will benefit the Sustainable Cities project as a cost share? If so, what about materials and activities developed with other DOE funds?
Answer 34:

Please refer to the applicable section of the 10 CFR 600 regarding cost share.  Depending on the type of Organization applying, you would reference either 600.123, 600.224, or 600.313.

 

 
Question 35: We were encouraged to submit a full application for FOA# DE-FOA0000697. I have started the process for the full application and was wondering if there was any further comments from reviewers.
Answer 35:

The comments published to you in Exchange from reviewers will be the only response you will receive on your Concept Paper.  All reviewers and their individual comments are confidential.  All questions and answers sent to this FOA mailbox will be posted on this FOA0000697 in Exchange for public viewing.

Question 36: Our team submitted Concept Papers for both Task 1 and Task 2 of FOA# DE-FOA0000697. Since our submission for Task 1 and Task 2 were related, we submitted the same Concept Paper, which seemed to cause some confusion. We are interested in submitting a Full Application for Task 2, China, instead of Task 1. We wanted to verify that we will be considered if we do so.
Answer 36:

The title submitted on the concept paper implies that your team is providing an application for both Tasks.  Although your concept paper for task 1 was discouraged, you may still submit an application under Task 1 and it will be reviewed and considered.  Task 2 was considered non-compliant and you may not submit an application under a non-compliant concept paper.
Question 37: In the concept paper, the cost share was automatically added to the budget request. Since the maximum amount available from DOE is 750k, then we assumed that cost share would allow us to exceed that amount in the total budget. For example, if we had a budget of 1.5 million but proposed a cost share of 50% or 750k, then it seems as though this would meet the guidelines of not exceeding the 750k budget allocation from DOE. But when we submitted something similar in the concept paper, we were "reminded" that the total amount available is 750k. My understanding of the guidelines is that cost share should allow us to have a higher budget as long as we don't exceed the maximum share from DOE, but the comment on the concept paper indicates that the total budget is limited to 750k, not just the DOE share. Which is correct?
Answer 37:

 In FOA0000697, Section II, C. Maximum and Minimum  Award Amount, DOE did not establish a ceiling or floor amount and encouraged cost share.  Section II - Award Information, D. Expected Number of Awards, "Under this FOA, DOE expects to make 1-3 awards." Section II, E. Anticipated Award Amount  "DOE anticipates that awards will be in the $0 - $750,000 range for the total project period."  Therefore, you can provide a DOE budget of $750k and additional cost share.
Question 38: We submitted separate Concept Papers for our India and China projects, although they are meant to be concurrent projects. For the Final Application, we would like to submit a single application for both China and India. Is it possible to submit one Final Application or do we continue to submit separate applications?
Answer 38:

A single application for both Task 1 and Task 2 can be submitted for review.
Question 39: I received a confirmation email that the Concept Paper was successfully submitted, but have not heard anything further. Please advise on when we should expect to hear regarding our application.
Answer 39:

The Concept paper reviews are available in EERE Exchange as of June 22, 2012, when the FOA managers published the information to applicants in Exchange.  To find the Concept Paper Response locate your concept paper in the My Submissions section and click on the control number.  The concept paper response information will be published under the general details.
Question 40: Can we submit one application for cities in India and China, applying the same concepts to both areas? Also, if we have to submit two applications (or chose to submit two applications) do we have to submit the SF-424 budget forms separately with each application?
Answer 40:

A single application for both Task 1 and Task 2 can be submitted for review.  (Please see answer for question #50 also.)  If you chose to submit two application you will need to submit the SF424 budget and associated forms for each application.

 

 
Question 41: Which document listed in the table of documents on page 22 should include the budget justification described in Appendix D-Budget Justification?
Answer 41:

The Budget Justification described in Appendix D-Budget Justification is referencing the PMC123.1 Excel – Budget Justification File for the Prime to support the SF424A Budget Information.  It should also be included for the Sub awardee on the PMC123.1 Budget Justification(s) if applicable.

 

 
Question 42: The DOE materials mention the concept paper being “scored” where can we find the scores for our concept paper? The DOE materials mention 1-3 awards, and $750K being rewarded. Is there 750k total for all 3 awards or is there up to 750K for each award?
Answer 42:

Concept papers were evaluated and given an encourage or discourage with remarks, but no scoring was done.  The total amount available for all awards selected for this FOA is $750,000.  There is not $750,000 available for each award.  No determination on individual award amounts will be decided until after all applications have been received and reviewed.

 

 
Question 43: Can you please send me the full announcement for DE-FOA-0000697?
Answer 43:

The full FOA0000697 can be found at: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov.

 
Question 44: Is there a process for requesting that DOE extend the deadline to submit a full application for the Sustainable Cities FOA 0000697? If DOE chooses to extend the deadline, how will this be relayed to applicants?
Answer 44:

An amendment to DE-FOA-0000697 was posted Friday, July 13, 2012, in Exchange extending the application due date to July 31, 2012 5pm ET.  An automated email notification should go out from Grants.gov and/or Exchange if you have signed up to receive  notifications. 

 

 
Question 45: Q1: SF 424. Item 14. Areas Affected by Project - Should this be China or India or US city? Where can I obtain this “Project/Performance Site Location Form? Q 2: SF 424. Item 16b. Congressional District for Project - . Do we list the congressional district for our US office, since that is where the work will be performed? Q 3: SF 424. Item 19. Is Application Subject to Review by State Under Executive Order 12372 Process?
Answer 45:

A 1: List the US city of the Prime applicant.  The Project/Performance Site location form is not required at this time.

A 2: Please list the US Congressional District of the Prime applicant.

A 3: This is information pertaining to the State you reside in.  Please check with your state office.
Question 46: Resumes - Do the publications have to be authored by our proposed key personnel, or can they be articles about their works?
Answer 46:

Please include resumes and any applicable information on publications and patents if they are applicable to the team.
Question 47: Grant Amount - Please confirm the grant dollar amount potential for the grant. Is the $750,000 the total DOE will distribute to ALL projects selected for this FOA? Is it correct that the total budget for the project presumably should be less than $750,000?
Answer 47:

As previously answered, DOE expects to make 1-3 awards with a total amount of $750,000 available.  The total budget for the project could be less than $750,000 if more than 1 award is made. 

Question 48: When were the applications reviewed? I only saw that the concept paper had been accepted by visiting the website. Is there a way to be notified via email when progress on the application is made?
Answer 48:

Concept Papers for FOA0000697 were reviewed in June and comments posted in Exchange the first part of July.  If you were signed up to receive notification via email with Exchange, you should have received a notification.  Please contact the Exchange Helpdesk if you did not receive that email.  The full applications due date for this FOA has been extended and are due by July 31, 2012 no later than 5pm ET. 

 

 
Question 49: Does EERE plan to extend the proposal submission deadline?
Answer 49:

An amendment to DE-FOA-0000697 was posted Friday, July 13, 2012, in Exchange extending the application due date to July 31, 2012 5pm ET.  An automated email notification should go out from Grants.gov and/or Exchange if you have signed up to receive  notifications.  For questions related to the automated email notification in Exchange, please email the helpdesk at EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov      

 

   

Question 50: We are concerned because on the EERE website, another prospective proposer was encouraged to submit a combined proposal under one Task for the Full Application. Based on the ambiguity of the language, that the clarification requested was not totally investigated, and so that competition is not limited, we request that the statement regarding Task 2 as non-compliant be reconsidered so that we can submit a Full Application under Task 2.
Answer 50:

Please submit the application under the “wrong” task number or a combined proposal under Task 1 and it will be accepted and reviewed.  

Question 51: Do we need to show detailed line items for the activities funded by non-Federal resources? Should all funding details, from both DOE and non-federal sources for the year of 2012, be shown in the budget sheet to be included in the full proposal?
Answer 51:

In the FOA Section IV – Application and Submission Information, C. Full Application – Content and Form, 6. PMC 123.1 Budget Justification  File, it states: “ You must justify the costs proposed in each Object Class Category/Cost Classification category using the PMC 123.1 Budget Justification File.  The total project cost, including cost share (if applicable) and federal funding, must be represented in this document.”  Please breakout the Federal and Non-Federal funds on the SF424A Budget Information sheet as well.   
Question 52: Could you please explain the following terms from the Application for Federal Assistance SF-424: Could you please explain the following terms from the Application for Federal Assistance SF-424: Line item 3 “date received” Line Item 4 “applicant identifier” Line item 5 a “federal entity identifier, 5 b “federal award identifier” Line item 8 f “organizational affiliation” Line item 11 “CFDA title” Line item 13 “competition identification number and title” Line item 15 “supporting docs” Please let us know as your earliest convenience so we can complete our application in time for the revised deadline of July 31.
Answer 52:

Here is an explanation for lines in question on the SF424 Application for Federal Assistance:

Line 3: Date you are submitting form.

Line 4: Leave this blank

Line 5a: Leave this blank

Line 5b: Leave this blank

Line 8f: Leave “Organizational affiliation” blank

Line 11: International Program

Line 13: Leave this blank

Line 15: Descriptive Title of Applicant’s Project: enter description.

Supporting Docs is below line 15.  Please upload all supporting docs requested with your application as specified in the FOA Section IV – Application and Submission Information, C. Full Application – Content and Form.
Question 53: In the FOA, Section 3. Project Narrative File, under ‘Merit Review Criterion Discussion,’ the instructions emphasize that ‘DOE will evaluate and consider only those applications that separately address each merit review criterion and sub-criterion.’ Regarding the sub-criterion, does this mean that DOE requires each sub-criterion be addressed in separate sections subheaded per the sub-criterion? Or is it sufficient that the narrative under the Merit Review Criterion Discussion heading address all the sub-criterion and incorporate language from the sub-criterion, but not subheaded or even necessarily in order?”
Answer 53:

Under the Merit Review Criterion Discussion; DOE will accept either way described in this question pertaining to sub-criterion.  This section should be formatted to address each merit review criterion and sub-criterion, providing sufficient information so that reviewers will be able to evaluate the application in accordance with these merit review criteria.
Question 54: What is the anticipated B&R number?
Answer 54: The funding for FOA0000697 will come from the Energy Efficiency Renewable Energy International program.  The B&R number is not known at this time.
Question 55: Is there any possibility for the deadline to be extended? If the deadline cannot be extended, could the other members of an accepted team, such as my company, still submit a proposal ?
Answer 55:

The deadline for applications for FOA0000697 was extended to July 31, 2012 and unfortunately, cannot be extended beyond that date.  If another member of an accepted team submitted a Concept Paper by the deadline for this FOA and received feedback from DOE and has meet the criteria to submit an application, they may submit an application by the due date.
Question 56: Could you please tell me to whom the Contracting Officer’s authorization letter for the subject FOA should be addressed?
Answer 56: The Contracting Officer will be different for each FFRDC based on the lab's Managing and Operating (M&O) Contract with DOE.  Please contact your local procurement office for the name of the Contracting Officer on your M&O Contract.
Question 57: Could you please tell me to whom the Contracting Officer’s authorization letter for the subject FOA should be addressed?
Answer 57:

Previously answered see question #56 .
Question 58: Please advise if the above grants are still available? I would be very interested in carrying out research into the above.
Answer 58:

If you did not submit a Concept Paper by the due date of 6/7/2012 and receive feedback on your Concept Paper, you are not eligible to submit an application for FOA0000697.  Please check http://grants.gov/ for Funding Opportunity Announcements related to the programs you are interested in.  You may also sign up for notifications in Grants.gov.  You will then be notified if something in your area of interest becomes available at a later date. 

Question 59: Would you please update me about our application for Sustainable Cities: Urban Energy Planning for Smart Growth in China and India.
Answer 59:

The selections for FOA0000697 are expected to be announced sometime in October 2012.