EERE eXCHANGE: FAQs

Question 1: Is there a place where the organization needs to register the DUNS number etc. before the individual PI’s apply to each FOA?
Answer 1: 1. A DUNS number is not required in order to submit an Application through the EERE eXCHANGE site. However, a DUNS Number, registration with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR), and registration in FedConnect are required to receive an award under the Announcement. Therefore, all potential applicants lacking a DUNS number, or not yet registered with CCR or FedConnect should complete those registrations as soon as possible.

Question 2: I clicked on the EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov link to submit a question. I received a “delivery has failed to these recipients….” . The link doesn’t work. Can you send another one?
Answer 2: 2. The EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov mailbox is now active. General questions about registering or submitting an application through the EERE eXCHANGE site should be sent to this email address. Questions related to the Funding Opportunity Announcement should be submitted to pvbos@go.doe.gov and should be submitted not later than 3 calendar days prior to the full application due date.

Question 3: Can a project located in Puerto Rico where the applicant is a US company, owned in part by a Puerto Rico entity and a French company qualify for funding.
Answer 3:

3. An eligible applicant is 1) a legal entity established pursuant to United States Federal or State laws, with operations in the United States or its Territories or; 2) a foreign legal entity having a place of business in the United States or its Territories. An eligible entity must be able to demonstrate that its use of DOE funds will be in the economic interests of the United States, including, for example; creation of domestic manufacturing capability; use of American products, materials or labor; payment of United States taxes; or United States technological advancements.

Eligible applicants include but are not limited to: (1) institutions of higher education; (2) National Laboratories; (3) nonprofit and for-profit private entities; (4) State and local governments; (5) consortia of entities (1) through (4). If applying as a consortium, one member of the consortium that is an established legal entity must be designated as the lead applicant.

Entities that do not meet this eligibility criterion are not eligible to apply as the prime applicant. However, entities not meeting this criterion are allowed as subrecipients to an eligible applicant provided that, in aggregate, not more than 20% of the total estimated DOE funding is provided to entities that do not meet the eligibility criteria.

Nonprofit organizations described in section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that engaged in lobbying activities after December 31, 1995 are not eligible to apply or to be a subrecipient to an eligible applicant.

Please see the following sections and Parts of the Federal Financial Assistance Regulations 10 CFR 600 for further discussion regarding eligibility:

600.6 Eligibility, 600.503 Determining the economic interest of the United States and 600.502 What must DOE determine.

Question 4: Is this the proper forum for Federal Agencies like DOI NPS to apply for financial assistance for projects to install roof top solar panels on buildings.
Answer 4:

4. The objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is to significantly reduce the balance of system hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. Under this FOA, the Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Energy Technology Program (SETP) is requesting applications for research, development, and demonstration of new components and system designs or the development of new building code language to overcome scientific, technological, and engineering barriers to achieving safe, very low cost, and high reliability balance of system hardware.

Applications for financial assistance for projects to install roof top solar panels on buildings would not be considered responsive to the objectives of this FOA.

Question 5: Your solicitation DE-FOA-0000493: Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions (BOS-X) specifies *Topic 1: Transformational Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Modules *Topic 2: Roof and Ground Mount Innovations Does that include systems that focus on daylighting and solar thermal, when these systems also include PV?
Answer 5:

5. The objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is to significantly reduce the balance of system hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. Under Topic 1, applications for research, development, and demonstration of new Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are being requested. BIPV systems are classified by the use of PV products in both electrical and non-electrical functions of a building and are integrated into a building’s structure (envelope) from the beginning of the PV products’ lifetime. Under Topic 2, applications for research, development, and demonstration of roof and ground mount innovations for residential, commercial, and utility photovoltaic systems are being requested. The FOA provides a list of specific examples of potential research for this topic area.

Daylighting and solar thermal systems would not be considered responsive to these Topic Areas.

Question 6: If a proposed project can commercialize a technology for less grant money and complete it before the FOA selections are made, could it qualify for Pre-Selection for grant funding?
Answer 6: 6. It is DOE policy to use competition in the award of grants and cooperative agreements to the maximum extent feasible. This policy conforms with 31 USC 6301(3) which encourages the use of competition in awarding all grants and cooperative agreements. Contracting Officers must use merit-based, competitive procedures to award grants and cooperative agreements to the maximum extent feasible. Applications that pass the initial review will be subjected to a merit review in accordance with the guidance provided in the “Department of Energy Merit Review Guide for Financial Assistance”. This guide is available at: http://www.management.energy.gov/documents/meritrev.pdf . The Selection Official may consider the merit review recommendation, program policy factors, and the amount of funds available in selecting applications for negotiation of an award. DOE anticipates notifying applicants selected for award in July 2011 and making awards by the end of September 2011.

Question 7: Letter of Intent for Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Number: DE-FOA-0000493 Hi, We’re interested in submitting at least 1 proposal for the Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions (BOS-X) upcoming opportunity. Do we need to submit one letter of intent and briefly describe the 2 projects? Or do we need to have 2 separate letters of intent?
Answer 7:

7. Applicants should create separate submission records in EERE eXCHANGE and submit separate letters of intent for each anticipated full application.

If your organization is submitting more than one application, you must identify an application number at the end of each file name (e.g., Company-1). If your organization is submitting more than one Application to different topic areas, you must identify an application number and the Topic Area Number at the end of each file name (e.g., Company-1-Topic1).

Question 8: Also, if we propose one topic area in the letter of intent, can we change the topic area once full proposals are due?
Answer 8:

8. Yes, the topic area can be changed after the letter of intent has been submitted. However, only one full application can be submitted per letter of intent, so, if an applicant anticipates that they might submit applications to multiple topics, they should submit multiple letters of intent.

Question 9: Is there a TRL that's targeted with Topic Areas 1-3? 10. BOS costs can be dependent on the underlying cell technology: for instance, CIGS may have different BOS costs than c-Si. Is there a PV technology that the installed cost estimates are based on?
Answer 9:

9. TRLs 4-7 are targeted for Topic 1. TRLs 5-7 are targeted for Topic 2.

10. Figure 1 of the subject FOA shows the current estimated BOS costs assuming a conventional crystalline silicon PV module with 14.4% efficiency. Total system and BOS costs will vary depending on module type and performance. Applicants should present their own baseline assumptions specific to the BOS technology that is proposed, along with their expected improvements over this baseline.

Question 11: Please clarify if the module is considered a BOS component. Figure 1 on page 5 of the solicitation calls out the cost of the module separately from the BOS costs which implies the module is not a BOS component. However, the cost of the module is listed within the three BOS Cost Impact Tables on pages 8-10 implying it IS a component. Is research that is focused on the module (components and packaging, not the active layer) responsive to Topic 2 of BOS-X?
Answer 11:

11. The PV module is not considered a BOS component. Both Figure 1 and the Cost Impact Tables in the FOA include the PV module costs, BOS costs, and power electronics costs in order to represent the total cost of the PV system. The objective of this FOA is exclusively focused on the BOS hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. Therefore, research that is focused on the module would not be considered responsive to the objectives of the FOA.

Question 12: I'm interested in talking to you about the Bos-x application. I have several clients who are interested in this process and am looking for more info to complete the application process.
Answer 12:

12. Questions related to the Funding Opportunity Announcement should be submitted to pvbos@go.doe.gov. Questions and responses will be posted on the EERE eXCHANGE website, which is available at: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/FAQ.aspx?FoaId=92d20ef4-e0f4-4083-97e3-70ab9b11c070. Please be advised that proprietary or personally identifiable information (PII) will be removed from questions prior to posting on the EERE Exchange website. DOE will try to respond to a question within 3 business days, unless a similar question and answer have already been posted on the website.

In order to guarantee all applicants the access to all information please use the mailbox to submit any questions.

Question 13: We are developing a concentrating PV system - the entire concentrator except for the multi-junction cell itself. Is this system within the scope of this solicitation?
Answer 13:

13. The focus of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is on the balance of system (BOS) hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. PV module costs or power electronics costs are considered separate from BOS costs. Concentrators are typically part of the PV module. Therefore, in general, the development of concentrator technologies would not be considered responsive to the objectives of the FOA.

Question 14: Would the development of hardware innovations for Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems be responsive to Topic 2 (Roof and Ground Mount Innovations)?
Answer 14: 14. The objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is to significantly reduce the balance of system hardware cost component of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Roof or ground-mounting innovations specific to CSP applications would not be considered responsive to the objectives of this FOA.

Question 15: We are very interested in submitting the LOI for the DE-FOA-0000493 (BOS hardware cost reductions) grant, however there is some confusion about what exactly it is that we should submit. The Funding Opportunity Announcement document states: The Letter of Intent should include the following information: 1. Applicant Name 2. Title of the project 3. One or two sentence description of the topic 4. Estimated total DOE funding request 5. A Point of Contact However, the online application form has the following: - Project Title - Abstract - Topic Area - Lead Organization, etc. So the question is, should we submit the entire abstract as the form suggests, or merely a one to two sentence description of the topic as the FOA requests?
Answer 15:

15. Before submitting a response to this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), applicants must first register through EERE Exchange (http://eere.energy.gov/financing/exchange) to create an account. In order to submit a Letter of Intent, the EERE Exchange system requires the user to enter some general information including the Project Title, Abstract, Topic Area, Lead Organization, Organization Type, Lead Organization Percent Effort, and Contact Information. After this information is completed, the actual letter of intent document containing the information requested in the FOA should be uploaded and submitted under the ‘Upload and Submit’ tab. As specified in the FOA, the letter of Intent should include a brief description of the proposed project. A full abstract is not required to be submitted with the Letter of Intent.

Question 16: Could you tell me whether proposals for façade integrated photovoltaics would be considered under topic 1 of this funding opportunity? The full announcement specifically references roofing integrated solutions (page 6, Topic 1), however we understand the full scope of building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) to encompass photovoltaics integrated to the building envelope, including the façade.
Answer 16:

16. The intent of Topic 1 (Transformational Building Integrated Photovoltaic Modules) is to develop new roofing integrated BIPV solutions. Proposals for façade integrated photovoltaics would not be considered responsive to the objectives of the funding opportunity.

Question 17: A SOPO Template was included as one of the FOA Documents; however, though the SOPO is referred to in a few places within the FOA, there are no instructions within the FOA requesting a SOPO. Is a SOPO required for submission?
Answer 17:

17. A Statement of Project Objectives (SOPO) is not required in order to submit a Letter of Intent. However, when submitting a Full Application the Project Narrative must include a Project Objectives section. Please see Section IV.C.4, “Project Narrative File – Mandatory Other Attachment” for additional information.

Question 18: How do I get grants for solar to be put on my home to help save money and make power for my city power company?
Answer 18: 18. Unfortunately, Funding Opportunity Announcement DE-FOA0000493 is not intended to provide direct funding to homeowners for personal energy cost reduction and power generation. Information on Residential Solar Tax Credits can be found at: http://www.dsireusa.org/library/includes/incentive2.cfm?Incentive_Code=US37F&State=Federal¤tpageid=1&ee=0&re=1. All other Federal grant opportunities can be found at www.grants.gov.

Question 19: If our company presently makes Balance-of-System components (stainless steel, washer type hardware) that bonds the metal PV module frames to the metal racking system (located on the roof or ground) and then utilizes our grounding lug hardware that simplifies the process to comply with the NEC, please confirm if this falls under Topic 2 - Roof and Ground Mount Innovations. If our engineers have a concept in mind to research and develop a new device using a different material for a lower cost, is it mandatory the device be made of a different material? If we were to reduce the amount of material to lower the cost, would this qualify for funding to do the research involved?
Answer 19:

19. Under Topic 2, the goal is to develop extremely low installed cost technologies for applications where structural roof or ground-mounting mechanisms are required. As listed in the Funding Opportunity Announcement, potential research under Topic 2 could include but is not limited to reductions in weight, reductions in equipment/tool needs to complete an installation, material innovations, etc. Successful applicants will demonstrate how their proposed technology significantly reduces the balance of system hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems and helps the U.S. solar industry achieve the SunShot Initiative goals.

Question 20: Approximately, what is the total amount of possible funding for Topic 2?
Answer 20: 20. Please see Section II.B (Estimated Funding) and Section II.C (Maximum and Minimum Award Size) of the Funding Opportunity Announcement for the anticipated funding levels for each Topic Area.

Question 21: How many number of awards will be handed out to selected candidates for Topic 2?
Answer 21: 21. Please see Section II.D (Expected Number of Awards) of the Funding Opportunity Announcement for the anticipated number of awards for each Topic Area.

Question 22: Can you please elaborate as to why the concentrator technology is not responsive to the objectives? And if not, where would concentrator technologies fall in Sunshot?
Answer 22:

22. The intent of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is to fund improvements to the balance (or remainder) of system components after a particular module and inverter technology have been selected. An application that proposes improvements to the mounting, racking, and wiring hardware that a concentrator module is affixed/mounted/connected to, would be considered responsive. An application for funding to develop a concentrator technology (cell, module, or concentrator) on the basis that the resulting higher module efficiency reduces balance of system requirements compared to non-concentrating technologies, would not be considered responsive to the objectives of this FOA. The proposed technology may be responsive to DE-FOA-0000492: Foundational Program to Advance Cell Efficiency (F-PACE). Concentrator technologies may also be included in future FOAs or in future rounds of funding for the PV Technology Incubator project (http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/pv_incubator.html).

Question 23: Can an application be submitted by US mail?
Answer 23:

23. Proposed answer: In accordance with the requirements and instructions in the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), all Letters of Intent and Full Applications must be submitted through the EERE Exchange system at http://eere.energy.gov/financing/exchange to be considered for award under this FOA.

Question 24: Regarding the abstract asked for on the EERE Exchange online form (under the "General" tab). Would putting in the two-sentence descriptor from the LOI suffice?
Answer 24: 24. A full abstract is not required to be submitted with the Letter of Intent. Applicants may use the brief (one or two sentence) description of the proposed project from the Letter of Intent in the abstract field required by the EERE Exchange online form.

Question 25: What TRL level is targeted for Topic 3?
Answer 25: 25. TRLs 5-7 are targeted for Topic 3.

Question 26: How do I send the details of my design?
Answer 26:

26. Please see the application process outlined in the Funding Opportunity Announcement, Section IV – Application and Submission Information, for Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions.

Letter of Intent Submission Deadline: 5/9/2011 11:59 PM EST

Full Application Submission Deadline: 6/9/2011 11:59 PM EST

Question 27: Can you call me? I am new to this process.
Answer 27: 27. Unfortunately, DE-FOA-0000493, “Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions”, is a competitive solicitation and private discussions, while the announcement is open, are prohibited. All questions regarding this FOA must be submitted through the email address provided in the FOA. All questions asked through this email will be answered through the EERE eXCHANGE system and will be available to all interested parties.

Question 28: Would concentrators (not cells) qualify for Topic 3?
Answer 28: 28. The focus of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is on the balance of system (BOS) hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. PV module costs or power electronics costs are considered separate from BOS costs. Concentrators are typically part of the PV module. Therefore, in general, the development of concentrator technologies would not be considered responsive to the objectives of the FOA.

Question 29: If an applicant receives funding under the BOS-X FOA, what is the mechanism for the primary or a sub-applicant to later withdraw from the contract?
Answer 29:

29. Regulations for termination of a grant or Cooperative Agreement are dependent on the type of organization, please see the following sections of the Code of Federal Regulations 10 CFR 600:

§ 600.161 Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofit Organizations

§ 600.244 State and Local Governments

§ 600.351 For-Profit Organizations

Question 30: We are a concentrator company with the capability to radically affect the balance of system through our concentrator technology. In fact, I would argue that we meet our goals with "Designs that achieve a massive reduction in material content, especially for utility-scale projects" , which is called out in Topic 3 of the BOS-X call. But it is the concentrator that is key. Under this circumstance, would concentrators (not cells) qualify for Topic 3?
Answer 30: 30. Concentrators are typically part of the PV module, which is outside the scope of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). Therefore, in general, the development of concentrator technologies would not be considered responsive to the objectives of the FOA.

Question 31: Would a solar tracker, either for flat plate or PV concentrator modules, be considered within the scope of this solicitation?
Answer 31: 31. As described in the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), the focus of this FOA is on the balance of system (BOS) hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. Trackers are included in the identified activity groups that make up the BOS cost. Therefore, the development of a solar tracker would be considered within the scope of this solicitation provided that the approach contributes to the cost reduction goals stated in the FOA.

Question 32: My understanding is that this program allows for multiple years of funding (with potentially different maximum amounts and cost share requirements for different years), with the potential for DOE selecting some applicants to move forward (i.e., for Topic 2 of the 5 awarded applicants for Year I only 4 will go on to Year II). When budgeting around, for instance, a three year program, should we fill out the forms as if the program will go all three years, with corresponding higher cost share and budgets in the second and third year, or simply fill out the budget form for year 1?
Answer 32: 32. Please complete all application documents, including the Budget SF424 R&R, for the entire three year project period. Each project will be divided into three budget periods. The first budget period will cover approximately a period of one year. Continuation to the next, one-year budget period will be contingent upon satisfactory performance of the first budget period, go/no-go decision review, and subject to the availability of appropriations.

Question 33: Further a question answered by you regarding façade integrated photovoltaics, could you please advise under what topic or what funding opportunity would this be considered? BIPV encompasses photovoltaics integrated to the building envelope, including the façade.
Answer 33: 33. Proposals for façade integrated photovoltaics would not be considered responsive to the objectives of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). Please see https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/ or www.Grants.gov for other federal grant opportunities.

Question 34: Our company has just received notice of the “SunShot” Initiative and Challenge. There is interest to submit a RFI regarding the status of our regional solar market and potential options to promote rooftop PV. In order to allow for other strategic partners (County officials, utility provider, local financial institution, etc.) to review our proposal and determine if they will participate, we would need an extension from the May 6th deadline.
Answer 34: 34. DE-FOA-0000493 is a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), not a Request for Information (RFI). Letters of Intent for this FOA are due on May 9, 2011. Letters of Intent are required. The Letters will not be used for down-selection purposes, and does not commit an applicant to submit an application. However, applicants must submit a Letter of Intent by the due date specified to be eligible to submit a Full Application. A control number will be issued when an applicant begins the Letter of Intent submission process and this control number must be included in the Full Application documents, as described in the FOA. The due date for Full Applications is June 9, 2011.

Question 35: Is it permissible to submit one application to incorporate two Topics under this Funding Opportunity?
Answer 35: 35. Applicants can apply for multiple topics, however, separate applications must be submitted for each topic. Applicants can submit multiple applications under the same Topic. Applicants must indicate the Topic to which they are applying in their full application narrative. If your organization is submitting more than one Application, you must identify an application number at the end of each file name (e.g., Company-1). If your organization is submitting more than one Application to different topic areas, you must identify an application number and the Topic Area Number at the end of each file name (e.g., Company-1-Topic1).

Question 36: Are federal agencies eligible to submit an application to this Funding Opportunity Announcement as the prime applicant?
Answer 36:

36. If the federal agency has its own statutory authority to apply for other federal awards, it would be eligible. To establish such eligibility to apply for funding under this announcement, a cognizant Contracting Officer from the agency should provide a written verification letter along with its application materials.

The following wording is acceptable for the verification letter:
“In consultation with legal counsel for the _____________ [federal agency], I have verified that this agency does have the statutory authority to apply for funding under this DOE funding opportunity announcement [insert FOA #] and to participate in the performance of the proposed project. The work proposed for this agency is consistent with or complementary to the missions of the agency, authorized by the following statute ________________.”

Question 37: A skylight is part of roof. If it incorporates concentrating PVs and PV cooling to provide hot water, is it considered responsive to topic 1?
Answer 37: In general, a skylight that incorporates PV may be considered responsive under Topic 1 (Transformational Building Integrated Modules) provided that the technology will result in lower installed cost as well as higher efficiencies of the encapsulated/embedded PV module. Successful applicants under Topic 1 will demonstrate the potential for gigawatts (GW) of installations into the residential/commercial market, quantify the cost reductions that will achieve a $2 per watt total installed PV system cost goal at large scale, and address the other requirements listed in the FOA.

Question 38: We wish to submit a proposal to the BOS-X opportunity. We have not finalized our collaborators for the project yet. The online Letter of Intent (LOI) submission requires detailed Team Member information including points of contact and share of budget. We do not have these yet. Please advise.
Answer 38: If the team member information is not known at the time of the Letter of Intent (LOI) submission, applicants may omit that information from the online form, on the EERE Exchange website, by indicating 100% of the work is to be performed by the prime applicant. The applicant will be able to edit the team member information on the online form prior to submitting the full application.

Question 39: Can you send me Letter of Intent/Application guidelines and/or instructions via email?
Answer 39: Please see Section IV of the Funding Opportunity Announcement for application and submission information.

Question 40: We have submitted a Letter of Intent per page 19 of the FOA "Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions (BOS-X)." However, the web site https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx contains a Statement of Project Objectives (SOPO). Do we need to submit the SOPO by Monday May 9 COB?
Answer 40: Applicants are not required to submit a Statement of Project Objectives (SOPO) with the Letter of Intent. Please see Section IV.B. of the FOA for more information.

Question 41: Can you please tell me whether or not Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) signature is required for the LOI or can the faculty member register on the eXCHANGE system and direct submit their letters without securing AOR signature.
Answer 41: The Authorized Organizational Representative signature is not required to register in the EERE eXCHANGE site or to submit Letters of Intent. However, the SF424 Application for Federal Assistance is required for the Full Application submission, which does require the signature of an Authorized Representative.

Question 42: On Page 13 of the FOA instructions it states that the SF424 be included within the Preliminary Application. However, we cannot locate an area within the EERE Exchange where you can upload the SF424. When reading the FOA instructions they do not seem to coincide with the EERE Exchange website at all.
Answer 42: A SF-424 application is not required for the letter of intent submission for Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) DE-FOA-0000493, Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions (BOS-X). In order to submit a Letter of Intent, the EERE Exchange system requires the user to enter some general information including the Project Title, Abstract, Topic Area, Lead Organization, Organization Type, Lead Organization Percent Effort, and Contact Information. After this information is completed, the actual letter of intent document containing the information requested in the FOA should be uploaded and submitted under the ‘Upload and Submit’ tab. Please also review Section IV Application and Submission Information of the FOA.

Question 43: Is Topic 3(Transformational PV System Designs) under this FOA required to have a three year project period, or can it be less than three years?
Answer 43: The FOA lists the anticipated timeframe by phase for each topic. However, applicants may propose a project period less than three years. The Project narrative should include a project timetable outlining the schedule for the proposed activities. Please see Section IV.C.4 for additional information.

Question 44: Would you please let me know if innovative and transformative Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) System designs would be considered responsive to the objectives of topic 3 (Transformational Photovoltaic System Designs)?
Answer 44: The Funding Opportunity Announcement includes a separate Topic Area for BIPV technologies. Please see Topic 1: Transformational Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Modules.

Question 45: Is Power Electronics included in the scope of the Topic #3, Transformational Photovoltaic System Designs? Or should it be included in another aspect of the FOA?
Answer 45: The objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is exclusively focused on the balance of system (BOS) hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. PV module costs or power electronics costs are considered separate from BOS costs. Therefore, research that is focused on power electronics would not be considered responsive to the objectives of the FOA.

Question 46: Can you please provide supporting references that provides a description of each line item and documents the assumptions used in Tables 1 and 2?
Answer 46: The cost components and baseline costs in the Cost Impact tables are based on analysis on installed solar PV system prices performed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Solar PV Manufacturing Cost Model Group. More information about this analysis can be found at http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy11osti/50955.pdf.

Question 47: We have a DUNS number for the organization and we have also registered at CCR and Fedconnect. These accounts were created for a previous DOE submission in November 2010. The accounts are still active Apart from registering with EERE exchange, are there any other steps that we need to complete before submission of the letter of intent?
Answer 47: Applicants must first register through EERE Exchange (http://eere.energy.gov/financing/exchange) to create an account. In order to submit a Letter of Intent, the EERE Exchange system requires the user to enter some general information including the Project Title, Abstract, Topic Area, Lead Organization, Organization Type, Lead Organization Percent Effort, and Contact Information. After this information is completed, the actual letter of intent document containing the information requested in the FOA should be uploaded and submitted under the ‘Upload and Submit’ tab.

Question 48: For a Topic 2 grant, Is it possible to count the costs of a solar installation that is planned but not in development against the cost share portion of the grant? This solar installation would then be paired with a battery.
Answer 48: In general, provided that the costs come from non-Federal sources and are allowable and allocable to the project (see Appendix C and 10 CFR Part 600 for the applicable cost sharing requirements), they may be counted as cost share.

However, please note that the objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is to research, develop, and demonstrate new components and system designs or the development of new building code language to significantly reduce the balance of system hardware cost component of photovoltaic systems. If the solar installation proposed is part of a demonstration of a roof and/or ground mount innovation (identified as Topic 2, Phase 2 in the FOA) then the project may be responsive to the FOA objectives, but this solicitation is not intended to provide direct funding for solar installations.

Question 49: How do I get to the site to see the questions others have submitted specific to DE-FOA-0000493?
Answer 49: Visit the questions and answers section on the Exchange website at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/FAQ.aspx; select the appropriate FOA from the drop-down menu.

Question 50: If my transformational construction system for the 21st century exceeds the criteria for each of the first 3 criteria/topic/segments of DOE-FOA-0000493, if you were in my shoes, would you submit it as one combined solution or as three separate submissions even though each will be basically identical? In other words, will the same people be the initial eliminators on all three topics or will they be different individuals for each segment/topic?
Answer 50:

Since this Funding Opportunity Announcement is subject to a competitive process, we cannot provide specific advice about your application. As stated in the FOA, applicants can apply for multiple topics. Separate applications must be submitted for each topic to which an Applicant is applying; Applicants can submit multiple applications under the same Topic. Applicants must indicate the Topic to which they are applying in their full application narrative.

Applications that pass the initial review will be subjected to a merit review in accordance with the guidance provided in the “Department of Energy Merit Review Guide for Financial Assistance”. This guide is available at: http://www.management.energy.gov/documents/meritrev.pdf.

Question 51: What is your estimate for the length of time from submission of application until announcement of awards and there amount?
Answer 51: Please see Section V.C of the FOA for anticipated notice of selection and award dates and Section II.B of the FOA for estimated funding amounts.

Question 52: In reviewing the Cost Impact Tables (utility, commercial rooftop, or residential) and the baseline costs associated with the various costs, we notice that there is no category for the actual labor to install the system. Are we to assume these baseline total costs are excluding labor? In the event that the innovation includes significant savings in the installation labor cost, how shall we quantify that in our submission?
Answer 52: Thank you for your question. The cost components labeled as "Electrical" (row 3) and "Hardware" (row 6) should include the word "Labor" (i.e. Electrical Labor and Hardware Labor, respectively). DOE will post an amendment to the FOA with updated cost tables to clarify the cost component names listed in the Cost Impact tables.

Question 53: On Page 7 of the FOA DE-FOA-0000493 – Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions (BOS-X) – What does the term high efficiency mean? Is this a reference to cost / watt or a minimum percentage of Solar energy that is converted to DC Power? Are certain PV technologies excluded because they are not efficient in some way according to this definition?
Answer 53:

For an application to be considered responsive, there is no minimum efficiency value (percentage of solar energy converted to DC Power). However, applicants are encouraged to develop disruptive products that can compete on all levels (cost, reliability, aesthetics, efficiency, and solar irradiance to DC power per unit area).

DOE's analysis (Energy Information Administration 2001 Residential Energy Consumption Survey) indicates that the average roof space in the U.S. is approximately 1400 sqft but only 25% of that area (350sqft), on average, is feasible for the placement of solar modules. Recent EIA data indicates that the average U.S. home consumes 11,040 kWh per year. Homes in an area with desirable solar insolation (i.e. 1,800 kWh produced per kW AC), would need upwards of 600sqft of feasible roof space to produce this energy using a 14% efficient solar module. This analysis is not meant to be conclusive as to a target efficiency, but only provide some background as to why DOE is placing importance on module efficiency in addition to the other factors.

Question 54: Are there any requirements or limitations concerning costs incurred outside the United States?
Answer 54:

See Section III.A of the Funding Opportunity Announcement: An eligible entity must be able to demonstrate that its use of DOE funds will be in the economic interests of the United States, including, for example; creation of domestic manufacturing capability; use of American products, materials or labor; payment of United States taxes; or United States technological advancements.

It is the sense of the Congress that, to the greatest extent practicable, all equipment and products purchased with funds made available under this Funding Opportunity Announcement should be American-made.

Question 55: I am writing regarding the funding opportunity letter of intent deadline. I understand that letters were due May 9, 2011. Is it at all possible to submit beyond this date? I’d look forward to your response and would appreciate an extension in submitting a letter of intent.
Answer 55: As stated in the Funding Opportunity Announcement, applicants must submit a Letter of Intent by May 9, 2011, not later than 11:59 PM Eastern Time to be eligible to submit a Full Application. All Application submissions must be made via the EERE Exchange at http://eere.energy.gov/financing/exchange. Applications received after the noted deadlines or by any other means will not be reviewed or considered for award.

Question 56: Which form of SF-424 budget should be used in applying to the FOA? Should the forms from the “FOA Documents” section of EERE Exchange be used?
Answer 56: As indicated in Section IV.C. of the Funding Opportunity Announcement, the SF 424 Research and Related (SF 424R&R) is the required budget to be submitted with the Full Application. The template for the SF 424 Research and Related (SF 424R&R) can be found at: http://eere.energy.gov/financing/exchange, under FOA Documents.

Question 57: After submission of the letter of intent my account states that the documents were submitted and that edits are allowed. If edits are allowed may I make a correction to the title of the Letter of Intent? I was of the impression that edits were not permitted after this submission. Please advise?
Answer 57: Edits to the Letter of Intent will not be allowed, as the due date has now passed. However, edits to the Full Application in EERE eXCHANGE are allowable up to the deadline for Full Applications, which is on June 9, 2011 11:59PM Eastern Time.

Question 58: Will choosing certain TRLs automatically disqualify groups for Topic area 2? Example: is choosing TRL 9 for something that has only be used for less than a year OK for topic area 2? It would be good to see a chart of either required or recommended TRLs if that’s the case.
Answer 58:

Applications will not be automatically disqualified based on technology readiness level (TRL). However, the FOA is targeting the following TRLs: TRLs 4-7 are targeted for Topic 1. TRLs 5-7 are targeted for Topic 2. TRLs 5-7 are targeted for Topic 3.

Applications will be evaluated against the merit review criteria listed in Section V.2 of the Funding Opportunity Announcement. The selection official may also consider the program policy factors listed in Section V.3 in the selection process.

Question 59: If we have a BIPV solution that has a TRL 7 and we can integrate various Solar PV Technologies for immediate deployment to the residential roofing market, may we seek funding for only the first year since we will meet the goals in 12 months so that we may leverage the 20% cost share requirement to our advantage instead of planning for 36 months so as to avoid the 50% cost share?
Answer 59:

The FOA lists the anticipated focus and required cost share by phase for each topic, along with the anticipated timeframes for each phase. However, applicants may propose a project period less than three years. The Project narrative should include a project timetable outlining the schedule for the proposed activities. Please see Section IV.C.4 for additional information.

Please note that the actual cost share requirement will be determined by the type of activities proposed (See Appendix C and 10 CFR Part 600 for the applicable cost sharing requirements). For example, the cost share requirement for activities involving technology demonstration would be 50%, based on the total allowable costs for the project.

Question 60: Should the "Coordination and Management Plan" be included in the Resume File when we submit the full application? If not, where should it be attached? Is there any page limit on the "Coordination and Management Plan"?
Answer 60: If multiple Principal Investigators will be designated, the application must identify the Contact PI/Project Coordinator and provide a “Coordination and Management Plan” that describes the organization structure of the project as it pertains to the designation of multiple PIs. More information about this requirement can be found in Section IV.C.5 of the Funding Opportunity Announcement. The Coordination and Management Plan, if applicable, should be included in the Resume File. The Coordination and Management Plan does not have a page limitation.

Question 61: Would you please clarify your response to FAQ #17 re the SOPO? Sec. IV.C.4 of the FOA states that the Project Narrative must only include a Project Objectives section that is "a clear, concise statement of the specific objectives/aims of the proposed project." A SOPO asks for more information than just "Project Objectives" (i.e., a SOPO goes on to ask for information on "Project Scope" and "Tasks to be Performed"). Completion of the SOPO does not seem appropriate here. However, as noted in FAQ #17, the SOPO is later referenced in the FOA submittal requirements (see #7 - Prime Recipient Budget Justification File) and it is listed on the website as a "Required Application Document". Are these errors? If not, where should a SOPO be included and attached in a complete application under this FOA?
Answer 61: The information outlined in the Statement of Project Objectives (SOPO) template (i.e. Project Objectives, Project Scope, and Task to be Performed) should be included in the Project Narrative File under the "Project Objectives" section. The SOPO template is provided on the Exchange website as a reference. The SOPO should not be uploaded as a separate file.

Question 62: In the developing the budget for the prime are general and administrative indirect costs, if normally applied to subcontractor’s costs, allowed to be applied to subcontractor costs? (In the past, DOE did not allow a prime to charge g/a on top of subcontractors if the funding was from ARRA appropriations.
Answer 62:

When preparing the budget for the prime recipient, and for subrecipients, the current methodology and procedures used in the organization should be used to apply indirect and fringe rates, taking into account unallowable costs under federal grants. Please see OMB circulars and the Financial Assistance Regulations (FAR) for further guidance:

A-21 Educational Facilities
A-87 Government entities
A-122 Non-Profit organizations
FAR Part 31.2 For Profit organizations.

Question 63: Our submission/Letter of Intent indicated our application as part of a consortium. Is it possible to switch from a consortium to the lead organization with subcontractors at the time of the full application?
Answer 63: Yes, applicants will be able to edit the team member information on the online form prior to submitting the full application.

Question 64: Our submission and/or Letter of Intent indicated Topic X when it should have been Topic Y. Is it possible to change or correct the topic to which we are applying after the Letter of Intent due date?
Answer 64: Please see the answer to question #8 posted in Exchange: Yes, the topic area can be changed after the letter of intent has been submitted. However, only one full application can be submitted per letter of intent, so, if an applicant anticipates that they might submit applications to multiple topics, they should submit multiple letters of intent.

Question 65: When preparing the budget for non-federal contributions, would you classify travel costs associated with sending international collaborators to work with US colleagues as domestic or foreign travel costs?
Answer 65: "Foreign travel" means travel outside of the country where the organization is located.

Question 66: In the FOA, it states that for Topic 3, one must show a path to 30% reduction in the total installed cost. But the BOS component of the total installed cost is 35%, i.e. $1.33 out of $3.80 in Figure 1, for 2010. To achieve a total installed cost reduction of 30%, we calculate that it would be necessary to reduce the BOS component by 86%. Is the requirement actually meant to be a 30% reduction in the total *BOS* cost, or the total installed cost as stated in the FOA?
Answer 66: Successful applicants will demonstrate a greater than 30% reduction of the total installed 2010 BOS cost of $1.33 (Figure 1 in FOA) by the end of the funding period (3 years). In other words, applicants will need to bring the total installed BOS cost below $0.93 by the end of 2014.

Question 67: The NEPA Environmental Checklist is required for submission with a full proposal. Where does it go? There is no upload link for this on the submission site.
Answer 67: This issue has been fixed. Applicants should now see an upload link for the NEPA Environmental Checklist on the 'Upload and Submit' page.

Question 68: If awarded under this Funding Opportunity Announcement, and my company has nearly reached 60% completion of bringing the mounting system to commercialization, can the grant go to reimbursement of expenses?
Answer 68: Please see Section IV.G. Funding Restrictions for a full explanation of Pre-award Costs.

Question 69: The FOA states on page 12 that “the DOE will be conducting independent verification of performance and cost assumptions of key deliverables at the end of each phase of all projects funded through this FOA”. How will this validation be carried out? Should the budget include costs associated with this validation (such as testing or generation of samples for testing)?
Answer 69: For Topics 1, 2 and 3, the DOE will conduct independent verification of performance and cost assumptions of key deliverables to support end-of-phase go/no-go decisions. The independent validation will be carried out by DOE in conjunction with DOE National Laboratories. The project budget does not need to include costs for the independent performance testing, but the budget should include costs for generating the key deliverables such as samples, bill of materials, and manufacturing estimates.

Question 70: The SunShot Initiative sets ambitious targets for PV module, BOS/install, and power electronics prices by 2017 -- $0.50, $0.40, $0.10, respectively. Since BOS-X applicants are focused on balance-of-systems, should applicants assume that module and power electronics manufacturers have achieved their $1/W cost objectives? For example, should applicants assume that one can buy a "standard" module off the shelf for 50 cents in 2017? Or assume the business-as-usual case (~$1.05 by 2016 per the $1/W white paper)?
Answer 70: Yes, applicants should assume that module and power electronics manufacturers have achieved their $1/W cost objectives by 2017.

Question 71: A Letter of Intent was due May 9, 2011 for the funding opportunity DE-FOA-0000493. Our partner submitted the letter; however, our partnership with the primary contractor dissolved due to events outside our control. Can a variance be granted allowing acceptance of a late letter of intent by another primary contractor?
Answer 71: As stated in the Funding opportunity Announcement (FOA), only applicants that submitted a Letter of Intent by the due date (May 9, 2011) are eligible to submit a full application. A Letter of Intent cannot be submitted after the due date in order to change the prime applicant.

Question 72: Should the completed SF-424 Application form, which requires signers in box 21 to certify to the statements contained in the list of certifications - be filed in a single PDF file along with a completed CERTIFICATIONS AND ASSURANCES FOR USE?
Answer 72: The signed SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance is acknowledgement and agreement to the Certifications and Assurances. As stated on the Application, your signature certifies to (1) the statements contained in the list of certifications and (2) that the statements herein are true, complete and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

Question 73: Is it possible to switch letters of intent from Funding Opportunity Announcement DE-FOA-0000493 to Funding Opportunity Announcement DE-FOA-0000492?
Answer 73: The deadline to submit a Letter of Intent has passed. The DOE is no longer accepting new Letters of Intent or revisions to previous submissions for Funding Opportunity Announcement DE-FOA-0000493 or DE-FOA-0000492.

Question 74: If Phase 1 development has been completed and working prototypes exist and funded by the company prior to the grant award, can these expenditures be used as 'matching funds' for DOE grants for the remainder of the project?
Answer 74: Please see Appendix C. Cost Share Information and the DOE Financial Assistance Regulations, 10 CFR Part 600, to determine allowable cost share.

Question 75: Per topic 3, successful applicants should demonstrate a greater than 30% reduction in total installed cost. Is this a 30% reduction in the entire PV installation or 30% reduction in BOS costs? From the title of this proposal, I assume its 30% reduction in BOS costs, but I would like to confirm this.
Answer 75: Successful applicants will demonstrate a greater than 30% reduction of the total installed 2010 BOS cost of $1.33 (Figure 1 in FOA) by the end of the funding period (3 years). In other words, applicants will need to bring the total installed BOS cost below $0.93 by the end of 2014.

Question 76: The difficulty we were having is with DOE's definition of Balance of system. We believe there is some inconsistency. On page 6 of the FOA, just above Figure 1, BOS costs are described as " .......eight activity groups that make up the BOS cost: 1) installation materials, 2) tracker, 3) installation labor, 4) permitting and commissioning, 5) land acquisition, 6) site preparation, 7) installer overhead and profit, and 8) sales tax." Microinverters fall under the category of power electronics, as referred from this section, which will be separate from BOS. But on the EERE website http://www.eere.energy.gov/basics/renewable_energy/pv_systems.html , BOS costs are defined as " ...modules or arrays do not represent an entire PV system. Systems also include structures that point them toward the sun and components that take the direct-current electricity produced by modules and "condition" that electricity, usually by converting it to alternate-current electricity. PV systems may also include batteries. These items are referred to as the balance of system (BOS) components". In this case, microinverters are part of BOS. Our question is- are microinverters included as BOS under topic 3 of DE-FOA-0000493? Will cost reductions accrued from reducing the $/watt inverter cost be counted in savings for the purpose of topic 3? It would clearly be counted in topics 1 & 2 as it is part of the mandatory cost savings chart.
Answer 76: For the purposes of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), power electronics are not included in the Balance of System (BOS) costs. Therefore, the development of microinverters would not be considered responsive to the objectives of this FOA. The inverter and module costs are included in the cost impact tables for the purposes of showing the total installed cost of the PV system.

Question 77: Cost Impact questions: 1. How are labor costs calculated or incorporated into the Cost Impact Table 2 found on pages nine and ten of the FOA? 2. What costs are consider in the category titled ‘Electrical’ Cost Impact Table 2 found on page nine and ten of the FOA? 3. What costs are included in the category titled ‘Hardware’ in Cost Impact Table 2 found on page nine and ten of FOA? 4. If an applicant is solely focused on Commercial BIPV, is it required that such applicant complete the Cost Impact Table for Utility Scale and Residential, Table 1 and 3 respectively? 5. What is SunShot’s cost target for commercial solar on a dollar per watt basis for 2014? 6. How is energy production factored into the economic performance of given PV system? Although PV systems may have a lower or higher $/Watt cost, their economic value is also tied to their energy output. Is this considered in this FOA? If so, how is energy production valued? 7. Should commercial roof system sizes use 216kW (dc) as a consistent example? Or is there a preferred roof size that should be used as a consistent example?
Answer 77:

1. Please reference the corrected cost tables in Amendment 001 of the funding opportunity posted on Exchange. You will see specific categories for Electrical Labor and Hardware Labor.

2. Please reference the corrected cost tables in Amendment 001 of the funding opportunity posted on Exchange. The category "Electrical" has been corrected to read "Electrical Labor".

3. Please reference the corrected cost tables in Amendment 001 of the funding opportunity posted on Exchange. The category "Hardware" has been corrected to read "Hardware Labor".

4. If the applicant is solely focused on Commercial BIPV, then they only need to complete Table 2 Commercial Rooftop.

5. DOE has not published a SunShot cost target for commercial solar on a dollar per watt basis for 2014.

6. Yes, energy output is considered in this FOA. Energy output will be considered in scoring the application under Criterion 1: Merit and Impact - Technical Merit.

7. The Cost Impact Table 2 - Commercial Rooftop was based on a 216kW DC system. In calculating "Improved" values, applicants should use the 216kW AC assumption. Beyond completing the cost tables, applicants are free to discuss their technology in the context of other system sizes.

Question 78: Question: Specifically, based on our prior experience with EERE FOAs, the SF424A, along with the PMC123 Form, have been required; as opposed to the SF424 R&R plus the “Budget Justification” form. On page 23 of both FOAs, the statement is made that further instructions for providing justification to support SF424A can be found at eere.energy.gov/financing exchange; we are unable to retrieve these instructions/guidance. In addition, both FOAs ask for a detailed “Budget Justification Spreadsheet”; in the EERE Exchange website there are none listed in the section “Required Application Docs”. To clarify: are the SF424R&R plus the Budget Justification form, and not the SF424A plus the PMC123, required? If the Budget Justification form is required, where do we access this document and instructions?
Answer 78: The SF424R&R and a Budget Justification Spreadsheet are required, not the SF424A and the PMC123. The Budget Justification Spreadsheet is not an attached form in eXCHANGE, as you must create the spreadsheet yourself, following the Budget Justification File instructions as outlined in the FOA.

Question 79: "Is it possible to switch the prime from the prime listed in the letter of intent?"
Answer 79: As stated in the Funding opportunity Announcement (FOA), only applicants that submitted a Letter of Intent by the due date (May 9, 2011) are eligible to submit a full application. A Letter of Intent cannot be submitted after the due date in order to change the prime applicant. Changes to the prime applicant cannot be made after this deadline.

Question 80: The FOA states that a responsive full application must include a "completed" cost impact table. Does "completed" mean that forecasted costs for every line item must be included? Can a few items remain unchanged through the columns if our proposal does not specifically impact those components?
Answer 80: As stated in the Cost Impact Table instructions, for the analysis all cost assumptions (i.e. line items in the cost impact tables) that are unrelated to the specific advantages of the proposed technology must remain the same in both baseline and improved cost calculations. However, applicants to the BOS-X Funding Opportunity Announcement should assume that module and power electronics manufacturers have achieved their $1/W cost objectives by 2017 (i.e. $0.50 for the PV module and $0.10 per watt for power electronics).

Question 81: Also, can you tell me which agency/office will be administering the program?
Answer 81: As stated on the cover page, this Funding Opportunity Announcement is being administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Golden Field Office.

Question 82: In the Cost Impact Tables, you have a system monitor and system meter item. Should our project have a cost for monitoring?
Answer 82: The Cost Impact Table(s) should quantify the cost advantages of the proposed technology relative to the baseline for the cost components listed. In the subsequent Cost Table Discussion, applicants should discuss each of the items presented in the table(s). The discussion must include the assumptions and explain the calculations in a transparent and straightforward manner.

Question 83: We submitted a letter of intent for DE-FOA-0000493 on May 9 (topic 3). We find that some aspects of the project described in our LOI for topic 3 are outside the bounds for this topic, however, we have other aspects (not listed in the letter of intent) of the project which we believe are responsive to the FOA topic 3 and which can be demonstrated to achieve the desired cost reduction targets for BOS. How strictly bound are we to the project description and title given in the LOI?
Answer 83: The project description and title specified in the Letter of Intent may be revised in the Full Application submission. Edits to the Full Application in EERE eXCHANGE are allowable up to the deadline for Full Applications, which is on June 9, 2011 11:59PM Eastern Time.

Question 84: Could you please give a breakdown of the costs given in Table 1 on Site Prep ($0.125) and Markup on Materials ($0.2654). For example, is markup expected to be a certain percentage of the cost of the equipment? What does Site Prep include? E.g. removal of trees, leveling ground or does it include pouring inverter pads, etc.? If so, what is the estimated cost breakdown of each for these values?
Answer 84:

The cost components and baseline costs in the Cost Impact tables are based on analysis on installed solar PV system prices performed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Solar PV Manufacturing Cost Model Group. More information about this analysis can be found at http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy11osti/50955.pdf.

A markup on all materials is included for each system based on the typical installer supply chain (channel) costs and project overhead rates. The typical residential installer portrayed in this analysis purchases all materials through retail sales channels, incurring a 10% markup on ex-factory gate prices. The utility scale installer is modeled as if that company also acts as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor on the project, as is increasingly common in this market segment. As a result, no markup on ex-factory gate module price is assumed for utility modules. For simplicity, project overhead rates that include interest during construction, inventory, and contingency costs are rolled into the markup on materials. It has been observed by NREL that these costs can vary widely from project to project, based on regional specific costs, and project or site specifics. It is estimated that the typical residential installer passes through a markup of 30% on all materials to cover these costs. Due to economies of scale, utility projects incur a 10% markup for the same materials and supply chain related costs.

Ground mount systems based on 14-15% c-Si modules (fixed axis) require approximately 5 acres/MWP DC, while systems based on one axis tracking require approximately 8 acres/MWP DC for the same module efficiency. Area requirements are based on row to row spacing, as well as plot features (size, unbuildable areas - as designated by environmentally protected zones, or rock formations, etc.), and the project's energy production requirements. System installers may be obligated to build a system that generates a minimum amount of energy per year. Installers may therefore purchase more land than is required by their design estimates, in order to accommodate uncertainties in the system design analysis (solar resource assessment), and to allow for expansions.

Well suited sites, and low impact system designs can minimize site preparation ('site prep.') requirements. The less high impact site preparation services that are required, i.e. the less heavy grating and leveling, the greater the probability for a successful and timely environmental review (low permitting cost). Generally, most solar PV (flat plate) sites will require some amount of clearing, leveling, grating, sediment control (hydrology), access roads, and fencing. Some sites may require additional work due to subsurface conditions. Site preparation costs can vary widely from $5,000 to $60,000 per acre due to site specifics. In general, average site preparation costs have been observed to be approximately: $25,000.

The cost of permitting a site for PV varies by region. Installers have reported the cost of environmental impact studies to be between $100K, on the low end and up to $5.0 million on the high end. In reality, this cost can be much higher based on the nearly unlimited litigation opportunities afforded to all stakeholders in the process, for example. Many projects scoped by utilities to meet their state's Renewable Production Standards (RPS) goals avoid many of these 'soft' costs by selecting pre-zoned sites that are collocated with existing energy generation or industrial infrastructure. Greenfield projects are often willing to pay a premium for land that has been used for agricultural or industrial purposes because it may expedite the environmental review process. Typically, environmental review costs have been observed to be approximately $1.0 million for projects started in 2010.

Question 85: If I by chance missed something on the application, or made a mistake on filling out the application, will my application be thrown out or disqualified, even if my mounting system is viable?
Answer 85: Full Applications will be evaluated against the Initial Review Criteria and Merit Review Criteria shown in Section V of the Funding Opportunity Announcement.

Question 86: After the application deadline, when is the soonest I could meet someone, to show them what I have?
Answer 86: DOE anticipates notifying applicants selected for award in July 2011 and making awards by the end of September 2011. Please see SECTION VI - AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION of the Funding Opportunity Announcement for details on Award Notices.

Question 87: We are working on an application as a sub recipient. The SOW level of effort has triggered the requirements for the SF424R&R. When working with the SF424R&R it appears that the Indirect Cost Rate is an unallowable cost as it is totaled in the Non-Federal Share col. A search of the FOA does not mention Indirect Cost Rate as unallowable? Can you please clarify? Is there a resource to ask direct questions pertaining to completing the SF424R&R? ---------------------------- Answer:
Answer 87:

Applicants may include Indirect costs in their proposed budget. However, the indirect rate must be supported by an approved Federal Rate Agreement or Rate Proposal, and must be in accordance with the applicable OMB Cost Principles. When completing the SF424R&R Budget for indirect costs, fill in the amount that will be cost shared by the federal government, and the non-federal share will automatically recalculate.

Please see the OMB Circulars and the Financial Assistance Regulations (10 CFR 600) for further guidance:

Cost Principles for Educational Institutions - 2 CFR 220 Cost Principles for State, Local, and Tribal Governments - 2 CFR 225 Cost Principles for Non-Profit Organizations - 2 CFR 230 For-Profit Organizations - FAR Part 31.2

Question 88: Some of the forms that are being asked to upload, are not available on the announcement page. Where can I find all forms, that need to be uploaded.
Answer 88: Please see SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION for more information regarding the required forms.

Question 89: Will the US Government own the IP, or does it become public domain?  If the federal government owns the technology, can they grant licenses to other parties, and if so, can they deny us a license?  What is the status of the IP outside of the US? Could we produce in Europe?  Could others produce elsewhere? Would we have any exclusivity outside of the US?  Can we develop/patent future derivative technology and products? What about parallel, but unconnected, development in other parts of the worldwide AR group? What do we have to do to protect ourselves from crossing an ethical or legal line there?
Answer 89: Relevant to For-Profit Organizations, intellectual property rights under this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) will be determined as set forth in 10 CFR 600.325, Appendix A. For an awardee that is not a domestic small business or nonprofit, and the awardee wishes to apply for a patent waiver, the regulations at 10 CFR 784 will also apply. Patent waivers are also discussed in Section VIII of the FOA. Applicants are encouraged to consult with their intellectual property counsel regarding interpretation of the regulations.

Question 90: The "module" cost in the residential Cost Impact Table #3 baseline is specified as 2.14 $/W The instructions say that the module cost should be left unchanged. The instructions also say that the goal is 2.00 $/W. Is the cost goal of $2.00/W meant to include everything except the module (i.e. just the BOS costs)?
Answer 90: The $2.00 per watt goal for Topic 1 for is for the total installed cost of residential Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. The Cost Impact Table instructions state that for the analysis, all cost assumptions that are unrelated to the specific advantages of the proposed technology must remain the same for both baseline and improved cost calculations. DOE has further clarified that applicants should assume that module and power electronics manufacturers have achieved their $1/W cost objectives by 2017 for utility scale projects (i.e. $0.50 for the PV module and $0.10 per watt for power electronics).

Question 91: Co-PI's are commonly used when our university applies for grants, and under the Resume section of the FOA, an additional "Coordination and Management Plan" is required when multiple PIs are designated. Would a team member designated as a "Co-PI" be considered the same as having "multiple PI's"?
Answer 91: Yes, team members designated as "Co-PIs" would be considered the same as having "multiple PIs" for the purposes of the Coordination and Management Plan requirement. See Section IV.C.5 for additional information about this requirement.

Question 92: Can the project effort be less than 50% of the total effort for a strategic for-profit company as a prime contractor?
Answer 92: There is not a minimum percentage of effort requirement for the Prime Applicant as long as the Prime Applicant is eligible for award, as discussed in Section III - ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION of the Funding Opportunity Announcement.

Question 93: Could you please provide direction on completing the Budget Justification Form?
Answer 93: Please see the instructions for the budget justification on page 2 of the SF424RR_ Budget Instructions document found on the EERE Exchange website at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/#92d20ef4-e0f4-4083-97e3-70ab9b11c070. Click on View Required Application Documents.

Question 94: The FOA indicates a BOS target cost of 40 cents per watt. Will our submission still be taken into consideration if we do not reach that target cost in the scope of our proposal?
Answer 94: Yes. Not reaching $0.40/watt will NOT make an application non-responsive.

Question 95: Does DOE consider the panel frame part of the BOS or part of the panel? If it is part of the BOS, how should it be reflected in the cost impact tables?
Answer 95: DOE considers the module frame as part of the module.

Question 96: The items in the cost impact tables represented as "Markup on Materials", "Overhead", "Profit", and "Sales Tax" are all derived numbers. (e.g. sales tax is X% of purchased materials). To insure consistency, what were the percentages used for each of the above items, and to what Cost Drivers were the percentages applied?
Answer 96: Overhead and profit were applied to labor costs. Markup on materials was applied to all material costs. Sales tax was applied to the estimated installation price, including all labor and profits.

Question 97: There are items in the cost impact table that we do not consider to be part of BOS. We consider the following from the impact tables to be representative to the BOS: Electrical Labor, Hardware Labor, Markup on materials, Mounting (racking) hardware, a percentage of overhead, a percentage of permitting, a percentage of profit, a percentage of sales tax, and wiring. Relative to the 40 cent goal of BOS, which components is DOE including?
Answer 97: DOE considers the $1/W goal to be a cash purchase price for the system, installed. The segments are module, inverter, and BOS. Therefore, BOS includes all items (materials, labor, overhead, profit, sales tax, etc.) other than module and inverter costs.

Question 98: In our cost impact table, should we include numbers in the chart even if our proposal does not impact some of the line items?
Answer 98: Aside from module and power electronics costs (which applicants should assume that manufacturers have achieved their $1/W cost objectives by 2017), all cost assumptions that are unrelated to the specific advantages of the proposed technology must remain the same for both baseline and improved cost calculations.

Question 99: Is developing and proving the manufacturing process considered to be part of the proof of concept phase of year one?
Answer 99: No. Developing and proving the manufacturing process should not be considered to be part of the proof of concept phase of year one.

Question 100: To whom it may concern, I feel I may have a solution for Topic 2: Roof and Ground Mount Innovations. Who can I talk to regarding this funding and development project?
Answer 100: The deadline to submit Letters of Intent for this FOA was May 9, 2011. Applicants must submit a Letter of Intent by the due date to be eligible to submit a Full Application under this FOA. The DOE is no longer accepting Letters of Intent for this opportunity.

Question 101: For budget explanation, can the file be a .pdf since it is more of a narrative than numbers?
Answer 101: The preferred Budget Justification file format is .xls as it should show the anticipated project costs, as well as, their calculations. However, DOE will accept the file in .pdf format for the purposes of this application.

Question 102: Since applicants should assume that module and power electronics manufacturers for the utility market have achieved their $1/W cost objectives of $0.10 and $0.50 by FY2017, what values for module and power electronics should be assumed for FY2014 for the purpose of completing the Cost Impact Table? Likewise, if applicants should assume that module and power electronics manufacturers for the commercial rooftop (and residential rooftop) market have achieved their $1/W cost objectives of $0.11/W ($0.12/W) and $0.52/W ($0.54/W) by FY2017, what values for module and power electronics should be assumed for FY2014 for the purpose of completing the Cost Impact Table?
Answer 102: DOE is not providing assumptions for module and power electronics costs for FY2014. Applicants should complete all fields to the best of their ability and based on their technology proposed.

Question 103: Could you please tell me to whom the Contracting Officer’s authorization letter for the subject FOA should be addressed?
Answer 103: The FFRDC's Contracting Officer Authorization Letter should be addressed to the Contracting Officer for the FOA.

Question 104: What is the nameplate capacity (or range of nameplate capacities) contemplated in the various cost models presented in the document (i.e., Ground Mount Utility, Commercial Rooftop, and Residential Rooftop)?
Answer 104: The nameplate capacities are: 5.0 kW DC for Residential; 216kW DC for Commercial; and 187.5MW DC for Utility Scale.

Question 105: Of the various Cost Components listed which, if any, are NOT considered subject to sales tax?
Answer 105: Sales tax was applied to the estimated installation price, including all labor and profits.

Question 106: What is the basis for the labor costs presented (e.g., FTE hours multiplied by wage rate), and what figures were used to derive these?
Answer 106: The cost components and baseline costs in the Cost Impact tables are based on analysis on installed solar PV system prices performed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Solar PV Manufacturing Cost Model Group. More information about this analysis can be found at http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy11osti/50955.pdf. Please see slide 9 for labor hours and markups on labor (Overhead, Profit). The labor costs are based on a 5 kW residential installation of (21) 14.4% c-Si modules: 25 hours electrical ($49/hr x 1.54 (Overhead) x 1.3 (Profit)) and 40 hours general hardware ($33/hr x 1.54 x 1.3). Labor is summed by component.

Question 107: These labor costs were clearly the subject of the revision to the originally-issued document; what were the original values, and why were they revised?
Answer 107: The amended FOA did not revise the values; it only clarified the cost component labels. The category "Electrical" was been corrected to read "Electrical Labor". The category "Hardware" was been corrected to read "Hardware Labor".

Question 108: When we fill in the fields of the Budget SF424 R&R program furnished by DOE, some numbers do not add up properly. When entering item 11 and requesting funds for C,D,&E for example, it adds the fields and doubles the number under equipment. This is just one example of an incorrect tally, there are about three that don't add up. It is obviously a problem with the program on the original FOA. Would there be another site perhaps where the same Budget SF424 R&R may be obtained so as to enter and calculate correctly?
Answer 108:

Line Item 11 under C. Equipment Description is required to be completed if more than ten equipment items are proposed, and a separate worksheet in the SF 424 R&R Excel file has been included.

Please see the SF424RR_ Budget Instructions included on the eXCHANGE website for further details.

Question 109: I have a question about uploads for submission via the website for DE-FOA-0000493. If there are multiple subrecipients, should they be combined into one XLS SF424RR file? Or is there a way to upload multiple subrecipient budget files?
Answer 109: Multiple subrecipient budget files can be uploaded as a New Additional File, under Additional Files in the Upload and Submit tab.

Question 110: Having answers to all 4 topics, we submitted 4 applications and were assigned 4 numbers WITHOUT your providing identification as to which are assigned to which topic. Now that we are submitting, how do we discover which is assigned to which Topic?
Answer 110: Per Section IV.C.4 of the Funding Opportunity Announcement, applicants should identify what Topic Area to which they are applying to on the cover page of the Project Narrative. In addition, Applicants are able to view their submitted application in the EERE Exchange system, which identifies the control number, and application information, including Topic area.

Question 111: Does the Summary for Public Release represent the "abstract" requested in the portal?
Answer 111: Applicants may use a brief (one or two sentence) description of the proposed project from the Summary for Public Release in the abstract field required by the EERE Exchange online form.

Question 112: When completing the SF424 Application for Competition ID #: What number would we put in?
Answer 112: The competition ID # is not required for this FOA.

Question 113: When completing the SF424 Application for Estimated Funding (question 18): The instruction on the SF424 specifies first year/period only; however, the FOA#493 document page 20 refers to the budget of the entire project period and NOT the first year. Which applies?
Answer 113: The dates and dollar amounts on the SF 424 are for the complete project period and not just the first year, first phase, or other subset of the project period.

Question 114: When completing the SF424 Application for question 19. Review by State Order 12372: Who do we need to contact? Not sure how to respond here.
Answer 114: This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372 – Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.

Question 115: The FOA#493 document page 20 refers to http://management.energy.gov/business_doe/business_forms.htm to fill out #21. When I go to the website, there are two options under ‘Certifications and Assurances’ (i.e., Certifications and Assurances (Word) & Financial Assistance Certifications and Assurances for Use with the SF 424 (Word)) and I’m not sure which one applies. Assuming the last one ‘Final Assistance for Use with the SF 424’ is the one we’ll need, but we’ll need to sign this form and submit. Just want to make sure.
Answer 115: Please refer to both, the "Financial Assistance Certifications and Assurances for Use with the SF 424 (Word)" and "Certifications and Assurances", for verification. The signed SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance is acknowledgement and agreement to the Certifications and Assurances.

Question 116: We have run up against a hurdle in submitting a fully compliant proposal. We have commitments for the required 20% contribution for Phase 1, but cannot obtain commitments for the 20% and 50% cost sharing for Phases 2 and 3, respectively, until we have completed the preceding phases.
Answer 116: Section IV.C.8, Letters of Commitment, of the FOA requires that commitment letters be submitted for third parties contributing cost share, and these letters must identify specific minimum dollar cost share amounts and/or the percentage of the total project cost. However, Applicants may include commitment letters that state the Phase 2 and Phase 3 contributions are contingent on the successful completion of preceding phases.

Question 117: Does DOE have a definition of what items go into Grid Interconnection for the FOA Cost Tables under FOA 0000493?
Answer 117:

For utility scale, the grid interconnect cost component includes substation materials and labor ($1.5-$3.0 MM, 69-230 kV). For rooftop systems, it may also include "commissioning" costs (i.e. fees charged by utilities to tie the system into the grid). Grid interconnection/commissioning costs ($0-1500 for residential) vary widely by state and include:

a. The cost of paperwork related to working with the utility;

b. Inspection fees, if any;

c. Allowable fees - any fees that a utility is allowed to tack on to a system.

Question 118: Is an Applicant required to have a DUNS number, registration in CCR, and registration in FedConnect in order to submit an application to this FOA?
Answer 118: These registration requirements could take several weeks to process and are necessary in order for a potential applicant to receive an award under this announcement. Therefore, all potential applicants lacking a DUNS number, or not yet registered with CCR or FedConnect should complete those registrations as soon as possible. Applicants that do not have this requirement in place prior to September 1, 2011 may not receive an award under the announcement.

Question 119: Would this program be on going? In case we miss this deadline, Is there future repeat FOA's or is this a one-time only submission? When can we expect that future deadline?
Answer 119: Please see https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/ or www.Grants.gov for other federal grant opportunities.

Question 120: What date can we expect award selection for grants under Funding Opportunity Announcement DE-FOA-0000493?
Answer 120:

Selection is anticipated to be announced by the end of August 2011.

Question 121: Question: WILL YOU ACCEPT SOLAR THERMAL AND SOLAR THERMAL ELECTRIC?
Answer 121:

The subject Funding Opportunity Announcement(s) are now closed. Applications had to be submitted by the due date specified on the cover page of the FOA in order to be considered for award.

Question 122: It is not obvious when I go on the EERE site and look up my account and submission whether it is still being considered or was ever in the process?
Answer 122:

If your application has gone through the review process, comments will be displayed in the 'Letter of Intent Response' or 'Full Application Response' section on the EERE Exchange website. You must log in to the EERE Exchange system, at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/MySubmissions.aspx to view the response to your submission.

Question 123: I am writing to inquire whether or not the SunShot Initiative is still in search of innovative methods of PV solar installation methods that significantly reduce the Balance of System costs, especially the hardware that is typically associated with solar module installations. Are there any funding opportunities that are available through the SunShot Initiative, or any other vehicle, to your knowledge, for this purpose?
Answer 123:

The submission deadline for Funding Opportunity DE-FOA-0000493 was 6/9/2011 11:59 PM ET. The Full Application review has been completed and selections have been announced. For information regarding additional Funding Opportunities, please see the Solar Energy Technologies Program Funding Opportunities web page (http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/financial_opportunities.html), EERE Exchange (https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/default.aspx), or Grants.gov (http://grants.gov/).

Question 124: Will there be additional announcements of other awardees? If not, do you anticipate sending a formal communication and explanation for our denial?
Answer 124: The Full Application review has been completed and selections have been announced. Applicants can check their selection status and view the Record of Consensus Strengths and Weaknesses in Exchange (see http://eere-exchange.energy.gov/MySubmissions.aspx).

Question 125: We see that awards have been announced for the Extreme Balance of System Hardware Cost Reductions (BOS-X) DE-FOA-0000493. Yet, on the website, our submittal status indicates "In Review." Does that mean our submittal is still in the running for this particular Funding Opportunity? If not, will we eventually receive comments on our submittal?
Answer 125:

The Full Application review has been completed and selections have been announced. Applicants can check their selection status and view the Record of Consensus Strengths and Weaknesses in Exchange (see http://eere-exchange.energy.gov/MySubmissions.aspx).

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