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["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this funding opportunity announcement should be emailed to: SchoolsFOA@doe.gov."]
[2,"All questions pertaining to EERE Exchange should be emailed to  EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov. Include FOA name and number in subject line."]
[3,"All questions and answers pertaining to this FOA will be posted on EERE Exchange within this spreadsheet."]
[4,"DOE will attempt to respond to a question within 3 business days, unless a similar question and answer has already been posted in this spreadsheet. "]
[5,"All questions should be submitted not later than 3 business days prior to the application due date. Questions submitted after this date will not be answered."]
[6,"Questions are assigned a number in accordance with when they are reviewed by DOE.  All emailed questions will be denoted with the letter E, followed by a number.  Anticipated, generalized, or repeated questions will be denoted with the abbreviation DOE, followed by a number. "]
[7,"Questions are assigned a topic area by DOE when reviewed."]
[8,"Questions received through 1/26/23 can be found on the \"Q&A Concept Paper Stage\" tab"]
[9,"Questions received after 1/26/23 can be found on the \"Q&A Full Application Stage\" tab"]
[]
["TIPS"]
[1,"Applicants may sort questions and answers in the question tabs of this spreadhseet by selecting the drop-down box arrow on the column headers and selecting any of the listed attributes."]
[2,"Applicants may search for questions and/or keywords by holding CTRL+F on the keyboard and typing in a phrase or keyword."]
[3,"Please note, DOE may require more than 3 days to answer submitted questions.  If you submitted a question and it has not yet appeared in the Q&A, please continue checking this document or resubmit your question.  "]

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[null,"ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
[null,"DE-FOA-0002756 - Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Section 40541.  Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities - Renew America's Schools Grant Program"]
["Question Type","Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
[null,null,null,"Older questions can be found on the \"Q&A Concept Paper Stage\" tab"]
["DOE","DOE 8.1","N/A","Full Application Specifics","A State Representative wrote a letter of support for my application. How should I submit this letter?","Applicants may attach Congressional Letters of Support as part of the Community Partnership Documentation."]
["DOE","DOE 8.2","N/A","Full Application Specifics","What should I submit for Letters of Commitment (FOA Section IV.D.v.) if I do not have subrecipients or third party cost share providers?  ","If you do not have subrecipients or third party cost share providers, please use the Letters of Commitment to explain how you intend to meet the cost share requirement.  "]
["DOE","DOE 8.3","N/A","Full Application Specifics","We have no lobbying activities to disclose. How do we fill out the Disclosure of Lobbying Activities form? ","The form is required, but in this case the sections \"Name and Address of Lobbying Registrant” and \"Individual Performing Services\" should be left blank. For additional clarity, applicants can also use the following language on the form: \"N/A. (Name of applicant) doesn't lobby.\" "]
["DOE","DOE 8.4","N/A","Full Application Specifics","How can I understand the difference between the Community Benefits Plan and the Community Partnership Documentation?"," The Community Benefits Plan (Project Narrative Section 3.2) gives the applicant the opportunity to describe plans or future plans to engage with community stakeholders. The Community Partnership Documentation (FOA Section IV.D.viii.) is intended for those defined stakeholders to provide letters of support. "]
["DOE","DOE 8.5","N/A","Full Application Specifics","Are awardees restricted to a “sealed bids” procurement as outlined in 2 CFR 200.320, Methods of procurement to be followed, under (b) Formal procurement methods? Or are awardees able to follow either the (b)(1) Sealed bids (design-bid-build) process or (b)(2)Proposals (design-build)? \n\nLink to 2 CFR 200: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR45ddd4419ad436d/section-200.320","It is appropriate to allow both sealed bids and proposals as eligible methods. DOE encourages awardees to solicit firm fixed-price contracts over cost reimbursement contracts. Cost plus contracts are prohibited. "]
["DOE","DOE 8.6","N/A","Full Application Specifics","Should the Energy Justice Report(s) and Facility Needs Assessment(s) be submitted as standalone documents or attached to the end of the Project Narrative?","The Energy Justice Report(s) and Facility Needs Assessment(s) should be submitted as standalone attachments. Attaching these documents to the end of the Project Narrative is optional. Note that the \"submit\" button on Exchange will not activate until all required documents, indicated with an asterisk (*), are uploaded."]
["DOE","DOE 8.7","N/A","Full Application Specifics","I have a question regarding the SF-424 form. Where can I find instructions?","Please see the following for instructions on how to fill out the SF-424 form: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/instructions/SF424_4_0-V4.0-Instructions.pdf "]
["DOE","DOE 8.8","N/A","Full Application Specifics","I have a question about ESCO partnerships. How does an ESCO partner with a Prime recipient? ","The Prime recipient should follow their own competitive contracting process. In some cases an ESCO may be a subrecipient and in other cases an ESCO may be a vendor. This generally depends on the scope of work and the level of involvement from the ESCO. This designation can be finalized after award."]
["DOE","DOE 8.9","N/A","Full Application Specifics","How should applicants respond to reviewer comments?","Applicants have until 5pm ET on Tuesday, May 23rd to submit a response. As noted in FOA Section IV.E., the response may not exceed 3 [three] pages. Responses should be submitted in Exchange and uploaded as a single \"Reply to Reviewer Comments\" file in PDF or Word document format. Responses will NOT be accepted via email. Responses are optional and not mandatory for further consideration. This optional response will be shared with the external reviewers. "]
["Emailed","E 453","2023-01-27","Emailed \nquestions","The K-12 LEA owns a building that is rented to a daycare facility. Since we own the building, would it qualify for energy efficiency funding, even though it is leased to a public daycare? ","No. The occupants of the buildings must be K-12 students.  "]
["Emailed","E 454","2023-01-29","Emailed \nquestions","Who will need to have a SAM.gov registration? Will all of the members of the consortium need the SAM.gov registration? Will contractors who perform work need a SAM.gov registration? ","The Prime entity of the consortium should be the entity registered in Exchange and submitting the application. Any subrecipients of the award, as defined in 2 CFR 200.1, must have a UEI number but subrecipients do not have to be fully registered in SAM. Only the prime entity of the consortium MUST be fully registered in SAM, FedConnect and Grants.gov. Any subcontractors (vendors) do not need a UEI number or need to be fully registered in SAM."]
["Emailed","E 455","2023-01-30","Emailed \nquestions","I was hoping to get some clarification about projects eligible for funding through the Renew America’s Schools Grant program. Is it possible that proposed projects could include buying and installing gas powered appliances and systems? Or is the grant only going to fund projects that do not include the use of gas? ","There must be attributable energy savings and demonstration of greenhouse gas emission reductions to proposed improvements, per the evaluation criteria. See FOA Section V.A.ii. for Full Application evaluation criteria. "]
["Emailed","E 456","2023-02-02","Emailed \nquestions","Sections 1.3 through 1.3.4 of the Project Narrative Template (page 3) for the Full Application that is on the RAS EERE Exchange page mentions and provides fairly general guidelines on the substance and format of the components of these sections, specifically a SOFA, a WBS, Go/No-Go, and a SMART milestone. However, and unlike other DOE FOAs from 2022-2021, the RAS FOA does not provide a specific template or more detailed instructions for the substance and format of these components. Therefore, should we write these sections of the Project Narrative using: (a) Only the general guidance provided in RAS Project Narrative Template document, or (b) Should we use a more detailed template such as one from another DOE FOA that we select or a template that you direct us to use for the RAS Full Application? ","The WBS and Go/No-Go sections of the Project Narrative should follow the instructions and expectations outlined in the Project Narrative Template. The SOPO is a post-award document if the project is selected for negotiation. It is not a requirement for Full Applications. Development of detailed SMART goals coincides with the development of the SOPO. "]
["Emailed","E 457","2023-02-02","Emailed \nquestions","Is an energy strategic master plan for a large building portfolio considered a facility needs assessment?","If the analysis identifies the existing conditions and identifies the estimated costs, savings, and health and safety benefits of the proposed project, then it is sufficient."]
["Emailed","E 458","2023-02-05","Emailed \nquestions","We have a few questions about the Project Narrative Template for the Renew America’s Schools full application, as follows: \n\n1. Section 1.3 of the template refers to a “SOPO” (“The summary provided should be consistent with the SOPO. The SOPO will contain a more detailed description of the WBS and tasks”) – SOPO does not appear to be defined elsewhere. Does this mean a Statement of Project Objectives (which is contained within section 1.2 Project Goals of the narrative)? \n\n2. Similarly, the narrative template refers to SMART milestones, and the requirement to have an annual SMART milestone and one SMART end of project goal. SMART does not appear to be defined elsewhere. Does this refer to Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals? Is there additional guidance available on SMART goal requirements? \n\n3. Is any additional guidance available on performance periods, which are expected to be “approximately annual” (see sections 1.3.1 and 1.3.2 in the Project Narrative Template). Are design, procurement, and installation reasonable “performance periods” to include? ","1. The SOPO is a post-award document if the project is selected for negotiation. It is not a requirement for Full Applications.  \n\n2. The definition provided is correct. Full Applications should identify high-level goals. Development of detailed SMART goals coincides with the development of the SOPO (see above). \n\n3. Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. The project should be further delineated into budget periods that consist of tasks and subtasks. Design, procurement, and installation are all tasks within the overall performance period. "]
["Emailed","E 459","2023-02-06","Emailed \nquestions","1. Energy Justice Mapping Tool Report(s): In the Full Application are we supposed to include the Energy Justice Mapping Tool Reports in which of the following manners: (A) End of the Project Narrative document as indicated per the instructions in 2.1.1 of the Project Narrative Template, OR (B) As a separate PDF document as did when we submitted the Concept Paper and as indicated by the FOA table that lists the components of the Full Application? \n\n2. Facility Needs Assessment Report(s): In the Full Application are we supposed to include the Facility Needs Assessment Reports in which of the following manners: (A) End of the Project Narrative document as indicated per the instructions in 2.2.1 of the Project Narrative Template, OR (B) As a separate PDF document as did when we submitted the Concept Paper and as indicated by the FOA table that lists the component of the Full Application? \n\n3. Summary of Public Release: Can you provide any further guidance on your preferences or requirements regarding the length of the Summary of Public Release such as number of words? The FOA simply states this document should be one paragraph long and that it should fit on one page subject to complying with the 12-point font (10-point font for tables/footnotes) and margin requirements, which leaves us with a wide range of 125 words for a short paragraph to 500 words for a page-long paragraph. \n\n4. Summary Slide:  Can you provide further any guidance on your preferences or requirements regarding the minimum font sizes we should use for text in the summary slide or should we simply use common sense?  The smallest font in the template slide you provided is 18 points. We have prepared a draft slide using 14- and 18-point fonts, with footnotes using 10-point font. ","1. Either is acceptable.  \n\n2. Either is acceptable.  \n\n3. All preferences and requirements are stated in the FOA. Beyond that all choices are up to the discretion of the applicant.  "]
["Emailed","E 459, continued","2023-02-06","Emailed \nquestions","4. Summary Slide:  Can you provide further any guidance on your preferences or requirements regarding the minimum font sizes we should use for text in the summary slide or should we simply use common sense?  The smallest font in the template slide you provided is 18 points. We have prepared a draft slide using 14- and 18-point fonts, with footnotes using 10-point font. ","4. All preferences and requirements are stated in the FOA. Beyond that all choices are up to the discretion of the applicant. "]
["Emailed","E 460","2023-02-07","Emailed \nquestions","Does USDOE anticipate offering another webinar focused on the full application prior to the due date?","DOE will not provide another webinar in this round of funding. If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document."]
["Emailed","E 461","2023-02-10","Emailed \nquestions","IF a school is selected to move to final submission. In that submission on “Budget” Estimate Form SF-424A Cost Categories. I just want to be sure these are still “Budget Estimates” at this point or are we expected to have “Final” Bid Pricing? \n\nWe CANNOT provide “Final” bid Pricing in this  time frame (Notification of Recommendation for Final Submission until the Deadline of April 21, 2023). This would be virtually impossible as Procurement, Engineering Design, Bid Documents, and final Subcontractor pricing will all need to be performed before “Final” exact price is established. That alone is a 4-6 Mo process.  \n\nWe CAN provide Basis of Design and “Engineers Estimates” for a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) Contract Cost for the final Submission (Same as Concept Paper Budget Estimate)  \n\nForm SF-424A (Line 7F Yrs 1-5) Yr. 1 would be budget for final engineering design and procurement, Yr 2-3 Would be Contracted Construction.   \n\nMy question is SF-424A merely requesting “budget” Pricing (as it states) or are they asking for “final” pricing. ","Budget estimates should be reported on the SF-424A. Note that if a project is selected with price estimates that were too low, then the project would not be eligible to recieve more funding.  "]
["Emailed","E 462","2023-02-15","Emailed \nquestions","We have three (3) questions below from reviewing what is required for the Full Application. \n\n1. One of our Concept Papers are for multiple schools with HVAC needs. For Budget Information, Summary for Public Release, and Summary Slide – do we have one document for each school in that Concept Paper or one document for all schools in the Concept Paper?  \n\n2. What would be the “Non-Federal” funds in the Budget Information document? \n\n3. We do not and will not lobby for funds. How do we fill out the Disclosure of Lobbying Activities form since it is required? There is no option for “Not Applicable” since this does not apply to us. ","1. The requirement is one document for all schools in the Concept Paper.\n\n2. Non-federal funds refers to the cost share requirement. \n\n3. See Question DOE 8.3"]
["Emailed","E 463","2023-02-15","Emailed \nquestions","I am trying to better understand how an Energy Service Company (ESCO) utilizing an energy savings performance contract can be a partner in an application in such a way that the applicant still meets the federal procurement requirements. This was partially addressed by the FAQ E 303, but it merely said that it is possible and gives publicly available definitions. How does this work? Would an ESCO be a subrecipient for the project? Typically, public entities utilize formal procurement methods to select an ESCO, which means that they are a vendor. Generally, grantees are not allowed to utilize pre-existing contracts with vendors to for new grant procurements. If the ESCO is listed as a partner in the grant, they would need to be a sub-recipient then. Is DOE suggesting that public entities with existing ESCO contracts list the ESCO as a sub-recipient (partner) in their grant application? In doing so, listing ESCOs with a standing contract, are you saying that it does NOT violate federal procurement law? Can you please explain how? What about school districts that don’t have an existing ESCO contract in place? Can they include a prospective ESCO as a partner (sub-recipient), even though they technically would need to go through a procurement process to select them? How does this work since, as stated above, public entities are required to use formal procurement requirements for selecting an ESCO?  \n\nUltimately, how does an ESCO, or any for-profit company, partner with the public school district on this grant application? What are some examples of ways for applicants to do this?  \n\nThe grant guidelines and FAQs are ambiguous on this issue. Any additional information would be most helpful on how organizations can partner with ESCOs and still be compliant with federal procurement law. If there is an existing resource on this subject, please point me in the right direction. Thank you! ","See Question DOE 8.8"]
["Emailed","E 464","2023-02-17","Emailed \nquestions","We have a question on attachments for the subject grant program. The FOA requires submission of Letters of Commitment from subrecipients and third-party cost share providers. Is there an appropriate section in which we can provide Letters of Support, e.g., from local elected officials? We realize that there is a “Current and Pending Support” section of the full application, but such letters from elected officials do not appear to fall within this section based on the description; could we provide them here nonetheless? ","Letters can be attached as part of the Community Partnership Documentation. "]
["Emailed","E 465","2023-02-20","Emailed \nquestions","1. Is every consortium member considered a “subrecipient”?  \n\n2. Is every consortium member required to: “(1) Be registered in the SAM at https://www.sam.gov before submitting its application; (2) provide a valid UEI number in its application; and (3) continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency.” ","1. Every consortium designates a Prime recipient. The Prime recipient is ultimately responsible for meeting financial commitments associated with the federal award. The entity registered in Exchange will be considered the Prime applicant. \n\nDepending on the arrangement of the consortium, and whether the project member is a vendor or a sub-recipient (See 2CFR200.1), the following definitions and responsibilities will apply: A vendor is a legal entity contracted to provide goods and services within normal business operations, provides similar goods or services to many different purchasers, operates in a competitive environment, provides goods or services that are ancillary to the operation of the Federal program, and is not subject to compliance requirements of the Federal program. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. A subrecipient is a legal entity to which a subaward is made, who has performance measured against whether the objectives of the Federal program are met, is responsible for programmatic decision making, must adhere to applicable Federal program compliance requirements, and uses the Federal funds to carry out a program of the organization. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. \n\n2. The Prime entity of the consortium should be the entity registered in Exchange and submitting the application. Any subrecipients of the award, as defined in 2 CFR 200.1, must have a UEI number but subrecipients do not have to be fully registered in SAM. Only the prime entity of the consortium MUST be fully registered in SAM, FedConnect and Grants.gov. Any subcontractors (vendors) do not need a UEI number or need to be fully registered in SAM."]
["Emailed","E 466","2023-02-20","Emailed \nquestions","Will prime contractors that perform energy efficiency work funded by the grant need to have a UEI and be fully registered in SAM? \n","The Prime entity of the consortium should be the entity registered in Exchange and submitting the application. Any subrecipients of the award, as defined in 2 CFR 200.1, must have a UEI number but subrecipients do not have to be fully registered in SAM. Only the prime entity of the consortium MUST be fully registered in SAM, FedConnect and Grants.gov. Any subcontractors (vendors) do not need a UEI number or need to be fully registered in SAM."]
["Emailed","E 467","2023-02-20","Emailed \nquestions","If a consortium is made up of one LEA, multiple schools in the LEA’s district, and organizations of labor and community, could the LEA be the prime recipient, the schools be the subrecipient, and the community and labor be considered partnering/teaming organizations?","Yes."]
["Emailed","E 468","2023-02-20","Emailed \nquestions","Our Concept Paper has been submitted. However, we may want to add more consortium members. For example, we have listed some trade unions as consortium members but we did not list the Joint Apprenticeship Trade Committees for those trade unions.  \n\n1. Can we add them to the full application if recommended to proceed with the full application by the DOE? \n\n2. Can we replace the Unions with the JATC on the full application, as our JATCs already have UEI numbers and our unions do not? ","1. Additional consortium members may be added to the Full Application.  \n\n2. Yes. "]
["Emailed","E 469","2023-02-20","Emailed \nquestions","I’ve had a question come across my desk as regards to the requirement with the Grants and Funding for the Renew Americas Schools programs – wherein it requires BAA products.  Do these products include TAA as well?  I know these are two separate Acts.  Any info on this would be most appreciated.","If a product is compliant with a valid trade agreement it could be considered by DOE, General Council, and Procurement staff on a case-by-case or product-by-product basis. Note that TAA refers to the Trade Agreement Act. "]
["Emailed","E 470","2023-02-21","Emailed \nquestions","Is there any grant funding left to retrofit schools with LED lights for classrooms and hallways? ","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 on Tab 3, “Q&A Concept Paper Stage.\""]
["Emailed","E 471","2023-02-22","Emailed \nquestions","1. If page 28 posits Community Partnership Documentation as a required material, but page 32 says “applicants may submit documentation,” which clause should ultimately guide applicants’ understanding of this as a required material?  \n\n2. What is an example of a Community Partnership Document? For example, if a local county office is in the same area as the proposed project, and they write a letter stating that energy improvements to a school district, if funded, would significantly reduce strain the area’s grid, and thus help the county office’s comprehensive plan for a more sustainable county, would this suffice as a Community Partnership Document? \n\n3. What about a letter from local businesses that might have relevance to the project plan stating the nature of how they might fit into the project plan, and how the project benefits them by bringing them work?  \n\n3a. If this does count as Community Partnership Documentation, how would a district include documentation of an already-decided-upon relationship with community stakeholders while also adhering to the rules around Competition in Contracting, which are outlined on page 50 of the FOA? ","1. Community Partnership Documentation required, but if there are no community partners, this may be stated within the document.  \n\n2. Please see the section titled “What are Workforce and Community Agreements” in the following reference: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/community-benefits-plan-frequently-asked-questions-faqs\n\n3. Letters can be attached as part of the Community Partnership Documentation. \n\n3a. Competition in Contracting applies to vendors, not to subrecipients. \n\nDepending on the arrangement of the consortium, and whether the project member is a vendor or a sub-recipient (See 2CFR200.1), the following definitions and responsibilities will apply: A vendor is a legal entity contracted to provide goods and services within normal business operations, provides similar goods or services to many different purchasers, operates in a competitive environment, provides goods or services that are ancillary to the operation of the Federal program, and is not subject to compliance requirements of the Federal program. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. A subrecipient is a legal entity to which a subaward is made, who has performance measured against whether the objectives of the Federal program are met, is responsible for programmatic decision making, must adhere to applicable Federal program compliance requirements, and uses the Federal funds to carry out a program of the organization. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. \n\n "]
["Emailed","E 472","2023-02-23","Emailed \nquestions","Because of the amount of locations in the District where we intend to perform work, we are having a hard time fitting the project narrative in just 15 pages, as the project overview is many pages in itself. Can the application sections be longer than the recommendation without being held against the eligible applicant? ","To save space, an applicant may include a sentence in the Project Narrative stating that project locations may be found in the Energy Justice Reports. DOE will only review up to 15 pages for the Project Narrative and up to 3 pages of applicant responses to reviewer comments.  "]
["Emailed","E 473","2023-02-24","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the SF-424a:  \n\nOn the form there is a budget line for Contractual Costs, and then two other lines for Supplies and Equipment. In the event that an applicant’s plans includes a subcontractor, and that subcontractor offers services as well as supplies and equipment:  \n\nWould all costs associated with said subcontractor, including equipment and supplies, go under “contractual” budget line, or would the services go under “contractual”, with the equipment and supplies going under “equipment” and “supplies” budget lines respectively? ","Supplies and equipment provided by the Prime recipient should be reflected under the “Supplies” and “Equipment” boxes in SF-424a. Supplies and equipment provided by subrecipients or vendors should be entered under the “Contractual” box in SF-424a. \n\nThe budget information required as part of the Full Application is a summary. If a project is selected for negotiation, then DOE will collect a more detailed budget. "]
["Emailed","E 474","2023-02-24","Emailed \nquestions","1. If a consortium member is submitting an application on behalf of the LEA, how is that formalized and presented in the application?  Where should this be included in the application? \n\n2. Do all members of the consortium need to confirm or formalize their participation?  If so, where in the application should this be included? \n\n3. We would like to include letters of support.  Where in the application should these be included? \n\n4. How long will you accept questions and continue updating the FAQs? ","1. If the consortium is clearly defined in the Project Narrative and meets the requirements, then it is sufficient.  \n\n2. If the consortium is clearly defined in the Project Narrative and meets the requirements, then it is sufficient. \n\n3. Letters can be attached as part of the Community Partnership Documentation. \n\n4. DOE will continue to publicly answer questions until the deadline for Full Applications.  "]
["Emailed","E 475","2023-02-24","Emailed \nquestions","Would the purchase of an electric mower be considered an eligible alternative fuel vehicle under this program? ","There must be attributable energy savings and demonstration of greenhouse gas emission reductions to proposed improvements, per the evaluation criteria. See FOA Section V.A.ii. for Full Application evaluation criteria. "]
["Emailed","E 476","2023-02-26","Emailed \nquestions","The webpage describes the following process: \n\nThe deadline for required concept papers for the Renew America's Schools grant was Jan. 26, 2023. Submitting a concept paper is required for submitting an eligible, full application. Full applications are due April 21, 2023 \n\nCan I ask if there is still an opportunity to submit a concept paper and then an eligible, full application if a school district had missed the Jan 26th 2023 deadline?  Will there be any extension of this deadline? ","Concept Papers were due 1/26/23 at 5pm ET. Late papers are not accepted. Submission of a Concept Paper is a requirement to progress to the Full Application. \n\nDOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities  "]
["Emailed","E 477","2023-02-27","Emailed \nquestions","I’m working with school districts in El Paso regarding alternative fueling. Can you tell me if there’s funding available in 2023 for school bus fleets to convert their diesel and gasoline buses to an alternative fuel like natural gas?","There must be attributable energy savings and demonstration of greenhouse gas emission reductions to proposed improvements, per the evaluation criteria. \n\nConcept Papers were due 1/26/23 at 5pm ET. Late papers are not accepted. Submission of a Concept Paper is a requirement to progress to the Full Application. \n\nDOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities  "]
["Emailed","E 478","2023-02-28","Emailed \nquestions","I'm reading about the Renew America's Schools program and DE-FOA-0002756. During the webinar on 12/6/2022, it was explained that the BIL appropriates $500MM for this program to use during FY22-26 and the program administrator expects to award $80MM for now. \n\nDoes that mean that there will be another round of the same program every year? Or perhaps more than once a year? ","This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" \n\nDOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 479","2023-02-28","Emailed \nquestions","The narrative template for the Renew America’s School program discussed a SOPO with the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Task Description Summary (described below) on p. 3. The FOA does not include information on a required statement of project objectives. Can you please clarify?","The SOPO is a post-award document if the project is selected for negotiation. It is not a requirement for Full Applications.  "]
["Emailed","E 480","2023-03-01","Emailed \nquestions","We are a high school in Ohio. Our school building is more than 70 years old and we have been in this school building for more than 20 years. We updated some corridors with LED lights by using our school budget but most of our classrooms have T12 light systems which consume a lot of energy. We would like to convert our T12 and T8 light systems to LED to save energy and reduce maintenance costs. I searched the available grants for energy improvements and came across the below web pages: \n\nhttps://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities and \nhttps://education.ohio.gov/Media/Ed-Connection/January-2023/Department-of-Energy-grant-prize-aim-to-improve-en   \n\nWhat do I need to do to apply for these grants?  \nIn the Next miles section, it says:  \n\nApplications for the Energy CLASS Prize are open now through Feb. 28, 2023. The deadline for required concept papers for the Renew America's Schools grant was Jan. 26, 2023. Submitting a concept paper is required for submitting an eligible, full application. Full applications are due April 21, 2023. May I still apply for the abovementioned grants or are there any other available grants for energy projects? ","Concept Papers were due 1/26/23 at 5pm ET. Late papers are not accepted. Submission of a Concept Paper is a requirement to progress to the Full Application.  \n\nDOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 481","2023-03-02","Emailed \nquestions","Our school in Ohio is in need of a better insulated roof system.  It is not at the insulation rating level as required today and, in many spaces, suffers from condensation in the attic space which is causing leaks into classroom spaces.   \n\nIs a roof system something that could be applied for through this grant?    ","Roof replacement may possibly be an eligible project cost for grant funds. The replacement should have some energy efficiency component associated with it. Please provide clarity as to why the roof requires replacement. Please note that DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. "]
["Emailed","E 482","2023-03-02","Emailed \nquestions","I'm a business administrator at a School Administrative Unit in New Hampshire. I'm interested in learning more about the energy efficiency grants and if there are still opportunities available to utilize these funds.","DOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. To learn more about this program and sign up for program updates, please visit our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 483","2023-03-03","Emailed \nquestions","Re:  FOA section xii. Disclosure of Lobbying Activities, SF-LLL  \n\nHow should an applicant complete SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities, if there are no lobbying activities to disclose? Name and address fields in Sections 10a and b are required; how should these fields be completed?","See Question DOE 8.3"]
["Emailed","E 484","2023-03-03","Emailed \nquestions","We have not yet submitted our Concept Paper nor started the grant application. Is it too late to begin this process?","Concept Papers were due 1/26/23 at 5pm ET. Late papers were not accepted. Submission of a Concept Paper is required to progress to the Full Application. DOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 485","2023-03-06","Emailed \nquestions","I am looking for the list of school districts accepted to move on to Phase 2 of the Renew America’s Schools grant. Where can I access that? ","No such list is publicly available. The results for each submission may be viewed under the corresponding submission in Exchange. All eligible applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result.  "]
["Emailed","E 486","2023-03-06","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the Renew America's Schools (DE-FOA-0002756) grant program. On page 27-28 of the FOA, it reads: \n\n\"Applicants must complete the following application forms found on the EERE Exchange website at https://eere-Exchange.energy.gov/. Applicants will have approximately 30 days from receipt of the Concept Paper Encourage/Discourage notification on EERE Exchange to prepare and submit a Full Application. Regardless of the date the applicant receives the Encourage/Discourage notification, the submission deadline for the Full\nApplication remains the date and time stated on the FOA cover page.\"\n\nFor an applicant that received \"encouraged to apply\" today, would that mean their application is due 30 days from today (early April)? OR\n\nDoes the submission date stay at 4/21/23 no matter what, since 4/21/23 is on the cover page of the FOA? I'm asking this part of my question based on the back half of the quote above, which states: \"Regardless of the date the applicant receives the Encourage/Discourage notification, the submission deadline for the Full Application remains the date and time stated on the FOA cover page.\"","Full Applications are due on 4/21/23 at 5pm ET."]
["Emailed","E 487","2023-03-07","Emailed \nquestions","We have a follow-up question in regard to the selection/award process: \n\nAre partial awards possible? Or asked another way, Is it possible that a project could be awarded a partial amount of funding requested or is the selection process only “awarded” or “not awarded”? For example, an application requests $5M in funding but only be awarded $3M through the grant program. ","DOE reserves the right to partially fund a project."]
["Emailed","E 488","2023-03-07","Emailed \nquestions","1. On the Project Narrative Cover Page there is a section for \"Additional Key Project Participants and Organizations\" At this stage of the process we have not been made an award and therefore have not selected contractors or suppliers to work with. Should this section be completed for the full application?\n\n2. My next question is regarding the use of an engineering/architect company. Since we are requesting funds for an HVAC improvement we would like to work with an engineer to ensure the success of the project. Can we cover these architect costs with the grant funds?  \n\nIf we are able to cover the costs for the engineer/architect can I modify the total cost of the project we initially requested? \n\n3. My last question is regarding the resumes for project managers and key personnel. Again, if we have not been given an award and procured a project manager, would we not provide a resume for them at this time? I assume that the resumes include internal personnel who will be working on the project. For our corporation that would be myself, the Superintendent and our Director of Buildings and Grounds. Will that fulfill the requirements for this section? ","1. If you do not have any additional key project participants and organizations such as the ones listed in the examples of the template, you can leave this section blank and simply note N/A. \n\n2. Yes, design, engineering, and planning fees are an eligible expense. The budget can be modified but should stay within the range indicated in the FOA. Once selected, an applicant is locked into their proposed budget.  \n\n3. Yes, that will fulfill the requirements. "]
["Emailed","E 489","2023-03-07","Emailed \nquestions","In the CARES act funding for K-12 schools, the US Department of Education (DOED) included “Uniform Guidance” in the awards to school districts. The uniform guidance has an archaic process for construction that forces schools into a design-bid-build (three separate actions) rather than a design-build process. ESCOs that did work under the uniform guidance had to go through special processes to require the school district to participate in a bidding and contractor selection process, as well as other contract alterations.  1) do you know if the uniform guidance will be a part of the FOA award?  2) since the legislation calls out that the grants are to be given to “eligible entities” does this pass the grant requirements to the partner (if the school so desires), thus alleviating the special processes that had to be completed under the uniform guidance?  ","See Question DOE 8.5"]
["Emailed","E 490","2023-03-08","Emailed \nquestions","I continue to attempt opening the link to download the FOA from exchange.energy.gov. The download process starts and then I receive a an error message from Adobe that the file is damaged and cannot be repaired. I also receive this message when I attempt to open previously downloaded PDFs of this file. \n \nHas something happened to the link/file. How can I access it again to review the instructions as I complete my Full Application? \n","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov. Please retry using different browsers. "]
["Emailed","E 491 ","2023-03-08","Emailed \nquestions","We submitted a concept paper which received a \"Discouraged\" review.  We did not see the details around the review but was curious what role the Energy Justice Mapping Tool Reports play in the review.  Our district does not have a high percentage of free and/or reduced lunch students nor meets the definition of a disadvantaged community.  As we decide whether to submit a full application, this information would be very useful to us.","A variety of factors are considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. Please see reviewer comments for insights into strengths and weakensses of your specific application."]
["Emailed","E 492","2023-03-08","Emailed \nquestions","1. We do not have any sub-recipient and third-party cost share providers. Do we have to submit a statement indicating that we don't have any, given this is a requirement? Please provide an example scenario of a sub-recipient and third-party cost share provider.  \n\n2. Community Partnerships. Are community partners considered to be partners who are contributing to the energy efficiency project OR are community partners considered to be organizations that use the schools and serve the students and would benefit from the outcomes of the energy efficiency upgrades? \n\n3. SF-424 Form. Question #18- Is the federal box for the amount we seek? Is the applicant box for the cost share amount? \n\n4. SF-424 Form. Question #19- We need more clarification about which option to choose. We need to familiarize ourselves with the Executive Order 12372 process.  \n\n5. SF-LLL: Disclosure of Lobbying Activities. We do not have any lobbying activities to disclose, but this form is required. Do we indicate Not applicable in the boxes of the form? ","1. See Question DOE 8.2 \n\n2. They can be either or both, whichever is more applicable to your project. \n\n3. “a. Federal” box is the amount of funding requested from DOE. “b.Applicant” is the amount of cost share provided by the applicant. \n\n4. Per FOA Section IV.I., Intergovernmental Review, this this FOA is not subject to Executive Order 12372. Applicants can select (c) under Question 19. \n\n5. See Question DOE 8.3 "]
["Emailed","E 493","2023-03-08","Emailed \nquestions","1. We received notification that our Concept submittal was \"discourage\" for submitting a complete application.  Can we still submit the entire application for a HVAC system for our public high school? \n\n2. We have bid and awarded a Project Management Company to start installation of the HVAC system for the 49 year old High School.  We are using 3.9 Million of Federal Funds from  COVID money, if this additional grant money is not received, then the other 1.6 million in contingency funds will have to be used.  (We understand the 5% match).  With this information, will we be a candidate to be funded, or must a school district have no other way for funding the project? \n\n3. Please help us understand the Go/No-Go Decision Points.  What would be the considerations? \n\n4. Please provide examples of the specific technical and community benefits to be used to evaluate the project at the GO/NO-GO decision point. \n\n5. What is a SOPO? \n\n6. What is \"SMART\"   What is a \"SMART MILESTONE\"?  Or a \"SMART\" end of project goal? \n\n","1. Yes, all eligible applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result. \n\n2. Applicants are encouraged to create innovative, sustaining partnerships, and to leverage funding – including private-sector investment, especially through energy-related performance contracting – and economies of scale (FOA Section I.B.). Project teams may use funding or property received from state or local governments to meet the cost share requirement, so long as the funding was not provided to the state or local government by the federal government. Federal funds are ineligible as cost share. See FOA Section III.B.iii. for more information.  \n\n3. Instructions and expectations for the Go/No-Go Decision Points can be found in the Project Narrative Template.  \n\n4. A GO/NO-GO decision point is a planned decision point that is typically either a point in time or when a specific technical milestone has been met at which program managers determine whether to continue a project into the next phase. This determination is based on progress to-date, the likelihood of meeting future milestones or goals, and currently projected benefits. GO/NO-GO decision points will be negotiated post-selection.  \n\n5. The SOPO (Statement of Project Objectives) is a post-award document if the project is selected for negotiation. It is not a requirement for Full Applications. \n\n6. Development of detailed SMART (specific, measureable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals coincides with the development of the SOPO (see above). "]
["Emailed","E 493, continued","2023-03-08","Emailed \nquestions","7. Please help us understand what it means when the application needs to describe the \"disparity between the fiscal capacity\"? \n\n8. Is 3.2.2 Supporting quality jobs?  It asks \"to describe our approach to investing in workforce education and training of both new and incumbent workers to support career-track learning and ensuring jobs are of sufficient quality to attract and retain skilled workers in the industry.\"   3.2.2.1 \"A summary of our plan to attract, train, and retain a skilled and well-qualified. workforce....\" The question from the above stated, is we are not providing education and training to workers to attract and retrain.  We will hire a Construction Mgt. firm to complete the work.  How do we answer s this is not applicable. ","7. Applicants should outline their current and past fiscal capacity, including both operating and capital, and how that aligns with their need for funding. The purpose of elaborating on this disparity is to establish fiscal need.  \n\n8. Please indicate the role the construction management firm will have to support the workforce education and training. "]
["Emailed","E 494","2023-03-09","Emailed \nquestions","1. Resumes: exactly who's resumes should applicants be submitting with the full application \n\n2. Letters of Support: It is clear from the FOA that this is different from Community Partnership documentation. Can letters of support be provided in the same PDF document as Community Partnership Documentation? What about a separate PDF? \n\n3. Community Partnership Documentation: As described in the FOA, these would be more concretized agreements that may be hard for applicants to engage in this current point in their project plan. There is no mention of Community Partnership documentation in the Evaluation Criteria for full applications. Would a lack of community partnership documentation be seen as a detriment to an application, even with higher level plans to forge those partnerships are part of the general project plan? \n\n4. Community Partnership Documentation: In practice, would this be essentially the materialization of a more concrete community benefits plan (or the materialization of the more concrete parts of a community benefits plan)?   \n\n5. Community Benefits Plan: Would plans to engage certain types of community orgs be seen as a legitimate aspect of a potential community benefits plan?  ","1. Applicants must submit a two-page resume for each project manager and key project personnel. For detailed resume content requirements, see FOA Section IV.D.iv. \n\n2. See Question DOE 8.1   Letters of Support can be attached as part of the Community Partnership Documentation. (Reference to stock) \n\n3. Applications will be evaluated along parameters as outlined in FOA Section V.A.ii. \n\n4. See Question DOE 8.4  \n\n5. Yes. "]
["Emailed","E 494, continued","2023-03-09","Emailed \nquestions","6. Justice40:  \na. Would illustrating how the end results of the project impact a Justice40-defined Disadvantaged community be considered a legitimate way to show that a project is justice40 oriented? \n\nb. Would illustrating how justice40-defined disadvantaged communities can be involved in the project execution be considered a legitimate way to show that a project is justice40 oriented? ","6a. Yes. \n\n6b. Yes. "]
["Emailed","E 495","2023-03-10","Emailed \nquestions","I dont understand your response:\n\"Please keep an eye on the Schools website, as the Schools & Nonprofits program intends to issue additional opportunities in the future (subject to the availability of funding). Thank you for providing your feedback, we appreciate the time and information that you have provided.\"\n\nWhere can I find this?\n\n","This is part of our auto-reply message. Our website can be found at: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 496","2023-03-10","Emailed \nquestions","Our concept paper submission, as part of the application (FOA # DE-FOA-0002756), was “discouraged”.  Is it possible to get a copy of the reviewers' comments?  If so, how do I request this?  ","Please revisit the EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange website login. Locate the Concept Paper record on the \"My Submissions\" page and click on the Control Number to open the Concept Paper Details page. The Concept Paper response and reviewer comments can be found in the Concept Paper response section."]
["Emailed","E 497","2023-03-10","Emailed \nquestions","The FOA indicates 13 sections to be completed for the Full Application.  These include:\nvi - Energy Justice Mapping Tool Reports (with a separate file name for the Energy Justice Reports)\nvii - Facility Needs Assessments (with a separate PDF file name for the Facility Assessments).\n\nThe Project Narrative Template indicates that the Energy Justice Maps and the Facility Assessements should be attached at the end of the Project Narrative. \n\nThus - should the Energy Justice Maps and the Facility Assessments be included TWICE for the Full Application -  once appended to the Narrative; once as individual PDF files?\n","The Energy Justice Report(s) and Facility Needs Assessment(s) should be submitted as standalone attachments. Attaching these documents to the end of the Project Narrative is optional. Note that the \"submit\" button on Exchange will not activate until all required documents, indicated with an asterisk (*), are uploaded.\n\nSee also Question DOE 8.6"]
["Emailed","E 498","2023-03-10","Emailed \nquestions","1.Will the same reviewer(s) who received a specific Concept Paper submission also review the Full Application Submission for that same prime recipient?\n\n2.How many reviewers will be reviewing each Full Application?\n","1. Papers are randomly assigned to our reviewers. \n\n2. The number of independent reviewers assigned will depend on the number of applications received."]
["Emailed","E 499","2023-03-10","Emailed \nquestions","Team partners are included as a vendor.   \n\nTo fulfill Community Benefits, the vendor and LEA will be initiating discussions with other potential workforce collaborators on the grant should they be approved for the funds.  \n \nHow should these collaborations be established, if vendors must also follow guidelines for construction contracting – e.g. bids, etc?   \n\nIf we talk with potential local suppliers to explain the intention of the grant, but then tell them they still have to bid if it is actually awarded, what is the point of collaboration to ensure the community benefits? ","Please outline your intended process for engagement with workforce collaboration. So as not to compromise the integrity of the open and competitive bidding process, specific vendors do not have to be included. "]
["Emailed","E 500","2023-03-11","Emailed \nquestions","The prime recipient has indicated a team partner.   \n\n1. Will the fees of the team partner be included in the overall budget?  \n\n2. Is the team partner limited only to a consultative role?  E.g. energy services companies who are team partners can provide the project management to execute energy performance contracting as a goal of this FOA.   \n\n3. But are there any limitations on the role of the team partners and their fees to the LEA? ","1. Yes. \n\n2. No. \n\n3. DOE requires more information to answer this question. More detailed budget info will be required upon selection.  "]
["Emailed","E 501","2023-03-13","Emailed \nquestions","We are doing an HVAC renovation at a rural school district in Ohio, and are investigating funding with the Renew America's Schools grant. I see on the website that the grant is for high poverty school districts. How can I find out if this school district is considered \"High-poverty\"? Also, is there still time to apply for this grant?\n","Concept Papers were due 1/26/23 at 5pm ET. Late papers were not accepted. Submission of a Concept Paper is required to progress to the Full Application. DOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 502","2023-03-13","Emailed \nquestions","I am working on the full application for the Renew America's Schools grant on behalf of Collegiate Academies and we have a question:  \n\nThe grant is being written by Collegiate Academies, a public charter management organization that runs 5 high schools and two postsecondary programs in South Louisiana. However, the work will be completed in buildings owned by our local authorizer - New Orleans Public Schools (NOLA-PS). For example, with the Chillers, if we replace them through this grant, the chiller will actually belong to NOLA-PS because we will put them on their building.  \n\nIs this a problem? Should the grant application actually be completed by NOLA-PS, in partnership with Collegiate Academies? ","So long as the consortium requirements are met, this is not a problem, and the application may be written by Collegiate Academies as planned. However, the application should indicate and demonstrate that NOLA-PS is supportive and approves of the proposed project in the application. "]
["Emailed","E 503","2023-03-13","Emailed \nquestions","1. My first question is if COEs can apply for this grant for administrative facilities.  \n\n2. My second question is, if any of the measures were implemented in prior years, how far back can we request reimbursement for any of these measures?  \n\n3. And my last question if the concept papers were not submitted by January 26, 2023, can we still submit the complete application by April 21, 2023 for the Energy  Prize Class? ","1. It is unclear what is meant by COE; please clarify. For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3 (“Q&A Concept Paper Stage” tab) \n\n2. Retroactive expenses not eligible under this grant.  \n\n3. If a concept paper was not submitted by the January 26, 2023 deadline and deemed eligible, you are not eligible to submit a full application. "]
["Emailed","E 504","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions","Please provide a Community Partnership Documentation example.  We will be applying for a HVAC system for our high school. \n\nPlease do not refer me to Sec. IV D viii.  That is the part that I do not understand, after reading it.  I do not know how to demonstrate existing or planned partnerships with organizations that carry our workforce development programs, labor unions, Tribal organizations, and community-based organizations that work with disadvantaged communities.   \n\nWe do not have these partnerships and none of the examples are applicable. Thank you for an example. ","Please see the section titled “What are Workforce and Community Agreements” in the following reference: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/community-benefits-plan-frequently-asked-questions-faqs \n\n \n "]
["Emailed","E 505","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions","Would applying for a grant for a HVAC for a high school be an infrastructure project?  Where all iron and steel used must be manufactured in the U.S.","Yes. See FOA Appendix B for more information. "]
["Emailed","E 506","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions","We are applying for a grant for a HVAC system for a high school. Can an application be submitted if the project has been bid and awarded, but no work has been started, and will not start until June, 2023? ","Expenses incurred prior to awarding of the grant will not be reimbursed.  \n\nFor bids that have already been accepted, please see the Competition in Contracting paragraph in FOA Section IV.J.viii.:  \n\n\"If an eligible entity receiving a grant under this section uses grant funds to carry out repair or renovation through a contract, the eligible entity shall be required to ensure that the contract process— \n\n(1) through full and open competition, ensures the maximum practicable number of qualified bidders, including small, minority, and women-owned businesses; and \n(2) gives priority to businesses located in, or resources common to, the State or geographical area in which the repair or renovation under the contract will be carried out. "]
["Emailed","E 507","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions","My client’s concept paper was encouraged and the period of performance we entered was 24 months. I see in the FOA that projects may be approved for up to 60 months. As we begin to meet with labor and workforce stakeholders, we are curious as to whether there might be flexibility in adjusting our proposed timeline if we find that the labor market capacity and or supply chain limitations lead to a project timeline greater than the proposed 24 months.  \n\n1. Are we able to amend out timeline with the full submission, and if so does that require us putting in a revised concept paper first. \n\n2. If we do stick with the “encouraged scope with the 24 month timeline, but as we get into the work if unexpected delays push the project beyond the planned 24 month window, can we amend the project scope by working with the DoE program officer? ","1. Project timelines can be amended in Full Applications. Revisions to the original Concept Paper submission are not required or allowed.  \n\n2. Once a project has entered into a financial assistance agreement it is possible to amend the scope, but it may be more feasible to amend the schedule in this case.  "]
["Emailed","E 508","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions","Hello- can you share how funding will be distributed for organizations awarded grants/cooperative funding under the Renew America’s Schools FOA? Specifically we are wondering if funds are granted up front or if they are provided as cost-reimbursement. ","Funds are provided as cost reimbursement. See FOA Section IV.J.x., Invoice Review and Approval.  "]
["Emailed","E 509","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions","Can you help me understand 4 D iv  - Resumes  \"Evaluate the individual's relevant skills, experience of the key project personnel.  \n\nWHO IS THE RESUME SUPPOSED TO BE FROM?  Would this be from the contractor installing a system, or a Mnt. Manager for a school?\n","Per FOA Section IV.D.iv., applicants must submit a two-page resume for each project manager and key personnel. The designation of these roles will depend on the structure of the project. "]
["Emailed","E 510","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions","With the Facility Needs Assessment, it is required for the facility that the request is being made for, not the entire compass right?  In our case, we are applying for a HVAC system for a High School.  So the needs assessment would be for the High School and not the entire school district, right?","Yes, Facility Needs Assessments are required for all facilities encompassed in the application. "]
["Emailed","E 511","2023-03-14","Emailed \nquestions"," In the FOA it references completing the Budget Information form SF-424A. However, SF-424A is labeled “Non Construction Programs”. For projects that will involve construction, should we instead complete Form “SF-424C Budget Information – Construction Programs” or use Form SF-424A? ","Since projects consist of renovations and repairs (as opposed to capital construction), the appropriate form is SF-424A.  "]
["Emailed","E 512","2023-03-15","Emailed \nquestions","The FOA notes that a description of a Community Benefits Plan needs to be included in the Project Narrative. \n\nThe FAQ document for these plans notes that DOE “encourages expansive use of Workforce and Community Agreements…”.  Since these are legal agreements, they may not likely be signed until/if funding is approved for a LEA.  Thus does the Full Application need to note specifics about intents to enter into such Community Agreements as a component of a Community Benefits Plan? ","See Question DOE 8.4"]
["Emailed","E 513","2023-03-15","Emailed \nquestions","Rural LEAs face challenges to develop robust Community Benefits Plans. Many are located in right-to-work states with little or no labor unions. Many do not have access to a range of disadvantaged businesses per Justice 40.  Many have never entered into legally-binding Community Workforce Agreements.  Many have a severe challenge in finding ANY company to enter into for energy savings work.   \n\n1.How should these obstacles be addressed? \n\n2.Many of the initiatives to develop and execute a Community Benefits Plan will take personnel resources over the course of a project if funded.  How should these costs be indicated?","See Question DOE 8.4 \n\nPlease also see the section titled “What are Workforce and Community Agreements” in the following reference: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/community-benefits-plan-frequently-asked-questions-faqs "]
["Emailed","E 514","2023-03-15","Emailed \nquestions","Cost share – if a prime recipient reports personnel hours as part of a cost share, must they also report fringe benefits?  The form for fringe benefits calculations will be different from how the district computes the amount. ","Any costs that the recipient wants to claim as cost share will have to be reported. Personnel hours and fringe benefits are separate. Either or both may be claimed, depending on intent.  "]
["Emailed","E 515","2023-03-15","Emailed \nquestions","We submitted a concept paper for this grant opportunity. If our needs have changed to address energy efficient upgrades in another facility, can we remove the facility we wrote the concept paper for and include the one that is a higher priority? ","Revisions can be made from the concept paper to the full application. However, DOE encourages applicants to retain as much of the project goals and objectives as possible from the concept paper. "]
["Emailed","E 516","2023-03-16","Emailed \nquestions","How are funds distributed for successful applications? Are they distributed as up-front grants or as cost-reimbursement? Either way, what is the schedule for distribution of funds? ","Funds are provided as cost reimbursement. See FOA Section IV.J.x., Invoice Review and Approval. \n\nThe schedule for distribution will align with the organization's standard business practices, but typically ranges from monthly to quarterly.  "]
["Emailed","E 517","2023-03-16","Emailed \nquestions","I am reaching out regarding a comment that was made on the Q&A portion of the Renew Schools announcement. I represent a client that is eligible for the funding but the need for funding did not arise until after the due date of the concept paper. There was a remark that DOE anticipates another round of funding in the Renew Schools program. To plan accordingly, is there any indication of when that announcement should be expected?","This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" \n\nDOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 518","2023-03-17","Emailed \nquestions","For FOA: DE-FOA-0002756, I wanted to know if the weekends are included in the 30-day countdown once we get the encourage/discourage notification.","The encourage/discourage notifications went out on 3/3/2023 and the Full Applications are due by 4/21/2023 at 5pmET."]
["Emailed","E 519","2023-03-20","Emailed \nquestions","We have two separate questions regarding the subject grant program: \n\n1. We are aware that the cost estimate is required to be submitted through the SF-424a table and that the federal/non-federal distribution is reported on the SF-424 form. Can you please confirm if any additional documentation or descriptions of the cost estimate should be provided at this stage? Would USDOE like to see any narrative about the budget in the project narrative? \n\n2. Is there an appropriate section of the application / entry section in EERE Exchange where we might submit additional documentation (e.g., PDF maps) to support the flood resilience section of the project narrative and show our analysis of flood hazard areas? Should this just be included at the end of the project narrative (and would not count towards the page limit?)?","1. If a project is selected for negotiation, DOE will collect a more detailed budget. Project Narrative requirements are included in the Project Narrative Template.  \n\n2. If a project is selected for negotiation, DOE may collect additional flood plan documentation. DOE is looking for a short description to be included in Section 6.B.7. of the Project Narrative Template.  "]
["Emailed","E 520","2023-03-20","Emailed \nquestions","1. Our school district submitted (8) Concepts for (8) schools. Is it permissible to combine all (8) into (1) application? We will detail the needs on each. \n\n2. Must the application include the estimates from a vendor, or can we use the information from our own estimates? The latter would be wise since the estimate could include information from annual facility estimates. ","1. Yes, this is possible.  \n\n2. Either is permissible. If a project is selected for negotiation, DOE will collect a more detailed budget. "]
["Emailed","E 521","2023-03-20","Emailed \nquestions","1. Can we use grant funds to pay for work being done in the current fiscal year, if we are awarded the funds in the next fiscal year? \n\n2. Can we do work/activities/upgrades on schools that DOE assessment did not identify as needed work?  \n\n[For example, new roofing or roofing upgrades are not included in the DOE Assessment documents/calculators however, new and more efficient roofing would improve our Building Envelopes and decrease energy usage] \n  \n3. Can we add training costs into the budget? for example, if a new heating/cooling system requires that the building engineer receive training to operate the new system safely, is that an allowable expense for this grant? Or would that be a part of the \"Project Management\" cost line? \n  \n4. What is the project start date if we are awarded? \n  \n5. Can the \"Measures\" that they decided on for each school based on an estimated description of our HVAC systems in each building be changed or substituted? Would it be allowable to change that from what was listed on the Concept Paper? \n\n[For Example: If one of the measures listed was a chiller upgrade at one of the sites and that site no longer has a chiller. ] ","1. See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs \n\nApplicants selected for award negotiations (selectee) must request prior written approval to charge pre-award costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the federal award directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency, through the DOE Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs cannot be incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. Pre-award expenditures are made at the selectee’s risk. EERE is not obligated to reimburse costs: (1) in the absence of appropriations; (2) if an award is not made; or (3) if an award is made for a lesser amount than the selectee anticipated.” All costs associated with submitting the application are ineligible and unallowable for reimbursement. \n\n2. Yes. Please be sure to describe the upgrade(s) and the potential energy/energy cost savings.  \n\n3. Yes, that is an allowable expense. Details will be developed in project negotiations if the project is selected.  \n\n4. This depends on when negotiations conclude. DOE anticipates start dates in Fall 2023.  \n\n5. It is acceptable to modify projects outlined in Concept Papers for Full Applications.   "]
["Emailed","E 522","2023-03-21","Emailed \nquestions","1. On the Project Narrative Cover Page there is a section for \"Additional Key Project Participants and Organizations\" At this stage of the process we have not been made an award and therefore have not selected contractors or suppliers to work with. Should this section be completed for the full application? \n\n2. My next question is regarding the use of an engineering/architect company. Since we are requesting funds for an HVAC improvement we would like to work with an engineer to ensure the success of the project. Can we cover these architect costs with the grant funds?  \n\nIf we are able to cover the costs for the engineer/architect can I modify the total cost of the project we initially requested? \n\n3. My last question is regarding the resumes for project managers and key personnel. Again, if we have not been given an award and procured a project manager, would we not provide a resume for them at this time? I assume that the resumes include internal personnel who will be working on the project. For our corporation that would be myself, the Superintendent and our Director of Buildings and Grounds. Will that fulfill the requirements for this section? \n\n ","1. If you do not have any additional key project participants and organizations such as the ones listed in the examples of the template, you can leave this section blank and simply note N/A. \n\n2. Design fees may be eligible project costs. Any allowable cost incurred post-selection may be approved for reimbursement, provided it is approved by the Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs are ineligible for reimbursement except with prior written approval. See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs, and Question DOE 5.3.  \n\nBudgets may be altered for Full Applications. More detailed budget info will be required upon selection. \n\n3. Yes, that will fulfill the resume section requirements.  "]
["Emailed","E 523","2023-03-21","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a list of applicants in Massachusetts whose concept papers were reviewed and subsequently encouraged to apply for the full application? ","This information is not publicly available due to procurement integrity and PII (Personally Identifiable Information) requirements.  "]
["Emailed","E 524","2023-03-21","Emailed \nquestions","1. How should energy performance contracting plans for grant execution be described in the project narrative?  \n\n2. If a LEA agrees to Community Agreements, do they conflict with the need to have open construction bidding? ","1. DOE seeks to understand the role the energy performance contractor would serve (e.g., design, project management, financing, advisory, etc.) \n\n2. Community agreements should not conflict with open construction bidding. In the event of a conflict, federal regulations will always supersede DOE policy (i.e., Workforce and Community Agreement). \n\nPlease see the section titled “What are Workforce and Community Agreements” in the following reference: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/community-benefits-plan-frequently-asked-questions-faqs   "]
["Emailed","E 525","2023-03-21","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a list of schools published somewhere that were “encouraged” to apply based on their concept paper submittal? We have been getting quite a few inquiries at the MT SEO. ","This information is not publicly available due to procurement integrity and PII (Personally Identifiable Information) requirements.  "]
["Emailed","E 526","2023-03-21","Emailed \nquestions","1. Narrative Template, \"Section 1.4 Community Need\" states: Applicants are encouraged to provide a short summary for each school that describes the school and neighboring community needs. This may include but is not limited to high eligibility for free or reduced-price lunch, designated school district locale code of 41, 42, or 43, qualifies as a Title 1 Schoolwide programming, student demographics, disadvantaged community, or the reliance of the school as a community resource such as a cooling center or disaster recovery shelter. \n\nOur proposal includes 28 schools. Do you want us to list the community needs for all 28 schools within the 15 page narrative? Community need summaries are provided for each school with the EJ reports attachment. \n\n2. Narrative Template, , \"Section 1.5 Facility Needs Assessment\" states: Applicants are encouraged to provide a short summary for each school that describes the facility needs assessment based on the current condition of the school facility that will receive the energy improvements.   \n\nOur proposal includes 28 schools. Do you want us to list the facility needs for all 28 schools within the 15 page narrative? Facility need summaries are provided for each school with the Facility Needs Assessments attachment. ","1. Please summarize the needs of the included schools.  \n\n2. Please summarize the facility needs of the included schools. "]
["Emailed","E 527","2023-03-22","Emailed \nquestions","We noticed some fields are highlighted in the SF-424 Form and the SF-LLL Form. Are applicants only supposed to complete the highlighted fields or all fields in the forms? ","All applicable fields are required. If a project is selected for negotiation, the technical supporting documents can be revised or corrected as needed.  "]
["Emailed","E 528","2023-03-23","Emailed \nquestions","I wonder if DOE has announced or will soon announce the intended timeline for any future round of the Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities. I understand that the application deadline for the first round of funding is April 21st.  \n\nIs there any similar program schools will be able to apply for this year? ","You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities  "]
["Emailed","E 529","2023-03-23","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the afore mentioned funding opportunity. Our concept paper received an encourage letter. The vendor we were going to use was a Costars vendor. Costars it a Cooperative Purchasing Program, a service established by our state’s Department of General Services (DGS) for use by Local Public Procurement Units within the state. As an educational entity, we use Costars to save the cost and time associated with the formal bidding process, since suppliers have been awarded Costars contracts through a qualified bidding process. I want to verify that the vendor we chose, since they are a Costars vendor, is eligible to use and we will not be using the formal bidding process. Due to the time constraints of the grant we would not have the time to go out to bid and meet the April 21st deadline. Please confirm the use of a Costars vendor is permissible.","Using Costars as a vendor is likely allowable because it appears that they used procurement procedures that are consistent with their state/local regulations. DOE has no reason to believe that their procurement procedures do not conform to federal procurement standards (2 CFR 200.318). That being said, vendor selection is not required as part of the application process, and therefore vendors do not need to be formally selected by the full application deadline. Cost estimates for vendor services should be reflected in the budget."]
["Emailed","E 530","2023-03-24","Emailed \nquestions","1. What is the preferred or required state for drawings, concepts, etc: \nSite assessment completed by applicant \nPlans for the improvements \n\nNoted in the DOE’s variety of tools on same.  \n\n2. Does the application have to include obligations to a vendor? ","1. A project should follow the requirements as stated in the Project Narrative. \n\n2. Vendor selection is not a requirement of the application process. Cost estimates for vendor services should be reflected in the budget. "]
["Emailed","E 531","2023-03-27","Emailed \nquestions","Does SCEP anticipate hosting in-person “Annual Merit Reviews”, contractor meetings, or similar periodic project reviews typically held for other DOE award recipients to provide a project progress presentation? This is important to accurately forecast travel costs. If the answer is yes, then it would also be helpful if SCEP could share the anticipated in-person project review frequency (e.g. annual, every other year, or every three years), and duration (e.g. 2-days, 1 week) which would require team member(s) to travel to DC or another part of the US where the meeting will be held. ","This does not need to be planned for in the budget plan for Full Applications. Should DOE choose to move forward with Merit Reviews, DOE will coordinate them at a later date.  "]
["Emailed","E 532","2023-03-27","Emailed \nquestions","Is an emergency generator installation considered within the scope of the Renew America’s Schools grant? Although this is not necessarily an energy efficiency upgrade but will contribute to the community safety aspect of the project, would this be considered eligible? ","Backup generators are ineligible. Battery energy storage in concert with renewable generation technology may be eligible under Topic Area 2. Please note, however, that DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. "]
["Emailed","E 533","2023-03-27","Emailed \nquestions","Regarding Application for Federal Assistance SF-424: \n\n1. What date would you like input for 3 - Date Received? \n\n2. We are a consortium of 20+ schools applying jointly for this grant. For 16 - Congressional Districts of Applicant and Congressional Districts of Program/Project, do you need the Congressional District listed for all 20+ sub-awardee schools or only for the prime applicant?  The space is too small to include the Congressional District of all 20+ schools. ","For information on filling out the SF-424 form, see Question DOE 8.7"]
["Emailed","E 534","2023-03-28","Emailed \nquestions","1. Do attached resumes need to follow the same font and margin restrictions as the body of the application? \n\n2. Is a community partnership document required if there is no partnership for the project? ","1. Yes, this is advisable.  \n\n2. Community Partnership Documentation is required, but if there are no community partners, this may be stated within the document. "]
["Emailed","E 535","2023-03-28","Emailed \nquestions","1. Facility Needs Assessment: For applications to fund zero-emissions school buses, how should applicants look to meet the facility needs assessment requirement? In the concept paper stage, it was allowable to provide a write-up regarding the current powertrains of the participating LEAs and provide context for the benefits of replacing those powertrains with zero-emissions electric. Will this also be OK for the application phase? Will there be a page length requirement for the summary? \n\n2. Budget Information: Regarding budget periods, is there a specific start and end date to each budget period (EX: Jan. 1 2024-Dec. 31 2024) for all applicants or can the applicant set a custom budget period for their application? Should the  budget period be 12 months? \n\n3. Authorization for non-DOE/NNSA or DOE/NNSA FFRDCs: This requirement is only applicable to those with projects with sub-recipients that are FFRDCs, is that correct? \n\n4. Current and Pending Support: Should primary and sub-applicants disclose all grants that they have been awarded or only those that the awarded funding would be connected to the project the entity is applying to fund through the Renew America’s Schools grant program? EX: An entity is applying for electric school bus funding through Renew America’s Schools program. This same entity was awarded electric school bus funding from the EPA Clean School Bus Rebate Program, of which the funding will be used for a separate charger and bus purchase unrelated to the project applied for under the Renew America’s Schools grant program. ","1. In this case, the applicant should provide a written description which includes the equipment currently used and how the proposed project will save funds and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There is no page length requirement for this summary.  \n\n2. A standard budget period is 12 months but this can vary (8-18 months is typical).  \n\n3. This is correct.  \n\n4. Current and Pending Support is not a required Full Application document. It is a required post-selection document. Section reference for current/pending.  "]
["Emailed","E 536","2023-03-29","Emailed \nquestions","The team working on a proposal for submission under 40541 has asked a question on which I’d appreciate DOE guidance and input: \n\n“…one of the things I’ve been exploring is the opportunity to sell offsets resulting from the reduction in energy consumption. It is along similar lines with RECs (renewable energy certificates), with some nuances. Sometimes called Energy Efficiency Certificates.   \n\nTrading offsets can help all parties in the transaction achieve their goals. Check out this link for more info: \n\nhttps://www.offsetguide.org/understanding-carbon-offsets/other-instruments-for-claiming-emission-reductions/energy-efficiency-certificates/ \n\nI have no illusions that the cash value would be much since it's a voluntary market in XX - perhaps on the order of a few thousand or even less - but I think the concept is very interesting and it would be fun to give it a whirl. Certainly could be an interesting model for future DOE opportunities.” \n\nHave you seen anything like this before?  Any projects you know of on which DOE funding was used which  also sold RECs or EECs from the resulting savings? Can it be structure to work, and how does it work? Ignoring (for now) the bigger question of “would anyone buy these, and for how much?” – I jump to those questions – if and how it could work.  My initial thoughts were along the line of  -- the proceeds from sale of EEC would be considered “program income” and those funds must be put back into project somehow, to reduce the amount of DOE funding needed.  But, how would this work?  if they were to get a grant from 40541, the DOE grant funds are for the “build” – it’s not an on-going program.  Any revenue from sale of EEC…regarding “the promise of” energy savings, if the sale occurs when 40541 “build” project is still ongoing, those proceeds could immediately be fed back into the 40541 project to offset funds from DOE (or other) sources.  But, assuming the sale of EEC would primarily be occurring after the 40541 build project is done -what happens then? Is It okay for applicant undertaking 40541 project to keep the revenue from EEC sale?  Or, since there project was primarily paid from by DOE, would any revenue from sales of EEC (assumedly, over the next 20 years or so) have to be sent back to DOE? ","Applicable credits must be refunded to the Federal award as a cost reduction or cash refund, per 2 CFR 200.406, Applicable credits. See https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRea20080eff2ea53/section-200.406  "]
["Emailed","E 537","2023-03-30","Emailed \nquestions","We need clarification on the budget requirement for FOA Number: DE-FOA-0002756. \n\nOur question is, is it required for the complete projected budget/cost of the construction/renovation project or do we just include the budget for the cost of the energy improvement/construction/renovations? ","The applicant is expected to include the costs of the energy improvement/construction/renovations. However, DOE would need more information to fully understand what costs are in question here and which should be included."]
["Emailed","E 538","2023-03-30","Emailed \nquestions","1. Is school or school district employee time spent on the project for development, implementation, and project management a reimbursable expense? Or would this exclusively count towards the 5% non-federal cost share?  \n\n2. Regarding Indirect Charges: If consortium members (that are not the school or school district) are providing efforts towards development of concept papers and applications, can this be considered an allowable charge under “Indirect Charges”?   \n\n3. Also regarding Indirect Charges: If consortium members (that are not the school or school district) are providing project oversight, reporting, and monitoring assistance for any awarded projects, could this be considered allowable charges under “Indirect Charges”? "," It is reimbursable, assuming the application has been selected for funding and you have either a negotiated award or pre-authorized pre-award costs. Note that if the negotiations are cancelled, pre-authorized pre-award costs will not be reimbursed.  \n\n2. No. Costs associated with submitting the application for this FOA are ineligible and unallowable for reimbursement. \n\n3. No. Indirect costs represent the expenses of doing business that are not readily identified with a particular grant, contract, project function or activity, but are necessary for the general operation of the organization and the conduct of activities it performs. "]
["Emailed","E 539","2023-03-30","Emailed \nquestions","Are some projects funded which are complete construction projects such as ours, and if so is there another budget outline for it? If not can we submit parts of our projects that are more congruent with renovations and additions rather than the entire construction project? ","New construction is not eligible under the Renew America’s Schools Grant; however, grant funds may be applied towards the incremental cost difference between a planned system and a more energy-efficient upgrade of that system. The project scope(s) presented in the Concept Paper may be modified to align with these goals. "]
["Emailed","E 540","2023-03-30","Emailed \nquestions","Will performance bonds be required? If so, for what type of activity would bonding be necessary? In other words, are bonds only required for projects that involve “construction, alteration, maintenance and/or repair of a public facility” or for all projects? ","Bonding is not a requirement of the Federal FOA, however all local procurement methods must be followed.  "]
["Emailed","E 541","2023-03-30","Emailed \nquestions","Trying to submit the full application for this grant opportunity but the apply button has been hidden under this FOA. Where do you go to submit the full application on the eere-exchange.energy.gov webpage?   ","Please ensure all required documents, marked with an asterisk (*), are uploaded. See also Question DOE 8.6\n\nFor further assistance, the EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at ExchangeHelp@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 542","2023-03-31","Emailed \nquestions","Page 28 notes: Full application content requirements: “Each Full Application must be limited to a single concept.” Are we permitted to combine five of our concepts (schools) into ONE full application? What Control Number to use? ","So long as all five projects fall under a single topic area, this is permissible. DOE suggests using an “encouraged” paper/control number if possible. "]
["Emailed","E 543","2023-03-31","Emailed \nquestions","Re:  Budget Information SF-424A Cost Categories \n\nIf we (the recipient) hire a third party to perform audits and install retrofits, do we put those costs to the third party under 7(f) Contractual? ","Yes."]
["Emailed","E 544","2023-03-31","Emailed \nquestions","If awarded grant/cooperative agreement funding, could a for-profit entity prime recipient monetize tax credits associated with renewable energy-related expenses as authorized in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and then apply the revenue derived towards the cost-share requirement?","DOE is unable to provide advice or recommendations regarding tax questions. Additionally, please note that cost share must comply with the regulations outlined in Title 2, Subtitle B of the Code of Federal Regulations, including 2 CFR 200.306 and/or 2 CFR 910.130."]
["Emailed","E 545","2023-04-03","Emailed \nquestions","1. Do Performance Periods as asked for in section 1.3.1 + 1.3.2 and Budget Periods as asked for on the 424a have to align?  \n\n2. Are Budget Periods on the 424a based on govt budget periods of Oct. 1 to Sept 30th?  \n\n3. Are Budget Periods as asked for on the 424a the same as Budget Periods as asked for in section 1.3.3 ","1. Budget periods cannot exceed the performance period (total length of award). \n\n2. A standard budget period is 12 months but this can vary (8-18 months is typical). \n\n3. Yes. "]
["Emailed","E 546","2023-04-03","Emailed \nquestions","1. We are supporting development of an application for a project to perform HVAC upgrades at several schools. The contractor to conduct the improvements has already been procured through a competitive process. Does USDOE require any documentation of the procurement process as part of the full application submission? \n\n2. In the project narrative template, the instructions for Section 1.3 Technical Project Description (Workplan) state: \"This should include the expected energy efficiency, energy savings, and safety benefits of the energy improvements.\" As this information seems less relevant to the content of Section 1.3, which is focused on the tasks and workplan, and is also requested in Section 3.1 Benefits Metrics (\"The applicant should outline the expected benefits of the proposed project such as expected energy savings, energy efficiency improvements, health and safety benefits, greenhouse gas redcations, and impacts to student learning\"), would USDOE accept a reference to Section 3.1 in Section 1.3 in place of a full description in both places, as long as Section 3.1 provides sufficient detail? ","1. No, documentation is not required for Full Applications. DOE might require this documentation post-selection. \n\n2. This is acceptable.  "]
["Emailed","E 547","2023-04-04","Emailed \nquestions","When using the budget tool, the estimated budget is lower than the quotes we have received from contractors and for equipment to fulfil the same scope.  \n\nWill applications that utilize current contractor estimates and equipment pricing be scored differently than those that use the budget tool provided in the grant application? ","This does not impact scoring. DOE encourages applicants to use the most accurate budget methodology. If selected for award, DOE will not increase award amount. "]
["Emailed","E 548","2023-04-05","Emailed \nquestions","The online Energy Conservation Measure (ECM) Cost Estimator gave a much lower cost estimate than an actual quote from a local Qualified Energy Service Company (on the DOE list). Should we just explain this in the budget narrative or is there something else to be done to justify our proposed budget? ","DOE encourages applicants to use the most accurate budget methodology. If selected for award, DOE will not increase award amount. "]
["Emailed","E 549","2023-04-05","Emailed \nquestions"," I am working on the full application for the Renew America's Schools grant. Are the resumes for key personnel limited to 2 pages per person, or 2 pages in total? The Full Application Content Requirements table on page 28 of the FOA indicates 2 pages (max). ","Per FOA Section IV.D.iv., “A resume provides information that can be used by reviewers to evaluate the individual’s relevant skills, experience of the key project personnel. Applicants must submit a two-page resume for each project manager and key personnel...” "]
["Emailed","E 550","2023-04-05","Emailed \nquestions","For the Renew America's Schools SF-424 and Lobbying Disclosure attachments, are we required to obtain individualized signatures, or is it fine to type in the authorized representative's name for the signature, as is the case in grants.gov? ","Typing in is sufficient for the application, however, if selected for the award, DOE will require actual or digital signatures during the negotiation process. "]
["Emailed","E 551","2023-04-06","Emailed \nquestions","In our concept paper, we proposed to provide BAS updates to 28 schools in our district. There are actually many more schools in the district that need BAS upgrades that also meet the DAC criteria, but we needed to cap the amount to be within the $15 million dollar request limit.   \n\nAre we allowed to change the original school selection in the full application stage if we provide the required facility needs assessments and EJ reports? We obviously will not go over the $15 million threshold. The scope of the project is still the same, we just want to swap a few of the schools out to accommodate other schools that could benefit more from this grant.","This is allowable.  "]
["Emailed","E 552","2023-04-06","Emailed \nquestions","1. Regarding Item DOE 8.2 in the Q&A – Full Application, does “subrecipients or third party cost share providers” refer to “Subrecipients” as a standalone description, or “Subrecipient cost share providers”? \n\n2. Is the ‘Modeled Retrofit Package Performance for Prototype Schools’, provided as a resource for this FOA, acceptable to use as a benchmarking tool or as guidance for stating anticipated reductions in Energy Use /Greenhouse Gas emissions and health/safety benefits? \n\n3. Regarding Flood Resilience: New FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps go into effect September 7, 2023. There may be changes in floodplain designations in the areas where our applicant schools are located. How do we complete Item 1.3.5 in the Project Narrative, i.e., which Flood Maps should we use in response? Are maps required in the submission and may they be attachments to the Narrative? ","1. Question DOE 8.2 refers to Letters of Commitment. The context is as follows: If a subrecipient is going to be providing cost share, then that subrecipient should provide a Letter of Commitment to demonstrate this. If the Prime recipient is providing cost share, then the Prime recipient should provide a letter stating they intend to fulfill the requirement.  \n\n2. This tool can be used as guidance for stating anticipated reductions, but should not be used as a benchmarking tool. \n\n3. Applicants should provide the current designation in their Full Applications. If this designation changes at a later date, DOE can accommodate post-award. Flood maps are not required as part of the Full Application.  "]
["Emailed","E 553","2023-04-07","Emailed \nquestions","For flood mapping: can images be attached as a separate PDF, or must they be imbedded in the project Narrative?","Flood maps are not required as part of the Full Application.  "]
["Emailed","E 554","2023-04-07","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a school in KS on the documents for the grant.  They are almost complete and we are having trouble locating where we send the documents once completed.  Would you be able to assist with this?  Or would you please get the contact information over to us who can provide assistance?   ","All application materials are submitted through EERE eXCHANGE. Note that submission of a Concept Paper is necessary for the submission of a Full Application. Concept Papers were due on 1/26/23. "]
["Emailed","E 555","2023-04-10","Emailed \nquestions","What was the total dollar amount requested by schools in the first Renew concept paper round? ","DOE will not be releasing this information at this time."]
["Emailed","E 556","2023-04-10","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the update of partners from the Concept Paper to the Full Application.  In the Concept Paper, we listed a few partners that we have realized do not need to be part of our required partner list, and at the same time, we have new partners we wish to add.  How should this be handled? ","Partners can be modified for Full Applications.  "]
["Emailed","E 557","2023-04-10","Emailed \nquestions","I am wondering if an applicant applied under Topic Area 2 and received Concept Paper approval can submit a full application for Topic Area 1? ","It is applicant’s responsibility to ensure that their application is submitted under the correct Topic Area. If the Concept Paper was submitted under the wrong topic area or if the scope has been modified and it now falls under a different topic area, then the change is allowable."]
["Emailed","E 558","2023-04-10","Emailed \nquestions","1. Will schools not located within a DOE-identified disadvantaged community (https://energyjustice.egs.anl.gov/) or by the White House CEJST (https://screeningtool.geoplatform.gov/), but serve attendance areas with students from DAC communities still qualify for the grant and/or weighted the same as schools located within DOE- and CEJST- disadvantaged communities? \n\n2. Can the District substitute a school site submitted in the concept paper for the full grant application, or will any change of school sites disqualify the applicant? ","1. A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees, and location within a DAC is one of these.  \n\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13 \n\n2. Changing a school site is allowable.  "]
["Emailed","E 559","2023-04-10","Emailed \nquestions","Must the resumes be 2-pages? Can they be in bio paragraph form? \n\nWe have several staff members who don’t have the educational background but have been committed long-term employees of a rural district and who will be assets to the team. ","Any format is sufficient so long as no resume exceeds the 2-page limit. "]
["Emailed","E 560","2023-04-11","Emailed \nquestions","I’ve looked into the program and it’s not clear how to apply for a piece of the State and Community Energy Programs grant and what is the benefit for Non-Profit entities. Can you help me understand how to start an application to participate? Is there something that I can reference? Also at this point in time are the funds specifically for K-12 only? ","Renew America’s Schools grant funds are allotted specifically for public K-12 schools. Concept Papers for this grant were due 1/26/23. Late papers are not accepted. Submission of a Concept Paper is a requirement to progress to the Full Application. DOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. \n\nPlease visit our program websites to learn more and sign up for updates:\nhttps://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities\nhttps://www.energy.gov/scep/renew-americas-nonprofits\n"]
["Emailed","E 561","2023-04-11","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a school district on this proposal.  Question - is there an updated list of instructions for the SF-242 document from the Department of Energy?  I downloaded the form included on the EERE exchange and it did not include instructions. ","See Question DOE 8.7 "]
["Emailed","E 562","2023-04-11","Emailed \nquestions","Form SF-LLL is listed as a required form to be submitted.  If none of the Consortium Organizations have been/are engaged in lobbying of the Federal Government, is form SF-LLL still required to be submitted?  If it is still required, can you explain how we should complete the form to indicate that our Consortium Organizations do not engage in lobbying? \n\nAlso, is there a CFDA# and Title associated with this FOA? ","See Question DOE 8.3 \n\nThe CFDA# 81.086 and the title associated with it is Conservation Research and Development. "]
["Emailed","E 563","2023-04-11","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a school district on this proposal.  Question - is there an updated list of instructions for the SF-242 document from the Department of Energy?  I downloaded the form included on the EERE exchange and it did not include instructions.","See Question DOE 8.7 "]
["Emailed","E 564","2023-04-12","Emailed \nquestions","If we need to fill out the CFDA, is the number 81.087 for this FOA and, if so, what is the CFDA title?","The CFDA# 81.086 and the title associated with it is Conservation Research and Development. "]
["Emailed","E 565","2023-04-12","Emailed \nquestions","Regarding FOA-0002756 full application, SF 424 is required for submission. Item 21 requires the certification and assurances which referred to in the FOA found at : https://www.energy.gov/management/articles/certifications-and-assurances-use-sf-424 \n\nThe Certifications and Assurances for Use with SF-424, provided at that locations provides signature lines on pages 4 and 6.  \n\nDoes this document need to be signed and uploaded along with SF 424? ","Yes, this document needs to be signed and uploaded along with SF-424."]
["Emailed","E 566","2023-04-12","Emailed \nquestions","We got discouraged on initial concept paper for the school district energy saving grant program the full application is due 4/21/23.  We are working to have answers to the questions that were raised BUT do think we will be ready to submit in 9 days.  So we were seeing if you knew when the next round of these grants will be coming out. ","DOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. Please visit our program website to sign up for updates: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 567","2023-04-12","Emailed \nquestions","Are Elementary Catholic schools eligible for this grant?","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 568","2023-04-13","Emailed \nquestions","We submitted a Concept Paper on January 26, 2023 and were ENCOURAGED to proceed to full application.  One of the comments we received was that our proposal spanned both topic areas and that we need to focus on only one.   \n\nOur proposal was submitted under topic 2 and included the following: Energy Efficiencies, Solar Installation, Back-up Generator, Electric school bus and charging \n\nWe are struggling to understand the differences between the energy efficiencies as defined in Topic 1 and the energy efficiencies as defined in Topic 2.  We interpreted Topic 2 as the opportunity for applicants to apply for energy efficiency improvements AND innovative technology; whereas Topic 1 was more narrowly focused on energy efficiencies only. ","It is the applicant’s responsibility to select the correct Topic Area. Applications should clearly outline all proposed improvements so that reviewers can evaluate proposals accurately.   "]
["Emailed","E 569","2023-04-14","Emailed \nquestions","I don't think we're going to be prepared for this upcoming deadline. Is this program going to be available in the future? Do you know when the next deadline is?","DOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. Please visit our program website to sign up for updates: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 570","2023-04-14","Emailed \nquestions","Can you please help me understand the FOA standard on Buy American requirements for this grant? \n\nMay I get your help confirming if there is a Buy America compliance expectation for this grant?  Do you have a contact number that I can call, or can you please call me? \n\nThe slides and the webinar itself listed below have the business requirements but then still refer to Appendix B of the FOA, which talks about private entities?  \n\nThe simple answer seems to be “yes, but is Buy America is required,” after talking to others working on this grant across the country none of us can get a 100% clear answer out of it.","Yes, this is required for all infrastructure projects performed on public buildings. It is anticipated that all public K-12 facilities will fall into this category. \n\nThe following link contains additional information: https://www.energy.gov/management/build-america-buy-america"]
["Emailed","E 571","2023-04-14","Emailed \nquestions","Will award recipients be provided funding at the start of their project or would they have to see reimbursement? For example, would the project tasks have to be carried out and paid for and then seek reimbursement from the federal award or will funding be provided to the recipients to use toward their project at initial award? ","The Renew America’s Schools grant awards will likely follow a reimbursement model. "]
["Emailed","E 572","2023-04-14","Emailed \nquestions","The comments on our concept paper indicated we spanned both Topic 1 and Topic 2 in the FOA but did not provide further detail.  Upon review of Topic 1 and Topic 2 in the FOA, we are struggling to understand the difference between the energy efficiencies referred to in Topic 1 and the energy efficiencies in Topic 2.  I’m hoping you can help us better understand the differences of the efficiencies in Topic 1 and Topic 2.","Please see FOA Section I.B., Topic Areas."]
["Emailed","E 573","2023-04-17","Emailed \nquestions","I have tried numerous times to save the SF-LLL document and I keep getting an error message in Adobe that says the image below.  Can this form be fixed?  We want to submit it but cannot save it. ","Here is a link to the latest SF-LLL form on grants.gov: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/sample/SFLLL_1_2_P-V1.2.pdf \n\nNote that the document needs to be saved as a .pdf for eXCHANGE to accept it. \n\nFor additional support, the EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 574","2023-04-17","Emailed \nquestions","Regarding SF 424 Application for Federal Funding, do we also need to submit the attached signed certifications and assurances?","Yes, this document needs to be signed and uploaded along with SF-424. "]
["Emailed","E 575","2023-04-17","Emailed \nquestions","I originally sent this info to EERE support, and they advised me to send it to this email instead. \n\nThere is an issue within EERE when uploading files for the DE-FOA-0002756 (Renew America’s Schools) Full Application. When I upload the “Summary for Public Release” EERE renames the PDF “ControlNumber_LeadOrganization_Summary” and doesn’t allow applicants to add our own unique control number or applicant name to the file name in alignment with the requirements. See snip from EERE below. ","Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention. It has been resolved.  "]
["Emailed","E 576","2023-04-17","Emailed \nquestions","I am applying for FOA 2756 and it asks for a Summary of Public Release form. What is it and where do I find it? I do not see it listed within FOA 2756 information. ","Per FOA Section IV.D.x., this document is a short one paragraph project summary that is suitable for dissemination to the public. There is no template for this document.  "]
["Emailed","E 577","2023-04-17","Emailed \nquestions","We received the RFA for the 2022 Funding Opportunity Announcement for Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities after the concept deadline from our congressional member’s office. \n\nI understand that the RFA states: “Applicants must submit a Concept Paper by 5:00pm ET on the due date listed above to be eligible to submit a Full Application.”  \n\nI would like to confirm if we are eligible to apply if we did not submit a concept paper? ","Concept Papers were due 1/26/23 at 5pm ET. Late papers are not accepted. Submission of a Concept Paper is a requirement to progress to the Full Application.  \n\nDOE anticipates additional rounds of funding. You can sign up for program updates at our webpage: https://www.energy.gov/scep/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 578","2023-04-18","Emailed \nquestions","1. How much funding will be available for this next funding cycle? \n\n2. What percentage of the application funds is required in matching funds? ","1. This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" The funding amount available for the next funding round is to be determined.  \n\n2. For the first round a 5% cost share/match was required. The match amount for the next funding round is to be determined.  "]
["Emailed","E 579","2023-04-18","Emailed \nquestions","Do all resumes have to be 2-pages? Many of our technical staff don’t have the educational credentials listed.\n\nWhy do the resumes have to follow the Font and Margin of the Project Narrative, if resumes are compiled from different partners?  Many already have PDF-formatted resumes that are 2 pages, and it is onerous to retype.\n","A single resume length is capped at 2-pages. It is advisable (though not required) that resumes follow the font and margin of the Project Narrative; resume formatting will not factor into selection criteria. "]
["Emailed","E 580","2023-04-18","Emailed \nquestions","Do subrecipients that are not contributing to the cost share need to complete a Letter of Commitment?","No. Letters of Commitment should be from cost share providers only.  "]
["Emailed","E 581","2023-04-19","Emailed \nquestions","We have a quick question about submitting the application: there is a page in the EERE Exchange platform that asks for the percentage of each location. Can you provide any guidance as to what this percentage is referring to? Is it percent of project cost? ","Yes, this refers to percent of total project cost.  \n\nPercentage designation will not factor into evaluation criteria. "]
["Emailed","E 582","2023-04-19","Emailed \nquestions","Our School District submitted a concept paper before the deadline last January, but have never received any other information on whether we moved on to the next phase.  Please let us know where we stand.","All eligible Concept Papers received an encourage or a discourage notification in March 2023. This result, along with reviewer comments, is available in Exchange. All eligible applicants who submitted a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result. "]
["Emailed","E 583","2023-04-19","Emailed \nquestions","Should environmental reports from the EJScreen be attached?","EJScreen (the EPA tool) is not required for Full Applications. Reports from the EJ Mapping Tool are required should be included as a standalone attachment. Save all reports in a single PDF file using the following convention for the title “ControlNumber_LeadOrganization_EJ_School_Report”."]
["Emailed","E 584","2023-05-18","Emailed \nquestions","1.\tWhat is the proper format for replying to reviewer comments. Are applicant’s supposed to amend their Project Narrative Documents and resubmit them as the new document accounting for reviewer comments? \n\n2.\tOR, is the reply to reviewer comments meant to be it’s own standalone 3 page document?\n\n3.\tIn the event where a weakness that is pointed out for a criteria section is contradicted by a strength that is highlighted for that same section: \na.\tIs it sufficient to point this out as a response to how the project remedies said weakness? OR \nb.\tDoes the DOE want the applicant to reference this contradiction, and then offer some insight into how the applicant will remedy the weakness on top of that?","1. See Question DOE 8.9\n\n2. See Question DOE 8.9\n\n3. It is at the discretion of the applicant to decide how best to reply in this situation, with the goal being to use the three pages to strengthen the application. In this case, applicants may add additional supporting info and/or reply directly to the comment.  "]

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[null,"ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
[null,"DE-FOA-0002756 - Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Section 40541.  Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities - Renew America's Schools Grant Program"]
["Question Type","Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
["DOE","DOE 1.1","N/A","Project Eligibility","What types of projects are eligible?","See FOA Section I.B. \nTopic Area 1 – High-Impact Energy Efficiency and Health Improvements \nProposals contemplated under this topic area will include energy improvements that result in direct reduction to school energy costs, increase energy efficiency, and lead to improvements in teacher and student health, including indoor air quality. Energy cost savings may be realized by reduced loads and/or by demand flexibility and demand response approaches.   \n\nThese high-impact energy improvements may take the form of repairs, renovations, or installations to the facility envelope, air conditioning system, ventilation system, heating system, domestic hot water heating system, compressed air system, distribution system, lighting system, power system, and/or controls of a building. Applicants are encouraged to package multiple improvements for deeper savings and carbon reductions. (Section I.B.Topic Area 1) \n\nTopic Area 2 - Innovative Energy Technology Packages \nProposals contemplated under this topic include innovative energy technology packages. Applicants may include any improvement, repair, or renovation to a school that incorporates two or more of the following energy improvements.  \n     -Energy efficiency measures e.g. HVAC, building envelope improvements, lighting retrofits, sensors and controls \n     -Installation of renewable energy technologies e.g. rooftop solar or micro wind turbines \n     -Alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on school grounds \n     -Purchase or lease of alternative fueled vehicles to be used by a school (Section I.B.Topic Area 2) "]
["DOE","DOE 1.2","N/A","Project Eligibility","Where can we receive guidance on the types of projects that are appropriate to our buildings, and which would strengthen our applications?","For a general overview of application expectations, see FOA Section V.A. \nThe proposed work, if successfully accomplished, would clearly meet the objectives as stated in the FOA including:\n-Facility/Facilities demonstrate a facility needs assessment;\n-Facility/Facilities serve a community considered high-need; \n-Applicant demonstrates a large discrepancy between facility need and fiscal capacity;\n-Proposed energy improvements will likely result in significant energy cost savings;\n-Proposed energy improvements will likely result in health and safety improvements;\n-Project represents an innovation and scalability of technology packages partnership structures and/or financing options; and\n-Applicant articulates a feasible plan to execute and maintain improvements  IV.C.Facility Needs Assessment and Section (Section V.A.i)\n\nTo identify site-specific impacts of specific upgrades, see School Needs and Benefits Assessment Resources page: \nDOE has compiled a variety of tools that can be used to assess needs and benefits, which can be found on the School Needs and Benefits Assessment Resources page (https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/school-needs-and-benefits-assessment-resources). "]
["DOE","DOE 1.3","N/A","Project Eligibility","What projects will be competitive to receive funding? ","See FOA Section I.B.  For further information, see FOA Section V, Application Review Information. \nTopic Area 1 – High-Impact Energy Efficiency and Health Improvements \n     Proposals contemplated under this topic area will include energy improvements that result in direct reduction to school energy costs, increase energy efficiency, and lead to improvements in teacher and student health, including indoor air quality. Energy cost savings may be realized by reduced loads and/or by demand flexibility and demand response approaches.   \n     These high-impact energy improvements may take the form of repairs, renovations, or installations to the facility envelope, air conditioning system, ventilation system, heating system, domestic hot water heating system, compressed air system, distribution system, lighting system, power system, and/or controls of a building. Applicants are encouraged to package multiple improvements for deeper savings and carbon reductions. (Section I.B.Topic Area 1) \n\nTopic Area 2 - Innovative Energy Technology Packages \n     Proposals contemplated under this topic include innovative energy technology packages.  Applicants may include any improvement, repair, or renovation to a school that incorporates two or more of the following energy improvements.  \n     -Energy efficiency measures e.g. HVAC, building envelope improvements, lighting retrofits, sensors and controls \n     -Installation of renewable energy technologies e.g. rooftop solar or micro wind turbines \n     -Alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on school grounds \n     -Purchase or lease of alternative fueled vehicles to be used by a school (Section I.B.Topic Area 2) \n\nDOE will encourage eligible applicants to consider projects that enable replicable and scalable impacts, create innovative, sustaining partnerships, leverage funding and economies of scale, target disadvantaged communities, improve student, teacher, and occupant health, enrich learning and growth, target schools that serve as community assets (e.g. neighborhood cooling centers or disaster recovery shelters), and are crafted thoughtfully within the context of public-school facilities (e.g. procurement restraints, construction windows, etc.) (Section 1.B., Focus Areas for Topics) \n\nPotential applicants for each topic area will be considered based upon the partnering LEA’s demonstrated funding need for energy improvements; whether the school serves a high percentage of students who are eligible for a free or reduced-price lunch, or the partnering local education agency of which is designated with a school district locale code of 41, 42, or 43 as determined by the National Center for Education Statistics; and whether a proposal leverages private sector investment through energy-related performance contracting.  Also considered will be the extent of the disparity between the fiscal capacity of the eligible entity to carry out energy improvements at school facilities and the needs of the partnering LEA for those energy improvements; the likelihood that the partnering LEA or eligible entity will maintain the school facilities receiving improvements; and the potential energy efficiency and safety benefits from the proposed energy improvements. (Section I.B., Focus Areas for Topics)   "]
["DOE","DOE 1.4","N/A","Project Eligibility","Can grant funds be applied toward projects that are currently in progress? ","DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021).\n\nSee FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs\nApplicants selected for award negotiations (selectee) must request prior written approval to charge pre-award costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the federal award directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency, through the DOE Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs cannot be incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. Pre-award expenditures are made at the selectee’s risk. EERE is not obligated to reimburse costs: (1) in the absence of appropriations; (2) if an award is not made; or (3) if an award is made for a lesser amount than the selectee anticipated.” The project proposed under the subject FOA must encompass the entirety of the project as defined under FOA Section I.B., even if the DOE funds would only cover a percentage of the project costs. Further, even though the FOA requires a minimum cost share of 5%, there is no limit on the maximum amount of cost share that can be contributed to the proposed project. Therefore, although the DOE grant award (if one is made) may only provide a percentage of a larger project, the DOE-funded project must encompass the entire project, not just a segregated portion."]
["DOE","DOE 1.5","N/A","Project Eligibility","Are alternative fueled vehicles and alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure improvements eligible projects? ","See FOA Section I.B.Topic Areas, Topic Area 2 \nBoth alternative fueled vehicles (for purchase or lease) and alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure improvements are eligible. "]
["DOE","DOE 1.6","N/A","Project Eligibility","To what extent can grant funds be applied towards developing capacity to begin or manage projects?   ","BIL Section 40541 states, “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 5 percent of the grant amounts for operation and maintenance training for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements, such as maintenance staff and teacher training, education, and preventative maintenance training.” "]
["DOE","DOE 1.7","N/A","Project Eligibility","Can funds be used to replace equipment that is not at the end of life, but whose replacement would result in energy efficiencies? ","See FOA Section I.B., Focus Areas for Topics\nDOE will encourage eligible applicants to consider projects that improve student, teacher, and occupant health, and enrich learning and growth. Potential applicants for each topic area will be considered based upon, among other criteria, the potential energy efficiency and safety benefits from the proposed energy improvements. (Section I.B., Focus Areas for Topics)  Funds may be used to replace equipment that is not at the end of its lifespan if the replacement(s) will improve energy efficiency and benefit occupant health. "]
["DOE","DOE 1.8","N/A","Project Eligibility","Are new construction projects, including the construction of new buildings, eligible for funding? ","Per BIL Section 40541, this grant is intended for \"energy improvement,\" meaning:  \n(A) any improvement, repair, or renovation to a school that results in a direct reduction in school energy costs, including improvements to the envelope, air conditioning system, ventilation system, heating system, domestic hot water heating system, compressed air system, distribution system, lighting system, power system, and controls of a building;\n(B) any improvement, repair, or renovation to, or installation in, a school that--\n (i) leads to an improvement in teacher and student health, including indoor air quality; and\n (ii) achieves energy savings;\n(C) any improvement, repair, or renovation to a school involving the installation of renewable energy technologies;\n(D) the installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on school grounds for--\n (i) exclusive use of school buses, school fleets, or students; or\n (ii) the general public; and\n(E) the purchase or lease of alternative fueled vehicles to be used by a school, including school buses, fleet vehicles, \n and other operational vehicles.\n\nConstruction of a new building is not an \"energy improvement\" and is therefore ineligible for funding. DOE will fund energy improvements but not new construction as a whole."]
["DOE","DOE 2.1","N/A","Applicant Eligibility","Who is eligible to apply? ","BIL Section 40541(a)(3) specifies: \"The term ``eligible entity'' means a consortium of--(A) 1 local educational agency; and (B) 1 or more--(i) schools; (ii) nonprofit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; (iii) for-profit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; or (iv) community partners that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.\" \n\nPartner organizations may apply as prime recipients on behalf of an LEA, as long as their partnership with that LEA is clearly established and defined. FOA Section III.A.i specifies: the proposed prime recipient and subrecipient(s) must be domestic entities. The following types of domestic entities are eligible to participate as a prime recipient or subrecipient of this FOA: institutions of higher education; for-profit entities; non-profit entities; and state and local governmental entities, and tribal nations (Section III.A.i). "]
["DOE","DOE 2.2","N/A","Applicant Eligibility","Can organizations other than LEAs apply for these grants? ","BIL Section 40541(a)(3) specifies: \"The term ``eligible entity'' means a consortium of--(A) 1 local educational agency; and (B) 1 or more--(i) schools; (ii) nonprofit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; (iii) for-profit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; or (iv) community partners that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.\" \n\nPartner organizations may apply as prime recipients on behalf of an LEA, as long as their partnership with that LEA is clearly established and defined. FOA Section III.A.i. specifies: the proposed prime recipient and subrecipient(s) must be domestic entities. The following types of domestic entities are eligible to participate as a prime recipient or subrecipient of this FOA: institutions of higher education; for-profit entities; non-profit entities; and state and local governmental entities, and tribal nations (Section III.A.i). "]
["DOE","DOE 2.3","N/A","Applicant Eligibility","What types of LEAs are eligible for funding? ","BIL Sec. 40541 specifies: “The term \"local educational agency” is defined in Section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. According to the Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR 300.28), a \"Local education agency or LEA means a public board of education or other public authority legally constituted within a State for either administrative control or direction of, or to perform a service function for, public elementary or secondary schools in a city, county, township, school district, or other political subdivision of a State, or for a combination of school districts or counties as are recognized in a State as an administrative agency for its public elementary schools or secondary schools.\"\n\nAccording to this definition, the following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program."]
["DOE","DOE 2.4","N/A","Applicant Eligibility","Can LEAs in Freely Associated States and U.S. Territories qualify for this grant?  ","See FOA Section I.B.  \nESEA defines a \"State\" as each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and each of the outlying areas. Based on these definitions, LEAs in Freely Associated States and U.S. Territories are eligible under this funding opportunity. For the definition of an LEA please see answer to Question DOE 2.3. "]
["DOE","DOE 2.5","N/A","Applicant Eligibility","Are U.S. schools located abroad eligible?","See FOA Section IV.I.iii. and Appendix B \nAll work for projects selected under this FOA must be performed in the United States. "]
["DOE","DOE 3.1","N/A","Financing","What is the anticipated range of grant funds that will be made available to individual LEAs? Is there a floor/ceiling? ","See FOA Section II.A.i.\nDOE expects to make between 20 and 100 awards, each valued between $500,000 and $15,000,000. Note that $500,000 is not the absolute floor and applications for projects requesting less than $500,000 may still be considered. An application for a project requesting less than $500,000 still needs to meet the full intent of the program."]
["DOE","DOE 3.2","N/A","Financing","Can this grant money be combined with other sources of government funds? ","See FOA Section III.B.iii. and FOA Section III.E.i.\nProject teams may use funding or property received from state or local governments to meet the cost share requirement, so long as the funding was not provided to the state or local government by the federal government. (FOA Section III.B.iii.) \n\nThe recipient may not use federal funding or property (e.g., federal grants, equipment owned by the federal government) or expenditures that were reimbursed under a separate federal program to meet cost share obligations. (Section III.B.iii.).   \n\nBecause FFRDCs are funded by the federal government, costs incurred by FFRDCs generally may not be used to meet the cost share requirement. FFRDCs may contribute cost share only if the contributions are paid directly from the contractor’s Management Fee or another non-federal source (III.B.iv.). If an awardee has received authorization to utilize an FFRDC from the cognizant Contracting Officer (Section III.E.i.b.), the value of and funding for the FFRDC portion of the work will not normally be included in the award to a successful applicant. Usually, DOE will fund a DOE/NNSA FFRDC through the DOE field work proposal (WP) system and non-DOE/NNSA FFRDC through an interagency agreement with the sponsoring agency (Section III.E.i.c.). Although the FFRDC portion of the work is usually excluded from the award to a successful applicant, the applicant’s cost share requirement will be based on the total cost of the project, including the applicant’s, the subrecipient’s, and the FFRDC’s portions of the project (Section III.E.i.d.). "]
["DOE","DOE 3.3","N/A","Financing","How can different sources of funding be combined to complete projects? ","See FOA Section I.B.Focus Areas for Topics, and Section III.B.iii.\nApplicants are encouraged to create innovative, sustaining partnerships, and to leverage funding – including private-sector investment, especially through energy-related performance contracting – and economies of scale. (Section I.B.Focus Areas for Topics)\n \nProject teams may use funding or property received from state or local governments to meet the cost share requirement, so long as the funding was not provided to the state or local government by the federal government. (FOA Section III.B.iii) "]
["DOE","DOE 3.4","N/A","Financing","Can an awardee use grant funds to create a grant writer position? ","BIL Section 40541(f)(2) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 5 percent of the grant amounts for operation and maintenance training for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements, such as maintenance staff and teacher training, education, and preventative maintenance training.” \n\nBIL Section 40541(f)(4) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 3 percent of the grant amounts to develop a continuing education curriculum relating to energy improvements.” \n\nCosts associated with submitting the application for this FOA are ineligible and unallowable for reimbursement."]
["DOE","DOE 3.5","N/A","Financing","Can an awardee use grant funds to retroactively reimburse an application writer? ","See FOA Section IV.J.ii.\nCosts associated with submitting the application for this FOA are ineligible and unallowable for reimbursement."]
["DOE","DOE 3.6","N/A","Financing","Can we use a portion of the funds to hire an energy manager/project manager? ","BIL Section 40541(f)(2) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 5 percent of the grant amounts for operation and maintenance training for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements, such as maintenance staff and teacher training, education, and preventative maintenance training.” \n\nAdditionally, please see 2 CFR 200.463 Recruiting costs for more information."]
["DOE","DOE 3.7","N/A","Financing","Can funds be applied towards the cost of measurement and verification (M&V)? ","BIL Section 40541(f)(3) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use a portion of the grant amounts for a third-party investigation and analysis of the energy improvements carried out by the eligible entity, such as energy audits and existing building commissioning.” "]
["DOE","DOE 3.8","N/A","Financing","Can funds be applied towards the costs incurred from operations and maintenance (O&M) after project completion?  ","BIL Section 40541(f)(2) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 5 percent of the grant amounts for operation and maintenance training for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements, such as maintenance staff and teacher training, education, and preventative maintenance training.” These costs must be incurred during the grant period of performance in order to be eligible for reimbursement. "]
["DOE","DOE 3.9","N/A","Financing","Can funds be applied towards training and credentialing for building/equipment operators?","BIL Section 40541(f)(2) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 5 percent of the grant amounts for operation and maintenance training for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements, such as maintenance staff and teacher training, education, and preventative maintenance training.” \n\nBIL Section 40541(f)(4) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 3 percent of the grant amounts to develop a continuing education curriculum relating to energy improvements.” "]
["DOE","DOE 3.10","N/A","Financing","Can funds be used to lease equipment rather than purchasing it, moving costs from a capital expenditure to an operating expenditure? ","BIL Section 40541(a)(4)(E) specifies:  The term \"Energy Improvement\" includes \"the purchase or lease of alternative fueled vehicles to be used by a school, including school buses, fleet vehicles, and other operational vehicles.\"  \n\nDepending on the nature of other equipment to be leased, please see 2 CFR 200.465."]
["DOE","DOE 3.11","N/A","Financing","Will funding be awarded in phases or all at once?  ","This is case-dependent. \n\nSee FOA Section II.A.\nDOE may establish more than one budget period for each award and fund only the initial budget period(s). Funding for all budget periods, including the initial budget period, is not guaranteed. (Section II.A.i.)\n\nDOE anticipates making awards that will run from 24 months up to 60 months in length, comprised of one or more budget periods. Project continuation will be contingent upon several elements, including satisfactory performance and DOE’s Go/No-Go decision. For a complete list and more information on the Go/No-Go review, see Section VI.B.xiv. (Section II.A.ii.)"]
["DOE","DOE 3.12","N/A","Financing","What resources are available for applicants to learn more about different financing options? ","Information about financing can be found at the following DOE webpages:  \n \nTax Credits, Rebates & Savings (organized by state):\nhttps://www.energy.gov/savings/dsire-page\nFinancing Energy Upgrades for K-12 School Districts | Department of Energy: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/financing-energy-upgrades-k-12-school-districts\nEnergy Savings Performance Contracting: A Primer for K–12 Schools | Department of Energy:  https://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/energy-savings-performance-contracting-primer-k-12-schools\nBetter Buildings Challenge K-12 Education Partners  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/node/1012596\nToolkit: Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) | Department of Energy\nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/toolkit-energy-savings-performance-contracting-espc\nEnergy Savings Performance Contracting | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/energy-savings-performance-contracting\n(Webinar) Current Practices in Efficiency Financing: An Overview for State and Local Governments | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/downloads/current-practices-efficiency-financing-overview-state-and-local-governments\n(PDF) Current Practices in Efficiency Financing: An Overview for State and Local Governments | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/downloads/current-practices-efficiency-financing-overview-state-and-local-governments-0"]
["DOE","DOE 3.13","N/A","Financing","How can LEAs be supported through third-party technical assistance/auditing? ","A number of industry resources can be leveraged to support energy and IEQ benchmarking and retrofit opportunity identification, including tools, resources and expertise. Some of these may include:\n\n- Energy Service Provider and Energy Service Contracting Organizations \n- Local utility incentive and auditing programs\n- Architectural and engineering consultant firms \n- Design-build contracting firms\n- Industry energy and IEQ programs, e.g. WELL program (https://www.wellcertified.com/ratings/), CHPS (https://chps.net/), USGBC Center for Green Schools (https://centerforgreenschools.org/) \n- Energy benchmarking resources, e.g. EnergyStar Portfolio Manager (https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/benchmark)\n- GHG benchmarking resources, e.g. WRI (https://www.wri.org/initiatives/greenhouse-gas-protocol)"]
["DOE ","DOE 3.14","N/A","Financing","What is the cost share requirement?","See FOA Section III.B. \nThe Secretary of Energy has issued a Cost Share Reduction determination pursuant to Section 988(c)(2) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 that is applicable to eligible entities applying under this funding opportunity. \n\nIn accordance with the cost share reduction waiver, cost share must be at least 5% of the total allowable costs for commercial application projects (i.e., the sum of the government share, including FFRDC costs if applicable, and the recipient share of allowable costs equals the total allowable cost of the project) and must come from non-federal sources unless otherwise allowed by law. (See 2 CFR 200.306 and 2 CFR 910.130 for the applicable cost sharing requirements.)  \n\nTo assist applicants in calculating proper cost share amounts, DOE has included a cost share information sheet and sample cost share calculation as Appendix A To this FOA. "]
["DOE","DOE 4.1","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","How do we establish partnerships? ","See FOA Section I.A.iii.\nTo facilitate the formation of new project teams for this FOA, DOE is continuing to gather information for a “Teaming Partner List.” The Teaming Partner List allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and to explore potential partnerships. Partnerships may include, but are not limited to: \n-Coalitions of LEAs interested in applying for their mutual benefit \n-Consortia of LEAs and potential stakeholders including but not limited to governmental entities such as states, local governments, and Tribes; for-profit entities such as utilities and companies that provide energy services or manufacture energy systems, consultants, architect and/or engineering firms, contractors, and software providers; non-governmental organizations such as community-based organizations, national associations, labor unions, workforce training providers, and energy-focused groups. (Section I.A.iii and Teaming Partner List). \n\nDISCLAIMER: By facilitating the Teaming Partner List, DOE is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals and organizations that are self-identifying themselves for placement on this Teaming Partner List. DOE will not pay for the provision of any information, nor will it compensate any applicants or requesting organizations for the development of such information (Section I.A.iii).   "]
["DOE","DOE 4.2","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Can we apply jointly with other LEAs? ","Consortia may include coalitions of LEAs that apply jointly for their mutual benefit. Note that one LEA or other consortium member must be identified as the prime recipient.  \n\nSee FOA Section III.A.i.\nThe proposed prime recipient and subrecipient(s) must be domestic entities. The following types of domestic entities are eligible to participate as a prime recipient or subrecipient of this FOA: Institutions of higher education; For-profit entities; Non-profit entities; State and local governmental entities, and tribal nations. To qualify as a domestic entity, the entity must be organized, chartered or incorporated (or otherwise formed) under the laws of a particular state or territory of the United States; have majority domestic ownership and control; and have a physical place of business in the United States. DOE/NNSA FFRDCs are eligible to apply for funding as a subrecipient, but they are not eligible to apply as a prime recipient.”  \n\nSee FOA Section III.B.i. \nAlthough the cost share requirement applies to the project as a whole, including work performed by members of the project team other than the prime recipient, the prime recipient is legally responsible for paying the entire cost share. If the funding agreement is terminated prior to the end of the project period, the prime recipient is required to contribute at least the cost share percentage of total expenditures incurred through the date of termination. The prime recipient is solely responsible for managing cost share contributions by the project team and enforcing cost share obligation assumed by project team members in subawards or related agreements.\n\nSee FOA Section III.E.i.e.\nThe prime recipient will be the responsible authority regarding the settlement and satisfaction of all contractual and administrative issues including, but not limited to disputes and claims arising out of any agreement between the prime recipient and the FFRDC."]
["DOE","DOE 4.3","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Can LEAs and partners purchase equipment/materials jointly to take advantages of economies of scale?   ","See FOA Section I.B.\nDOE will encourage eligible applicants to create innovative, sustaining partnerships, including but not limited to those that leverage funding and economies of scale (Section I.B., Focus Areas for Topics). "]
["DOE","DOE 4.4","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Can LEAs share energy managers? ","BIL Section 40541(f)(2) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 5 percent of the grant amounts for operation and maintenance training for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements, such as maintenance staff and teacher training, education, and preventative maintenance training.” \"Share(ing) energy managers\" can be allowable provided that the energy manager only charges time directly to each project with no double-dipping of costs and any conflict of interest is mitigated."]
["DOE","DOE 4.5","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","What are examples of organizations that can…\n-Provide energy auditing\n-Provide extra capacity to obtain financing\n-Provide extra capacity for project creation and management\n-Provide technical assistance","A number of industry resources can be leveraged to support energy and IEQ benchmarking and retrofit opportunity identification, including tools, resources and expertise.  Some of these may include:\n     - Energy Service Provider and Energy Service Contracting Organizations \n     - Local utility incentive and auditing programs\n     - Architectural and engineering consultant firms \n     - Design-build contracting firms\n     - Industry energy and IEQ programs, e.g. WELL program (https://www.wellcertified.com/ratings/), CHPS (https://chps.net/), USGBC\n       Center for Green Schools (https://centerforgreenschools.org/) \n     - Energy benchmarking resources, e.g. EnergyStar Portfolio Manager (https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/benchmark)\n     - GHG benchmarking resources, e.g. WRI (https://www.wri.org/initiatives/greenhouse-gas-protocol)\n\nInformation about financing can be found at the following DOE webpages:   \nTax Credits, Rebates & Savings (organized by state):\nhttps://www.energy.gov/savings/dsire-page\nFinancing Energy Upgrades for K-12 School Districts | Department of Energy: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/financing-energy-upgrades-k-12-school-districts\nEnergy Savings Performance Contracting: A Primer for K–12 Schools | Department of Energy:  https://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/energy-savings-performance-contracting-primer-k-12-schools\nBetter Buildings Challenge K-12 Education Partners  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/node/1012596\nToolkit: Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) | Department of Energy\nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/toolkit-energy-savings-performance-contracting-espc\nEnergy Savings Performance Contracting | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/energy-savings-performance-contracting\n(Webinar) Current Practices in Efficiency Financing: An Overview for State and Local Governments | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/downloads/current-practices-efficiency-financing-overview-state-and-local-governments\n(PDF) Current Practices in Efficiency Financing: An Overview for State and Local Governments | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/downloads/current-practices-efficiency-financing-overview-state-and-local-governments-0"]
["DOE","DOE 4.6","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","How can we find qualified, professional energy service providers and/or energy efficiency contractors? ","DOE encourages applicants to research certifications, accreditations, and recommendations offered by State Energy Offices, utilities, nonprofits, and professional organizations. \n\nFor a list of Energy Service Companies identified by DOE as qualified to bid on Federal Contracts, see the following webpage:  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/doe-qualified-list-energy-service-companies\n\nDISCLAIMER: The companies listed above encompass a broad range of distinct capabilities. This list is not exhaustive of all ESCOs qualified to assist with energy upgrades at K-12 schools."]
["DOE","DOE 4.7","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Does my state energy office...  \n-Administer ESPC programs? \n-Publish a list of pre-approved ESCOs? ","DOE encourages applicants to engage with their State Energy Offices to learn more about state and local Energy Efficiency initiatives. \n\nFor a list of State Energy Offices and links to their websites, see the following DOE webpage:\nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/state-energy-offices-and-organizations#:~:text=State%20Energy%20Offices%20and%20Organizations%20%20%20,Energy%20Offic%20...%20%2014%20more%20rows%20  "]
["DOE","DOE 4.8","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Can we access model contract documents and/or case studies? ","Model Energy Savings Performance Contract templates, as well as companion documents, can be found at  the following DOE webpage: https://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/model-documents-energy-savings-performance-contract-project\n\nDisclaimer: Neither the United States government nor any agency thereof, nor any of its employees, make any warranty, express or implied, or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed or represent that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States government or any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States government or any agency thereof.\n\n"]
["DOE","DOE 4.9","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Does DOE provide training for building managers and staff? ","LEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class\n\nDOE will not provide training for building managers and staff under the Renew America's Schools Funding Opportunity. However, successful applicants (selectees) may elect to use a portion of grant funds to provide such training. BIL Section 40541(f)(2) specifies: “An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section may use not more than 5 percent of the grant amounts for operation and maintenance training for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements, such as maintenance staff and teacher training, education, and preventative maintenance training.” "]
["DOE","DOE 4.10","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Will DOE assist in forming regional collaborations? ","See FOA Section I.A.iii.\nDOE will encourage eligible applicants to consider projects that create innovative, sustaining partnerships.  DOE is continuing to gather information for the “Teaming Partner List,” which allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and explore potential partnerships.  Updates to the Teaming Partner List will be available on the EERE Exchange website under this funding opportunity. \n\nDISCLAIMER:  By facilitating the Teaming Partner List, DOE is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals and organizations that are self-identifying themselves for placement on this Teaming Partner List. DOE will not pay for the provision of any information, nor will it compensate any applicants or requesting organizations for the development of such information (Section I.A.iii.).   "]
["DOE","DOE 4.11","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Does DOE have authority to enforce the stipulations of a performance contract? ","See Section FOA Section VI.B.\nDOE will exercise normal federal stewardship in overseeing the project activities performed under DOE awards. Stewardship Activities include, but are not limited to, conducting site visits; reviewing performance and financial reports; providing assistance and/or temporary intervention in unusual circumstances to correct deficiencies that develop during the project; assuring compliance with terms and conditions; and reviewing technical performance after project completion to ensure that the project objectives have been accomplished (Section VI.B.x.). \n\nDOE anticipates making awards that will run from 24 months up to 60 months in length, comprised of one or more budget periods. Project continuation will be contingent upon several elements, including satisfactory performance and DOE’s Go/No-Go decision (Section II.A.ii.). For a complete list and more information on the Go/No-Go review, see Section VI.B.xiv.  \n\nSee FOA Section I.A.iii.\nDISCLAIMER:  By facilitating the Teaming Partner List, DOE is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals and organizations that are self-identifying themselves for placement on this Teaming Partner List. DOE will not pay for the provision of any information, nor will it compensate any applicants or requesting organizations for the development of such information (Section I.A.iii.).   "]
["DOE","DOE 4.12","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","What role can state and local agencies play in facilitating projects? ","Potential assistance from and/or partnerships with State Education Agencies, State Energy Offices, Tribes, local governments, and other entities will vary by state. DOE encourages applicants to explore potential innovative partnerships.  "]
["DOE","DOE 4.13","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","Will DOE facilitate partnerships between schools and vendors? ","See FOA Section I.A.iii.\nDOE is continuing to gather information for the “Teaming Partner List,” first presented in the Notice of Intent (DE-FOA-0002858), in order to facilitate the formation of new project teams for this FOA. The Teaming Partner List allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and to explore potential partnerships. \n\nDISCLAIMER:  By facilitating the Teaming Partner List, DOE is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals and organizations that are self-identifying themselves for placement on this Teaming Partner List. DOE will not pay for the provision of any information, nor will it compensate any applicants or requesting organizations for the development of such information (Section I.A.iii.).   "]
["DOE","DOE 4.14","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","How does my organization join the Teaming Partner List? ","See FOA Section I.A.iii.\nAny organization that would like to be included on [the teaming partner] list should submit the following information: Organization name, generic organization contact email, generic contact phone, organization type, geographical area of interest, area of technical expertise (bulleted list less than 25 words), and brief description of capabilities (less than 100 words). Interested parties should email the information to SchoolsFOA@doe.gov with the subject line “Teaming Partner Information.\" (Section I.A.iii)\n\nDISCLAIMER:  By facilitating the Teaming Partner List, DOE is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals and organizations that are self-identifying themselves for placement on this Teaming Partner List. DOE will not pay for the provision of any information, nor will it compensate any applicants or requesting organizations for the development of such information (Section I.A.iii.).   "]
["DOE ","DOE 4.15","N/A","Partnering/Teaming","My organization submitted a request to be included on the Teaming List, yet I do not see us listed. How should we proceed?","To be added to the teaming list, please ensure that you have included the required information: Organization name, generic organization contact email, generic contact phone, organization type, geographical area of interest, area of technical expertise (bulleted list less than 25 words), and a brief description of capabilities (less than 100 words).  \n\nThe teaming list will be updated on a weekly basis."]
["DOE","DOE 5.1","N/A","Application Process","What level of needs assessment is required to create a competitive application, and who should conduct the needs assessment? ","DOE has made efforts to streamline the process for conducting a needs assessment, and has curated a list of free tools that LEAs can use to develop a baseline energy needs assessment for a school facility. These resources can help schools calculate the expected energy efficiency, energy savings, and safety benefits of different energy improvements. Applicants for this Funding Opportunity may utilize any of these resources if they do not have other needs assessment reports available. The tools have been designed for use by stakeholders with varying levels of expertise, but may require input from a building manager or operator. To access the list of free tools, visit the DOE website below:  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/school-needs-and-benefits-assessment-resources  "]
["DOE","DOE 5.2","N/A","Application Process","What tools has DOE made available to conduct a needs assessment? ","See FOA Section IV.C. and IV.D.\nDOE has compiled a variety of tools that can be used to assess needs that can be found on the DOE webpage (https://www.energy.gov/bil/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities, under “Related Resources”). Applicants can either utilize these tools to generate a facility needs assessment(s) or include a facility needs assessment(s) performed by a certified professional.  "]
["DOE","DOE 5.3","N/A","Application Process","Will needs assessments, audits, and/or benchmarking be reimbursed? ","See FOA Section IV.C. and IV.D.\nDOE has compiled a variety of tools that can be used to assess needs that can be found on the DOE webpage (https://www.energy.gov/bil/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities, under “Related Resources”). Applicants can either utilize these tools to generate a facility needs assessment(s) or include a facility needs assessment(s) performed by a certified professional. \n\nAll costs associated with submitting an application are ineligible and unallowable for reimbursement, but other pre-award costs are allowable as described below.\n\nSee FOA Section IV.J.ii.\nApplicants selected for award negotiations (selectee) must request prior written approval to charge pre-award costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the federal award directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency, through the DOE Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs cannot be incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. Pre-award expenditures are made at the selectee’s risk. EERE is not obligated to reimburse costs: (1) in the absence of appropriations; (2) if an award is not made; or (3) if an award is made for a lesser amount than the selectee anticipated. (Section IV.J.ii, Pre-Award Costs)"]
["DOE","DOE 5.4","N/A","Application Process","What are the funding avenues available for conducting a needs assessment should our LEA wish to hire a certified professional? ","DOE has made efforts to streamline the process for conducting a needs assessment, and has curated a list of free tools that LEAs can use to develop a baseline energy needs assessment for a school facility. These resources can help schools calculate the expected energy efficiency, energy savings, and safety benefits of different energy improvements. Applicants for this Funding Opportunity may utilize any of these resources if they do not have other needs assessment reports available. The tools have been designed for use by stakeholders with varying levels of expertise, but may require input from a building manager or operator.  To access the list of free tools, visit the DOE website below:  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/school-needs-and-benefits-assessment-resources  \n\nLEAs seeking professional needs assessments during the pre-selection/application phase of this Funding Opportunity assume the financial responsibility for such assessments at their own risk.  See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs:\nPre-award costs cannot be incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. Pre-award expenditures are made at the selectee’s risk. EERE is not obligated to reimburse costs: (1) in the absence of appropriations; (2) if an award is not made; or (3) if an award is made for a lesser amount than the selectee anticipated. \n\nInformation about financing options can be found at the following DOE webpages:   \nTax Credits, Rebates & Savings (organized by state):\nhttps://www.energy.gov/savings/dsire-page\nFinancing Energy Upgrades for K-12 School Districts | Department of Energy: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/financing-energy-upgrades-k-12-school-districts\nEnergy Savings Performance Contracting: A Primer for K–12 Schools | Department of Energy:  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/energy-savings-performance-contracting-primer-k-12-schools\nBetter Buildings Challenge K-12 Education Partners  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/node/1012596\nToolkit: Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) | Department of Energy\nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/articles/toolkit-energy-savings-performance-contracting-espc\nEnergy Savings Performance Contracting | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/energy-savings-performance-contracting\n(Webinar) Current Practices in Efficiency Financing: An Overview for State and Local Governments | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/downloads/current-practices-efficiency-financing-overview-state-and-local-governments\n(PDF) Current Practices in Efficiency Financing: An Overview for State and Local Governments | Department of Energy \nhttps://www.energy.gov/eere/slsc/downloads/current-practices-efficiency-financing-overview-state-and-local-governments-0"]
["DOE ","DOE 5.5","N/A","Application Process","What is the application process?","See FOA Section IV., Application and Submission Information.\nSee first page of FOA for deadlines, link to application portal, and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management (SAM) information.\nSee FOA Section VI.B.i., Registration Requirements. "]
["DOE ","DOE 5.6","N/A","Application Process","Do I need to submit one application/concept paper per school or one application inclusive of all schools in my local educational agency (LEA)?","DOE anticipates that an applicant would only submit a single application that is inclusive of multiple schools or school facilities. An entity may submit more than one Concept Paper and Full Application to this FOA, provided that each application describes a unique, scientifically distinct project and provided that an eligible Concept Paper was submitted for each Full Application. See FOA Section III.F."]
["DOE","DOE 6.1","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","How can we demonstrate renovation, repair, and improvement funding needs? ","See FOA Section IV.C.\nThe needs assessment in the Concept Paper should include a written summary and an evaluation, conducted either via one of DOEs resources (https://www.energy.gov/bil/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities, under “Related Resources”) or by a certified professional. Applicants must include a facility needs assessment for each school addressed in the proposal. (Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper ) See also FOA Section IV.D., Content and Form of the Full Application."]
["DOE","DOE 6.2","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","How is community need assessed? ","See FOA Section IV.C. \nContent and Form of the Concept Paper. The Energy Justice School Dashboard Tool (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov) was developed by DOE to help applicants derive relevant needs information on a school-by-school basis. (Section IV.C) See also FOA Section IV.D., Content and Form of the Full Application.  "]
["DOE","DOE 6.3","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","What is considered a “Disadvantaged Community”? ","See FOA Section I.A.\nPursuant to E.O. 14008 and the Office of Management and Budget’s Interim Justice40 Implementation Guidance M-21-28, DOE has developed a definition and tools to locate and identify DACs. These resources can be located at https://energyjustice.egs.anl.gov/. DOE will also recognize DACs as defined and identified by the White House Council of Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST), which can be located at https://screeningtool.geoplatform.gov/. \n\nDisadvantaged Community (DAC) designation is definied by DOE and not by other federal or state agencies. For more information on how DOE defines Disadvantaged Communities, please see: https://www.energy.gov/diversity/justice40-initiative"]
["DOE","DOE 6.4","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","What is considered a “high percentage” of students eligible for Free and Reduced-price lunch?   ","DOE does not intend to apply a strict cutoff line to the percentage of students eligible for Free and Reduced-price lunch. We will consider the percentage once we evaluate the applications during the merit review process."]
["DOE","DOE 6.5","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","What is considered a rural school? ","BIL Section 40541(d)(1)(ii) specifies:  \"(d) Priority (1) In general.--In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary shall give priority to an eligible entity--...(B)(iii) the partnering local educational agency of which is designated with a school district locale code of 41, 42, or 43, as determined by the National Center for Education Statistics in consultation with the Bureau of the Census.  \n\nSee NCES Locale Definitions at https://nces.ed.gov/surveys/annualreports/topical-studies/locale/definitions"]
["DOE","DOE 6.6","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","How can we demonstrate potential for energy savings?  ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper\nConcept Papers require a Facility Needs Assessment. Full Applications require a Facility Needs Assessment and must also address Benefits and Impact. \n\nSee FOA Section IV.D., Content and Form of the Full Application  \nThe applicant shall outline the expected benefits of the proposed project such as expected energy savings, energy efficiency improvements, health and safety benefits, greenhouse gas reductions and impacts to student learning. DOE has compiled a variety of tools to help estimate benefits that can be found on the DOE webpage (https://www.energy.gov/bil/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities, under “Related Resources”)”. "]
["DOE","DOE 6.7","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","How can we demonstrate commitment to maintain proposed school improvements? ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper \nConcept Papers must address plans to “execute and maintain improvements.” \n\nSee FOA Section IV.D., Content and Form of the Full Application\nFull Applications must assess “the expected needs of the eligible entity for operation and maintenance training funds and a plan for use of those funds. The applicant should also note the likelihood that the partnering local educational agency or eligible entity will maintain, in good condition, any school and school facility that is the subject of improvements.” "]
["DOE","DOE 6.8","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","What are DOE requirements for providing ongoing performance validation and reporting?   ","See FOA Section VI.B.xiii.\nReporting requirements are identified on the Federal Assistance Reporting Checklist, attached to the award agreement. This helpful EERE checklist can be accessed at https://www.energy.gov/eere/funding/eere-funding-application-and-management-forms. See Attachment 2 Federal Assistance Reporting Checklist, after clicking on “Model Cooperative Agreement\" under the Award Package section.\n\nAdditional reporting requirements apply to projects funded by BIL. As part of tracking progress toward key departmental goals – ensuring justice and equity, investing in the American workforce, boosting domestic manufacturing, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and advancing a pathway to private sector deployment – DOE may require specific data collection (Section VI.B.xiii, Reporting)."]
["DOE","DOE 6.9","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","How can we assess the impact of energy efficiency initiatives on students? ","See Section I.B.\nDOE will encourage eligible applicants to consider projects that improve student, teacher, and occupant health and enrich learning and growth.  Potential applicants for each topic area will be considered based upon, among other metrics, the potential energy efficiency and safety benefits from the proposed energy improvements. Proposals should demonstrate how energy improvements and innovations will result in direct reduction to school energy costs, increase energy efficiency, and lead to improvements in teacher and student health, including indoor air quality (Section I.B., Focus Areas for Topics).   "]
["DOE","DOE 6.10","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","How can we assess the impact of energy efficiency initiatives on the community at large (outside the school)? ","See FOA Section I.A.\nOne factor in determining awards is whether the school serves as a community asset (e.g. neighborhood cooling center or disaster recovery shelter). Furthermore, successful applicants will demonstrate plans for investing in their local economy. \n\nSee FOA Section I.D.\nTo support the goal of building a clean and equitable energy economy, the BIL-funded projects are expected to (1) support meaningful community and labor engagement; (2) invest in America’s workforce; (3) advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; and (4) contribute to the President’s goal that 40% of the overall project benefits flow to DACs (the Justice40 Initiative). To ensure these goals are met, applications must include a Community Benefits Plan that describes how the proposed project would incorporate the four objectives stated above."]
["DOE","DOE 6.11","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","What is the Justice40 Initiative, and how does it apply to this funding opportunity?   ","See FOA Section I.D.\nTo support the goal of building a clean and equitable energy economy, the BIL-funded projects are expected to (1) support meaningful community and labor engagement; (2) invest in America’s workforce; (3) advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; and (4) contribute to the President’s goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities (the Justice40 Initiative). (Section I.D, Community Benefits Plan)\n\nThe Justice40 Initiative, formalized by President Biden in Executive Order 14008, is a Whole-of-Government Initiative with the expressed goal of ensuring that “40 percent of the overall benefits of certain Federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution” (https://www.whitehouse.gov/environmentaljustice/justice40/). "]
["DOE","DOE 6.12","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","Will DOE prioritize unionized labor? ","See FOA Section I.A.i.\nAs part of the whole-of-government approach to advance equity and encourage worker organizing and collective bargaining, and in alignment with BIL section 40541, this FOA and any related activities will seek to encourage meaningful engagement and participation of workforce organizations, including labor unions, as well as underserved communities and underrepresented groups, including consultation with tribal nations. Consistent with Executive Order 14008, this FOA is designed to help meet the goal that 40% of the benefits of the Administration’s investments in clean energy and climate solutions be delivered to disadvantaged communities (DACs), as defined by the Department pursuant to the Executive Order and to drive the creation of accessible well-paying jobs with the free and fair chance for workers to join a union. (Section 1.A.i)  \n\nSee FOA Section I.B., Focus Areas for Topics \nLabor unions may be partners in a consortium.  \n\nAs per FOA Section I.D., “Applicants are encouraged to submit Community and Labor Partnership Documentation from established labor and community-based organizations that demonstrate the applicant’s ability to achieve the above goals as outlined in the Community Benefits Plan. Within the Community Benefits Plan, the applicant is encouraged to provide specific detail on how to ensure the delivery of measurable community and jobs benefits, ideally using negotiated agreements between the applicant and the community, and/or the applicant and labor unions referred to collectively here as “Workforce and Community Agreements.” These include good neighbor agreements, community benefits agreements, community workforce agreements, project labor agreements, and other collective bargaining agreements. This section is included in the project narrative template (see Section. IV.B).”"]
["DOE","DOE 6.13","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","Will DOE prioritize Project Labor Agreements (PLAs)/Community Labor Agreements (CLAs) Community Workforce Agreements (CWAs)? ","To support the goal of building a clean and equitable energy economy, the BIL-funded projects are expected to (1) support meaningful community and labor engagement; (2) invest in America’s workforce; (3) advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; and (4) contribute to the President’s goal that 40% of the overall project benefits flow to DACs (the Justice40 Initiative).To ensure these goals are met, applications must include a Community Benefits Plan that describes how the proposed project would incorporate the four objectives stated above (Section I.D) \n\nSee FOA Section I.D.\nApplicants are encouraged to submit Community and Labor Partnership Documentation from established labor and community-based organizations that demonstrate the applicant’s ability to achieve the above goals as outlined in the Community Benefits Plan. Within the Community Benefits Plan, the applicant is encouraged to provide specific detail on how to ensure the delivery of measurable community and jobs benefits, ideally using negotiated agreements between the applicant and the community, and/or the applicant and labor unions referred to collectively here as “Workforce and Community Agreements.” These include good neighbor agreements, community benefits agreements, community workforce agreements, project labor agreements, and other collective bargaining agreements. This section is included in the project narrative template (see Section. IV.B)(Section I.D).\n\nSee FOA Section I.F.\nBe advised that special terms and conditions apply to projects funded by the BIL, relating to (among other things): \n-Laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors on BIL-funded projects are paid wages equivalent to prevailing wages on similar projects in the area.   \n-Protecting whistleblowers and requiring prompt referral of evidence of a false claim to an appropriate inspector general. (Section I.F) "]
["DOE","DOE 6.14","N/A","Selection and Prioritization","Do applicants have any advantage if their application exceeds the minimum 5% (required) cost share?","See Section FOA Section V.A.ii., Criterion 3: Innovation and Scalability (20%) This criterion involves consideration of the following factors: \n-Extent to which the proposed technology, process, or project is innovative; \n-Extent to which the project is scalable both within the applicants LEA as well as how this could be replicable in other LEAs; and \n-Extent to which the project leverages additional funds.\n\n5% cost share is required however priority can be given to eligible entities that (per BIL Section 40541 (d)(1)(c)) \"leverage[s] private sector investment through energy-related performance contracting.\""]
["DOE","DOE 7.1","N/A","Further Information","What outreach events will DOE host to provide additional information about this funding opportunity? ","DOE held an instructional webinar on December 6, 2022. Links to the recording and transcript can be found on the EERE eXCHANGE website and on our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities\n\nAll questions and feedback during the webinar have been addressed in this Q&A spreadsheet. If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 1 ","2022-09-01","Further Information","I was informed of an upcoming grant opportunity in regards to the bipartisan infrastructure law for energy improvements at public school facilities.  In looking at the site for this grant, it says that the submission deadline was this past May.  Is this grant still available or is there another grant for which I can apply?  Any information that you can provide would be greatly appreciated.","See FOA Cover Page for timelines: Concept papers are due 1/26/2023 at 5:00pm ET; Full Applications are due 4/21/2023 at 5:00pm ET. Note that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application."]
["Emailed","E 2","2022-09-11","Application Process","I am contacting you to get more information on Finance Opportunities for School Facilities to become more energy efficient. I am wondering what application would my local School District / Power Company need to fill out to potentially qualify for this program? Any information would be greatly appreciated.","For application process information, see Question DOE 5.8"]
["Emailed","E 3","2022-09-14","Applicant Eligibility","1.\tAre public universities eligible or is this specifically K-12\n2.\tThe deadline for this year has passed. Will funding be available again in 2023? ","1. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Public universities are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant opportunity.\n2. See FOA Cover Page for timelines: Concept papers are due 1/26/2023 at 5:00pm ET; Full Applications are due 4/21/2023 at 5:00pm ET. Note that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application."]
["Emailed","E 4","2022-09-22",null,"Can you or your team provide any update on the program specifics and expected timeline for applications following the RFI?","See FOA Cover Page for timelines: Concept papers are due 1/26/2023 at 5:00pm ET; Full Applications are due 4/21/2023 at 5:00pm ET. Note that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application."]
["Emailed","E 5","2022-09-22",null,"I’m reaching out to see if there will be another round that will be opened for schools to apply for this specific improvement opportunity or if the deadline of 5/18/22 is it. \nI represent a small rural school with very outdated football field lights and we’re working on upgrading to a much more efficient LED option. \n","See FOA Cover Page for timelines: Concept papers are due 1/26/2023 at 5:00pm ET; Full Applications are due 4/21/2023 at 5:00pm ET. Note that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application.\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 "]
["Emailed","E 6","2022-10-05",null,"I am part of the school PTO for our local, private, not for profit school. We are working on updating our lighting to all LED within our school. Currently we have very outdated lighting and want to better the lighting in our school for our kids.  Can you advise IF we would qualify for any grant opportunities? We are a 501 c 3 organization.","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Private schools are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program.\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1."]
["Emailed","E 7","2022-10-10",null,"I have a potential nonprofit that has autisms schools within its portfolio. Is there any way we can still have them apply? Is there someone I can talk to?","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 8","2022-10-12",null,"I know that the application date is long past, but I was wondering if there were still funds available for the Improvement of HVAC systems in public schools?  We are in dire need of improvements and our initial quotes for a project such as this were unfortunately incorrect, leaving us very short of the dollars needed to complete such a project. ","See FOA Cover Page for timelines: Concept papers are due 1/26/2023 at 5:00pm ET; Full Applications are due 4/21/2023 at 5:00pm ET. Note that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application.\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1.\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 9","2022-10-13",null,"1. Can the funding to improve energy efficiency also be applied for by private schools in grades K-12?\n2. Will these funds be applied for directly to DOE or will the administrator of the funds be the state departments of education? ","1. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Private schools are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program.\n2. Applications and award administration are through DOE, not state departments of education. "]
["Emailed","E 10","2022-10-26","Emailed \nquestions","We are a non-profit school (PreK- Grade 8). 3 of our compressors at the middle school building is down and requires upgrades, HVAC BMS system (per our contracted service vendor). Is there a grant or funding available for a private non-profit like ours? If yes, can you please share necessary information? ","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Private schools are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program.\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 11","2022-10-26",null,"I was reviewing the 2022 RFI for Clean Schools. In the comments, I see that RFPs would be coming out this fall. To date, I have not seen the funding announcement. Can you share with me if this was allocated?","Financial Opportunities: Funding Opportunity Exchange (energy.gov)"]
["Emailed","E 12","2022-10-27","Emailed \nquestions","I would like to request any preliminary information you have related to this grant, we specifically would be interested in alternative vehicles, and alternative fuel vehicle infrastructure improvements. I see this is specifically for public school facilities, our public works department is the maintenance crew for the grounds of the school facilities in our small town of 6 schools/buildings at 3 properties.  ","For information on alternative fuel vehicle project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.5"]
["Emailed","E 13","2022-11-27","Emailed \nquestions","Can the grant opportunity be utilized to change incandescent lights to LED lights at a community college?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5\n\nFor updated information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 14","2022-10-27","Emailed \nquestions","As I was reviewing the NOI I couldn’t find the award ceiling for this grant. Is there an award ceiling for the Renew America’s Schools Grant?","For information on anticipated award amounts, see Question DOE 3.1\n\nFor updated information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 15","2022-10-28",null,"I’m a school board member and we are a community of about 3000 people in a rural town. Our school educates around 1100 kids K-12.  Being a small school, funding is hard to come by and we save every penny we can.  We are in desperate need of replacing some HVAC units, doors and windows to be more energy efficient.  I read with great interest recently about the potential grant funding for schools through the recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  I am interested in finding out more about this. I assume our district would need to submit a formal grant application, but any info you can send my way would be greatly appreciated. ","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on how community need is assessed, see Question DOE 6.2\nFor application process information, see Question DOE 5.8"]
["Emailed","E 16","2022-10-31","Emailed \nquestions","I'm emailing about the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  I'm curious if replacing lighting at an outdoor sporting venue--from traditional low efficiency incandescent lighting to high efficiency LED lighting--would be the type of project that would qualify for this grant?  Additionally, could you tell me if the grant is currently available to be applied for, and if so, could you help point me in the direction where I need to go to apply?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5\n\nFor updated information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 17","2022-11-01","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing as a teacher, on behalf of my school. After nine long years of our school being shuffled and displaced across our district, we FINALLY received a newly renovated school location of our very own where we will rejoin our K-5 team with our 6-12 and supporting staff teams.  Our school is a small, yet mighty one. \n\nWe are our district's only Alternative School with Mental Health Day Treatment built in.  I know this may not be the time or place to share our dreams with you for this space, however, I wanted to make sure we would qualify for this.  I am a teacher with a mission to rid the schools (and public places) of the terrible effects of fluorescent lighting.   As I am sure you can imagine, our small school must compete for funding, supplies, and services for our students as a minority population.  We have big dreams for this new school.  We strive every day to provide Trauma Informed Education with Mental Health Services specializing in providing the most up-to-date and innovative classroom ideas.  Our students are the MOST at-risk youth in this district, and they deserve the best of the everything.   ","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 \nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 18","2022-11-01","Emailed \nquestions","I am in the process of creating a labor compliance software program for public works, federal, HUD Housing, and PLA projects. I came across this grant on Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Would I be able to submit information to you on the software program I am creating regarding this grant option?","For information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 19","2022-11-01","Emailed \nquestions","I looked at the latest RFP  DE-FOA-0002858  for SCEP.  We are offering an energy storage system to a public university in California and want to know if our project will qualify for this program.","For information on eligible entities, see Question DOE 2.1\nFor information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 20","2022-11-02","Emailed \nquestions","What is the process to join the Teaming Partner List as we have applied to various DOE American Made Prizes as well as supporting other critical infrastructure workforce solutions.","For information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 21","2022-11-03","Emailed \nquestions","Is there more information available for the Renew America's Schools grant? Will upgrading schools to energy efficient windows be an eligible item for this grant?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 22","2022-11-04","Emailed \nquestions","Regarding the new Renew America's Schools grant opportunity: Does a school apply for it, or the school district?","For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3, DOE 2.4, DOE 2.5"]
["Emailed","E 23","2022-11-07","Emailed \nquestions","Would love to learn more about how we can start making improvements at our Elementary school. Is there a specific grant opportunity for solar panels? Any guidance on solar or other environmental impactful changes we can make would be much appreciated.","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 24","2022-11-07","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a K-12 school system that presently approved to receive funding from our State DOE. \n\nI have a couple of questions please:\n1.\tCan the referenced K-12 School System use both State DOE funds and the referenced grant/funding from the US DOE?\n2.\tIs the referenced grant designated to replace local tax revenues?","1.  For information on stacking State and Federal funds, see Questions DOE 3.2 and DOE 3.3\n     For information on combining different funding sources, see Question DOE 3.3\n2.  For further information on funding and its relation to selection criteria, see FOA Section V.C.i, Program Policy Factors:\n...the Selection Official may consider the following program policy factors in determining which Full Applications to select for award negotiations: \n     -The degree to which the proposed project, including proposed cost share, optimizes the use of available DOE funding to    \n      achieve programmatic objectives;\n     -The degree to which the proposed project supports complementary efforts or projects, which, when taken together, will \n      best achieve the research goals and objectives.  \n     -The degree to which the application leverages private sector investment through energy-related performance \n      contracting.\n"]
["Emailed","E 25","2022-11-08","Emailed \nquestions","I am interested in applying for the grant.  Can you tell me when the application will be available and what I need to do in order to get it filled out?  Our school is in need of new lighting throughout our schools and an energy management system to monitor and control our HVAC usage.  This is such a tremendous opportunity for our school system and the students.","For information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\n\nFor updated information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 26","2022-11-07","Emailed \nquestions","My company would like to be added to the Schools Teaming Partner list for this program. Can you please provide the requirements to be added?","For information on how to join the Teaming Partner List, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 27","2022-11-08","Emailed \nquestions","Are you still taking requests for the teaming list for the attached FOA? Also, are the Freely Associated States schools eligible for this opportunity (i.e. Palau, Republic of the Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia)?","For information on how to join the Teaming Partner List, see Question DOE 4.14\nFor information on eligibility of Freely Associated States schools, see Question DOE 2.4 "]
["Emailed","E 28","2022-11-11","Emailed \nquestions","Do you export to other countries?","For information on eligibility of schools not on U.S. soil see Question DOE 2.5"]
["Emailed","E 29","2022-11-09","Emailed \nquestions","For the purposes of the below FOA, are Community Colleges considered to be Local Education Agencies for the DoE EERE?","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Community colleges are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant opportunity. "]
["Emailed","E 30","2022-11-10","Emailed \nquestions","I am wondering if there are any specifics regarding when the grant application process will start?  We are a small district of three schools and an administrative office.  We are working on starting an LED lighting project throughout the district.  We hope to start the work in December or January.  I wonder if we will be able to use this grant to support the work we are looking to do concerning retrofitting LED lighting?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021)."]
["Emailed","E 31","2022-11-17","Emailed \nquestions","We are building a new PK-12 school building to consolidate multiple buildings within the District. The building new building will be built to achieve LEED Silver. Would there be opportunities for this projects’ eligibility in the Grants/Prizes program?","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 32","2022-11-17","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing to inquire as to when the applications will be open for the Infrastructure Law grants. As a public school district, I am excited to apply for this grant to help our community replace HVAC and building envelope items.  ","For information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\n\nFor updated information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 33","2022-11-18","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing to inquire if there was any program for energy improvements for private or faith based schools?","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 34","2022-10-27","Emailed \nquestions","I would like to be added to the distribution list when this becomes an RFP.  My organization would like to review and bid on this opportunity.","For information on how to join the Teaming Partner List, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 35","2022-11-14","Emailed \nquestions","I work with a company providing clients with innovative tech solutions through our product to effectively reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. We are interested in the prospect of joining the teaming list for Renew America's Schools initiative (DE-FOA-0002858) but have a few questions. \n\n1. When is the deadline for partnering companies to register themselves on the teaming list? \n2. When we apply to be a potential partner for schools to work with, will we be applying for the grant or will the school that chooses to work with us? \n3. Besides applying to be a partner, are we responsible for any part of the grant besides delivering our agreed-upon services? ","1.  For information on how to join the Teaming Partner List, see Question DOE 4.14\n2.  Organizations that submit their information to the Teaming Partner List may become part of a consortium with an LEA at the LEA's discretion, or they may be selected by an LEA as a vendor or contractor. As part of a consortium with an LEA, Teaming Partners may apply as prime recipients of the grants. For more information on the eligibility of grant recipients and subrecipients, see Question DOE 2.1\n3.  Responsibilities within a consortium, or between a consortium and vendors/contractors/other partner organizations, will vary per application and based on contractual/administrative obligations stipulated between parties prior to applying for grant funds.  For more information on responsibilities between parties...\n\nSee FOA Section III.A.ii., Incorporated Consortia:\nEach consortium must have an internal governance structure and a written set of internal rules. Upon request, the consortium must provide a written description of its internal governance structure and its internal rules to the DOE Contracting Officer.\n\nSee FOA Section III.A.iii., Unincorporated Consortia:\nUnincorporated Consortia must designate one member of the consortium to serve as the prime recipient/consortium representative. The prime recipient/consortium representative must qualify as a domestic entity. \n     Upon request, unincorporated consortia must provide the DOE Contracting Officer with a collaboration agreement, commonly referred to as the articles of collaboration, which sets out the rights and responsibilities of each consortium member. This agreement binds the individual consortium members together and should include the consortium’s:\n     -Management structure; \n     -Method of making payments to consortium members;\n     -Means of ensuring and overseeing members’ efforts on the project;\n     -Provisions for members’ cost sharing contributions; and\n     -Provisions for ownership and rights in intellectual property developed previously or under the agreement.\n\nSee FOA Section III.E.i.e.: \nThe prime recipient will be the responsible authority regarding the settlement and satisfaction of all contractual and administrative issues and FOA Section III.B.i. Although the cost share requirement applies to the project as a whole, including work performed by members of the project team other than the prime recipient, the prime recipient is legally responsible for paying the entire cost share. If the funding agreement is terminated prior to the end of the project period, the prime recipient is required to contribute at least the cost share percentage of total expenditures incurred through the date of termination.  The prime recipient is solely responsible for managing cost share contributions by the project team and enforcing cost share obligation assumed by project team members in subawards or related agreements.\n"]
["Emailed","E 36","2022-10-27","Emailed \nquestions","I saw your funding opportunity and would like to know more about the process and how our school could become involved.  We have buildings that were built in the 60's still use fluorescent lights, and steam boilers. ","For information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5  \nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\n\nFor updated information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 37","2022-11-15","Emailed \nquestions","I am looking for information on eligibility criteria for the Renew America’s Schools program. I am a parent in the school district, which is planning to undertake multi-year upgrades of all of the districts’ aging school buildings. The district does not have much expertise regarding energy efficiency or renewable energy options, and is interested in learning about assistance that might be available through the new funding opportunity. Specifically, the district is interested in obtaining energy audits for one or more buildings, as well as information on innovative, efficient technologies. \n\nPlease let me know if it would be possible to speak with someone at DOE about the program and it’s eligibility criteria.","For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3, DOE 2.4, DOE 2.5\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on energy audits, see Questions DOE 4.5\n\nIf you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 38","2022-11-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am interested in working on grant applications that will benefit our school district with respect to its energy usage. Unfortunately, when I tried to use the link provided, the page was not found. I am including the message sent out by our State Superintendent of Education.","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities \n\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5"]
["Emailed","E 39","2022-11-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am a teacher and I am writing to request information about funding to help finance a solar project that the school started in June of 2022 and will be completed in January 2023. It is a 150 kW, roof mounted system.\n\nThis is the second large solar array the district has completed following the installation of a 200 kW, ground mounted solar system in June of 2019.","For information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities\n\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021)."]
["Emailed","E 40","2022-11-21","Emailed \nquestions","I would like some more information about any grants that would help with improvements and lower energy costs for k-12 schools. ","For information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities\n\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5 \nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 41","2022-11-21","Emailed \nquestions","1. Please confirm if the Grant will focus on funding only renovation projects or will new buildings also be considered? The guidelines clearly outline the renovation and upgrading of facilities, but if a new energy efficient building is being built because the old building has exceeded its useful life, will this be considered for funding?\n2. For the application process, may an entity apply for the grant on behalf of a grant applicant, or must the application be entered into the system directly by the requestor of the grant? In other words, other Federal Grants that we work with require the application to be entered directly by a School District due to the direct reimbursement system they have in place. Is this grant application set up the same way?\n3. Please confirm the anticipated amount of award of individual grants and the match requirements of the grant. (i.e. will there be a minimum award or maximum award per project?) \n4. Is there a requirement for obtaining Project approval prior to bidding the project, and what are the estimated timelines for the DOE review and approval process?\n5. Please confirm what the required Federal Guidance Contract Clauses will be for this program. Other federal programs we have work with follow the guidance set forth under 2 CFR Part 200.","1.  For information on eligibility of new construction, see Questions DOE 1.8\n2.  For information on organizations eligible to apply, see Question DOE 2.2\n3.  For information on anticipated award amounts, see Question DOE 3.1. For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14\n4.  See FOA Cover Page for timelines: The expected date for Selection Notifications is 6/16/2023. The expected timeline for Award Negotiations is 6/17/2023-9/15/2023. For information on pre-award costs, see Questions DOE 5.3 and W 87.\n5.  Projects awarded under this funding opportunity will be governed by 2 CFR 200 and as amended by 2 CFR 910."]
["Emailed","E 42","2022-11-23","Emailed \nquestions","I own a small preschool and after school program. We have 3 small district schools and numerous local daycares. Until about 6 months ago we were the only preschool and we are committed to building a sustainable school for our kids to teach them about living in a safer way for the environment in a town that struggles to progress. \n\nI believe that this grant opportunity could help my school but also each school and push locals towards a more sustainable path. I have not been able to find an application online but would like to submit multiple on behalf of the district and my little learning center. \n","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. \n\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5  \n\nFor information about the Renew America's Schools Grant and the Energy CLASS Prize, please see the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities webpage:  https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 43","2022-11-28","Emailed \nquestions","Our district has been trying to get technical assistance on an outstanding matter in SAM.gov, which has prevented it from being able to move forward with applying for federal grants.  There is a pending request. The reason we are attempting to get this access is to get something called an \"MPIN,\" which should allow us to register on fedconnect.net.  Please let me know if I need to restart the request or if there is anything our district needs to do in order to move this process forward.","See FOA Section IV.G.\nIf entities have technical difficulties with the UEI validation or SAM registration process they should utilize the HELP feature on SAM.gov. SAM.gov will work entity service tickets in the order in which they are received and asks that entities not create multiple service tickets for the same request or technical issue. "]
["Emailed","E 44","2022-11-28","Emailed \nquestions","Do applications close today? I just came across this opportunity today. ","See FOA Cover Page for timelines: Concept papers are due 1/26/2023 at 5:00pm ET; Full Applications are due 4/21/2023 at 5:00pm ET. Note that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application."]
["Emailed","E 45","2022-11-29","Emailed \nquestions","I am inquiring about the Section 40541 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.  Our School District is considered a small school district with a free and reduced rate of 50% of the student population.  Both historically and currently, our General Operating Funds budget regrettably cannot support the cost of purchasing LED artificial light-systems for our softball and baseball fields.  Our facilities would be used by our local emergency management team as a shelter site, if needed. Our baseball and softball fields would be adequate for a helicopter to land to render aid. Would this purchase qualify for the above-mentioned grant? ","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 \nFor information on how community need is assessed, see Question DOE 6.2"]
["Emailed","E 46","2022-11-29","Emailed \nquestions","Two questions, please: \n\n1) Would you please clarify if the $15M maximum is for the duration of the project (i.e. $3M per year x five years = $15M) or for each project budget year (i.e. $15M per year x five years = $45M)? \n\n2) The link to register for the webinar on 12.6 is not working (please see screenshot). Is there a fresh link somewhere else? ","1. The $15M maximum is for the duration of the project.\n2. Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. Note that the webinar link on EERE eXCHANGE is static; please copy and paste into your web browser. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 47","2022-11-29","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, I clicked on the link to register for the webinar on 12/6 however it gives me an error message saying that the page no longer exits. Could you send me the updated link? Or let me know when it has been updated on the website?","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. Note that the webinar link on EERE Exchange is static; please copy and paste into your web browser. \nThe EERE Exchange Help Desk can be reached at: eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at EERE Exchange and at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 48","2022-11-29","Emailed \nquestions","Please clarify and point me to the published announcement detailing the required application content requirements.\n\n","Please find the published announcement and details at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 49","2022-11-29","Emailed \nquestions","I'm writing with a question in regards to the Renew America's Schools grant.\n\nIn the District, we have 70 Local Education Agencies (LEAs). One is a traditional public school system, the rest are public charter schools.\n\nI'm trying to understand whether multiple LEAs can apply on the same application together. For example, if multiple public charter school LEAs all intended to engage in similar energy efficiency upgrades, they might want to apply together. Or perhaps the public school system might want to apply along with public charter schools. Would a consortium that included one LEA as the \"prime\" and multiple schools from other LEAs be considered eligible so long as the consortium explained properly the relationship as detailed in the grant application?","Consortia may include coalitions of LEAs that apply jointly for their mutual benefit. Note that one consortium member must must be identified as the prime recipient when submitting the application. Whichever eligible entity, as prescribed in Section III.A of the FOA document, is registered in Exchange should be the prime recipient for the consortium.\nFor information on LEAs applying jointly, see Question DOE 4.2\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 50","2022-11-30","Emailed \nquestions","While there is some great detail here, I was trying to open one of the documents on the site titled: DE-FOA-0002756_-_BIL_40541_Renew_Americas_Schools (Last Updated: 11/29/2022 10:31 AM ET) and was getting an error when trying to open it. Are you able to pass along that specific document please? Also, can you provide some more detail on the Teaming Partner list and how companies / utilities might get added to that list, thanks!","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities \n\nFor information on joining the Teaming Partner List, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 51","2022-11-30","Emailed \nquestions","Would one of your program experts be willing to come on to our school to discuss the Renew America Schools Grant program for 10-20 minutes on the date of their choice? I would be happy to accommodate, as we would advertise to statewide local leaders, industry professionals, and school districts.","For information on outreach events related to this funding opportunity, see Question DOE 7.1"]
["Emailed","E 52","2022-11-30","Emailed \nquestions","We have never applied for a Dept of Energy grant and are unfamiliar with the terminology so I was hoping you could help interpret eligibility. Page 15 in the FOA talks about it. I am a bit perplexed if an LEA can actually submit the application. It talks about eligible consortiums and who they can include; but, then on the next page it talks about Prime recipients. LEAs are listed as mandatory for the consortiums but are not listed as Prime, unless we would fall under #4: \n\n1. IHEs\n2. For profit entities\n3. Non-profit entities\n4. State and local governmental entities, and Tribal Nations. \n\nAre LEAs eligible to submit an application? ","LEAs may submit applications and are eligible Prime recipients. "]
["Emailed","E 53","2022-11-30","Emailed \nquestions","I just received word about the new grants for energy and had a question. If awarded, can the money be used to replace our parking lot, building, and pathway lights? This is something we desperately need but a costly undertaking. ","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 54","2022-11-30","Emailed \nquestions","May I request clarification, for the alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on school grounds – does this include the District Transportation Center Yard that services the 106 schools and maintenance of school buses?  \n\nOr would the LEA District Transportation Center be excluded from this program for new electric charging stations (Level 2 and DC Fast Charging Equipment and Construction) if it is not on a school facility?","So long as the “school grounds” belong to the LEA (or the LEA’s schools) this would likely be considered an eligible location under Topic Area 2. "]
["Emailed","E 55","2022-11-30","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the requirement for the concept paper as outlined in the FOA.\n\n“DOE has developed the “Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools” (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov) to help applicants derive relevant needs information on a school-by-school basis. Applicants must use this tool to generate a report for each facility of the proposed project. All reports should be included with the concept paper submission as a standalone attachment.”\n\nDoes this mean that all assessments should be included in the single Concept Paper document?\n\nOR\n\nDoes this mean that each assessment should be attached in the EERE Exchange Portal as their own separate attachments?\n","See FOA Section IV.D.vi., Energy Justice Mapping Tool Report(s) \nFor applications proposing multiple locations, each location should have a standalone report. \n\nIt has come to our attention that applicants were only able to upload one file for each Concept Paper submission. EERE Exchange has been updated to align with the FOA and provides four locations to upload documents as outlined below.  \n\n1.\tConcept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description)  \n2.\tCommunity Need - EJ Report  \n3.\tFacility Needs Assessment  \n4.\tFiscal Need & Capacity  \n\nIf you have already submitted a concept paper, you must return to your submission and upload the required documents necessary for the Statement of Needs which includes: Community Need – EJ Report, Facility Needs Assessment, and Fiscal Need & Capacity. These documents are required in order to submit an eligible concept paper. Failure to submit these documents will result in an ineligible concept paper and therefore you will not be able to submit a full application.  \n\nAs a reminder, per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. "]
["Emailed","E 56","2022-11-30","Emailed \nquestions","Is there any information on what you are expecting (or a template) for the Concept Paper Submission due on January 26th? We have reviewed the initial information and don’t see that.","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 57","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","Can you please clarify the end date of the grant performance period? Is it 9/30/27?","Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11."]
["Emailed","E 58","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","Are non-public schools able to apply for the grant at the link below?","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 59","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","Under the \"Document\" section the first link seems to not download the correct document, which then cannot be opened.\n\n","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities. "]
["Emailed","E 60","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","I have a conflict for the time of the webinar.  Will it be recorded?","For information on the FOA webinar and webinar policies, see Question DOE 7.1"]
["Emailed","E 61","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","In some States, public charter schools are not their own LEA. Do you know if the nonprofits that hold the charter with the LEA and lease/own buildings can apply for these funds? I am I inquiring about both Renew America's Schools and the Energy Class competition.","For the Renew America's Schools FOA, as long as the application demonstrates a cosortium containing a LEA and a school, nonprofit, for profit, or community partner the application would be deemed eligible.\n\nFor questions pertaining to the Energy Class Prize, please refer to that program's FAQ: https://www.herox.com/energy-class/faq"]
["Emailed","E 62","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","I'm just curious as to whether the installation of solar is an eligible expense with this grant?\n\n","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 63","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","We'd like to learn more about grant eligibility.","For information on eligible entities, see Question DOE 2.1\nFor information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3, DOE 2.4, DOE 2.5"]
["Emailed","E 64","2022-12-01","Emailed \nquestions","It appears that the PDF file named below, made available under “Documents” under the FOA space on the EERE Exchange page is corrupt and does not open. Could you check?\nDE-FOA-0002756_-_BIL_40541_Renew_Americas_Schools ","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities. "]
["Emailed","E 65","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","We have large HRUs and RTUs on a secondary complex that need replacement at a rural school. We had planned like-for-like replacements but will replace the R-22 refrigerant system with an appropriate replacement refrigerant system.\n\nIs this an allowable type of project with the new grant? The systems are 2000 models and are reaching the end of their life.\n","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 "]
["Emailed","E 66","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question in regard to the application…  What parts of the application must be completed by the school district? What parts must be completed by the ESCO?  Can the ESCO complete the entire application for the school district?","Any member of the application consortium can submit an application as long as the overall applicant eligibility requirements are met (see Question DOE 2.2).\n\n"]
["Emailed","E 67","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","I was wondering whether there was still time to be an approved teaming partner for the Schools FOA and if so, what were the documentation requirements?","For information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 68","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","With regards to the two proposed topic areas, will new construction projects be eligible if the existing school building is beyond life and in need of repair?  Or, do the project monies only apply to renovation projects?","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 69","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","I'm a grant writing consultant, and I'm working with a client whose school building is beyond repair. Multiple systems are failing in this antiquated building, so that an entirely new facility is needed. \n\nThe new building's heating system and other systems will all be constructed with energy-efficiency best practices. So, can you please tell me if this grant can be used for some of the costs required to construct a new building -- rather than for improvements to an existing facility?\n","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 70","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","I would like information to participate in information Webinar announced in the above referenced FOA.  The documents state the event will take place on 12/06/2022.","For information on the FOA webinar and webinar policies, see Question DOE 7.1"]
["Emailed","E 71","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","The link for the Dec 6 webinar for Renew America’s Schools (Grant DE-FOA-0002756) is not working. Can you provide a new link?","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. Note that the webinar link on EERE Exchange is static; please copy and paste into your web browser. \nThe EERE Exchange Help Desk can be reached at: eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at EERE Exchange and at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 72","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","How should districts navigate this FOA opportunity in-conjunction with the IRA funds that are available so that they do not incur a potential duplication of benefits?","For information on combining grant funds with other government funds, see Question DOE 3.2\nFor information on combining different funding sources to complete projects, see Question DOE 3.3"]
["Emailed","E 73","2022-12-02","Emailed \nquestions","Interestingly enough, I just walked my campus with an Electrical Contractor to assist us in the area of Energy savings. We are desiring to convert our existing fluorescent fixtures to LED, and improve some LEDs that were a quick retrofit, that are either A) Insufficient Light, or B) Non or poorly functioning. Would this be possible to obtain funding for this project, and if so, what would be involved?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on eligibility of replacing equipment that is not at the end of life, but whose replacement would result in energy efficiencies, see question DOE 1.7"]
["Emailed","E 74","2022-12-05","Emailed \nquestions","1.\tIs this FOA open to funding of projects in higher education? Page 16, Section III-A-i. Domestic Entities, identifies “Institutions of Higher Education” as a proposed domestic prime recipient or subrecipient.\n\n2.\tWill State Energy Programs be involved with reviewing applications and/or receiving funds?  \n\n3.\tCan savings from the proposed project scopes be utilized for the prime recipient’s 5% cost sharing?  ","1. Funding is for projects benefiting K-12 public schools. Institutions of higher education may participate as consortia members and are eligible Prime recipients. See Questions DOE 2.1 and DOE 2.2 for applicant eligibility criteria. \n\n2. State Energy Programs will not be involved in application review nor in recieving/distributing funds. \n\n3. As per FOA Section III.B.iii., the recipient may not use revenues or royalties from the prospective operation of an activity beyond the project period to meet its cost share obligation. Energy savings (or costs that would have been paid to the utility for energy use) during the period of performance can be allocated to the award as cost share. In practice, energy savings may not be realized until later in the process and cost share is required on each invoice."]
["Emailed","E 75","2022-12-05","Emailed \nquestions","Do you know if Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded schools would be eligible to apply? Since they are considered federally-owned facilities, I am hoping to get your interpretation. I notice the announcement points to the BIL section 40541 for eligibility info, which in turn points to 20 USC 7801. 7801 has the definition listed below.","See FOA Section I.B.  \nFor definition of an LEA please see answer to question DOE 2.3 above. ESEA defines a \"State\" as each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and each of the outlying areas. Based on these definitions, LEAs in Freely Associated States, U.S. Territories, and BIE schools are eligible under this funding opportunity. "]
["Emailed","E 76","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","I am from a Schools Alliance. I am reaching out to find out more about the grant that our districts are asking about. As you know construction costs have skyrocketed recently, especially in rural areas and many of our districts are in the middle of projects and running out of money because of the increase. \n\nDoes this grant allow for an existing project to be funded to completion?\n\nSome districts have already accepted bids but have not started at all on the project. If bids are already complete can a district still apply for this grant?","For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021).\n\nFor bids that have already been accepted, please see the Competition in Contracting paragraph in FOA Section IV.J.viii.: \n\n\"If an eligible entity receiving a grant under this section uses grant funds to carry out repair or renovation through a contract, the eligible entity shall be required to ensure that the contract process—\n(1) through full and open competition, ensures the maximum practicable number of qualified bidders, including small, minority, and women-owned businesses; and\n(2) gives priority to businesses located in, or resources common to, the State or geographical area in which the repair or renovation under the contract will be carried out."]
["Emailed","E 77","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","I attempted to join the earlier webinar but was informed the meeting was full. Will the meeting be released for a later viewing?","A recording of the webinar and a copy of the slide deck are available at EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756."]
["Emailed","E 78","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","For public charter schools that are in their own facility, not an LEA owned facility (or public school building), are they eligible to be part of an LEA submission as a school facility? There are many public charter schools in leased or non-profit owned facilities because of charter school laws not providing facilities and these are public school students that also need facilities upgrades. There are states where public charter schools are their own LEA and they would be submitting directly, and there are other states/cities in which all public charter schools are part of their authorizing LEA, and the charter is with a non-profit organization.","For the Renew America's Schools FOA, as long as the application demonstrates a consortium containing a LEA and a school, nonprofit, for profit, or community partner the application would be deamed eligible. Please section III.A of the FOA document for full eligibility information."]
["Emailed","E 79","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the Buy America requirement for DOE FOA 0002756. Is this requirement specifically targeting construction material or all components of the proposed project, including the technology that will be providing the energy efficiency and health benefits to the school? If, for example, the proposed technology is novel and only developed and manufactured in a specific European country, would this violate the Buy America Requirement? Would a waiver be required to allow the use of this technology?","See FOA Appendix B for comprehensive information pertaining to the Buy America requirement. In limited circumstances, DOE may waive the application of the Buy America Requirement; see FOA Appendix B Section D for more information. \n\nThe Buy America Requirement only apply to articles, materials, and supplies that are consumed in, incorporated into, or affixed to an infrastructure project. As such, it does not apply to tools, equipment, and supplies, such as temporary scaffolding, brought to the construction site and removed at or before the completion of the infrastructure project. Nor does the Buy America Requirement apply to equipment and furnishings, such as movable chairs, desks, and portable computer equipment, that are used at or within the finished infrastructure project but are not an integral part of the structure or permanently affixed to the infrastructure project."]
["Emailed","E 80","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a School District which is a small rural community.  We are working on bringing renewable energy technology throughout the school district for combined heating and power thus replacing antiquated/end of life systems.  Additionally, the systems will allow schools within the district to continue to function during common rolling blackouts instituted by our utility company when there is an increased risk of a wildfire around its infrastructure.\n\nI would like to have access to the downloadable files so that I may further assist the School District in this endeavor.  I work as a volunteer which is very much engaged in the establishment of a biomass processing infrastructure for the County.  I understand that I need to sign up for eCivis which I am more than happy to do; however, I would like clarification as to whether I am eligible to do so as I work with governmental agencies and private companies not for.\n","To access the announcment document for this funding opportunity you do not need to have an with Exchange. The funding opportunity announcement document is located uner the header \"Documents\" DE-FOA-0002756_-_BIL_40541_Renew_Americas_Schools.\n\nFor eligibility information please see Section III.A. of the FOA document."]
["Emailed","E 81","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","Can the grant funds also be used for electric buses? ","For information on alternative fuel vehicle project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.5\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 82","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","If a submitted application is accepted and an award is given, is the LEA/school district responsible for the project cost up front and the award reimbursed upon project completion?","Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11. If awarded, project costs must be incurred by the consortium prior to reimbursement by DOE. If awarded, invoices to DOE can be submitted as frequently as monthly. Please see FOA Section IV.J.x. for more information."]
["Emailed","E 83","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","Are preschools eligible for funding?\n\n","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 84","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","Can an LEA partner with its own schools? Would this qualify as a consortium?","Yes, an LEA can apply with one of its own schools as a consortium. See Question DOE 2.1."]
["Emailed","E 85","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","When using the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools, there are a couple of public schools that I have not been able to locate when searching by school name, school NCES ID, or listed under their school district. How should I proceed since a report is required for each school?","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 86","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","1. How detailed does a concept paper need to be for application? Are there any specific criteria that must be included in the concept paper for approval?\n\n2. How do you decide what is a worthy application?\n\n3. How fast is application approval?\n\n4. When are the funds awarded after approval?\n\n5. Is there an auditing process after approval and funding award? What sort of follow-up documentation requirements might there be once a project starts?\n\n6. Is there a direct contact we may be in touch with for any other questions?","1.  See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. \n\n2. For information of project types that would be competitive to recieve funding, see Question DOE 1.3. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13\n\n3. Applicants will have approximately 30 days from receipt of the Concept Paper Encourage/Discourage notification on EERE Exchange to prepare and submit a Full Application (FOA Section IV.D.). \n\nSee FOA Cover Page for timelines. Concept Papers are due 1/26/23. Full Applications are due 4/21/23. Expected date for DOE selection notification is 6/16. Excpected timeframe for award negotiations is 6/17/23-9/15/23. \n\n4. Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11.\n\n5. For audit information please see FOA Section VIII.Q., Annual Independent Audits. For reporting on the award, please see FOA Sections VI.B.viii., Reporting, & xiv, Go/No-Go Review.\n\n6. Answers to all inquiries will be posted on this FAQ, which will be updated frequently. Please do not contact any DOE staff members with questions pertaining to the FOA. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, all questions submitted - either during the webinar or through email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov - will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 87","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","My understanding is that the Renew America’s Schools grant program is for “high-need” public districts. A lot of NYS schools are wondering if they are eligible for the program. Is there a list of schools which are eligible to participate in the program? I understand that you have the Energy Justice Dashboard and that schools are required to submit the report for each application, but I wasn’t sure if a list of eligible schools actually exists.","No such list exists. A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 88","2022-12-06","Emailed \nquestions","Is there an official Concept Paper application/form to complete like the Full Application project narrative template? I don’t see a Concept Paper form in the FOA. Or do we create our own Concept Paper application and include the required information?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 89","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","If the LEA is submitting the application and public charter schools are included in that submission, will the non profit that holds the charter need to have a SAM ID at the time of submission or in order to receive the funding if approved? Are any of the other registration requirements applicable for the charter school operator (non profit), if they are being submitted under the LEA application such as the EERE exchange registration, FedConnect, or Grants.gov?\n\n","The Prime entity of the consortium should be the entity registered in Exchange and submitting the application. Any subrecipients of the award, as defined in 2 CFR 200.1, must have a UEI number but subrecipients do not have to be fully registered in SAM. Only the prime entity of the consortium MUST be fully registered in SAM, FedConnect and Grants.gov. Any subcontractors (vendors) do not need a UEI number or need to be fully registered in SAM."]
["Emailed","E 90","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","During yesterday’s webinar, the presenter said that some Q&A’s had already been posted to the xCHANGE site for the Renew America’s Schools FOA, but I do not seem them under the FOA description. Could you please provide a link or other information on where to find these?","A recording of the webinar and a copy of the slide deck are available at EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756. See the section titled \"Webinar Details.\""]
["Emailed","E 91","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","I work at a Cooperative Educational Service Agency, and our team is getting quite a few questions about this FOA.\n\n1.\tBoth school districts and Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESAs) have LEA numbers. Are both of these organizations considered LEAs under this funding opportunity and eligible to apply as prime recipients?\n\n2.\tAre we limited on the number of applications we submit as we form partnerships with various school districts?","1. BIL Sec. 40541 specifies: “The term \"local educational agency” is defined in Section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. According to the Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR 300.28), a \"Local education agency or LEA means a public board of education or other public authority legally constituted within a State for either administrative control or direction of, or to perform a service function for, public elementary or secondary schools in a city, county, township, school district, or other political subdivision of a State, or for a combination of school districts or counties as are recognized in a State as an administrative agency for its public elementary schools or secondary schools.\"\n\nLEAs are eligible Prime recipients. \n\n2. See Question DOE 5.6"]
["Emailed","E 92","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","We have a metropolitan planning organization that is working with multiple high-need, urban LEAs (each with multiple school partners) along a bi-state corridor that have been looking forward to this opportunity posting.\n\nUpon reading the FOA, it looks to me as though each LEA should apply on its own rather than come together as the FOA defines eligible consortia as ONE LEA and then one or more of the following other entities. \n\nOr could this be a consortium of multiple LEAs, schools within each, and the metropolitan planning organization, submitting a Topic 2 Concept Paper that would include a combination of two or more of the allowable energy improvements across the bistate region. Can you confirm?","Consortia may include coalitions of LEAs that apply jointly for their mutual benefit. Note that one LEA or other consortium member must be identified as the prime recipient. \nSee Question DOE 4.2."]
["Emailed","E 93","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","A concept paper is due 01/26/2023. I do not find this form in the documentation. Can you please provide assistance?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 94","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","How could I determine if our school would qualify as a “Highest Need School” for the Renew America’s Schools grant program? I am wanting to determine if we should submit an application for this grant. \nAlso, Do you by chance know where the link is to the recorded webinar from 12/6/22?\n","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13\n\nA recording of the webinar and a copy of the slide deck are available at EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756."]
["Emailed","E 95","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","I receive an error message each time I attempt to print the worksheet tabs on the SEA Form. Without printing them out it will be very hard to have my building managers fill out the required specifications. I notice the worksheet is protected… perhaps that is why it is not allowing me to print? Please let me know how I might resolve the issue. ","DOE recommends saving to a PDF then sending the PDF copy to the printer. Printing straight from the Excel file will not work. \n\nThe \"Page Break Preview\" has been set to easily print Tab III. If you are looking to print out tabs beyond Tab III you will need to adjust the \"Page Break Preview\" located under the \"View Tab\"."]
["Emailed","E 96","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","Are energy improvements to the school board building (owned by the LEA) likely to be allowable with this funding or if this is just for schools themselves?","Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nDOE encourages applications that focus on focus on student-occupied buildings. Please indicate how the energy savings of this building would benefit students and/or the community in your application. "]
["Emailed","E 97","2022-12-07","Emailed \nquestions","The deadline for concept paper submission is January 26, 2023. How soon thereafter will we receive determination to encourage or discourage the submission of a full application?","Applicants will have approximately 30 days from receipt of the Concept Paper Encourage/Discourage notification on EERE Exchange to prepare and submit a Full Application (FOA Section IV.D.). All applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result. Concept Papers are due 1/26/23. Full Applications are due 4/21/23."]
["Emailed","E 98","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","1. If a school has had an Investment Grade Audit or similar facility assessment completed by a certified professional in the past, is there a timeframe that audit needed to be completed within to meet DOE’s requirements? For example, would one completed 2-3 years ago still apply if those projects have not been completed yet?  \n\n2. If multiple LEAs apply on a single Concept Paper/Application, can another organization (community partner, etc.) be the prime recipient, or does it have to be one of the LEAs? ","1. DOE encourages audits/facilities assessments that have been conducted within the past five years. Older assessments can be included for reference, but in that case DOE recommends also completing a needs assessment via DOE's freely available tools (see Question DOE 5.2).   \n\n2. An application consortium designates a Prime recipient. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. LEAs are also eligible Prime recipients. "]
["Emailed","E 99","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","My school district recently bid out replacement of boilers and chillers. Would they be eligible to apply for the “Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities: BIL: Renew America’s Schools – FY22” grant if already bid out?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\n\nFor information on bids in process or have already been completed please see answer to question E 82. "]
["Emailed","E 100","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","We are a DOE qualified ESCO but were not directly notified of this opportunity. Were DOE qualified ESCOs notified directly? We want to know if we missed an email or what that announcement process was.","All announcements related to this FOA have been made publicly and no organization was directly notified. To maintain procurement integrity everybody was notified in the same public manner. The funding announcement was made public on 11/29. "]
["Emailed","E 101","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","Are State Agencies like the State Dept. of Education and/or the State Dept. of Energy able to “Prime recipients” under this FOA’s requirements? Or would we be considered “subrecipients”? Additionally, are local schools able to apply directly to receive funding? Are individual school divisions or districts able to apply directly for this funding? \n\nWe are trying to better understand if we would be competing directly with individual schools or school districts if we submitted an application. Would you also be able to share whether or not a partnership between The State Department of Education and The State Department of Energy, that would apply for a larger amount of the funding, in order to be dispersed to sub-recipients is something that was envisioned when the program was established? Would that type of arrangement be viewed favorably or is that not what the intent of the program/FOA was designed for?\n","1. An application consortium designates a Prime recipient. The proposed prime recipient and subrecipient(s) must be domestic entities. The following types of domestic entities are eligible to participate as a prime recipient or subrecipient of this FOA:\n\n1. Institutions of higher education; \n2. For-profit entities;\n3. Non-profit entities; and\n4. State and local governmental entities, and Tribal Nations.\n\nTo qualify as a domestic entity, the entity must be organized, chartered, or incorporated (or otherwise formed) under the laws of a particular state or territory of the United States; have majority domestic ownership and control; and have a physical place of business in the United States. (FOA Section III.A.i.)"]
["Emailed","E 102","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","I see the Q&A’s for Renew America’s Schools have been posted, but when you click the link it opens an unintelligible string of HTML.  Can you please post this as a PDF, spreadsheet, etc?","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to swiftly resolve. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 103","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","I will be writing for projects in multiple buildings within our one school district. Some of the building projects fall under Topic 1, another under Topic 2 and one under both topics. My question: Should there be a Concept Paper for Topic 1 and a Concept Paper for Topic 2 and only one Full Application as long as the control number is the same on all the application documents?\nOr... should both Topics be included under one Concept Paper since they are within the same school district?","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 104","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","Would you consider active transportation investments (secure bike parking, safe routes to schools) as part of the Renew America's Schools Grants? We'd love to encourage more mode shift for parents, students, and staff as our city continues to invest in active transportation and transit.","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1. Given your example of active transportation investments, those activities are ineligible under this funding opportunity. "]
["Emailed","E 105","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","1.  Should applicants (consortiums) only apply for projects aligning with one topic area per application? (Either Topic 1 or Topic 2 per page 10 of the FOA?) \n\n2.  We are a school district (LEA). Do we need to partner with at least one each of the following? Or is just one of the following sufficient? (per page 15 of the FOA): \n\n•\tSchools; \n•\tNonprofits \n•\tFor-profits \n•\tCommunity partners \n\n3. If it is one each, can we as the school district/LEA partner with one of our own schools?  ","1. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. See also Question DOE 5.6.  \n\n2. A consortium requires one or more of the four bullets. A consortium may consist of an LEA applying on behalf of one or more schools. Partnering with a nonprofit, for-profit, or other community partner is encouraged but optional. See FOA Section III.A., Eligible Applicants. \n\n3. Yes, the school district/LEA can apply with one of its own schools as a consortium. See Question DOE 2.1."]
["Emailed","E 106","2022-12-08","Emailed \nquestions","Our state energy office attended a webinar on the Renew America’s Schools grant program, and they had a few follow-up questions I was hoping you could answer re: selection criteria: \n\n“One of the criteria is that the school/LEA has to partner with a for-profit or non-profit.  We were not clear about having to go out to bid for any work while at the same time partnering with a for-profit company (like a heating system installer or a performance contractor) that would help with the application and bid on the project.”\n","BIL Section 40541(a)(3) specifies: \"The term ``eligible entity'' means a consortium of--(A) 1 local educational agency; and (B) 1 or more--(i) schools; (ii) nonprofit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; (iii) for-profit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; or (iv) community partners that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.\" \n\nNote that partnering with a non-profit/for-profit is not a requirement. \n\nPartner organizations may apply as prime recipients on behalf of an LEA, as long as their partnership with that LEA is clearly established and defined. "]
["Emailed","E 107","2022-12-09","Emailed \nquestions","We are an independent school, but 98% of our students are here one public funded monies. I'm hopeful that given this, we might still apply for FOA granting.","Please see Question DOE 2.1"]
["Emailed","E 108","2022-12-09","Emailed \nquestions","How do Charter Schools fit into this funding?  And, please say more about Area Learning Centers and how they fit.","Please see Question DOE 2.1"]
["Emailed","E 109","2022-12-09","Emailed \nquestions","In the overview it states the anticipated Period of Performance is for 24 to 60 months, does that mean the payback has to be within that time period?","Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11."]
["Emailed","E 110","2022-12-09","Emailed \nquestions","Our team has a few questions regarding the cost share / local match requirement.\n\n1. Can the 5% required cost share be a local match from our local / operating budget or does it need to come from our CIP fund or can it come from a blend of the local match and CIP fund?\n\n2. Regarding the 5% required cost share, can this be additional work performed at the same school? For example, if we received grant funding for school ABC to do HVAC replacement, and then we self-funded roofing replacement at the same school as the in-kind local match, is that acceptable?\n\n3. Is there a preference on the number of schools we should target in our concept paper? We have a short list of 9 potential schools, but we’re considering targeting 2-4 total for concept papers. \n\n4. Would it be better to have one concept paper per school or one concept paper for all schools with projects?","1. Operating budgets can be used as cost share provided that the source of those funds are not federal dollars. Similary if the Captial Improvement Plan/Program funds are not federal then they can be used as cost share. \n\n2. The 5% cost share must go towards an \"energy improvement\" as defined in Section 40541(a)(4) of the BIL: \"(A) any improvement, repair, or renovation to a school that results in a direct reduction in school energy costs,\nincluding improvements to the envelope, air conditioning system, ventilation system, heating system, domestic hot\nwater heating system, compressed air system, distribution system, lighting system, power system, and controls of\na building; (B) any improvement, repair, or renovation to, or installation in, a school that--(i) leads to an\nimprovement in teacher and student health, including indoor air quality; and (ii) achieves energy savings; (C) any\nimprovement, repair, or renovation to a school involving the installation of renewable energy technologies; (D) the\ninstallation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on school grounds for-- (i) exclusive use of school buses,\nschool fleets, or students; or (ii) the general public; and (E) the purchase or lease of alternative fueled vehicles to\nbe used by a school, including school buses, fleet vehicles, and other operational vehicles.\"\n\n3. Please see section III.A of the FOA document for full eligibility requirements. \n\n4. See Question DOE 5.6. An application must address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. "]
["Emailed","E 111","2022-12-09","Emailed \nquestions","We have a local public school district or LEA by federal definition that we have partnered with on State Capital loan programs where the eligible applicant had to be a public authority and could not be an LEA.\n\nThis LEA recently attended a webinar on DE=FOA-OOO2756 and is of the impression that there needs to be a minimum of 2 partners to apply for Energy Improvements at Public K-12 Schools  1) an LEA and 2) an organization with the technical knowledge for the energy improvements.  \n\nThe Air Quality in the existing school buildings has been an ongoing concern and the LEA has hired engineers with that technical knowledge – does a for-profit expert qualify?  Are you referring potential candidates to any local resources for that energy improvement partner?  ","The following types of domestic entities are eligible to participate as a prime recipient or subrecipient of this FOA: institutions of higher education; for-profit entities; non-profit entities; and state and local governmental entities, and tribal nations (Section III.A.i). See Question DOE 2.1.\n\nFor Teaming List information, see Question DOE 4.13"]
["Emailed","E 112","2022-12-09","Emailed \nquestions","I am having issues viewing the \"Webinar slides\" pdf.\n\nIt has given me issues when I tried downloading from the EERE exchange site as well.\n","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to swiftly resolve.\nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 113","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","Is the purchase of generators an eligible expense under Topic Area 2 for this program?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 "]
["Emailed","E 114","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing on behalf of an energy committee to see if our local school would be eligible to apply for this funding opportunity. We are exploring solar for our regional high school and are also considering solar for our local elementary school. Our area is low income and included in our state's environmental justice map (see green below), but is not included as a Disadvantaged Community (DOA) on the map provided with this funding announcement. Any clarity on this prior to Thursday would be very helpful when our group meets next.","DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. \n\nPlease note that Disadvantaged Community (DAC) designation is definied by DOE and not by other federal or state agencies. For more information on how DOE defines Disadvantaged Communities, please see: https://www.energy.gov/diversity/justice40-initiative"]
["Emailed","E 115","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a site that list the schools that are currently bidding for projects that can be funded under this FAO?","For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1 and 2.2\nFor information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14\n\nSpecific information on which entities are applying to any funding opportunity is not public information, however potential applicants and partnering entities may list their information in the Teaming Partner List. "]
["Emailed","E 116","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","1. Is this grant only for school infrastructure only? We are a government organization that supports local school districts. Would we qualify to apply for this grant?\n\n2. If we would, when are the work dates?  If it is submitted by January, as long as the work is done during or after January 2023, would it be reimbursed by this grant?","1. A government organization is a potential consortium member. For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1 and 2.2.\n\n2. Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11."]
["Emailed","E 117","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","We're a small school (Pre through 8th grades). Are we eligible to apply for consideration for this grant?","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Private schools are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program."]
["Emailed","E 118","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","Does the Concept Paper only include the Cover Page (1 page) and the Project Description (2 pages maximum) and the Statement of Need (which doesn't have a page limit)?","Correct. See See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 119","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","I have tried several times to download DE-FOA-0002756_-_BIL_40541_Renew_Americas_Schools, but it cannot be opened using Adobe as it is “damaged”. Please email me the this document.","Please continue to bring any such issues to our attention at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. We will work to resolve issues swiftly. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \nPlease continue to check back at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756 and at our landing page: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities"]
["Emailed","E 120","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","We need clarification on Page 1 and Page 2 of the Project Narrative Template. The clarification is where the template requests Technical Contact on Page 1 and Additional Key Project Participants and Organizations on Page 2, what if those contacts/firms/partners have not been selected at this time due to other construction projects being underway? ","Since partners are not required at this stage of the application process, this information is not required. Note that applications must be consortia, but an LEA with a school suffices."]
["Emailed","E 121","2022-12-12","Emailed \nquestions","1. Whether a school serves a high percentage of Free and Reduced-Price Meals – what is the threshold for high percentage? Is it above 50% FRPM or can you specify the minimum rate to qualify for “high percentage”? \n\n2. If a local education agency is Not designated with school district codes 41 (fringe), 42 (distant), or 43 (remote) as determined by NCES such as urban school districts, will this prevent an applicant to score within funding range? \n\n3. Is private sector investment through energy related performance contracting necessary for an applicant to score within the funding range? Or can other forms of private investments apply or support a school district equally? \n\n4. Please provide detailed examples of community and labor partnerships and examples of established labor and community-based organizations with workforce and community agreements. Could this alternatively and equally include community college partners, career technical education programs, trade groups and industry partners?","1. See Question DOE 6.4\n \n2. A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. For information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13 \n\n3. Private sector investment through energy related performance contracting is encouraged but not required, and other partnerships and funding sources may be leveraged instead. See Questions DOE 4.5, DOE 4.6, DOE 4.7, DOE 4.10\n\n4. Per the administration’s priorities, partnerships with labor unions are encouraged because formal collective bargaining agreements provide assurances that workers are skilled and trained and that the jobs are high-quality jobs. Other agreements do not provide the same assurances. There is flexibility in how applicants respond, and a continuum on how proposals are scored.\n\nFor additional information on Community Benefits Agreements, please see this toolkit which includes FAQs and and other guidance: https://www.energy.gov/diversity/community-benefit-agreement-cba-toolkit"]
["Emailed","E 122","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","Can the 20% cost share requirement be allocated in the budget as in-kind services or school district personnel's time allocated for the 2022 Funding Opportunity Announcement for Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities DE-FOA-0002756 grant? ","The cost share requirement is 5%. Note that the 20% figure was part of an example intended to illustrate how cost share is calculated. Per FOA Section III.B.iii., Cost Share Types and Allowability, project teams may provide cost share in the form of cash or in-kind contributions.\n\nSee also Question DOE 3.14 or FOA Section III.B. "]
["Emailed","E 123","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","I am working on a Concept Paper for our charter school for this grant. I see that a required portion of our project proposal is a facilitated report generated through the ‘Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools.” (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/) Unfortunately, I am not seeing our school in the database. Could you please provide any support on how to proceed to ensure we meet the application requirements?","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 124","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","Must an LEA or a School be located in a \"Disadvantaged Community\" as defined by the Energy Justice Tool to be eligible for funding? Or is location only a factor in determining the merit of an application and award?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 125","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","In reviewing the Webinar information, the “Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools” document came into question.  The map shows public schools and Disadvantaged Communities (DACs).  Are schools within the DACs the only schools that will be eligible for Energy Improvements at Public K-12 Schools?  Are high poverty schools not listed in a DAC area eligible to be recipients of this grant?","A school may be high-poverty yet not show DAC designation under the Energy Justice Mapping Tool. DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. \n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 126","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","We just opened a new school campus in August of 2022 and the school is not yet listed on the Dept of Energy \"Energy Justice Dashboard\". How do we access this information?","The FOA has been modified as of 12/22/2022 to include an Energy Justice report template. Please see the Application Forms and Templates section under this FOA posting, and referenced in sections IV.C and IV.D.vi of the FOA document"]
["Emailed","E 127","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","On the DOE website that is linked for the School Needs and Benefits Assessment Resources, it gives 3 Options for this assessment. Option 3: Third Party Needs Assessment, does this mean we can provide a needs assessment for the application and not use SEA form which is listed as Option 1? Our school district is just looking at applying for hvac and solar (topic area 2) and have already performed a utility analysis. Is this sufficient if the analysis is performed just for the scope we are interested in? Or, would we need to perform a full needs assessment in this case? ","Any of the options presented are acceptable. Using two or more options is not required. If using Option 3: Third Party Needs Assessment, using resources from Option 1 is not necessary.\n\nAs long as the utility analysis identifies the existing conditions and identifies the estimated costs, savings, and health and safety benefits of the proposed project, the utility analysis is sufficient."]
["Emailed","E 128","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","I am currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Construction Management. My colleagues and I are interested in this FOA and are planning to submit a concept paper. We have a question: Can we make a change to the list of participating schools and other co-PIs after we submit the concept paper (PI and LEA will remain the same in the full application)? ","Yes, partners can be added or removed up until the submission of the full application deadline as long as all eligibility requirements are met."]
["Emailed","E 129","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","We are a public charter school that resides on leased land. Are we eligible for the grant funding?","LEAs do not need to hold title to the property, but must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the full application as a Letter of Commitment (Section IV.D.v.)"]
["Emailed","E 130","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","Quick question about this application. Is there a local match required from the school division? Also, can this be used to replace EOL HVAC? We have many units that are 15-20 years old.","For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 or FOA Section III.B. \nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 131","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","The project we are considering submitting for funding would include significant solar PV for one of our public school district clients.\n\nSteel, racking, wire, switchgear can be sourced domestically.  But it nearly impossible to secure PV modules and inverters manufactured in the USA at this time.  There is very limited domestic capacity at present and what capacity there is, is committed to very large renewable energy developers.  And its not clear that panels assembled in the USA would meet the 55% component threshold since all wafer capacity is overseas.\n\nWill SCEP waive the Buy America requirement on equipment, if it can be demonstrated that it cannot be met?\n","In limited circumstances, DOE may waive the application of the Buy America Requirement in an award where DOE determines that:\n(1) applying the Buy America requirements would be inconsistent with the public interest (Public Interest);\n(2) the types of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials are not produced in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available quantities or of a satisfactory quality (Non-Availability); or\n(3) the inclusion of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials produced in the United States will increase the cost of the overall project by more \nthan 25 percent (Unreasonable Cost).\n\nSee FOA Appendix B for more information. "]
["Emailed","E 132","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","May funds received through the Energy Improvements at Public K-12 Facilities - Bipartisan Infrastructure Law - Renew America's Schools grants be used for new school building projects?","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 133","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","Can the 5% cost-share come from state funding sources? ","Per FOA Section III.B.iii., Cost Share Types and Allowability, project teams may use funding or property received from state or local governments to meet the cost share requirement, so long as the funding was not provided to the state or local government by the federal government. "]
["Emailed","E 134","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","Our County Schools just completed two $10m Geothermal HVAC replacements at our 25 year old sister elementary schools.  Both had old fuel/electric HVAC systems that were failing including hot water pipes deteriorating from the inside (inferior imported piping from 25 years ago) and bursting.\n\nIs there an opportunity for a recently completed (one school summer 2021 & the other summer 2022) project to be included in the grant?\n","DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021). See also Question DOE 1.4."]
["Emailed","E 135","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","The district that I work in is a joint vocational school district.  I don’t think we would qualify for topic 1 of the FOA, but we are interested in topic 2 which includes innovative energy technology packages.  We do not have a bus fleet as our partner districts are required by State law to transport students to us daily.  However, we have three different automotive programs that we train students for the workforce, and we take students on career-related community service and employer sponsored trips.  We were considering applying for alternative fueled infrastructure on school grounds and to purchase an alternative fueled vehicle to transport our students throughout the day.  I’m not sure this hits the goal of topic 2 or not, but we could potentially expose a whole generation of Appalachian students to alternative fueled vehicles to prepare them for the next generation of work, and we would be meeting a transportation need of the district.  I’m not sure this would hit the $500,000 reward amounts that are suggested as a minimum in the FOA, but I think the impact could be instrumental in the two-county area. Any guidance that you could provide about whether we should apply for this grant would be greatly appreciated.  In the webinar, the individuals who presented indicated that this would be a two-step process and that districts would be encouraged or discouraged to submit a full application after the concept papers have been reviewed. ","Note that $500,000 is not the absolute floor and applications for projects requesting less than $500,000 may still be considered. An application for a project requesting less than $500,000 still needs to meet the full intent of the program.\n\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\n\nPer FOA Section IV.C., DOE makes an independent assessment of each Concept Paper based on the criteria in Section V. of the FOA. DOE will encourage a subset of applicants to submit Full Applications. Other applicants will be discouraged from submitting a Full Application. All applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result. "]
["Emailed","E 136 ","2022-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","I am the Director of Curriculum, Federal Programs and Grants. We are very interested in applying for the Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facility Grant. We have two buildings, High School and Middle School, that run off a very inefficient boiler system. When filling out the School Energy Assessment Excel Form may I add both schools together since they run off the same system? Both schools desperately need an upgrade to the HVAC system. This of course would affect building size. The high school uses the middle school facility for kitchen, walk-in freezer/refrigerators, event center (gym) and performing arts center. They are woven together in many ways and even share some staff.","When doing benchmarking, central plant equipment should be allocated to all square footage it serves. Since so much is shared, it might make sense to consider it a campus and total building square footage of both, so one big building."]
["Emailed","E 137","2023-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","1. Evaluation Based on Number of Topic Areas (pages 10-11): Will a proposal that includes both Topic Area 1 (high impact energy efficiency improvements) and Topic Area 2 (energy technology packages) get higher evaluation/points than an identical proposal that only covers one topic such as Topic 2? \n\n2. Renewable Energy Technologies Allowed Under Topic Area 2 (page 11): Two related questions:  \n\na. Are we correct to interpret “e.g.” in the second bullet on page 11, which states “Installation of renewable energy technologies, e.g., rooftop solar or micro wind turbines” to mean (as “e.g.” is commonly used) that other renewable energy technologies such as heat pumps can also be included as part of a proposal under Topic 2? And, \n\nb. If you receive two identical proposals for the same school, but one uses rooftop solar and one uses heat pumps, will they likely get the same evaluation score? Please assume, for purposes of this question, that both have the same cost and the same greenhouse gas reduction and energy-saving effects. In other words, will U.S. DOE evaluation generally be technology neutral regarding the type of “renewable energy technology” proposed (if a compelling case is made that the energy technology is renewable), or will you give preferential treatment to rooftop solar and/or micro wind turbines?  \n\n","1. An application must address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. See also Question DOE 5.6. \n\n2a. DOE considers heat pumps an efficiency technology, which could possibly fall under Topic Area 1. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.\n\nThe Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is available on EERE eXCHANGE, along with supporting documents and application materials.\n\n2b. DOE is unable to provide guidance as to which application would be more competitive. Note that heat pumps are eligible under Topic Area 1, while solar rooftops are eligible under Topic Area 2. DOE independently evaluates all applications based on merit and quality of proposed upgrades. "]
["Emailed","E 137, continued","2023-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","3. Cost Sharing Question 1 -Percentages (Pages 50-51):  Will a proposal that proposes a cost-sharing of 50% local funding and 50% U.S. DOE funding (i.e., 50%-50% cost sharing) get more points when evaluated against a proposal that has the minimum 5% local and 95% U.S. DOE cost-sharing? Yes, no, and/or please explain how cost-sharing percentages will generally be weighted in evaluations. \n\n4. Cost Sharing Question 2 – Individual School vs. District-Wide (Pages 83-84): Are we correct to assume the cost-sharing needs to be calculated based on only the schools for which U.S. DOE funds are being requested (i.e., on a school-by-school basis) and not on a school district-wide basis? Another way of asking this question is, what is the proper figure to use in the denominator when calculating the cost-sharing per pages 83-84 – i.e., the total cost of retrofits for only the subset of schools that will use DOE funds or the total cost of the retrofits of all schools in a given school district? \n\nAs an illustration:  What is the proper denominator in the following scenario? An LSA plans to make energy-efficient retrofits for 150 schools within four years, costing $200 million. Still, the LSA is only seeking $15 million in U.S. DOE funding that will be used to retrofit 10 out of 150 schools, with the 10-school retrofit subtotal cost of $30 million.  What should be used as the denominator to calculate the cost-sharing under this scenario – the $200 million or the $30 million? The former would yield a local cost-sharing of 92.5% (i.e., ($200 million-$15 million)/$200 million = 92.5 %), while the latter would yield a local cost-sharing of 50% (i.e., $15 M / $30 M = 50 %). \n\n","3. 5% cost share is required, however, priority can be given to eligible entities that (per BIL Section 40541 (d)(1)(c)) \"leverage[s] private sector investment through energy-related performance contracting.\" See also Question DOE 6.14. \n\n4. The proper figure to use in the denominator is the total cost of retrofits for the subset of schools that DOE will fund. See FOA Appendix A, Cost Share Information. "]
["Emailed","E 137, continued","2023-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","5. Number of Concept Papers (pages 23 and 25): What is the correct interpretation of the language on page 23 and at the bottom of page 25 that states, “each Concept Paper must be targeted to a specific topic area.”  Please explain and clarify which of the following option(s) are correct and which option(s) U.S. DOE prefers: Option A: Each eligible entity can present, within reason, as many Concept Papers as they see fit. Option B: Each eligible entity can present at most two Concept Papers for a specific group of schools – one Concept Paper for Topic 1 and one Concept Paper for Topic 2.  They can present more if they want, but U.S. DOE will, at most, invite said eligible entity to submit only two Full Applications. Option C: Each eligible entity can present three or more Concept Papers, one for Topic A, one for Topic B, and one that includes both topics for a select group of schools. \n\n6. Facilities Needs Assessment (Page 31):  Must an LEA that manages dozens if not hundreds of school buildings only use one of the three options that are detailed in the URL link that is listed on page 31  to estimate the baseline energy needs assessment or can said entity, if it has performed a reasonably in-depth (though preliminary) baseline energy needs assessment of its schools using its own “certified professionals” and/or third-party/contracted “certified professionals” use said assessment to meet the Facilities Needs Assessment (FNA) requirement?  Assume the FNA the LEA has done on its own provides preliminary estimates of the retrofit costs, energy savings, GHG reductions, etc. \n\n","5. Option A.  Each eligible entity can present, within reason, as many Concept Papers as they see fit.\n\n6. If the analysis identifies the existing conditions and identifies the estimated costs, savings, and health and safety benefits of the proposed project, then it is sufficient. \n\n"]
["Emailed","E 137, continued","2023-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","7. Can U.S. DOE Grant Funds Be Used For In-Depth Energy Audits/Analysis? Can an eligible applicant that has already carried out on its own a Facilities Needs Assessment (FNA) according to the prior question included as part of its proposal to use U.S. DOE grant funds to carry out the required follow-on in-depth energy audits and analysis of each school building? Best practices in terms of energy efficiency retrofit and/or construction projects typically require carrying out sequentially: (a) an in-depth audit/analysis prior, followed by (b) a final engineering design of the retrofit, and then (c) the actual construction/retrofit. In other words, can an applicant request U.S. DOE funding for all three steps? \n\n","7. Yes, in-depth energy audits/analysis can be included, but this needs to be clearly mapped out in the project plan and reflected in the Budget Information (SF-424A) spreadsheet. DOE will not reimburse pre-award costs, except in specific cases with written approval. For information on pre-award costs, see Questions DOE 5.3 and W 87.  "]
["Emailed","E 137, continued","2023-12-13","Emailed \nquestions","8. Budget and Award Negotiations – Number of Schools: We have the following questions regarding the total amount of U.S. DOE funding an applicant requests in a Concept Paper: \n\na. Will two nearly identical proposals, one seeking $2 million in U.S. DOE funds for a retrofit of only one school, be more likely to be approved/invited to submit a full proposal than a proposal for $10 million in U.S. DOE funds to retrofit five schools (with each school retrofit costing $2 million)? \n\nb. If the U.S. DOE, after reviewing a Concept Paper, invites the entity to submit a Full Application, can the total amount of funding requested in the Full Application be significantly different (i.e., higher or lower) than what was in the Concept Paper? We assume slight differences will be allowed, but we would like guidance on more significant differences in amounts. For example, using scenario “a” above, can an applicant request $2 million for one school in the Concept Paper, and the full application request $10 million for five schools with a per-school cost of $2 million? \n\n9. What is Negotiated during the Three-Month Negotiations? What will, generally speaking, be “negotiated” during the three-month negotiation period as defined in the FOA? The response to this may affect what an applicant proposes in the Concept Paper and the Full Application. \n\nFor example, can the U.S. DOE notify an entity that has submitted a Concept Paper that U.S. DOE “likes” requesting $10 million to retrofit five schools (i.e., $2 million per school) but that the U.S. DOE in its notification inviting the applicant to submit a Full Application advise the applicant that it will only award said applicant $6 million (i.e., only enough funding to retrofit three schools at $2 million each) with details to be mutually negotiated during the three-month negotiation period? ","8a. DOE independently evaluates all applications based on merit and quality of proposed upgrades. \n\n8b. Yes, the total amount of funding requested in the Full Application can be significantly different (higher or lower) than what was in the Concept Paper. \n\n9. During the negotiation period, applicants will need to submit additional required documents. If selected for award negotiations, DOE reserves the right to require that selected applicants provide additional or clarifying information regarding the application submissions, the project, the project team, the award requirements, and any other matters related to anticipated award. See FOA Section IV.F., Post Selection Information Requests.   \n\nDOE reserves the right to not fully fund a project (I.e., to fund a project at a lower-than-requested amount). "]
["Emailed","E 138","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","Thank you so much for sharing this opportunity with K-12 Districts across the state! Touching base regarding whether or not CDEBs are eligible to apply for this funding opportunity? ","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 139","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","I am reaching out today to see if you could answer a question that I have regarding this opportunity: are ESDs eligible for this opportunity/program?\n\nI am fairly new to working for the High Desert ESD and I am told that there are certain facility grants that we do not qualify for. That said, I wanted to check in with you before I go through the motions of reading all of the documentation and pursuing this opportunity further.\n","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 140","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","I was unsure if I might speak to someone about this grant. If not, I have an initial question that I would like to clarify. Our school is not identified as a DAC. Is this a main measure to determine if an LEA is high-need? We are a rural school district. Thank you for any clarification you might offer.","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R.\n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 141","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","I'm the Director of Operations at a Community High School.  We are a 4 high school district with a total enrollment of about 5,500 students.  \n\nI'm emailing to get more information about the energy grants that are available.  This coming summer, we plan on upgrading our building envelope by replacing windows at two of our high schools, and replacing a section of our roof at another school.  Would these items qualify for the grant?  Would we qualify for this grant?\n","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 \nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 142","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","Hi can you clarify the section of the RFA that indicates the submission and resubmission of the concept paper on page 21? ","Per FOA Section III.C., once the Concept Paper, Full Application, or Reply to Reviewer Comments is submitted in EERE Exchange, applicants may revise or update that submission until the expiration of the applicable deadline. If changes are made to any of these documents, the applicant must resubmit the Concept Paper, Full Application, or Reply to Reviewer Comments before the applicable deadline. DOE will not extend the submission deadline for applicants that fail to submit required information by the applicable deadline due to server/connection congestion.\n\nDOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. "]
["Emailed","E 143","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","I am the energy management coordinator for the City of Charlottesville and we are interested in applying for this grant opportunity. I have a question related to identifying which entities would be considered the LEA and which would be the partnering group in the consortium. In our case, the public school administration, Charlottesville City Schools (CCS), is a separate entity than the City government but the City maintains the facilities, works with CCS to make decisions on projects, and City Council reviews and approves budgets for the schools. The City would likely be working directly with CCS to implement projects that would be using funding from the Renew America’s Schools Grant.  \n\nIn the case where the City does project management for the school district and the school district would be considered the “LEA”, would the City just be considered a part of the LEA or would it need to be listed as a partnering entity? If it is a part of the LEA, we are planning to list the individual schools included in the scope of the projects under this grant as the other part of the “consortium”.    ","The City can be the Prime recipient in the consortium, so long as they are clearly partnered with an LEA. See FOA Section III.A., Eligible Applicants, and FOA Section III.A.i., Domestic Entities.  "]
["Emailed","E 144 ","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","We are looking to undertake an HVAC project in our school to replace the 75 year old heating system with a heat pump system and to install ventilation and AC (we currently have no ventilation and AC systems). Our project cost is projected at $1.8 million. \n\nWe just applied for a State Grant that would pay for roughly 47% of this cost, leaving the town to pay a little less than $1 million. The state will let us know in January if we have been awarded the grant.  \n\nQuestion: Assuming we receive the state grant, would we be eligible to apply to this Renew America's School Grant to fund the remaining $1 million? ","If your school is awarded from the State grant you may use those funds in concert with the DOE funds (if awarded), towards the same project. Please also see the BOLD type in the answer to Question DOE 1.4. \n\nThe State grant funds may be used as cost share requirement (5% of total project costs) toward the DOE grant (if both are awarded), provided that the original source of funds of the State grant are not from federal sources. "]
["Emailed","E 145","2022-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","What is different about Cooperative Agreements vs Grant in part B Section i and iii? Spend money or give it back? Over Budget or under budget? Send in questions. \n\nWhat is role of FFRDC? Do we need to utilize? If we did what is benefit? Is application for this? “arrange work structure, project execution, and any other matters” \n\nPrime Recipient vs Sub recipient (LEA and 20 labor/community groups?) \n\nTopic area 1 vs Topic area 2: Can we apply for both at the same time? For example if you have security measures, windows, and charging what topic area or is it both? ","A grant is a type of cooperative agreement, the only difference is that cooperative agreements have Substantial Involvement as described in FOA Section VI.B.x.  \n\nIf the project comes in under budget, then DOE will de-obligate the remaining funds. Projects that come in under budget may be eligible to add scope, pending approval from DOE. Grants operate on a reimbursement basis, meaning that actual costs that have been incurred will be reimbursed. Note that each invoice must show that the cost share requirement has been met.  \n\nSince funding will only be authorized for the award amount, if the project goes over budget, it is not typical for additional funding to be allocated.  \n\nPartnering with FFRDCs is not a requirement. \n\nAn application must address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. An entity may submit more than one Concept Paper and Full Application to this FOA, provided that each application describes a unique, scientifically distinct project and provided that an eligible Concept Paper was submitted for each Full Application. See also Question DOE 5.6. "]
["Emailed","E 145, continued","2023-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","1. In part B(i)iii on page 14 we see 3 different agreement types. Is it mandatory to engage in all three funding types on every application? \n\n2. In part B(i)iii on page 14 we see 3 different agreement types. What is the difference between grants and cooperative agreements? It seems cooperative agreements cover funding as well? \n\n3. What role would the FFRDC play on the construction project typically? \n\n4. Does every applicant need to utilize an FFRDC? \n\n5. Do applicants that use an FFRDC have an advantage over applicants that do not utilize an FFRDC? ","1. No, per FOA Section II.B.i., DOE anticipates that this funding will be issued as a cooperative agreement. \n\n2. A grant is a type of cooperative agreement, the only difference is that cooperative agreements have Substantial Involvement as described in Section VI.B.x. of the FOA document.  \n\n3. Partnering with an FFRDC (I.e. typically a National Laboratory) is not required. \n\n4. Partnering with FFRDCs is not a requirement. For information on eligibility requirements, see Question DOE 2.1 \n\n5. There is no inherent advantage or disadvantage in partnering with an FFRDC. DOE encourages applicants to explore potential innovative partnerships. "]
["Emailed","E 145, continued","2023-12-14","Emailed \nquestions","6. What is the application process to obtain a DOE/NNSA FFRDC as a subrecipient?  \n\n7. In most cases, would the LEA be the primary recipient and all other consortium members be considered as the subrecipients? \n\n8. Topic area 1 vs Topic area 2: Can we submit the same application for work that covers Topic area 1 and Topic area 2. For example, if we planned to do HVAC work, Window replacement, Security film, LED light retrofit, and EV infrastructure/chargers the work seems to encompass both Topic Areas. What would be on the concept paper cover letter for the topic area (Topic area 1 or 2)? \n\n9. Since the application is based off of budget numbers, what is the process for handling funds if a project comes in over or under budget? \n\n10. If a project comes in under budget, can the leftover funding be used for more energy saving retrofits? ","6. The applicant should reach out and inquire about forming a partnership.  \n\n7. An application consortium designates a Prime recipient. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. LEAs are also eligible Prime recipients.  \n\n8. An application must address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. An entity may submit more than one Concept Paper and Full Application to this FOA, provided that each application describes a unique, scientifically distinct project and provided that an eligible Concept Paper was submitted for each Full Application. See also Question DOE 5.6.  \n\n9. If the project comes in under budget, then DOE will de-obligate the remaining funds. Projects that come in under budget may be eligible to add scope, pending approval from DOE. Grants operate on a reimbursement basis, meaning that actual costs that have been incurred will be reimbursed. Note that on each invoice must show that the cost share requirement has been met.  \n\nSince funding will only be authorized for the award amount, if the project goes over budget, it is not typical for additional funding to be allocated. \n\n10. Projects that come in under budget may be eligible to add scope, pending approval from DOE. "]
["Emailed","E 146","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing on behalf of a private K-8th grade school, a 501(c)3 organization. Nearly 100% of the children attend on a state-funded scholarship called Step Up. 100% of the attendees are on a free lunch program. \n\nWould our school qualify for this grant?\n","Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program.  The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. For information on LEA eligibility, see answer to Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 147","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing on behalf of a Charter School for the Arts. It is our intention to apply for the Renew America's Schools opportunity. Before we move forward, however, we are seeking clarification as to whether we are eligible. The building our elementary school uses is leased through to 2024. Would we be able to apply to the program? ","LEAs do not need to hold title to the property, but must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the full application as a Letter of Commitment (Section IV.D.v.)\n\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 148","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","We are adding A/C to one of our school buildings, would this projects/costs be an eligible project covered under this funding opportunity?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 "]
["Emailed","E 149","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","Are Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded schools eligible to apply? ","See FOA Section I.B.  \nFor definition of an LEA please see answer to question DOE 2.3 above. ESEA defines a \"State\" as each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and each of the outlying areas. Based on these definitions, LEAs in Freely Associated States, U.S. Territories, and BIE schools are eligible under this funding opportunity. "]
["Emailed","E 150","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","I am interested in talking to someone in greater detail of the process and nuances of the Schools Grants program. ","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 151","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","Can schools that currently have a project in design be eligible for this funding opportunity?","Yes, subject to restrictions.\n\nPre-award costs are ineligible for reimbursement except with prior written approval. See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs, and Question DOE 5.3.  \n\nFor bids that have already been accepted, please see the Competition in Contracting paragraph in FOA Section IV.J.viii.:  \n\n\"If an eligible entity receiving a grant under this section uses grant funds to carry out repair or renovation through a contract, the eligible entity shall be required to ensure that the contract process— \n\n(1) through full and open competition, ensures the maximum practicable number of qualified bidders, including small, minority, and women-owned businesses; and \n(2) gives priority to businesses located in, or resources common to, the State or geographical area in which the repair or renovation under the contract will be carried out. "]
["Emailed","E 152","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","If an LEA building’s primary purpose is administrative, is it an eligible facility for this program? When renovation is complete, the facility will contain a childcare center and can also serve as a community asset (e.g., neighborhood cooling center or disaster recovery shelter).","Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nDOE encourages applications that focus on student-occupied buildings. Please indicate how the energy savings of this building would benefit students and/or the community in your application. "]
["Emailed","E 153","2022-12-15","Emailed \nquestions","The facilities study for our district provided by our State Department of Education indicated four schools were not cost effective to upgrade the existing buildings due to age. The facilities assessment study recommended closing those four schools and recommended building one consolidated elementary school for cost savings, energy reduction, and a healthier learning environment due to the age of the HVAC systems in those four buildings. In attempting to build one consolidated elementary school, we are utilizing a combination of funding sources including ESSER III Funds, some Department of Education funds, and a very small portion of local funds. Due to rising costs, at this time, we have found we only have enough funds to construct a Pre-K – Grade 2 facility.  \n\n1. Can we apply for funding for the HVAC system for Pre-K-Grade 2 school since it recently went under contract?  \n\n2. If YES, this will allow us to add additional grades and therefore reduce our energy cost, create a healthier learning environment and a smaller carbon footprint. Can you please explain how we need to address that in the grant proposal?  \n\n3. If NO, since the Grade 3 and Grade 4-5 wings are not currently under contract, can we apply for that via this grant?  \n\nAll of our schools are eligible on the Energy Justice School Dashboard Tool / CEJST. Our district is considered a part of the Corridor of Shame, as being historically inadequately funded and poor student achievement. Our district is a USDA CEP (Community Eligible Provision status), which provides free breakfast and lunch to the “nation’s highest poverty schools and districts.” Combining our four schools into one would greatly reduce, not only our carbon footprint, but would also greatly reduce energy cost by improving HVAC and the building envelope. ","1. Funding may be used for energy improvements (I.e., for systems that are more efficient than the ones originally scoped). Pre-award costs are ineligible for reimbursement except with prior written approval. See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs, and Question DOE 5.3.  \n\n2. Please clearly indicate how the HVAC system will differ from what was originally scoped (savings, energy efficiency, health and safety, etc.) \n\n3. DOE will fund energy improvements but not new construction as a whole. See Question DOE 1.8. "]
["Emailed","E 154","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","Do you expect this grant to be competed again next year or is this a one-time allocation? ","This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\"  "]
["Emailed","E 155","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","Can partnerships submit one application for projects within both topic areas or must applications choose only one topic area?","An application must address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. See also Question DOE 5.6.  "]
["Emailed","E 156","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","The Facility Needs Assessment requirement states that as an alternative to the Needs Assessment tools provided on the DOE webpage, applicants can include a \"facility needs assessment(s) performed by a certified professional.\"\n\nFor clarification, would you kindly provide some guidance on any specific certifications that are required from the \"certified professional\" conducting the needs assessment?  Any clarification would be greatly appreciated.\n","DOE is not requiring any stringent certifications but recommends hiring an energy consultant and/or a mechanical engineer and/or an electrical engineer to carry out a formal needs assessment. "]
["Emailed","E 157","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","Our clients are interested in the Renew America’s School grant program. From our understanding after reading through the FOA and attending the FOA webinar on December 12th, 2022, the individual awards that would vary between $500,000 and $15,000,000 with a total of $80,000,000 of federal funding available. Another member of our team was a part of another webinar about the same topic yesterday, December 15th, 2022, and was told the total the total amount of federal funding was $13,000,000. With the vast differences in the total amount of federal funding that we have heard we wanted to reach out and see if you could help clarify this issue for us. Please advise on which of these two funding totals is correct or where we would be able to find further information about this program. ","For information on anticipated award amounts, see Question DOE 3.1 and FOA Section II.A.i. "]
["Emailed","E 158","12/16 \nand \n12/20","Emailed \nquestions","ASHRAE is engaged with DOE in a partnership pilot program working through ASHRAE Chapters and their members who will volunteer to reach out to schools, including those that are underserved, to help them access tools, resources, and funding to improve their school facilities. As a technical engineering society dedicated to a sustainable and healthy built environment for all, ASHRAE’s membership of engineers, architects, contractors, and other built environment professionals is in a unique position to educate prospective bidders to create proposals that will maximize DOE funding. With a special focus on mechanical and energy systems, ASHRAE members have the expertise to maximize the value of taxpayer dollars allocated by the IIJA. Empowering ASHRAE volunteer members, who are experts in implementing energy conservation measures, without penalizing them in the FOA proposal phase will position industry to better assist the Government receive higher quality proposals that follow ASHRAE Standards, Guidelines, and publications. \n\nWould those ASHRAE volunteer members and their employers still qualify to work with those same schools with this FOA and all future FOAs and solicitations from this funding source? We would like to confirm that ASHRAE members who participate in training and educating others, will not be precluded from participation in the grant application.","It would not preclude these members from receiving DOE funding as a partner in the consortium, however the FOA does require Competition in Contracting per Section IV.J.viii. Please also see answer to Questions E 41 and E 115."]
["Emailed","E 159","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","Do you know if my Indian school qualifies for this grant?  ","See FOA Section I.B.  \nFor definition of an LEA please see answer to question DOE 2.3 above. ESEA defines a \"State\" as each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and each of the outlying areas. Based on these definitions, LEAs in Freely Associated States, U.S. Territories, and BIE schools are eligible under this funding opportunity. "]
["Emailed","E 160","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","Can you tell me if SAMPLE forms or templates exist for the CONCEPT Plan or is that Project Narrative Template?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 161","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the requirement for attachment of the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools & the attachment of the certified energy analysis documents as standalone documents outlined in the FOA. Within the application, I am only allowed to attach one document in the portal. I have attached only the concept paper. Does this mean I need to combine the other reports into the same one pdf?","The components of the Concept Paper (Cover Page, Project Description, Statement of Need documents) should be compiled into a single PDF.  "]
["Emailed","E 162","2022-12-16","Emailed \nquestions","1. Can a state-funded low-interest loan from a state agency count towards the 5% local cost match? \n\n2. Are there File Format and File Name requirements for Concept Papers, like Full Applications? Or just the Section, Page Limit, and Description? Should three documents in total be submitted in EERE Exchange for the Concept Paper: 1) Concept Paper addressing the three sections; 2) Community Need Standalone Attachment; 3) Facilities Need Assessment Standalone Attachment?  \n\n3. Are there specific components that Facility Needs Assessments conducted by certified professionals need to include? Or is a certified professional’s assessment in addition to required information in the Cover Page and Project Description sufficient as is?  ","1. Per FOA Section III.B.iii., Cost Share Types and Allowability, project teams may use funding or property received from state or local governments to meet the cost share requirement, so long as the funding was not provided to the state or local government by the federal government.  \n\n2. It has come to our attention that applicants were only able to upload one file for each Concept Paper submission. EERE Exchange has been updated to align with the FOA and provides four locations to upload documents as outlined below.  \n\n1.\tConcept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description)  \n2.\tCommunity Need - EJ Report  \n3.\tFacility Needs Assessment  \n4.\tFiscal Need & Capacity  \n\nIf you have already submitted a concept paper, you must return to your submission and upload the required documents necessary for the Statement of Needs which includes: Community Need – EJ Report, Facility Needs Assessment, and Fiscal Need & Capacity. These documents are required in order to submit an eligible concept paper. Failure to submit these documents will result in an ineligible concept paper and therefore you will not be able to submit a full application.  \n\nAs a reminder, per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. \n\n3. If the analysis identifies the existing conditions and identifies the estimated costs, savings, and health and safety benefits of the proposed project, then it is sufficient. "]
["Emailed","E 163","2022-12-19","Emailed \nquestions","Can LEAs apply for funding for projects at buildings that the LEA does not own? That is, can LEAs use funds to make improvements at buildings they lease?","LEAs do not need to hold title to the property, but must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the full application as a Letter of Commitment (Section IV.D.v.)"]
["Emailed","E 164","2022-12-19","Emailed \nquestions","Are  prospective recipients for Renew America's Schools Grant K-12 public schools or would community colleges (public) would be allowed as well?  Within the overview section (below), recipients are classified for many types that include for profit. So would private K-12 schools, or universities (private or public) or charter schools would be covered as a recipient as well?","Universities are eligible teaming partners. BIL Section 40541(a)(3) specifies: \"The term ``eligible entity'' means a consortium of--(A) 1 local educational agency; and (B) 1 or more--(i) schools; (ii) nonprofit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; (iii) for-profit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; or (iv) community partners that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.\" \n\nFor information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3\n"]
["Emailed","E 165","2022-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am the HVAC Foreman for a public school. We have 22 elementary and middle school campuses that we are wanting to apply for grants for the HVAC equipment. Each of these campuses also have Tornado Shelters that are used for PE classes and made available to the public when there are tornado warnings out. \n\n My questions are:\n\n1. What form(s) would we use to apply?\n\n2. Are the Tornado Shelters considered a part of each campus or will they be separate?\n\n3. Does each campus need to be done separately?\n","1. For information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5\n\n2. Since the schools use the tornado shelters for school purposes these locations are eligible locations to receive funding for HVAC upgrades.\n\n3. HVAC upgrades at multiple facilities within one LEA should be submitted as one application. However, individual needs assessments and Energy Justice Reports are required for each proposed location."]
["Emailed","E 166","2022-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","Does this FOA include new construction or just renovation/remodels of school facilities? ","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 167","2022-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am seeking clarification on the number of pages a concept paper can be for this opportunity. I believe I read 10 pages, but I am not sure. Also, I am not sure if attachments like our QBAT building score, and DOE school report count against the page limit. There is a page that says the cover letter must be one page, the project description can be two pages, and then there is nothing listed for the statement of need, which includes community need, and fiscal need and capacity. ","The Cover Page has a page limit of 1, and the Project Description has a page limit of 2. There are no page limits for Statements of Need. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. \n\nThe 10 page maximim is for the Community Partnership Documentation, which is a part of the Full Application. "]
["Emailed","E 168","2022-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","Our school is a licensed 4410 Inclusive Preschool (the only preschool that serves special needs children in our area). We are a non-profit organization that follows our local public school calendar and our education staff attend many of the same trainings as the K-12 staff within our school district.\n\nWe have a number of significant infrastructure needs at our preschool and are inquiring whether or not preschools are eligible under this funding opportunity?\n","Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 169","2022-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","We are interested in how we can help schools participate in this program.  Please reach out to us at your earliest convenience.","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R.\n\nFor information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 170","2022-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","Our LEA is interested in applying for the 2022 Funding Opportunity Announcement for Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities - Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) - Renew America's Schools.  When using the Energy Justice Dashboard the school site is not listed, all of our sites in this tool are listed with the main office address instead of the individual school site address where instruction occurs. The area it is located in is designated Disadvantaged Community and serves students from this area.  Please clarify if the site is not listed in this tool then it is not eligible for this funding opportunity.","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 001.\n\nRe: DAC designation, DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. "]
["Emailed","E 171","2023-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am hoping you have a document you share with individuals interested in the requirements of this grant, as well as deadlines to meet. \n\nFrom my read, there seems to be some form of partnering that is required: One LEA, and one or more … (schools, nonprofits, etc.) \n\nMy firm represents schools across Ohio and I want to make sure I provide correct information to them. When they apply for a UEI and SAM, do they do so as an individual school? Or must they already have “partnered” with another school/nonprofit/etc. \n\nThank you for any information you may provide – mostly I need to know if they should locate an entity (including another school) first, or register in SAM and UEI (as it says “each applicant”, I am unclear as to whether the individual schools would be the “applicant” or if the group submitting the application work together re: UEI and SAM. ","BIL Section 40541(a)(3) specifies: \"The term ``eligible entity'' means a consortium of--(A) 1 local educational agency; and (B) 1 or more--(i) schools; (ii) nonprofit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; (iii) for-profit organizations that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements; or (iv) community partners that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements.\"  \n\nThe Prime recipient submits their UEI number and maintains SAM account registration as the applicant. Any subrecipients of the award, as defined in 2 CFR 200.1, must have a UEI number but subrecipients do not have to be fully registered in SAM. Only the prime entity MUST be fully registered in SAM, FedConnect and grants.gov. Any subcontractors (vendors) do not need a UEI number or need to be fully registered in SAM."]
["Emailed","E 172","2023-12-20","Emailed \nquestions","Does this opportunity fund projects which related to health and safety or barriers that impede energy savings measure implementation? It appears the opportunity mentions that under section 40541(a)(4) of the BIL improvements, repairs, renovations, or installations which lead to an improvement in occupant health and facility air quality are eligible if they also result in energy savings. Does this eligibility also apply to remediation of asbestos pipe insulation? What about roof replacement needed to enable solar implementation? Installation of a Building Automation System which manages HVAC operation to increase energy savings and air quality? ","Limited testing and/or containment, removal or disposal of asbestos identified during the course of project activities is allowed provided that the asbestos is required to be contained or removed as a result of installing an “energy improvement” as defined in the FOA. All incidental measures relating to hazardous materials identified during the project activities must be managed in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements. \n\nRoof replacement to enable solar implementation is an eligible project cost for grant funds. The replacement should have some energy efficiency component associated with it. Please provide clarity as to why the roof requires replacement.  \n\nFor information on project eligibility, see DOE Question 1.1. "]
["Emailed","E 173","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","Can you point me in the right direction to find the “Concept Paper Template” form discussed in the “Application and Submission Information” of the published announcement?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 174","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, we are in the process of reviewing the information contained within the Energy Justice Mapping Tools and discovered that one of our schools is not listed. Additionally, the two schools (Penn Wood High School and the one not listed in your database) that will be in our concept paper indicate they are not in a DAC; however our district is in a DAC.  Based upon this information should be categorize the schools as being in a DAC?","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001.\n\nRe: DAC designation, DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. "]
["Emailed","E 175","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","In regard to the Renew America's Schools grant, is there a look back period for upgrades already in process or are the projects required to start after the grant is awarded?","For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021)."]
["Emailed","E 176","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","1.\tCan we write the grant for multiple schools?\n2.\tCan we write the grant for improvements for track 1 and track 2?\n3.\tCan the grant fund an existing project? ","1. See Question DOE 5.6\n\n2. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\n3. For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021). "]
["Emailed","E 177","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","I am working on collecting some data for schools using the Energy Justice Mapping Tool, and there were just a few schools I couldn’t find information for. If you have any information on these schools you can share similar to the information provided on the mapping tool, that would be most helpful.  ","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 178","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","Are municipalities required to submit a Community Benefit Plan?","The Community Benefits plan is a part of the project narrative, a required component for the full application. Please see FOA Section I.D. and Section 3.0 in the project narrative template included in the Application Forms and Templates section under this FOA posting in Exchange. "]
["Emailed","E 179","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","We want to know if we can apply the money to a new construction project. Our current Elementary School building is out of compliance and its second floor is structurally compromised. Our hope was to renovate it and bring the building back up to meet all codes through grants and district funds. ","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 180","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","I would like to know whether labor unions and/or trade associations qualify for the Teaming Partner List. ","The Teaming Partner List allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and to explore potential partnerships. DOE does not specify organization type. "]
["Emailed","E 181","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","I am the CEO of Charging Forward. We are a startup that aims to be a prime contractor in the federal government's efforts to install the 500k unit ev charging network nationwide. The question I have is, in the concept paper regarding the \"Improving Energy Efficiency in Schools\" grant, whether a private concern has to get the sign off of a school, or school system, relating to a hypothetical implementation program? For example, will we have to get the endorsement of say the Atlanta Public School system (As I live in Georgia.) as we submit a concept paper that involves the implementation of ev chargers, and solar arrays, at Banneker, or Midtown High Schools? Our vision involves the implementation of solar arrays at  least one high school in Gwinnett, Cobb, Fulton, and Henry counties, as I have connections in all of these. Along with the implementation of ev chargers at these counties school bus depots. Please let me know as soon as possible so that we can move forward on developing the concept paper in the appropriate manner.","For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3. Note that an application consortium must contain at least one LEA.\n\nLEAs must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the Full Application as a Letter of Commitment (FOA Section IV.D.v.)."]
["Emailed","E 182","2022-12-21","Emailed \nquestions","I am trying to find the template for the concept paper portion of this application, but when I open up the forms and templates, I only see forms for the actual application. \n\nWhere are the links to the concept paper form?\n","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 183","2022-12-22","Emailed \nquestions","Will DOE accept full applications only from eligible entities whom DOE invites to submit a full application based on DOE’s review of the concept paper?  \n\nIn short, are concept papers the basis for telling entities whether they may or may not  submit a full application?\n","Per FOA Section IV.C., DOE makes an independent assessment of each Concept Paper based on the criteria in Section V. of the FOA. DOE will encourage a subset of applicants to submit Full Applications. Other applicants will be discouraged from submitting a Full Application. All applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result. "]
["Emailed","E 184","2022-12-22","Emailed \nquestions","I am with an engineering firm who specializes in energy efficiency upgrades to K-12 schools and we’re trying to help a local school district in Montana. Do we need to be an approved “teaming partner” to help them? If so, how do we go about getting approved? \n","The Teaming Partner List allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and to explore potential partnerships. DOE does not require consortia partners to be chosen from this list. \n\nFor information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 185","2023-12-22","Emailed \nquestions","Can an applicant (LEA plus one school) apply and use the funds to reduce the cost of a solar project that will be structured as a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?  In a PPA, the array is not owned by the school but the school would receive electricity supply at a reduced rate for a contracted period of time.  After that period of time the school could choose to purchase the array. ","While the actual cost of the PV system will not be included in the budget, the recipient would purchase the system's electric output from the solar services provider for a predetermined period. This is allowable since the PV system is an “energy improvement,” provided DOE receives a copy of the PPA during negotiations for documentation. If the recipient wishes to purchase the PV system with project funds during the period of performance DOE would have to evaluate that first to ensure there is some reduced cost. Purchase of the PV system after the period of performance with project funds is not allowed.  "]
["Emailed","E 186","2022-12-27","Emailed \nquestions","The software will only allow me to upload the Concept Paper and no other files. Do I combine everything into one pdf?\n","It has come to our attention that applicants were only able to upload one file for each Concept Paper submission. EERE Exchange has been updated to align with the FOA and provides four locations to upload documents as outlined below. \n\n1.\tConcept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description) \n2.\tCommunity Need - EJ Report \n3.\tFacility Needs Assessment \n4.\tFiscal Need & Capacity \nIf you have already submitted a concept paper, you must return to your submission and upload the required documents necessary for the Statement of Needs which includes: Community Need – EJ Report, Facility Needs Assessment, and Fiscal Need & Capacity. These documents are required in order to submit an eligible concept paper.  Failure to submit these documents will result in an ineligible concept paper and therefore you will not be able to submit a full application. \n \nAs a reminder, per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. "]
["Emailed","E 187","2022-12-27","Emailed \nquestions","I understand that Eligible Applicants, as per page 15 of the FOA, are consortia made up of at least 1 LEA and 1 or more of schools, select non-profit or for-profit orgs, and/or select community partners. \n\nI also see (page 16 of FOA) that State/local units of government and tribal governments can serve as the prime recipients on this award. I understand this to mean that a State or Local or Tribal unit of Govt can apply as the Prime Applicant (or, the Fiscal agent) on behalf of a consortia listed under pg. 15 Eligible Applicants—even though State/Local/Tribal units are government are not included on the list of who may be involved in the Eligible Applicant Consortium. \n\nAm I correct in understanding that an application submitted by a State, Tribal or Local unit of government, on behalf of a consortia made up of at least 1 LEA and 1 or more of the other (pg 15) listed entities, would be deemed an eligible application? Even though State/tribal/Local units of government are NOT listed as being eligible consortia members or eligible applicants on page 15, those governments could be the Prime Applicant to apply, as long as the application is on behalf of an eligible entity as defined on pg 15, or Section 40541(a)(3)?\n","A State, Tribal or Local unit of government can be part of the consortium. They would fall under “community partner”. The State, Tribal or Local unit of government can be the prime applicant as long as the teaming arrangement consists of one LEA and one or more other eligible partners."]
["Emailed","E 188","2022-12-27","Emailed \nquestions","Hello. I have reviewed all information regarding this energy grant opportunity and am very confused about the FFRDC.  What is it and is it something we must do?  \n\nIf not, we would only be responsible for 5% of the project funds?","Partnering with Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC), i.e. typically a National Laboratory, is not required. There is no inherent advantage or disadvantage in partnering with an FFRDC. DOE encourages applicants to explore potential innovative partnerships. \n\nRegardless of partnership structure, the awardee must contribute 5% of the total project cost, with the remaining 95% funded by the Renew America's Schools grant. For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 and FOA Appendix A. "]
["Emailed","E 189","2022-12-28","Emailed \nquestions","I was hoping to actually speak to someone about our question for submitting a concept paper next month.  We want to be sure our understanding and interpretation of the FOA will allow for our submission.","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 190","2023-12-28","Emailed \nquestions","As a grant recipient without a negotiated IDCR, should we assume that a prime applicant would be eligible for the 10 percent de minimis rate while any subgrantees would be eligible for either the de minimis rate or their previously negotiated IDCRs per the Uniform Guidance (2 USC 200)?","Yes. The Prime applicant can elect to use the de minimis rate and that does not influence what the sub-recipients elect to use. "]
["Emailed","E 191","2022-12-29","Emailed \nquestions","Is it allowable for a school district to apply as a prime LEA and also participate in an application submitted by a consortium? In effect, the school district would then be part of two separate applications? If allowed to be part of two applications, can it receive funding through both if both applications are awarded?","This is permissible, provided that each application describes a unique, scientifically distinct project.  "]
["Emailed","E 192","2022-12-30","Emailed \nquestions","Our School District has a question regarding using innovative technology at a school district bus yard to charge electric buses. The FOA speaks to schools but does not necessarily indicate a central District location. With 101 schools, our District has several bus yards to cover transportation to all its 60,000 + students.  Can you please clarify if it is allowable to install alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure at a District central location rather than at an individual school site? ","See answer to Question E 54."]
["Emailed","E 193","2022-12-30","Emailed \nquestions","We are interested in submitting concept papers for several school projects. For the concept paper, do the application requirements regarding font size/type and 8.5x11 inch paper also apply? We were thinking of including larger exhibits with illustrations to help with the project description, but will forego these types of exhibits if they are not desired.","Exhibits can be included so long as they adhere to Concept Paper guidelines outlined in FOA Sections IV.A. and IV.C. "]
["Emailed","E 194","2022-12-30","Emailed \nquestions","Hello – we are interested in submitting a concept paper in conjunction with a School District.  Our question is: Does the school district or the school within a district need to be in a Disadvantaged Community (DAC)?  If not, then are there thresholds for “significant” % students who are eligible for a free or reduced-price lunch?  ","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees, and location within a DAC is one of these. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13\n\nSee also Question W 16. "]
["Emailed","E 195","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","I am curious as to whether the energy grants will be made available to nonpublic, independently accredited schools.  ","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 196","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, I am writing about FOA DE-FOA-0002756. I located the templates on the EERE website, but I cannot find a template for the concept paper due later this month. Could you provide clarification regarding how the concept paper is submitted?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official application/form for the Concept Paper. \n\nAll application materials are to be submitted in EERE eXCHANGE.\n\nIt has come to our attention that applicants were only able to upload one file for each Concept Paper submission. EERE Exchange has been updated to align with the FOA and provides four locations to upload documents as outlined below.  \n\n1.\tConcept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description)  \n2.\tCommunity Need - EJ Report  \n3.\tFacility Needs Assessment  \n4.\tFiscal Need & Capacity  \n\nIf you have already submitted a concept paper, you must return to your submission and upload the required documents necessary for the Statement of Needs which includes: Community Need – EJ Report, Facility Needs Assessment, and Fiscal Need & Capacity. These documents are required in order to submit an eligible concept paper. Failure to submit these documents will result in an ineligible concept paper and therefore you will not be able to submit a full application.  \n\nAs a reminder, per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. "]
["Emailed","E 197","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","We have watched the Renew America's Schools webinar and they mention that we MUST use the 'Energy Justice Mapping Tool for School\" to help us derive relevant needs information on a school-by-school basis. Unfortunately, no reports show up for our schools: We are not sure where to obtain the LEA or NCES ID as the LEA ID we have is not working (#0972). How can we receive our report to submit with our concept paper and full application?","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 198","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","1. What is the local match required by the district if selected? I see both 5% and 20% listed and need clarification. \n\n2. If awarded the grant and cannot provide the local match, can we back out? ","1. The awardee must contribute 5% of the total project cost, with the remaining 95% funded by the Renew America's Schools grant. For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 and FOA Appendix A. Note that the 20% figure was part of an example intended to illustrate how cost share is calculated.  \n\n2. If an applicant is awarded funds and spends any money, they are required to meet the cost share. If an applicant is awarded funds and during negotiations is unable to come up with cost share or cost share partner(s), then the awardee can back out of negotiations and/or DOE will cancel negotiations.  \n\nNote that the Prime recipient is also responsible if a sub-recipient is to provide cost share and then backs out. \n\nSee FOA Section II.B.i.  \nAlthough the cost share requirement applies to the project as a whole, including work performed by members of the project team other than the prime recipient, the prime recipient is legally responsible for paying the entire cost share. If the funding agreement is terminated prior to the end of the project period, the prime recipient is required to contribute at least the cost share percentage of total expenditures incurred through the date of termination. The prime recipient is solely responsible for managing cost share contributions by the project team and enforcing cost share obligation assumed by project team members in subawards or related agreements. "]
["Emailed","E 199","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","We are a for-profit energy services company forming an Unincorporated Consortium with 10-15 high-need public school districts in Rural and Appalachian Ohio. We would like to submit a single concept paper and application on behalf of all of the districts in this consortium. One of the public schools districts will serve as the “Prime Recipient/Consortium Representative”. \n\nA few questions… \n\n1. Does the “Prime Recipient/Consortium Representative” need to create the EERE Exchange account tied to their UEI to submit the concept paper and application? \n\n2. Does only the “Prime Recipient/Consortium Representative” need to have a SAM account and provide their UEI? Or will each non-profit and for-profit entity in the consortium need its own SAM account and UEI to be included in the single submission?","1. Yes. See FOA Section VI.B.i., Registration Requirements. \n\n2. The Prime recipient submits their UEI number and maintains SAM account registration as the applicant. Any subrecipients of the award, as defined in 2 CFR 200.1, must have a UEI number but subrecipients do not have to be fully registered in SAM. Only the prime entity MUST be fully registered in SAM, FedConnect and grants.gov. Any subcontractors (vendors) do not need a UEI number or need to be fully registered in SAM."]
["Emailed","E 200","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","I’m working with a few school districts in Minnesota to either apply for the current round of Renewing America’s Schools dollars or monitor future rounds of funding announcements. I’m looking for where I can sign up for any emails or releases from DOE that announce the new rounds of funding when future phases of RAS rolls out (conversely, if the next funding announcement date is determined, that might work just as well). The  funding opportunities link here sent me to a broken URL, or one it said I didn’t have access to: https://www.energy.gov/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-845-million-make-clean-energy-improvements-and-lower ","Please sign up for program announcements at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities "]
["Emailed","E 201","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","Will sub-recipients be required to provide a separate sub-recipient budget justification for the budget portion of the proposal submission? If so, is there a specific dollar amount that would indicate if the form is required (i.e. $250K or 25% of the total work effort)?","Sub-recipients (partners, sub-awardees): Subrecipients shall submit a Budget Justification describing all project costs and calculations when their total proposed budget exceeds either (1) $250,000 or (2) 25% of total award costs. This takes place during negotiations. "]
["Emailed","E 202","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","Is the concept paper development online EDITABLE? In other words, can we begin it and continue to edit it before submitting?","Per FOA Section III.C., once the Concept Paper, Full Application, or Reply to Reviewer Comments is submitted in EERE Exchange, applicants may revise or update that submission until the expiration of the applicable deadline. If changes are made to any of these documents, the applicant must resubmit the Concept Paper, Full Application, or Reply to Reviewer Comments before the applicable deadline. DOE will not extend the submission deadline for applicants that fail to submit required information by the applicable deadline due to server/connection congestion. \n\nDOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. "]
["Emailed","E 203","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","Our public charter school is interested in applying for the Renew America's Schools program. Our school's buildings are owned by an affiliated non-profit foundation that solely exists for the benefit of our school. We have a large HVAC/ envelope project in the works and wanted to know if we would be eligible to apply considering the buildings are not owned by the school, but by the foundation. The school would be incurring the cost of the HVAC/ envelope project.","LEAs do not need to hold title to the property, but must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the full application as a Letter of Commitment (Section IV.D.v.) \n\nFor information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3, DOE 2.4, DOE 2.5 \n\nFor information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4 "]
["Emailed","E 204","2023-01-03","Emailed \nquestions","We have two questions regarding submission, under Topic Area 1 – High-Impact Energy Efficiency and Health Improvements. One of the buildings we are contemplating submitting on is mixed use. The building currently houses the Public Schools administration, facilities department, and K-12 school registration/welcome services for incoming students. Additionally, part of the building's space is rented to a community college. With that said, the community college's lease is expiring shortly and we intend to utilize that space by implementing a pre-K and Kindergarten program in its place. While the building is not technically designated as a K12 school within the registry of the energy justice dashboard, it is geographically located within the disadvantaged communities designation, adjacent to two of our schools that are.  \n\nQuestion 1.) Would a mixed use building, with plans for pre-K/Kindergarten implementation, such as the aforementioned be considered for award?\n  \nQuestion 2.) Assuming the answer to question one is a yes, would a separate submission be allowed or encouraged? \n\nOur hope is that we do not reduce the chances of funding for the two registered schools by including a mixed-use building within the same application, and have it dismissed via technicality. ","1. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. See FOA Section III., Eligibility Requirements.  \n\nPer BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nDOE encourages applications that focus on student-occupied buildings. Please indicate how the energy savings of this building would benefit students and/or the community in your application. \n\n2. DOE needs more information to answer the question as stated.  \n\nAn application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. See also Question DOE 5.6. "]
["Emailed","E 205","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","We are currently assessing our facilities for the renovation of HVAC, building envelope, and lighting upgrades. We would like to enter into a contract with a contractor to begin work this summer. In the event we are successful in obtaining a grant, can we apply it to this project if we are currently under construction or construction is completed by the time the grant is awarded?","For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. If the project is partially or completely done at time of award, DOE will not reimburse those costs. "]
["Emailed","E 206","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, I am wondering if I can still qualify for grants for changing existing lighting systems to LED lighting as I am currently enrolled in the Focus on Energy Program already? ","The recipient may not use federal funding or property (e.g., federal grants, equipment owned by the federal government) or expenditures that were reimbursed under a separate federal program to meet cost share obligations. (FOA Section III.B.iii.).\n\nFor information on combining grant money with other federal funds, see Question DOE 3.2\nFor information on combining funding sources, see Question DOE 3.3"]
["Emailed","E 207","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","In section IV.C describing the statement of needs section, it is quoted, \"DOE has compiled a variety of tools that can  be used to assess needs that can be found  on the DOE webpage (https://www.energy.gov/bil/grantsenergy-improvements-public-schoolfacilitieshttps://www.energy.gov/bil/grants energy-improvements-public-school facilities) under “Related Resources”. When going to access the tools from the link provided, the link will not work. Is there another link to access to utilize these tools? \n\nThere was also a question regarding the Energy Justice map (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/). There are some concerns that some school district information may not be correct and/or updated. According to some research our team has conducted, the FY 21 State Dept Disadvantaged Report for Trimble School District in Athens County, Ohio put their percent of disadvantaged students at 99.98%. However, within the Energy Justice Map, Trimble's profile has \"No Data\", as seen in the attachments below. Is there any information as to why there is no data shown for the district? Also, does this impact Trimble's eligibility to participate in an application for the Renew America's Schools funding opportunity? Please see the attached EJ reports for Trimble School District and advise if possible -- any information you can provide will be helpful!","The tools can be accessed at https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities under \"Related Resources.\"\n\nNot having School District level data in the Energy Justics Report will not impact an applicant's potential to receive funding. The evaluation criteria is based on the indicators for each specific school facility identified in the proposed project. \n\nPlease note that Disadvantaged Community (DAC) designation is defined by DOE and not by other federal or state agencies. For more information on how DOE defines Disadvantaged Communities, please see: https://www.energy.gov/diversity/justice40-initiative"]
["Emailed","E 208","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, we are assisting a rural school in an application for energy improvements. Is the LEA the local school board or the State’s Office of Public Education? ","BIL Sec. 40541 specifies: “The term \"local educational agency” is defined in Section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. According to the Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR 300.28), a \"Local education agency or LEA means a public board of education or other public authority legally constituted within a State for either administrative control or direction of, or to perform a service function for, public elementary or secondary schools in a city, county, township, school district, or other political subdivision of a State, or for a combination of school districts or counties as are recognized in a State as an administrative agency for its public elementary schools or secondary schools.\""]
["Emailed","E 209","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","I am reviewing the guidelines for the Renew America's School grant and had a question. Must a school be located in a DAC to be eligible, or is that part of the weighting of grant awards? Our school has other high need indicators (above average free and reduced, a building that serves as a community shelter etc.) but our area is not a designated DAC. ","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13\n\nPlease note that Disadvantaged Community (DAC) designation is defined by DOE and not by other federal or state agencies. For more information on how DOE defines Disadvantaged Communities, please see: https://www.energy.gov/diversity/justice40-initiative"]
["Emailed","E 210 ","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","1. Is a co-applicant simply someone who will provide technical assistance if needed?  Or is a more active role, requiring a commitment of their resources, imagined by US DOE?  \n\n2. Does a co-applicant have to make a financial commitment as part of their participation?  \n\n3. Can a co-applicant also be a potential supplier of products and/or services related to the proposed projects? (If yet, this would seem to conflict with established fair bidding rules.)  \n\n4. Do I need a specific co-applicant for each (type of) project, or is one enough?  \n\n5. Given the scarcity of professional technical advisors in my region, will I be penalized by the simple fact that I have limited choices?  \n\n6. Does US DOE (intend to) have a way to determine the qualifications of a co-applicant that I include with my applications?  ","The FOA does not contemplate a co-applicant. For the definition of an eligible entity, see Question DOE 2.1. \n1. A co-applicant is not required; an eligible entity is a consortium (see above).    \n2. The Prime recipient is ultimately responsible for meeting financial commitments associated with the federal award.  \n\n3. Depending on the arrangement of the consortium, and whether the project member is a vendor or a sub-recipient (See 2CFR200.1), the following definitions and responsibilities will apply: A vendor is a legal entity contracted to provide goods and services within normal business operations, provides similar goods or services to many different purchasers, operates in a competitive environment, provides goods or services that are ancillary to the operation of the Federal program, and is not subject to compliance requirements of the Federal program. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. A subrecipient is a legal entity to which a subaward is made, who has performance measured against whether the objectives of the Federal program are met, is responsible for programmatic decision making, must adhere to applicable Federal program compliance requirements, and uses the Federal funds to carry out a program of the organization. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. \n\n4. See definition of consortium in Question DOE 2.1. One consortium is required for each type of project.  \n5. DOE has made efforts to streamline the process for conducting a needs assessment, and has curated a list of free tools that LEAs can use to develop a baseline energy needs assessment for a school facility. These resources can help schools calculate the expected energy efficiency, energy savings, and safety benefits of different energy improvements. Applicants for this Funding Opportunity may utilize any of these resources if they do not have other needs assessment reports available. The tools have been designed for use by stakeholders with varying levels of expertise, but may require input from a building manager or operator. To access the list of free tools, visit the DOE website below:  \nhttps://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/school-needs-and-benefits-assessment-resources  \n\nDOE independently evaluates all applications based on merit and quality of proposed upgrades. \n6. If selected for award negotiations, DOE will request additional information, including resumes. It is the responsibility of the Prime recipient to ensure sub-recipients, vendors are not disqualified or disbarred from receiving federal funding.  "]
["Emailed","E 211","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","1. For the Concept Paper, there is a one-page limit for the Cover Page and a two-page limit for Project Description. \n\na. Both documents request the project address locations of proposed energy improvements (i.e. school addresses); please confirm that project addresses need to be provided for both documents. \n\nb. We have over 50 schools in our collaboration and wondered how to meet the page limits for each document, or could the page limits could be expanded to accommodate large groups? \n\n2. If a new school is being built (to be completed in August 2025) within Locale Codes 41, 42 and/or 43 to replace schools already deemed eligible, could this new school be eligible to apply for funding now? \n\n3. If eligible schools might be repurposed as buildings to serve within their communities in the future and not used as schools, how long should they remain as schools to be eligible for this funding? (e.g. An eligible school should operate as a school for a minimum of X years from now to receive funding.) \n\n","1a. In this case, the address of the Prime recipient is sufficient for the Cover Page. In the Project Description please provide school names and individual locations; this may be done in a table (10pt font for the table is fine).  \n\n1b. The Project Description is a high-level project overview. Note that the Statement of Need has no page limit. \n\n2. For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8 \n\n3. Funding will be provided for public schools only for the duration of the project period. DOE does not have the authority to dictate what recipients will do after the period of performance. "]
["Emailed","E 211, continued","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","4. Can schools apply for efficient kitchen equipment? \n\n5. The leasing and purchase of alternative fuel vehicles is permitted in this FOA; can these vehicles be used by the school district or is use limited to the actual schools? ","4. Projects must meet the definition of “energy improvement” per BIL definition (see answer to Question DOE 1.8 for this definition).  \n\n5. Per the definition in the BIL “(E) the purchase or lease of alternative fueled vehicles to be used by a school, including school buses, fleet vehicles, and other operational vehicles.” "]
["Emailed","E 212","2023-01-04","Emailed \nquestions","Are school buildings that aren’t classrooms or don’t host students eligible for funding? Our partner school district would like to propose Topic 2 energy technology solutions for school facilities that don’t host students – one is the district’s central kitchen where food is prepared and then distributed to school cafeterias and the other is an operations center which hosts operations staff and is the storage location for light medium and heavy duty vehicles that are used for school needs but are not buses. ","Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nDOE encourages applications that focus on student-occupied buildings. Please indicate how the energy savings of this building would benefit students and/or the community in your application. "]
["Emailed","E 213","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","Our School is seeking to apply for the Renewing America FOA-0002756 grant. Upon reading the documents and the webinar – there was a statement made regarding a template for the concept form. Where can I locate that template? ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 214","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","In our local school system we have three buildings in need of some lighting upgrades to LED lighting and some older windows that we would like to replace to a more efficient model to prevent energy loss. Is there someone who can contact us to give us more information on the steps needed to apply for a grant to assist in the funding for these projects.","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5"]
["Emailed","E 215","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","Is COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP DOCUMENTATION submitted with the CONCEPT PAPER or if chosen, the full Application? ","Community Partnership Documentation is a required component of the Full Application. "]
["Emailed","E 216","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","On page 14, Section II (Award Information), A. (Award Overview), part iii. (New Applications Only), it specifies that only new applications will be considered.  We recently received money under the EPA's Clean School Bus Rebate Program.  Does this disqualify us from applying?","The recipient may not use federal funding or property (e.g., federal grants, equipment owned by the federal government) or expenditures that were reimbursed under a separate federal program to meet cost share obligations. (FOA Section III.B.iii.).\n\nFor information on combining grant money with other federal funds, see Question DOE 3.2\nFor information on combining funding sources, see Question DOE 3.3"]
["Emailed","E 217","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","Is this grant available for school buildings that are already under construction?","For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4 "]
["Emailed","E 218","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","We have completed facility condition assessments and understand facility needs a number of our schools. However, we have not yet conducted feasibility studies, cost estimations or early design concepts. Therefore, any applications would contain project desriptions, energy savings estimates and cost estimates that are extremely preliminary. Would our proposals be given serious consideration, or would there be later rounds of funding available that it might be advantageous to wait to apply for until we’ve developed more defined project packages? ","Concept Papers are intended to be high-level project overviews. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. Applicants will be asked to further develop their projects in the Full Application. "]
["Emailed","E 219","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","We are forming a consortium of LEA’s and are in the process of identifying a “prime district” as part of our application.  Where can we find information explaining the responsibilities of the prime district once the funds are being distributed?","See FOA Section II.B.i., Legal Responsibility\nAlthough the cost share requirement applies to the project as a whole, including work performed by members of the project team other than the prime recipient, the prime recipient is legally responsible for paying the entire cost share. If the funding agreement is terminated prior to the end of the project period, the prime recipient is required to contribute at least the cost share percentage of total expenditures incurred through the date of termination. The prime recipient is solely responsible for managing cost share contributions by the project team and enforcing cost share obligation assumed by project team members in subawards or related agreements.\n\nSee FOA Section III.E.i.e.\nThe prime recipient will be the responsible authority regarding the settlement and satisfaction of all contractual and administrative issues including, but not limited to disputes and claims arising out of any agreement between the prime recipient and the FFRDC."]
["Emailed","E 220","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","In Question 1.4, you state that “DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021).” Is the work obligated before the stated date for design work or construction work?","To clarify, this funding opportunity will fund selected projects to install \"energy improvements\" as defined in the funding opportunity announcement document. DOE cannot retroactively reimburse work that has previously been completed prior to the date of selection for award negotiations. Therefore any costs incurred prior to selection date is unallowable for reimbursement by DOE. \n\nPlease see answer to question DOE 1.4 for more information on pre-award costs. "]
["Emailed","E 221","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","I am planning to submit a concept paper for the Renew America's Schools grant. The deadline is January 26, 2023. I would like to discuss my submission with someone as I pull it together. Can you put me in touch with someone?","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R.\n\nFor Concept Paper requirements, see FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 222","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","We would like to install solar on some of our school buildings, however, the roofs either need to be replaced or updated. \n\n  \n\nWould this be an eligible expense for the grant? ","Roof replacement/repair to enable solar implementation is an eligible project cost for grant funds. A replacement should have some energy efficiency component associated with it. Please provide clarity as to why the roof requires replacement/repair.  "]
["Emailed","E 223","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","I run a nonprofit that rents a historic school building from the school district and the building has no AC and gets up to 90* F in the summer. We are looking for funding opportunities for an AC so we can continue our early childhood program through the summer.","For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 224","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","1. Will the grant period will be extended, since the FOA says projects lasting up to 60 months are anticipated to be approved? Given that the awards won’t be announced until 9/2023, this would potentially lengthen the grant/project period through to the end of 2028. Yet the FOA says funds are distributed only through FY 2026. Please clarify. \n\n2. Our second question is: What is required at the end of the grant period? Must the project be completely installed by this time? Or can the project be partially completed? In other words, is it correct that the only requirement is that the grant funds be fully dispersed by the end of this grant period, even if our project includes other non grant-funded construction elements yet to be completed? We appreciate clarification so we can proceed with defining or project scope. ","1. Funds must be obligated through 2026, but not necessarily spent by 2026.  \n\n2. The agreed upon scope pertaining to the federal grant award would need to be completed by the end of the grant period. "]
["Emailed","E 225","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","I am talking with colleagues about our plan for potentially applying for grant money in this first(?) round of funding. Given the narrow window from when it was announced to when concept papers are due, we are discussing whether it makes sense to push ahead now or make a more expansive plan for a round 2. With that in mind, I have a few questions: \n\n1. Will there be a round 2? If yes, when and for what level of funding? \n\n2. If we receive a small amount of funding this go round, would we be less likely to receive money in a potential round 2? \n\n3. Will there be an opportunity to apply for grants that are not necessarily in more rural areas? We have older schools needing upgrades in municipalities that aren’t on our initial list but would be great targets given the overall goal of this funding. ","1. This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" \n\n2. DOE independently evaluates all applications based on merit and quality of proposed upgrades, and the decision to fund or not fund a project has no implications for possible future funding rounds.   \n\n3. Rural locale is not a requirement. A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees.  \n\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 226","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","1. On the title page for the Concept Paper, using the Template for the Cover Page/Project Narrative, there are 2 separate lines: FOA Topic Area Name: do we simply add the Specific name already listed for Topic Area 1 or 2 – e.g., High-Impact Energy Efficiency and Health Improvements or - Innovative Energy Technology Packages? FOA Topic Area : do we simply enter Topic Area 1 or Topic Area 2 ? \n\n2. Statements of Need – where are these short written descriptions entered? It appears on the table that they can be written statements that are SEPARATE from the 2-page maximum for the project description – is this correct? \n\na.\tCommunity Need – short needs summary - do we add a standalone sheet that is an attachment in addition to the Energy Justice Report(s)? \n\nb.\tFacility Needs Assessment – is the short needs assessment for each school on a separate page to accompany the list generated by the DOE facility assessment tools? \n\nc.\tFiscal Need and Capacity – where should this description be entered? \n","Please note that the Project Narrative Template is for Full Applications, not for Concept Papers. \n\n1. Either naming convention is acceptable. For FOA Topic Area Name, the applicant could include the Topic Area along with its description (e.g., “Topic Area 1 -- High-Impact Energy Efficiency and Health Improvements”). In this example, FOA Topic Area is “Topic Area 1”. \n\n2. All components of the Statements of Need section should be compiled into a single PDF. There are no page limits for Statements of Need."]
["Emailed","E 226, continued","2023-01-05","Emailed \nquestions","3. RECIPIENT – if the prime recipient is the LEA, where on the Cover Page do we explicitly state the name of the TEAM PARTNER from the Team partner list?  \n\n4. IF the application must actually be from a CONSORTIA – e.g., 1 LEA and 1 Team Partner– how is that specific ‘consortia’ described on the Cover Page? This is different from a ‘consortia’ of multiple LEA’s working together in my understanding. I want to fully understand if ANY submission for a Concept Paper must explicitly state the ‘consortia’ consisting of the eligible domestic entities. ","3. Listing of teaming partners is not required in the Concept Paper. The applicant could choose to include this information in the Project Description.   \n\n4. A consortium is required (see Question DOE 2.1) Note that an LEA plus a school is a consortium. The consortium arrangement must be explicitly stated somewhere in the Concept Paper application, but it is not required on the Cover Page per se.  "]
["Emailed","E 227","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","My small school system has two districts, one elementary (K-8) and one high school (9-12). I have needs in both districts. Do I need to set up two accounts and submit two separate applications, one for each district? ","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 228","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","Our school is interested in applying for the Renew America's School's Grant to allow us to convert our oil and propane systems to natural gas in our secondary school.  I noticed that the individual award amounts start at $500,000.  Our project would cost between $75,000 and $120,000.  Would we still be able to apply and potentially receive funds?","Note that $500,000 is not the absolute floor and applications for projects requesting less than $500,000 may still be considered. An application for a project requesting less than $500,000 still needs to meet the full intent of the program.\n\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 229","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","Can a school district managing the grant for multiple schools add an administrative fee to pay for fiscal and compliance services?  ","See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs\nApplicants selected for award negotiations (selectee) must request prior written approval to charge pre-award costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the federal award directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency, through the DOE Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs cannot be incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. Pre-award expenditures are made at the selectee’s risk. EERE is not obligated to reimburse costs: (1) in the absence of appropriations; (2) if an award is not made; or (3) if an award is made for a lesser amount than the selectee anticipated.” All costs associated with submitting the application are ineligible and unallowable for reimbursement."]
["Emailed","E 230","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with public schools in Cleveland, OH. Their school buildings are all located in a DAC but they are not appearing on the Energy Justice Map. Can they still submit to qualify for the grant? They should be able to provide the same school indicator information as supplied from the Energy Justice Map tool.","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001.\n\nA school may be high-poverty yet not show DAC designation under the Energy Justice Mapping Tool. DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. "]
["Emailed","E 231","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","When trying to generate the required report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool from DOE, we are unable to obtain the report. The mapping tool requires entry of our unique identifying NCES number (2511800) but it is not recognized. It is unclear if this is because we are a regional school district that represents 5 towns and not an individual town? If so, is there another option or means to create the report?","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 232","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","Currently re-watching the webinar but correctly not sure where to apply for our grant control number.  If you can send that procedure and/or website.","A control number will be issued when an applicant begins the EERE Exchange application process. The control number must be included with all application documents. Specifically, the control number must be prominently displayed on the upper right corner of the header of every page and included in the file name (i.e., ControlNumber_ApplicantName_FullApplication) (See FOA Section IV.A.)"]
["Emailed","E 233","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a charter school.  Does the charter school have to be listed on the mapping tool to be eligible for the grant.  They are all located in disadvantaged areas.","For inormation on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3\n\nApplicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 234","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","We are working on submitting a concept paper for FOA-0002756 (Topic Area #1) for a rural school district here in Minnesota. To clarify the submission requirements, are we allowed as the private party partner to submit on behalf of the school or LEA, or does the school need to directly apply themselves through EERE Exchange? ","An application consortium designates a Prime recipient, who submits the application in eXCHANGE. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. LEAs are also eligible Prime recipients. "]
["Emailed","E 235","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","I am the grant writer for a district in Central Oregon. Our entity is not found on the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. We are an \"Education Service District,\" not specifically a school. \n\nThe announcement for this  Renew America's Schools FOA indicates that:\nApplicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy\nJustice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page\nmaximum report. \n\nCan you please help me locate the \"Energy Justice Report\" template? Our HDESD wants to make sure our application meets all FOA guidelines.\n","The Energy Justice Report Template is found under \"Application Forms and Templates\" on EERE eXCHANGE."]
["Emailed","E 236","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","If a proposal includes only a renewable energy project is this considered Topic Area 1?","For information on project eligibility and topic areas, see Question DOE 1.1. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant."]
["Emailed","E 237","2023-01-06","Emailed \nquestions","Where can I find what is required in the “Abstract” box of the submission, or what information is being requested here?","The Abstract should include a brief project summary.  "]
["Emailed","E 238","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","Do schools need to submit Concept Papers via the EERE Exchange portal (as required for the full application) or is there an email address to which they must instead submit Concept Papers?","Yes, Concept Papers are submitted via the EERE eXCHANGE portal."]
["Emailed","E 239","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","Hello - most of the grants under the current infrastructure bill seem to be limited to public schools. Is there any funding available for a Catholic school that serves low income students in Philadelphia that wishes to go solar? We have formed a committee to look into the possibility.","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Private schools are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program."]
["Emailed","E 240","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","Can funds be used for district facilities that don’t have students in them?","Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nDOE encourages applications that focus on focus on student-occupied buildings. Please indicate how the energy savings of this building would benefit students and/or the community in your application. "]
["Emailed","E 241","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a template to use for the concept paper that is due by January 26th? I see the full application narrative, but I don't see anything regarding the initial concept paper. ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template/application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 242","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","I was wondering if you could send me an example of the Concept Paper needed for this grant for January 26th","No such example exists. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 243","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","The link for the DE-FOA-0002756: 2022 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS AT PUBLIC K-12 SCHOOL FACILITIES - BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LAW (BIL) - RENEW AMERICA'S SCHOOLS NOFO on the Dept. of Energy website appears to be broken.  \n\nAttempting to download and open the NOFO leads me to an error \"There was an error opening this document. The file is damaged and could not be repaired.\" The NOFO is not listed in grants.gov either.\n\nCan you please forward the NOFO to me, or provide another path to downloading it?  Thank you!\n","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 244","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","I am a board member for a small rural charter school that wishes to apply to this FOA to support a renewable energy system for the school. I can see the templates for the full application but have not been able to find a template for the concept paper due January 26th. Can you please direct me to where I can find that please? ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template/application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 245","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","I’m reaching out to ask a question about Renew America Schools grant.  I have finished my concept paper and ready to submit. Please give me a contact number, so I may speak to a live representative.","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 246","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","We are currently constructing a new prek-12 facility for our school district.  We are consolidating six old buildings into one new school to serve our rural district, in Wayne County Ohio.  The building is scheduled to open for the 24-25 school year.  Would this building project be eligible for the renew our schools grant money, or is it only to renovate spaces?  ","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 247","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","Our district recently executed a contract for projects very similar to those described in this funding option. I assume that projects that have already been executed are not eligible for funding. In our project development process, due to rising construction costs and limited funds available, the district unfortunately was forced to value engineer and cut out the LED lighting portion of the project. We are interested in applying for this possible funding opportunity to achieve our district's goals of creating a safe and healthy learning environment for students and staff in a very efficient manner. Can you please clarify if the minimum funding amount that is eligible is the $500,000 I have seen published? Our project as a whole is well over that amount but the lighting project alone is significantly less than that. ","Note that $500,000 is not the absolute floor and applications for projects requesting less than $500,000 may still be considered. An application for a project requesting less than $500,000 still needs to meet the full intent of the program.\n\nFor information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. If the project is partially or completely done at time of award, DOE will not reimburse those costs. \n\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 248","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","The Energy Justice Mapping Tool Report provides an Excel spreadsheet titled “Schools Data (v2022a)(1)”, where column headers and further reading indicate public school data is primarily from 2018-2019. The Terrebonne School Board’s current Title I Eligibility data conflicts with the data that is provided in the “Schools Data (v2022a)(1)”. \n\nPlease confirm we are to use the data that is provided in Energy Justice Mapping Tool Report “Schools Data (v2022a)(1)”. \n","DOE encourages applicants to submit a combined pdf of both the autogenerated Energy Justice Mapping Tool school specific report and to use the \"Energy_Justice_Template_Report\" to explain why they feel the autogenerated report is incorrect.  Please submit both files as a combined pdf."]
["Emailed","E 249","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","Is this grant allowed to be used for a School District facility (such as district administrative offices) or only a school site?","Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nDOE encourages applications that focus on focus on student-occupied buildings. Please indicate how the energy savings of this building would benefit students and/or the community in your application. "]
["Emailed","E 250","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","Hypothetically, if we were awarded funds for this energy improvement project, could we have already spent the funds (like summer of 2023) or would we have to have incurred the expenses after receiving the award?  ","For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. If the project is partially or completely done at time of award, DOE will not reimburse those costs. "]
["Emailed","E 251","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","We are a for-profit organization that has the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements. However, we haven’t yet teamed up with a local educational agency. Can you please let me know if we are eligible to submit a concept paper without such an agency?","No, this is not possible. An application consortium requires a Local Educational Agency. See Question DOE 2.1."]
["Emailed","E 252","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a school district to determine an eligible application. We are considering a proposal under Topic 2 - Innovative Energy Technology Packages. \n\nThe first component would be solar panels. \n\nThe second and third components could be electronic vehicles (EVs) and infrastructure to support EV but we have a question. Individual schools in the district do not have vehicles. The district does have vehicles used for school purposes. An example is below. Would replacing these vehicles with EV be eligible? \n\n- The security department has a large fleet of vehicles that are used to monitor school grounds (not assigned to individual schools, but each school receives services). Security also transports children who are \"stranded\" at school - meaning a parent did not pick them up. ","Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nSo long as the “school grounds” belong to the LEA (or the LEA’s schools) this would likely be considered an eligible location under Topic Area 2. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.\n\nThe Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is available on EERE eXCHANGE, along with supporting documents and application materials."]
["Emailed","E 253","2023-01-09","Emailed \nquestions","1. Can you clarify what % of the grant funds can be applied to soft costs; i.e., engineering, design, admin, etc.?  \n\n2. Also, if we need to lease modular classrooms during the energy renovations, can this cost – or a portion thereof – be covered by the grant funds? ","1. Soft costs are allowable, but since applications are judged by their proposed energy improvements, the budget should not be predominately soft costs. \n\n2. If the proposed energy improvement cannot happen without a leased modular classroom, then this cost may be allowable.  "]
["Emailed","E 254","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","I would like to know how we can support the schools and districts obtain the funding needed to expedite the use of electric school busses and fleets with the necessary energy infrastructure.\n\nWould like to speak with someone to bring me up to speed on program details, list of schools participating in the program, and how GenCell can be part of the solution.\nThank you and look forward to speaking with you.\n","For information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\n\nIf you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 255","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a link to show a sample \"Concept Paper\"? ","No such example exists. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 256","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","I have been reviewing the application process for the Renew Americans School grant. I am not able to find the Concept paper form. Would you please send it to me? or let me know where to find it.","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template/application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 257","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","I wanted to reach out regarding the Department of Energy Grant.  Can you offer an example of the initial concept paper submission?  We are hoping for some guidance in order to meet the January 26th 5PM deadline. ","No such example exists. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 258","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","I was wondering if our concept paper could focus on both Topic Areas. ","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 259","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","We are a teaming partner and have had several school districts connect with us to be their partner on the RAS grant. As we assist these districts in the preparation of the Concept Papers for this grant, the discussion of which entity submits the application through the portal has come about.\n\nCan you advise who should be the submitter through the portal of the Concept Paper and Application materials – is it the School District or is it the teaming partner?\n","An application consortium designates a Prime recipient, who submits the application in eXCHANGE. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. LEAs are also eligible Prime recipients. "]
["Emailed","E 260","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","Our strategic plan includes expanding and growing our charter school system to other counties.  We are beginning to build a 3rd charter school in Florida.  The school is estimated to cost around $14 million.  We are searching for grants to help with the construction of this school.  Could this grant be used for construction?","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8\n\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. "]
["Emailed","E 261","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","For government grants, the school district is usually our LEA and funding flows through them, but we typically carry out the grant program goals independently. I wanted to confirm what levels of involvement between schools and LEA are expected for this specific grant? If we have approval for program goals and funding flows through them, is that sufficient?","LEAs must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the Full Application as a Letter of Commitment (FOA Section IV.D.v.)."]
["Emailed","E 262","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","We need some help finding the energy justice info to be included with the application. The Concept paper asks we submit the following: \nDOE has developed the “Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools” (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov).  Applicants are required to utilize this tool to generate a report that summarizes the community served by the school facility for each proposed project location(s). \n\nHowever, the website says I should search under the district.  We are unable to find our school in either place.  Our school also opened in 2001 but was approved in 2000.  \n\nThe website says we cant use our unique NCES number isn't possible.  I quoted the info below: Charter schools: Charter schools can be found by searching for the local school district they are found in. Since charter school district boundaries are not fixed, their unique NCES district ID will not appear on the map.","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 263","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","I have a school I’m working with that wants to install solar panels and upgrade their AC system to something more efficient that provides better air filtration. Does this sound like a possible fit under Topic Area 1?\n\nAlso, do you have the NOSA you can send me?","Given the information provided, your proposed project could possibly fall under Topic Area 2. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.\n\nThe Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is available on EERE eXCHANGE, along with supporting documents and application materials.\n\n"]
["Emailed","E 264","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions"," In reviewing the Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities - Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) - Renew America's Schools FOA, we had some questions come up regarding the Davis-Bacon Act Requirements. The FOA notes that Davis-Bacon applies to “all laborers and mechanics employed by the recipient, subrecipients, contractors or subcontractors in the performance of construction, alteration, or repair work funded in whole or in part under this FOA shall be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on similar projects in the locality.” Our team was unclear how this language would apply to factory-based employees for manufactured products, such as windows, mechanical equipment, or wall panels. Do you have any insight for how the Davis-Bacon requirements should be interpreted here? ","Factory-based employees are not subject to Davis-Bacon Act requirements. Prevailing wage is only applicable to workers performing work directly attributable to the project. For more information, see: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/government-contracts/construction "]
["Emailed","E 265","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question concerning DE-FOA-0002756 regarding Pre-Award Costs. The FOA states, \"such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency, through the DOE Contracting Officer\".  \n\nCan you advise who the Contracting Officer is and if we can still request this approval? ","Pre-award costs cannot be requested unless the applicant is selected for an award.  "]
["Emailed","E 266","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","If my School District were to apply and be granted the Energy Improvement Grant and our 20% Cost Share was going to come from a Public Bond Vote and this Bond Vote were to be denied by the community and we no longer had our 20% Cost Share to put toward the HVAC school improvements over the course of the 5 year grant what would happen to the grant funding and the project if it \n(a) it wasn't started yet? or \n(b) we had only funded and did the first years slotted improvements? \n","The cost share requirement is 5%. Note that the 20% figure was part of an example intended to illustrate how cost share is calculated. \n\nIf an applicant is awarded funds and spends any money, they are required to meet the cost share. If an applicant is awarded funds and during negotiations is unable to come up with cost share or cost share partner(s), then the awardee can back out of negotiations and/or DOE will cancel negotiations.  \n\nNote that the Prime recipient is also responsible if a sub-recipient is to provide cost share and then backs out.  \n\nSee FOA Section II.B.i.  \nAlthough the cost share requirement applies to the project as a whole, including work performed by members of the project team other than the prime recipient, the prime recipient is legally responsible for paying the entire cost share. If the funding agreement is terminated prior to the end of the project period, the prime recipient is required to contribute at least the cost share percentage of total expenditures incurred through the date of termination. The prime recipient is solely responsible for managing cost share contributions by the project team and enforcing cost share obligation assumed by project team members in subawards or related agreements. \n\nb) In this case the recipient would be responsible for cost share for that year of work and the project would likely be terminated. Note that since cost share is required on every invoice, this situation is unlikely to occur.  "]
["Emailed","E 267","2023-01-10","Emailed \nquestions","1. Section IV.C of the FOA (page 25) states that the concept paper cover page should include “both the technical and business points of contact.” Can you please provide additional guidance on how to determine who to list for these contacts? Should the business contact be the same as the SAM EBiz Point of Contact? Should these be the same as the “primary and back-up points-of-contact in EERE Exchange with whom the DOE will communicate to conduct award negotiations”(page ii of the FOA)? \n\n2. Section IV.C of the FOA outlines the 1-page and 2-page maximums for the concept paper cover page and project description, respectively. It also requires that the project location(s) be included in both these sections. We are working on a concept paper for a project that includes 36 schools at 18 addresses. In table form - which we think is the best format to communicate the school names, addresses, and estimated costs - this information takes at least a page, which exceeds the cover page limit and uses a significant portion of the project description limit even with 10 font size. Is it acceptable to provide a summary of the project locations in both the cover page and project description, and include the full list of addresses for all 36 schools/18 buildings in the Statement of Needs section, OR to exceed the page limits due to this high number of locations? Alternatively, we can describe the addresses in paragraph format, which takes up less space.  ","1. The Technical point of contact is: “The researcher, scientist or other individual designated by the recipient to direct the research and development aspects of the project.” The Business point of contact is the logistics coordinator. \n\n2. In this case, providing a summary of project locations in the Cover Page and Project Description, and including the full list of addresses in the Statements of Need, is acceptable.   "]
["Emailed","E 268","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","We have multiple independent campuses housing students for partial and full-time programming from rural and high-need school districts throughout three counties and one tribal territory in western New York. Could you advise if we are eligible to apply independently?\n","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 269","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Is it an allowable cost to write in new HVAC units in this Application in order to reduce energy consumption?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 270","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Wondered if DoE can fill me in on some timing issues re the Renew America's Schools program. That is, what will be the length of time between submitting a Concept Paper and being invited to submit a full proposal? Then, what will be the length of time between when full proposals are submitted and when awards are made?","Applicants will have approximately 30 days from receipt of the Concept Paper Encourage/Discourage notification on EERE Exchange to prepare and submit a Full Application (FOA Section IV.D.). \n\nSee FOA Cover Page for timelines. Concept Papers are due 1/26/23. Full Applications are due 4/21/23. Expected date for DOE selection notification is 6/16. Excpected timeframe for award negotiations is 6/17/23-9/15/23. "]
["Emailed","E 271","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Our company has a couple of Public District Schools in Disadvantaged Area’s that would like to do rooftop solar projects via this Program.  \n\nWe are wondering if there are exemptions to the Buy America Requirements?  Solar cells are not manufactured in the United States, but the rest of the parts can and will be.\n\nCould you please give us a detailed explanation on whether or not rooftop solar would qualify for this Program.\n","In limited circumstances, DOE may waive the application of the Buy America Requirement in an award where DOE determines that:\n(1) applying the Buy America requirements would be inconsistent with the public interest (Public Interest);\n(2) the types of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials are not produced in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available\nquantities or of a satisfactory quality (Non-Availability); or\n(3) the inclusion of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials produced in the United States will increase the cost of the overall project by more \nthan 25 percent (Unreasonable Cost).\n\nSee FOA Appendix B for more information. \n\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 272","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","If we submit a Concept Paper, is it a binding document? If something were to occur in the time from submission and full application.","Concept Papers are not legally binding, and modifications may be made before submitting the associated Full Application. "]
["Emailed","E 273","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","I am working on a concept paper for a district in Wyoming so we can complete an energy audit on their roof.  The audit will comprise of both thermal and infield inspections to increase energy efficiency. What portions of this grant do we need to fill out, or is there a different avenue we can take to complete our inspections?","For information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5\nFor information on needs assessments, see Questions DOE 5.1, DOE 5.2, DOE 5.3, DOE 5.4"]
["Emailed","E 274","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Does a geothermal wellfield for a geothermal HVAC system qualify as “Installation of renewable energy technologies” under topic area 2?","Given the information provided, your proposed project could possibly fall under Topic Area 1. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant."]
["Emailed","E 275","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Our school is not currently showing up on the Energy Justice Dashboard. I have both emailed and called the contacts listed there and have not received any response. Can our school still be submitted for work (in concert with our LEA) under this grant if the energy justice report is not able to be pulled and submitted with the concept paper? ","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001."]
["Emailed","E 276","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","We are in need of replacing a boiler and I am reaching out to see if you are able to tell me if our school qualifies for this grant. We are a 170 year old private school and a 501(c)(3)","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 277","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Can you please send me the application for this grant? Also, can you provide me tips on writing a grant for a school Dist. I am looking for a grant that would provide funds for an HAVAC system for a High School at a small school with 75% minority students. ","For information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5. All information is available on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportunity. \n\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 278","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","I am trying to view Grant Opportunity DE-FOA-0002756 in Grants.gov and I am not able to access any of the document on the Version History including Synopsis 1, there are no documents in the Related Documents or the Packet files and the Apply button is not linked. Could you provide me some information on this application? I am working with a School that would desperately like to apply.","For information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5. All information is available on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportunity. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 279","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","On page 8-9 of the PDF a teaming partner list is mentioned. We are a mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection engineering firm. Does the teaming partner have to do with engineering firms?","The Teaming Partner List allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and to explore potential partnerships. DOE does not specify organization type. "]
["Emailed","E 280","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","We are helping a small rural school apply for this as they need an HVAC upgrade badly. I have some questions on what is required in the concept paper:\n1. Do we need exact numbers on the upgrade costs or are estimates ok?\n2. Do we need an fully executed design?\n3. Do we need energy savings calculations?","1. Budget information is a required component of the Full Application. See FOA Section IV.D.iii. for budget justification requirements. \n\n2. The Concept Paper is intended to be a high-level project overview, to be developed more fully in the Full Application. \n\n3. See FOA Section IV.D.iii. for budget justification requirements. "]
["Emailed","E 281","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Under Section IV.C. Content and Form of the Concept Paper, it provides page limits for the cover page and the project description.  However in the page limit column for statement of need it says N/A.  Does that mean there is no page limit for this section?","Correct, the Statements of Need portion of the Concept Paper has no page limit."]
["Emailed","E 282","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Would an application for a new HAVAC system for a public high school, to provide cleaner air, be applicable to this grant application?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Emailed","E 283","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Good afternoon, I’m writing to request assistance in the Renew Americas Schools program to submit the Concept Application for my Public School District.\nIf you’d contact me at [phone number and email address removed] I’d greatly appreciate it!\n","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 284","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","I would like to verify that if your school district is not in  BLUE, on the map that was provided on the PowerPoint Presentation material (as a link) then this school dist. is not eligible for an award with an application.","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees, and location within a DAC (blue regions on the map) is one of these. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 285","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","Is it mandatory that a partnering/teaming organization register through the DOE?","Partnering/teaming organizations do not register through DOE. \n\nNote that the partnering organization can be the designated Prime recipient. The Prime entity of the consortium should be the enitity registered in Exchange and submitting the application. Any subrecipients of the award, as defined in 2 CFR 200.1, must have a UEI number but subrecipients do not have to be fully registered in SAM. Only the prime entity of the consortium MUST be fully regsitered in SAM, FedConnect and grants.gov. Any subcontractors (vendors) do not need a UEI number or need to be fully registered in SAM.\n\nFor information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 286","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","We are focused on helping schools become Net Zero& resilient with integrated EV charging for vehicles and buses. Is there a way to sign up to be a partner for schools applying for this grant? Even districts that don't win could be helped by our services.\n\nWe develop & operate microgrids and energy infrastructure at no cost to school and reduced power costs. We would love to work with all schools in the nation and are poised to work quickly in CA.\n","For information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14"]
["Emailed","E 287","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","We are working with several high-needs school districts on the Clean Green Schools Initiative. I see that DE-FOA-0002756 can be coordinated with the Clean Green Schools Initiative. Who should I contact to learn more about this?","The Renew America’s Schools Grant is not coordinated with this initiative and has no direct relationship with this initiative.   "]
["Emailed","E 288","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","When the cover page asks to list the Technical and Business point of contact, is that a role in particular (such as the EBiz POC in SAM.gov for the prime recipient)? Or is that anyone that the applicant/LEA wants to designate as those points of contact?","The Technical point of contact is: “The researcher, scientist or other individual designated by the recipient to direct the research and development aspects of the project.” The Business point of contact is the logistics coordinator. "]
["Emailed","E 289","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","I am reaching out to clarify regarding the Concept Paper for this opportunity.  \n\nIn cases where a partnership with a school district has not been finalized before the LOI submission deadline, will a company still be eligible to submit a full submission once a partner has been identified? Or would this lead to the company being ineligible to continue with a full submission? \n\nAdditionally, If the school district has been identified but won’t be able to get a Facility Needs Assessment by the Concept Paper deadline, can the Concept Paper still be submitted and be eligible for the full submission? \n\nThe tools located on the DOE website linked in the solicitation would require significant time investment by partners. Is the whole excel titled “School Energy Assessment Form” necessary for this stage? ","An application must meet eligibility requirements (see Question DOE 2.1) to be eligible for the Full Application. In particular, an application must include an LEA.   \n\nNo. Per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. \n\nIf this is the needs assessment format selected, then yes. As a reminder, there are several types of eligible needs assessments; see Question DOE 5.2."]
["Emailed","E 290","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","I am working to support three different school districts in the State of Oregon on their respective applications. All three are under significant duress to complete their concept paper on account of the fact that the FOA’s response period overlapped with a two week long winter break period, and much deserved time away. I imagine there are other applicants in similar circumstances and am writing to encourage an extension of the deadline to submit. All three of our school districts are small, rural communities and we are doing our best to provide additional capacity so they can apply for these critically needed resources. I hope you’ll consider providing extra time to allow for the overlap with the holiday season.","LEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class\n\nAs a reminder, per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. \n\nConcept Papers are intended to be high-level project overviews. Applicants will be asked to further develop their projects in the Full Application. \n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" "]
["Emailed","E 291","2023-01-11","Emailed \nquestions","We are working on developing the concept paper for this grant.  We noticed in the FOA, that a Facility Needs Assessment is needed for this project and that there are 4 options to provide proof. For this opportunity, we will be targeting 95 of our 292 school sites. Given that this is more of a network engineering and supporting systems proposal. Is every school required to have a facility needs assessment even though this a district-wide project? And, if so, how can we utilized option 4 to develop an acceptable deliverable for you? Are there any other low-grade assessment opportunities that can best support this portion of the concept paper?","Yes, a facilities needs assessment is required. This can be done at the district level, with a summary explaining how all schools are impacted.  \n\nSince this is a district-level initiative, please include both the auto-generated District Level report from the Energy Justice Mapping tool and generate a District Wide EJ Report from the template posted with FOA Modification 001. This will ensure that all indicators are included. "]
["Emailed","E 292","1/11 and 1/13","Emailed \nquestions","Am I correct in concluding that our school district data is NOT included in the Energy Justice Dashboard tool at Energy Justice Dashboard (anl.gov)? When I try to get information on our district, or when I try to get information on individual schools, nothing appears. The little 'searching wheel' just goes around and around. \n\nAnd this form would be required for each school in the proposed project / plan, correct? NOT per district?","Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001.\n\nThe form is required for each school in the proposed project."]
["Emailed","E 293","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","I'm currently working on an application for DE-FOA-0002756, and our school district was hoping to work with a local group we've successfully partnered with in the past on energy projects. They aren't listed as an official Teaming Partner -- would we be able to add them to the list?","Note that a consortium partner need not be listed on the Teaming Partner List. "]
["Emailed","E 294","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","Are there any examples of a completed Concept Paper that we can see as a reference tool?","No such example exists. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 295","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","We have been attempting to download and open the following pdf file and have been repeatedly getting the following message:\n“There was an error opening this document. The file is damaged and could not be repaired.”\n\nFile name:\nDE-FOA-0002756_Mod_0001_-_BIL_40541_Renew_Americas_Schools.pdf\n\nWould you please update this file and send us a version we can open?  ","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 296","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","How many pages can the concept paper be?","The Cover Page has a page limit of 1, and the Project Description has a page limit of 2. There are no page limits for Statements of Need. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 297","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","I am interested in the grant opportunity for Energy Improvements for K-12 Public Schools. What details are you looking for in the Concept Paper Submission? Is it the same as the Project Narrative Template or are you looking for a summary of the project with the expectation of a completed narrative to be submitted with the full application?","Concept Papers are intended to be high-level project overviews. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. Applicants will be asked to further develop their projects in the Full Application. "]
["Emailed","E 298","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","Do we need to have a school lined up already to submit this concept paper? We are working on acquiring one but are eager to submit for this FOA.","For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3, DOE 2.4, DOE 2.5"]
["Emailed","E 299","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","I understand that applicants should only focus on one of the two topic areas per concept paper. We would like to seek funding for three distinct projects at one school all under the same topic area. Should we submit a concept paper for each project, or should we address all three projects in the same concept paper, including a statement that we would be pleased to do one or all three projects? ","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number.\n\nDOE may choose to fund all, some, or none of the projects."]
["Emailed","E 300","2023-01-12","emailed \nquestions","1.\tAre administrative buildings (i.e. no students) that are owned and used by a school district eligible for this program? \n2.\tWe have a newly constructed school planned that is solar-ready, but we do not have the funds for solar panels. We would like to apply for funds to buy and install the solar panels as well as EV chargers. Are those expenses eligible under this program?  ","1. Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nDOE encourages applications that focus on student-occupied buildings. Please indicate how the energy savings of this building would benefit students and/or the community in your application. \n\n2. For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Emailed","E 301","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","What needs to be included in the Concept paper and does it need to be a minimum or maximum of pages? ","The Cover Page has a page limit of 1, and the Project Description has a page limit of 2. There are no page limits for Statements of Need. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 302","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","Can you clarify what is meant by 'statements regarding confidentiality' in the concept paper cover page?","A confidentiality statement is not required. If the applicant wishes to provide a statement of confidentiality regarding their proposed project (if for instance it contains any confidential information or discussion of intellectual property), they may do so as instructed on the cover page of the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 303","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","Does identifying contracting partners/team member organizations through the concept paper restrict us from following the formal procurement methods in the CFR 200.320.  Our understanding is that we have to follow a formal sealed bid methods if we’re awarding contracts over $250,000 for federal grants we receive.   ","No, this does not prevent an applicant from following the formal procurement methods. DOE encourages competitive procurement processes.  \n\nDepending on the arrangement of the consortium, and whether the project member is a vendor or a sub-recipient (See 2CFR200.1), the following definitions and responsibilities will apply: A vendor is a legal entity contracted to provide goods and services within normal business operations, provides similar goods or services to many different purchasers, operates in a competitive environment, provides goods or services that are ancillary to the operation of the Federal program, and is not subject to compliance requirements of the Federal program. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. A subrecipient is a legal entity to which a subaward is made, who has performance measured against whether the objectives of the Federal program are met, is responsible for programmatic decision making, must adhere to applicable Federal program compliance requirements, and uses the Federal funds to carry out a program of the organization. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status.  "]
["Emailed","E 304","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","I was curious if our school is eligible for this grant. It is not currently shown on the Energy Justice Mapping dashboard. \n\nOur school's primary funding is through public tuition, although it is registered as a not-for-profit entity. We were told by a state worker that it qualifies as a \"public academy\". I do not know how to confirm whether or not we are eligible. ","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3.  \n\nDOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. \n\nRe: Data not showing on the Energy Justice dashboard: Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001. \n\n \n"]
["Emailed","E 305","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","Answer to DOE question # 6.3 from the Q&A Spreadsheet states: “DOE will also recognize DACs as defined and identified by the White House Council of Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST)”. Some of our schools are located within disadvantaged communities as identified by the CEJST mapping tool but not the energy justice mapping tool (https://energyjustice.egs.anl.gov/). How do we properly identify schools located by CEJST mapping tool as being in a disadvantaged community when the report from the energy justice mapping tool (https://energyjustice.egs.anl.gov/) says that they are not?","If using this alternative pathway please use the Energy Justice Report Template (see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22) and reference CEJST in the sources.   \n\n\n"]
["Emailed","E 306","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","I am preparing to submit a concept letter for several projects within our local school system.  I have been approached by our only charter school to submit a concept plan on their behalf.  While they are our students, the charter school is owned by the charter board and is not owned by the local Board of Education.  They are responsible for their building costs, including capital improvements.  When submitting, do I have to submit their application on their behalf AND do I have to prioritize their request with ours? ","An application consortium designates a Prime recipient, who submits the application in eXCHANGE. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. LEAs are also eligible Prime recipients. \n\nThe following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3.  \n\nDOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. "]
["Emailed","E 307","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the allocation of funds should it be awarded to a particular district. Is there a limit on how much each district is or can be awarded based on the amount of schools they include in the application? ","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. \n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number. \n\nDOE may choose to fund all, some, or none of the projects. Individual project awards are capped at $15,000,000. "]
["Emailed","E 308","2023-01-12","Emailed \nquestions","Determining who is an eligible entity may be a bit tricky for us. As described in Section 40541(a)(3) of the BIL, an eligible entity is a consortium of: (a) one local educational agency (LEA) and (b) one or more schools; nonprofit organizations; for-profit organizations; or community partners that have the knowledge and capacity to partner and assist with energy improvements. Based on that statutory language, which- if any- of the following arrangements would be permissible as an eligible entity:  \n\nA.  A state education agency that provides special education transportation services on behalf of all LEAs in the District of Columbia.  \n\nB.  2 or more LEAs forming a consortium with schools in each of their respective jurisdictions \n\nC.  An LEA with one or more of its schools under that LEA’s jurisdiction \n\nD.  An LEA with one or more schools under a different LEA’s jurisdiction, in our case a public charter school (which is a nonprofit organization) \n\nIf it’s easier to chat, it would be great. ","Options B, C, D may be eligible consortia. If the state education agency in Option A partners with at least one LEA, then Option A could also be an eligible consortium. However, please note that DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, 2.3 \n\nIf you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 309","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","First time doing this and need help with filling out concept page and hope you can answer following questions. \n\n1.  Under General tab - for Abstract box, if we are looking at 3 projects, do I summarize all 3 here or do i have to fill out a concept page for each project? \n\n2. Team members - do I add contractors here or just leave it with Organization info that is already there (ie school name, percentage of project) ","1. The Abstract summarizes the attached application.  \n\nSee Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. \n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number. \n\n2. Contractor information is not required until after an application is selected for award. \n\nDepending on the arrangement of the consortium, and whether the project member is a vendor or a sub-recipient (See 2CFR200.1), the following definitions and responsibilities will apply: A vendor is a legal entity contracted to provide goods and services within normal business operations, provides similar goods or services to many different purchasers, operates in a competitive environment, provides goods or services that are ancillary to the operation of the Federal program, and is not subject to compliance requirements of the Federal program. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. A subrecipient is a legal entity to which a subaward is made, who has performance measured against whether the objectives of the Federal program are met, is responsible for programmatic decision making, must adhere to applicable Federal program compliance requirements, and uses the Federal funds to carry out a program of the organization. All characteristics may not be present and judgment must be used to determine subrecipient vs. vendor status. "]
["Emailed","E 310","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","We have a question about the needs assessments. There is no page limit on the needs assessment for the concept paper submission.  We have 70+ page needs assessment reports for each of the facilities we are considering performed by a certified professional.  Would it be preferred that we attach these or simply summarize and state that we do have them completed? ","DOE welcomes the complete needs assessment reports. As stated in FOA, the applicant also provides a short written summary of those assessments.  "]
["Emailed","E 311","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","First, in reference to “statements regarding confidentiality” mentioned as a required element in the cover page, is it okay to simply reference our policy and later include an attachment of that policy? I’m concerned with meeting the 1 page maximum requirement, but want to be sure to adequately supply the necessary information.  \n\nSecondly, regarding the map tool, one of our locations does not show up although it is definitely within the DAC zone. And another location shows up but with 0 students. I’d like to find out how we can obtain the necessary documentation through the tool so that we can upload with the Concept Paper. ","A confidentiality statement is not required. If the applicant wishes to provide a statement of confidentiality regarding their proposed project (if for instance it contains any confidential information or discussion of intellectual property), they may do so as instructed on the cover page of the Concept Paper. \n\nThe applicant will have the opportunity to submit documentation for intellectual property created as a result of the project during negotiations, if selected. \n\nRe: Location within a DAC: DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries.  \n\nRe. Incomplete data from mapping tool: Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001. "]
["Emailed","E 312","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","I am trying to access information regarding the Renew America's Schools Grant.  When attempting to access the pdf documents they are not opening due to a damaged file.\n\nI am needing any information regarding what must be included in the concept papers as well as the application.\n\nAlso, is there a match requirement for the grant funding?\n","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov \n\nSee FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. \n\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5\n\nThe cost share requirement is 5%. For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 or FOA Section III.B. "]
["Emailed","E 313","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","Do have a brief outline on eligibility guidelines for community participation? What schools qualify? Title 1? Or is it more complex?","For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1 and 2.2\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3\n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 314","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","We are adding A/C to one of our school buildings, would this project/costs be an eligible project covered under this funding opportunity?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1 "]
["Emailed","E 315","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, can you confirm to me that the concept paper for the Energy Infrastructure Grant is submitted through the EERE website and NOT the grants.gov website? And that, therefore, there is no Workspace Area to sign up for and access, and no ability to allow access to the application area to multiple people?","Correct, all application materials are submitted through EERE eXCHANGE."]
["Emailed","E 316","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","A consortium of 11 public charter schools in Washington, DC has been created to apply for the Renew America's Schools grant opportunity\nQuestion:  As it relates to the Facility Needs Assessment, do we need to provide one per school building (many LEAs have more than one location) OR one per LEA.","A facilities needs assessment is required for every proposed school."]
["Emailed","E 317","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","Is this grant available to non public schools as well as public schools?","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 318","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing for assistance in filling out this grant. I have never filled out a grant before.\nWe are currently evaluating our energy needs and have data coming back from Xcel Energy (electric) and Centerpoint Energy (gas) next week. We have been researching solar--we recently replaced our 1966 boiler with HE boilers and replaced all lighting with LED's. ","DOE does not understand the question. Please feel free to send a follow-up email to SchoolsFOA@doe.gov"]
["Emailed","E 319","2023-01-13","Emailed \nquestions","1.\tOur public school division is an LEA, and our central Department of Facilities and Transportation Services intends to apply as the lead organization on behalf of several of our individual schools within our district who will be named as “Other Organizations” in our Concept Paper.  As of now, we have no other partner organizations external to our school division.  That said, do we meet the eligibility requirements to apply for the grant program? \n\n2.\tOur school division would like to apply for funding to support the purchase of new electric buses and charging infrastructure/equipment for those buses under Topic Area 2 – High Impact Energy Efficiency and Health Improvements.  The proposed electric buses will serve several individual schools within our division that will be part of the project, but the charging station infrastructure for the buses may be housed in a central transportation center that is owned by our school division but is not an individual school.  That said, would a transportation center that is owned by our school division meet the qualification of “on school grounds” per the program guidelines under Topic Area 2?   \n","1. Note that an LEA plus one school is a consortium. \n\n2. Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are only to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA. \n\nSo long as the “school grounds” belong to the LEA (or the LEA’s schools) this would be considered an eligible location under Topic Area 2. "]
["Emailed","E 320","2023-01-15","Emailed \nquestions","Will the Dept of Energy seek feedback from LEA’s regarding the entire process of this FOA 0002756?\n\nThe interest of all is transparency and – better timing.  Several questioners noted the timing of this application could be detrimental to schools given winter break.  \n\nWould appreciate the opportunity to provide feedback on entire FOA and deadlines.\n","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R.\" As a reminder, per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions.\n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" "]
["Emailed","E 321","2023-01-15","Emailed \nquestions","1. The information states that the Cover Page is 1 page.  On EERE exCHANGE, it appears that the data that goes into the COVER PAGE is also entered in individual fields, PRIOR TO THE UPLOAD of the concept Paper.  Thus …. Is a COVER PAGE still needed, if the information is entered prior to the file for the 2-page max Project Description? \n\n2. The Statements of Need indicate ‘N/A” – no page limit. However, the instructions indicate “SHORT NEEDS SUMMARY” in addition to the number of pages needed for the Energy Justice Mapping reports for the # of schools submitted.   Does the “n/a’ mean the summary can be longer? ","1. Yes, a Cover Page is still needed as part of the Concept Paper. This should be a single page. In addition, the Project Description must be a maximum of two pages. The Cover Page and Project Description should be uploaded as a single PDF. \n\n2. There is no page limit for the Statements of Need, to allow for the possibility of many Energy Justice reports. The written summary component also has no page limit but should be “short” as indicated in the instructions."]
["Emailed","E 322","2023-01-15","Emailed \nquestions","On the EERE website, one of the tabs for the Concept Paper submission is “TRL” \n\nI could not find information to respond to this tab in the FOA.  What is required? ","The lower a proposed project is on the TRL scale, the closer it is to Research and Development; the higher on the scale, the closer the proposed project is to a commercial off-the-shelf project. For TRL scale definitions, see FOA Appendix C. \n\nTR Level will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 323","2023-01-15","Emailed \nquestions","Can this grant be applied for if a public school district has already bid and awarded a contract to replace an HVAC system.  The work has not started. \n\nIt is my understanding that the requirements for this grant is that: (a) all iron and steel used in the project are produced in the united States and (b) all manufactured products used in the project are produced in the United States – meaning the manufactured product was manufactured in the United States; and the cost of the components of the manufactured product that are mined, produced, or manufacted in the U..S. is greater than 55% of the total cost of all components of the manufactured product.  How can I get that information and how will it be proven and audited? ","1. This would likely be acceptable, but selection and award may take 6-9 months or more.   \n\n2. The award recipient is responsible for getting documentation from their vendor(s) that all equipment purchased meets all Buy America requirements. For more information on Buy America Requirements, see FOA Appendix B. "]
["Emailed","E 324","2023-01-16","Emailed \nquestions","I'm applying for the Department of Energy Renew America's Schools grant opportunity.\nWe are required to use “Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools” (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov) to produce a report for each of the schools that are part of our consortium.  This is the problem.  They are all public charter schools and the only report I'm able to generate is the one for the traditional public school system.  They are very different in every respect.  How can I search for individual reports for each of the LEA locations?  I need a total of 18 different reports to include with the application due 1/26.\n","If you search by the schools NCES ID in the search box with SCHOOL selected, you should be able to find each school.\n\nIf that does not work: Please see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22. Applicants who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools (https://energyjustice-schools.egs.anl.gov/), are required to use the “Energy Justice Report” template to generate a one-page maximum report. This is required information per Section IV.C. (Concept Paper) and Section IV.D. (Full Application) submissions. Please note, applicants should only use this template if they are unable to locate their school within the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools. This template was uploaded to EERE Exchange on December 22, 2022 as part of FOA Modification 0001.\n"]
["Emailed","E 325","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","What does the concept paper and abstract look like for the Energy Improvement at Public K-12 School Facilities grant? ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 326","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","I am the owner of a childcare service located in Atlanta Ga. I came across your grant opportunity and was hoping I could obtain more information on how to apply. I have been in the childcare field for about over 15 years and I am looking for some extra help with funding to help start my commercial building daycare later this year.","Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 327","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","For the Community Needs section: Do we need both \"a short needs summary for the community served by the school facility for each proposed project location\" and the EJ Mapping Tool report? Or will the EJ mapping tool report suffice?","A written needs summary for the community served by the school facility for each proposed location AND the EJ Mapping Tool report (one for each proposed location) are required."]
["Emailed","E 328","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","We would like to apply for funding to ensure that our energy systems are renewable and energy efficient (specifically geothermal) for a new building project that is in the pipeline & we see that the due date is in April 2023, but is there any letter of intent or concept paper that is required before that date? I would appreciate any information, guidance, or direct links that could help us with this process.","See FOA Cover Page for timelines: Concept papers are due 1/26/2023 at 5:00pm ET; Full Applications are due 4/21/2023 at 5:00pm ET. Note that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application.\n\nSee FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 329","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","I hope this email finds you well. I would like some assistance- I am unable to locate the following on the DOE website: DE-FOA- 0002756. Could you share a link with me? \n\nAdditionally, are educational entities with a nonprofit designation eligible for the opportunity?","All application materials are available on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportunity. Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE. \n\nThe following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 330","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","Are concept papers submitted through the EERE exchange or are they emailed to a specific email address? ","Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE."]
["Emailed","E 331","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","There was a previous question about Lead Organization Percent Effort, but the answer there did not clarify how to calculate this.  Is this the award amount that will go to and be spent by the lead organization on the renovation project?  For example, if the school system is going to administer all of the funds for the renovation project, will I enter 100%?  Please give a specific example with actual numbers showing how to calculate this if I need to enter something other than 100%.   ","The level of effort is how much of the project scope will be completed by the given entity. All funding goes to the Prime recipient, who maintains contractual arrangements with other partners, regardless of effort.  \n\nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 332","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question about the team members section of the concept paper application. \n\nWe are making entries for team members, which includes the schools of interest for our project. We are encountering an issue with the ability to select the checkbox for “this is a project work location” for multiple sites. \n\nCan you please provide guidance? ","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 333","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","Is there someone I can call for help on a few questions? \n\n1. Is there date range in which the project needs to be finished?   \n\n2. Is there a specific minimum target for energy efficiency and cost savings that is required? Someone told me there was a 15% minimum improvement that the project must produce with energy efficiency.   \n\n3. We are 40-50% low income in our district?  Would we still have a chance of receiving funds from opportunity? ","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R. \n\n1. Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11. \n\n2. Applicants are required to input projected energy savings as a percentage, but DOE does not specify a minimum target. A higher percentage of energy savings will be rated more favorably during evaluations, all other factors held constant.   \n\n3. A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. For information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13 "]
["Emailed","E 334","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","We are going to apply for the funding to purchase more Electric School Buses, with Chargers and infrastructure connections, We currently have two Electric School buses and Chargers with the infrastructure. We would be applying for more buses with the chargers and the installation of the new chargers to our infrastructure.  We are confused about the Concept Letter. In one area I see that it is required for all. In another  place, it says 'for those required to submit  a Concept Letter\" . If we have to submit a Concept letter can we include a copy of our previous DERA  Application information in the letter?","Submission of a Concept Paper is necessary in order to be eligible to submit a Full Application.  "]
["Emailed","E 335","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","1. If only some of the schools in any given school district are designated as disadvantaged communities in the energy justice map, is the entire district eligible under this FOA, or should the eligible school district limit the application to only those schools? \n\n2. Initial guidance for the concept paper phase of the application process references the school but not the school district. Should applicants provide a summary of projects by school or districtwide? ","1. A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees.  \n\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13 \n\n2. In general, projects that target individual schools should be summarized at the school level. However, if the project affects multiple sites simultaneously (eg., building controls), we will consider this a district project and the following considerations apply: \n\nA facilities needs assessment is required. This can be done at the district level, with a summary explaining how all schools are impacted. Since this is a district-level initiative, please include both the auto-generated District Level report from the Energy Justice Mapping tool and generate a District Wide EJ Report from the template posted with FOA Modification 001. This will ensure that all indicators are included. "]
["Emailed","E 336","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","When using the DOE Asset Score tool, the data that we entered for each building generates a narrow list of recommendations for energy-efficient improvements.  Are those the preferred or required improvement options? ","The suggested improvements are based on the inputted information, but not required or necessarily preferred. "]
["Emailed","E 337","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","Can you please explain what is meant by \"any statements of confidentiality\" in reference to what is to be included on the cover page?","A confidentiality statement is not required. If the applicant wishes to provide a statement of confidentiality regarding their proposed project (if for instance it contains any confidential information or discussion of intellectual property), they may do so as instructed on the cover page of the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 338","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","I am reaching out because I have a few questions regarding the new Department of Energy grant program. The questions are the following:\n1. Can the Senator’s office or a Congressional Delegation send letters of support for concept paper applications and full applications or are the letters of support only accepted for full applications?\n\n2. Is it possible for State Agencies, such as the New Mexico Regional Education Cooperatives able to apply for the grant cooperatively for the school districts that they represent within their respective regions?\n\n3. How does the funding for rural and low-income school districts work if they do not have a lot of resources to complete energy programs? Is there a 80-20% funding split or is this something that can be accommodated for school districts with less resources? \n","1. Letters of support are intended for Full Applications and will not factor into evalauation criteria for Concept Papers. \n\n2. If the State Agency is clearly partnered with an eligible LEA, then this is an eligible consortium. For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3.\n\n3. The awardee must contribute 5% of the total project cost, with the remaining 95% funded by the Renew America's Schools grant. Note that both cash and in-kind contributions are eligible as cost share. For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 and FOA Appendix A. "]
["Emailed","E 339","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","We are partnering with a few Illinois schools to submit concept papers for the DE-FOA-0002756 funding opportunity for K12 Facilities. \nRelated to the concept paper submission tab Upload and Submit, you request a Facility Needs Assessment and note the following as resources: DOE webpage (https://www.energy.gov/bil/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities ) under “Related Resources”. \nAlso stated: Applicants can either utilize these tools to generate a facility needs assessment(s) or include a facility needs assessment(s) performed by a certified professional. Regardless, applicants must include a facility needs assessment for each school addressed in the proposal\n\nAre we required to use the excel spreadsheet, attached that is included in the link provided on the DOE website, or can we use our own template? \nOur template is organized by an architect, licensed professional engineers, and certified energy managers. ","If the analysis identifies the existing conditions and identifies the estimated costs, savings, and health and safety benefits of the proposed project, then it is sufficient. "]
["Emailed","E 340","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","Are charter schools eligible as LEAs for the Renew America's Schools grant? ","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 341","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","1. Will this opportunity be competed again in 2023 or 2024? \n\n2. Is there a timeline on when it will be competed next? \n\n3. Can an applicant be funded in this round and a subsequent round? If so, what considerations should we take into account? ","1. This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" \n\n2. See above. \n\n3. DOE independently evaluates all applications based on merit and quality of proposed upgrades, and the decision to fund or not fund a project has no implications for future funding rounds.  "]
["Emailed","E 342","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","The instructions for “Content and Form of the Concept Paper” in Section IV.C of the FOA indicates that the cover page should include any statements regarding confidentiality. Can you clarify what these statements might include? Is this meant to cover an LEA’s request of confidentiality regarding information contained in the concept paper? Or is there a standard confidentiality disclaimer that should be used?   ","A confidentiality statement is not required. If the applicant wishes to provide a statement of confidentiality regarding their proposed project (if for instance it contains any confidential information or discussion of intellectual property), they may do so as instructed on the cover page of the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 343","2023-01-17","Emailed \nquestions","Should LEA applicants submitting a concept paper request a specific grant amount or will request amounts be calculated and considered at a later time if the LEA is invited to submit a full application? ","EERE eXCHANGE requires a preliminary project estimate for Concept Paper applications. Applicants should have an estimate of the cost of their proposed project, taking into account the cost share requirement. A more detailed budget justification is a required component of the Full Application. \n\nPer FOA Section IV.C., DOE makes an independent assessment of each Concept Paper based on the criteria in Section V. of the FOA. DOE will encourage a subset of applicants to submit Full Applications. Other applicants will be discouraged from submitting a Full Application. All eligible applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result.  "]
["Emailed","E 344","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","1. Not falling in an Environmental Justice area or Economic Disadvantaged area, can we still submit a competitive application.  \n\n2. This is a “teaming grant”  Is there a preference on who takes the lead on the grant application (School district vs. teaming partner.  We are currently working with Johnson Controls.  They have already done audits of our buildings, created an energy baseline, and are working on proposals)? \n\n3.  What percent of the funding can be used for specific uses.  For example, could the funds be used to pay for an energy performance contract or does it go to specific equipment purchases?   \n\n4. We know there is a need for a renewable energy component.  Some aspects we are considering are infrastructure for charging of electric vehicles and buses, as well as solar covered carports for buses.  Another possibility is combined heat and power with tri power generation for heating and cooling of the old BOCES complex if the district offices were moved there and thus utilizing 3 buildings.  Is there separate funding for renovation and energy improvements for change of building use, which these buildings would be? ","1.  A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees.  \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13 \n\n2.  An application consortium designates a Prime recipient. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. LEAs are also eligible Prime recipients. There is no inherent advantage or disadvantage to either arrangement. For information on applicant eligibility, see Questions DOE 2.1, DOE 2.2, DOE 2.3 \n\n3. DOE does not specify percentages for specific uses. Since applications are judged by their proposed energy improvements, the budget should not be predominately soft costs.  \n\n4. Per BIL stipulations, “Energy improvements” are intended to benefit “schools,” except for installation of alternative fueled vehicle infrastructure on “school grounds” which encompasses other facilities owned by the school or LEA.  \n\nApplications are encouraged to indicate how any proposed energy savings would benefit students and/or the community."]
["Emailed","E 345","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, I am afraid that the template you said to use instead of the Energy Justice Mapping Tool is not helpful at all. Several of the links suggested on the template (to use to fill in the form) link directly back to the National Center for Education Statistics tool that STILL does not have our District information in it. \n\nIn other words, the work-around template you sent me requires the use of the same online tools that still don't have our district's data.","Please see FOA modification 0001 that was posted to EERE Exchange on 12/22/2022 and the two FOA Q&A Spreadsheet Questions submitted 21-Dec that reference the Energy Justice Mapping Tool, for an alternative pathway for applicants “who are unable to locate and generate a pdf report from the “Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools”. This alternative pathway includes submitting the information using the template provided on the Schools FOA submission page on EERE Exchange.  \n\nWhile the template does provide source URLs that may be helpful for accessing the required information it is not required that you use those sources specifically, and in your case it sounds like those links were not helpful. The only requirement as stated in the template is that “If information cannot be found within one of the provided sources, please provide a new link in the “source” column that identifies where the information was found.” Hopefully, this provides you with the necessary latitude to source the required information.\n\n"]
["Emailed","E 346","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","We have a guaranteed energy savings project that will take place this summer at one of our campuses, this contract was signed in December 2021.   All of the federal guidelines for procurement were followed, can we apply for funds to cover this project or does this have to be a \"new\" project? ","Any costs to be reimbursed must be incurred during the award period. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant."]
["Emailed","E 347","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","Our community has an existing agreement with our local utility that administers energy efficiency programs. This agreement includes provisions to pay for energy upgrades through a surcharge on our utility bills (on bill repayment). The utility also provides incentives to offset the cost of energy efficiency projects. Would one or both of these be eligible to claim as project match for the grant? The utility will be signing on as a partner on our project. ","Per FOA Section III.B.iii., Cost Share Types and Allowability, project teams may use funding or property received from state or local governments to meet the cost share requirement, so long as the funding was not provided to the state or local government by the federal government. "]
["Emailed","E 348","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","In the online application process on Tab 1 “General” and again on Tab 3 it asks “Organization Type?” with a drop down of options. In the list are both “Academic” and “State and/or Local Government”.   We are a K-12 Public School (political subdivision) which could fit both options, but you can only choose one.  I am assuming “Academic”.  But I want to be certain, Which is the right option?   ","Either answer is acceptable.  "]
["Emailed","E 349","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","I wanted to inquire on the eligibility requirements for the Renew America's Schools Grant program. Specifically, are public charter schools from New York State eligible?\n","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. "]
["Emailed","E 350","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","The website application say minimum 5% but the subtitle says it has to be 20%.  The webinar said 5% minimum.  What is the correct minimum share?","The cost share requirement is 5%. For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 or FOA Section III.B. "]
["Emailed","E 351","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","1. The narrative template document is that the document to be used as the concept paper?   \n\n2. There are two utility companies in our county that provide service to the school district.  May we have both utility companies as key partners?\n","1. The Project Narriative Template is for Full Applications, not Concept Papers. \n\n2. Yes, two utility companies may be partners in the consortium. "]
["Emailed","E 352","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","Our towns do not have any disadvantaged communities served by the school district, however, 18% of the student population is eligible for free and reduced lunch, which is higher than the national percentile of 14%. Given this knowledge, would Regional School District 18’s application be competitive enough to be considered for funding?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 353","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","HOW DO I SAVE THE ENERGY JUSTICE REPORTS?  I have tried EVERYTHING and nothing works.","Click \"Full Report\" to save to PDF and/or print. Also, the tool works best with Google Chrome web browser."]
["Emailed","E 354","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","I am working on our concept paper to submit next week, but wanted to make sure we were eligible. I have read through your FOA and Q&A's and need clarification on one item.\n\nWe are opening a new school campus in Fall 2023, and I understand that new construction costs are not allowable. However, we are interested in adding solar rooftop and ground mounted arrays and electric vehicle charging stations to our campus for the Topic Area 2 focus. Would this be allowable if we only focused on these costs for solar and EV charging stations and did not include any new construction costs?","\"Energy improvements\" that are separate from construction costs are likely eligible. However, DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.\n\nFor information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Emailed","E 355","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","There are two topic areas that fall under this FOA. Are applicants able to submit for both topics and should this be done by submitting one concept paper or two separate papers per topic? ","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 356","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","To confirm: Are the Energy Justice Mapping Tool Reports and the Facility Need Assessments Reports required for concept papers? \n\nThere is mention of them being required for Full Application and/or Concept Papers in the FOA in the table for Concept Paper (page 25-27) but in the Facility Needs Assessment section (pages 31-32), the Facility Needs Assessments seem explicitly required only for Full Application.","Yes, Energy Justice Mapping Tool Reports and Facility Needs Assessments Reports are required for Concept Papers and Full Applications."]
["Emailed","E 357","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","Question: does the individual or LEA needs assessments need to be included with the concept paper?  "," Yes, Facility Needs Assessments Reports are required for Concept Papers."]
["Emailed","E 358","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","On the Funds and Costs tab in EERE concept paper submission page, it states that DOE eXCHANGE requires applicants to contribute at least 20% of the total project cost. Certain applicants may be eligible for a reduced cost share obligation. Please refer to the Funding Opportunity for more information on DOE’s cost share policy. However, the FOA as well as in the table below this statement it says that the minimum cost share is 5%. Can you clarify which cost share percentage is correct?","The cost share requirement is 5%, as stated in the FOA. For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 or FOA Section III.B. "]
["Emailed","E 359","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","Our Charter School would like to apply to the following grant, but we cannot access the grant package on Grants.gov. Can you please give me more information on how we can apply?","All application materials are available on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportunity. Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE. \n\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5"]
["Emailed","E 360","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","1.\tCan a Public Charter School apply?\n2.\tDoes the school have to own their own property?\n","1. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. \n\n2. LEAs do not need to hold title to the property, but must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the full application as a Letter of Commitment (Section IV.D.v.)"]
["Emailed","E 361","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","The forms/application templates noted in the webinar are not showing in the EERE Exchange?  please advise?","These can be found under \"Application Forms and Templates\" on EERE eXCHANGE. \nThe EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 362","2023-01-18","Emailed \nquestions","Question 1: Are utility service updates an eligible activity to be funded as part of this FOA? Specifically, if a utility update is needed to be able to supply enough electricity load to accommodate a project that involves electrification or renewables, would that be an eligible cost to be covered by this grant?  \n\nQuestion 2: Are engineering, design, and other feasibility studies eligible activities to be funded as part of this FOA. ","1. This cost may be allowable if it is necessary in order for the energy improvement to take place. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. \n\n2. While soft costs are allowable,  applications are judged by their proposed energy improvements so DOE advises against the budget being predominately soft costs.  "]
["Emailed","E 363","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","1.\tAre projects that feature new/rebuilt school facilities allowable -- or must the schools be existing buildings that are being repaired or renovated?\n2.\tUnder guidance on Topic Area 2 proposals on page 10-11, is the project we propose considered one of the two required energy improvements? (Or do we need to be working on two energy improvements already, and the Renew America’s Schools project is an additional improvement?)\n","1. DOE will fund energy improvements but not new construction as a whole. See Question DOE 1.8. \n\n2. A project under Topic Area 2 must propose two eligible projects. No outside or additional projects are required. "]
["Emailed","E 364","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","Our County Public Schools has high interest and is in the process of applying for the Renew America's Schools Grant. I am in need of some assistance with this grant, specifically on the concept paper. Is there a certain format? Is there a template? Is there someone directly I can speak with regarding this? I would appreciate any help I can get. ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template for the Concept Paper. \n\nIf you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 365","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","On the ‘Upload and Submit’ tab of the EERE portal, how you would like the required Concept Paper sections, per FOA Section IV.C, uploaded: \n•\tIn the ‘Concept paper*’ upload row (see screen shot below), do you want us to upload only the one page Cover Sheet and 2 page Project Description? Or do you want us to upload one PDF file in the ‘Concept paper*’ upload row that includes all the required sections: Cover Page, Project Description, and Statements of Need? \n•\tIf you want one complete Concept Paper file in the first row, do you want us to break out the ‘Fiscal Need and Capacity’ response from the Concept Paper and create its own file to be uploaded in the last row?","The Cover Page along with the Project Description should be sumbitted in the \"Concept paper\" upload row. "]
["Emailed","E 366","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","Are private schools eligible to apply for the energy improvement grant?  I ask as we are eligible when it comes to Department of Education grants.  Thank you kindly for your response.","For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. Private schools are not eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program."]
["Emailed","E 367","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","I am completing the Concept Paper process and I have a couple questions: Are the forms all on line; and if so; where are they located? This is my first time applying for a Grant this size, and I am having trouble navigating your provided websites.","All application materials are available on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportunity. Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE. \n\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5"]
["Emailed","E 368","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","Are eligible applicants required to select a partner from the Teaming Partner list for this grant opportunity? Our school district works with a community partner already for planning our capital projects and assistance with bidding projects. Please advise if we can list our partner as a \"Teaming Partner\" even though they are not on the posted list. ","The Teaming Partner List allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and to explore potential partnerships. DOE does not require consortia partners to be chosen from this list. "]
["Emailed","E 369","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","We are currently preparing concept papers for the Renew America’s School Funding Opportunity (DE-FOA-0002756) and had a question in regards to board approval. As you may be aware, LEA’s have a board approval process when securing grant funding projects and this process usually requires an approval prior to submitting a project application. However, in the case for submitting a concept paper we are first receiving feedback from the Department of Energy if our proposed project is recommended. We interpreted from the  DE-FOA program description that a board approval does not require a board approval for this stage but instead is required prior to submitting the final application. Is this a fair interpretation?","Correct, LEAs must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the Full Application as a Letter of Commitment (FOA Section IV.D.v.)."]
["Emailed","E 370","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","We are wondering if rooftop solar is except from the requirement that all of the product be made in the USA.  Nobody manufactures solar cells in the USA and, therefore, cannot meet this requirement.\n\nCan on-site rooftop solar qualify for this Program?","In limited circumstances, DOE may waive the application of the Buy America Requirement in an award where DOE determines that:\n(1) applying the Buy America requirements would be inconsistent with the public interest (Public Interest);\n(2) the types of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials are not produced in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available quantities or of a satisfactory quality (Non-Availability); or\n(3) the inclusion of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials produced in the United States will increase the cost of the overall project by more \nthan 25 percent (Unreasonable Cost).\n\nSee FOA Appendix B for more information. "]
["Emailed","E 371","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","Where are the Concept Papers emailed to or where are they uploaded?","Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE. "]
["Emailed","E 372","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","Please direct me to additional information on determining LOPE.","DOE requires further clarification on this question.  "]
["Emailed","E 373","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","We are experiencing some problems with the QBAT and SEA. \n\nThe SEA tool will not populate the correct HVAC system type for Ground Source Heat Pump on tab six even though we list that as our option.  It populates Roof Top Air Source Heat Pump.   \n\nThen when completing the QBAT, Ground Source Heat Pump is not a drop down option which does not lead to an accurate assessment of our facility.   \n\nCan this be added to the drop down menu?  We submitted the form to the Asset Score system. And would like to have the correct system populate tab 6 to get our correct EUI? ","QBAT has limited HVAC system-type selection currently, and only five are available. DOE is unable to add additional HVAC system types at this time. Therefore, Tab 6 of the SEA Form was created to match the 13 available systems in Tab 4 to one of the five options in QBAT, based on similarity.  \n\nYou should still be able to use Tab 5 in the SEA Form to calculate your current EUI.  \n\nPer FOA Section IV.C., DOE makes an independent assessment of each Concept Paper based on the criteria in Section V. of the FOA. DOE will encourage a subset of applicants to submit Full Applications. Other applicants will be discouraged from submitting a Full Application. All eligible applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result.  "]
["Emailed","E 374","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","We are supporting a City and their Board of Education in their submission of a Concept Paper focused on topic area #2 (innovative energy technology packages) in the Renewing America's Schools Program (DE-FOA-0002756). We have two quick questions: \n\n(1) Does battery energy storage paired with rooftop solar qualify as the \"installation of renewable energy technologies\" under topic area #2? Relatedly, if we deploy rooftop solar and battery energy storage at the same school location does that count as 1 or 2 innovative energy technology measures under topic area #2 (under the assumption that we need to deploy at least 2 innovative energy technologies under topic area #2)? \n\n(2) Is the replacement of an old school roof to facilitate the deployment of rooftop solar eligible for federal grant reimbursement under this program? ","1. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.  \n\nEach eligible energy improvement proposed for Topic Area 2 counts towards one of the two required innovative energy technologies.   \n\n2. Roof replacement to enable solar implementation may possibly be an eligible project cost for grant funds. The replacement should have some energy efficiency component associated with it. Please provide clarity as to why the roof requires replacement. Please note that DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. "]
["Emailed","E 375","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","Comment:  I have spent a week trying to understand the requirements of the Concept Paper and Application. It is a wonderful opportunity. However, it is simply too overwhelming . Our School Dist. Has a little over 1,000 students in a town of 3,200 people. We do no have anyone on staff that writes grants. This grant simply has too many requirements to be able to meet the deadlines. \n\nQuestion:  Is there ANYONE I can talk to in person about the questions I have on this grant.  Answering questions this way does not give me all of the answers I need, and also takes a week at a time to get a response. \n\nQuestions:  Will there be a second round of the same grant?   \n\nQuestions:  Has anyone at the DOE pretended they were applying for this grant and go through each step and see all of the requirements and the amount of acronyms that I used, in which I have no idea what they are? \n\nAre there any webinars to attend to learn how to write a grant for the Federal Govt.? ","To encourage applications from underrepresented schools, DOE streamlined the application process for the Renew America's Schools funding opportunity. A variety of free assessment tools were developed by DOE to reduce administrative burden of compiling an application package. \n\nLEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class.\n\nIf you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R. \n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" \n\nFor a list of acronyms, see FOA Appendix D. "]
["Emailed","E 376","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question regarding the Business Point of Contact and the Project Lead Point of Contact. \n\nOur  School District is partnering with a GESA Contractor to apply for funding for under Topic Area 2 - Innovative Energy Technology Packages. \n\nIs the School District considered the Lead Organization and the Business Contact and the GESA Contractor would be the Project Lead/Principle Investigator? Is the percentage of effort for both entities 100% ? ","The Prime/Lead Organization should designate a Principal Investigator and Business Contact for the application.\n\nThe level of effort is how much of the project scope will be completed by the given entity. All funding goes to the Prime recipient, who maintains contractual arrangements with other partners, regardless of effort. Note that percentages must sum to 100%. \n\nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 377","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","I have UEI but not registered into SAM. Can I submit concept paper first, and then register into SAM after submitting the concept paper? \n\nIn other words, is registering with SAM necessary to submit a Concept paper (please note that I have UEI)? \n\nIt is stated on the cover page of the FOA that an applicant has is required to (1) be registered in SAM before submitting its application, (2) provide a valid UEI number, and (3) continue to maintain active SAM registration ","It is not possible to have a UEI number without a SAM.gov account. Note that this is a requirement for the Concept Paper, as outlined on the FOA Cover Page: \n\nEach applicant (unless the applicant is excepted from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110) is required to: (1) Be registered in the SAM at https://www.sam.gov before submitting its application; (2) provide a valid UEI number in its application; and (3) continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency."]
["Emailed","E 378","2023-01-19","Emailed \nquestions","I do not understand what to do regarding the tab in the portal called “TRL”. It seems to reference “your R&D effort” and the consortium of schools submitting a proposal is not proposing R&D but rather Topic 1- energy efficiency projects at a number of schools. It’s standard equipment or technology. Would this be Current -9 and Estimate- 9? \n\nAlso, on the “contact information tab” should I add each LEA (3) and technical lead AND each school site within of the districts, or just the technical leads from each LEA? \n\nFinally, it looks like the “teaming partner” list is mostly vendors.  Every LEA/school doesn’t need to be a teaming partner, correct? ","The lower a proposed project is on the TRL scale, the closer it is to Research and Development; the higher on the scale, the closer the proposed project is to a commercial off-the-shelf project. For TRL scale definitions, see FOA Appendix C.  \n\nTR Level will not factor into evaluation criteria. \n\nOn the “contact information tab” please provide the Business Point of Contact and Project Lead/PI. It is not necessary to list all school sites at this time. \n\nThe Teaming Partner List allows organizations who may wish to participate on an application to express their interest to other applicants and to explore potential partnerships. DOE does not specify organization type. Applicants are NOT required to select partners from this list or add themselves to this list.  "]
["Emailed","E 379","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","We operate 5 public charter schools in TN. All are public charter schools with their own UEI. Our charter management organization is a public non-profit, also with its own UEI. The schools are managed by 2 LEAs. We would be applying as a consortium with the schools’ LEAs. \n\nI am writing to ask the best way for us to apply. Does the LEA have to be the lead applicant / fiscal agent? From my close read of the application materials, this is not specified. We would prefer for the school to be the fiscal agent, as they will be the one leading the improvement project. ","An application consortium designates a Prime recipient. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. This includes schools.   "]
["Emailed","E 380","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","For the Renew America School Grant Program the concept papers are due on 1/26. Is their a particular format required for the concept paper or just a 2 page narrative of our need and project? Also, where do we email the concept paper to? Thank you for your help.","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE. "]
["Emailed","E 381","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","DE-FOA-0002756 Section IV.A states:\n“Applicants are encouraged to use the “Project Narrative Template” that is available as an attachment under this funding opportunity – located here. If applicants do not use the template, the content in the “Project Narrative Template” is required and must conform to the form and content requirements, including maximum page lengths.”\n\nThe concept paper cover page and description are limited to 1 page and 2 pages, respectively. The Q&A spreadsheet states “The EERE Exchange has been updated to align with the FOA and provide four locations to upload documents as outlined below.  \n1.            Concept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description)  \n2.            Community Need - EJ Report  \n3.            Facility Needs Assessment  \n4.            Fiscal Need & Capacity”\n\nUnder which category should the 15 page maximum “Project Narrative Template” be attached under this funding opportunity submission? ","The Project Narriative Template is for Full Applications, not Concept Papers. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 382","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","If we are doing projects with multiple schools do we need to submit individual concept papers for each school?","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 383","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Our district was contacted regarding this grant and is very interested. Due to our HVAC System age and issues, our project would be a new system. However, I am late to the application process. On the FOA it indicates that there was an informational Webinar on 12/6/22. Was this recorded? I believe that would be a good starting point:","A recording of the webinar and a copy of the slide deck are available at EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756. Note that the webinar link on EERE eXCHANGE is static; please copy and paste into your web browser. "]
["Emailed","E 384","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","How much will the proposed project details be able to change from the concept paper stage to the full application? If we propose, say, 5 measures in the concept paper, but find during the intervening time before full application submittal that only 4 of them are feasible, can we adjust the project scope, or not?","Concept Papers are not binding, and proposed project scope can be altered in Full Applications."]
["Emailed","E 385","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Would you please clarify the expected beginning and ending TRL for the projects?\n\nThere is a requirement to enter the TRL at the start and end of the project in exchange. For Topic 1 would this not be start and end both at TRL 9?\nWhat is the target starting and ending TRL for topic 2? 8-9?","The lower a proposed project is on the TRL scale, the closer it is to Research and Development; the higher on the scale, the closer the proposed project is to a commercial off-the-shelf project. For TRL scale definitions, see FOA Appendix C. \n\nTR Level will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 386","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","I have a question about the 'Lead Organization.' I selected 'Academic' as our organization type. What are you looking for in the Lead Organization section? I am seeing colleges and universities auto populate in that section when I choose academic. Is that just where I put our school district name?\nAnd then what are you looking for in the 'Lead Organization Percent Effort'? Is that the 5% cost share?\n","Lead organization designation will not factor into evaluation criteria. A school district might have organization type \"Academic\" or \"State and/or Local Government,\" and use of either is acceptable. \n\nThe level of effort is how much of the project scope will be completed by the given entity. All funding goes to the Prime recipient, who maintains contractual arrangements with other partners, regardless of effort.  \n\nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 387","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a template for the concept paper for the \"Renew Americas Schools\" grant?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template for the Concept Paper.  "]
["Emailed","E 388","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am having challenges downloading this PDF. Adobe won't open it and says it has an error. ","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 389","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","The Q&A document for DE-FOA-0002756 includes the Q&A below. Please clarify the definition for percent effort – (see below Q&A excerpt that clarifies it to be “contribution to project.” Does contribution to the project include \n•\tFinancial contribution\n•\tParticipation in the project development and design\n•\tOr something else?\n\nThe application online includes this note: Total percentage from Lead Organization Percent Effort and Team Member Percent of Projects must sum to, and not exceed, 100%.\n","The level of effort is how much of the project scope will be completed by the given entity. All funding goes to the Prime recipient, who maintains contractual arrangements with other partners, regardless of effort.  \n\nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 390","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","My company is working with a Charter School System in Indiana that has recently purchased a couple of old manufacturing buildings that have been abandoned.\n\nThey are in the process of repurposing these buildings into STEM focused school buildings.\n\nThe current DOE State and Community Energy Program FOA application focuses on ECMs for existing buildings and currently, the buildings are not in use and were not used for educational purposes.\n\nWould the school system be able to apply for funding from the DOE’s State and Community Energy Program given that we are completely renovating buildings that were not previously used as school/educational buildings?","\"Energy improvements\" that are separate from construction costs are likely eligible. However, DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant."]
["Emailed","E 391","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Could I get clarification on this please? Our district is an LEA (Local Education Agency) and of course a school. Does this qualify? If not, please explain.","An LEA with at least one school satisfies the consortium requirements. "]
["Emailed","E 392","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Is a grant available to fund an energy audit for a public school district? Our district was considering the Grants for Energy Improvements at Public Schools- would that cover hiring a consultant to perform an energy audit of our facilities? If not, is there another grant that we could apply for that would cover an energy audit?","For information on free needs assessment tools developed by DOE, see Question DOE 5.1\n\nFor resources regarding third-party audits, see Question DOE 3.13\n\nFor information on reimbursement of needs assessment costs, see Question DOE 5.3"]
["Emailed","E 393","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am working with a team to prepare a concept paper for the upcoming deadline. We would love some clarity about the eligibility of our schools. We see that two of our schools are in the DAC areas highlighted in the Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools, and there is an additional area in our district that doesn't have any schools in it (though of course students from these areas go to our schools). \n\nOur question is whether the DAC eligibility pertains to the location of the school or the location of the students’ residences who attend a school. \n\nAn additional question (see footnote 2 on page 6) is whether eligible schools can be identified by the Energy Justice Mapping Tool OR the White House Council of Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool to define our DACs. Similar to the question above, does the area identified in the WHCEQCHJ Screening Tool pertain to the location of the school or the location of the students' residences who attend a school?","DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. \n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. Location within a DAC is one of these, but is not a requirement for eligibility.\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13\n\nIf instead using the White House Council of Environmental Quality's Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST) please use the Energy Justice Report Template (see FOA Modification 0001, posted 12/22/22) and reference CEJST in the sources.   \n\n"]
["Emailed","E 394","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Our City Schools is interested in applying for the Renew America's Schools grant.  Our focus would be on improving a part of our high school that has been closed for several years due to the unhealthy environment and the inability to financially support the energy costs of running it.  This part of the high school is a historical building that was previously used for the nursing program and other classes including the fine arts.  \n\nOur High School is in need of additional space and the division can not incur the cost of renovations or new construction.  However, if we were able to bring the building into the 21st century and open it once again for health science and workforce development, it would address a huge need for the High School and the city in general.  The school division has a foundation that has been trying to do some work through its donations, but it is not enough to make the building safe nor energy efficient.  The high school is not located in a Working Disadvantaged Community (DAC)  nor is it in a rural location.  Our F/R eligibility rate at the school is 33% according to the EJMT site.  However, our city is listed as one of the poorest communities in Virginia. According to the EJMT we appear not to be.  Three of the four schools qualify for 100% free lunches and the local composite index is .2395.  Our question is this - Does not being a DAC school make us less competitive?  ","DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. \n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. Location within a DAC is one of these, but is not a requirement for eligibility.\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 395","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","1) If our concept involves a portfolio of school districts and sites, can the schools listed change after the concept paper submission when we submit the full application?  \n\n2) Can project partners change between the concept paper and the final application submission?  \n\n3) It is difficult for school districts and schools to respond quickly, especially with a couple of weeks of winter break in the middle of the application cycle. Would DOE kindly consider extending the submission deadline to all applicants or shortening or waiving the statement of needs requirement so that more applicants can participate at the concept stage? ","1. DOE strongly encourages applicants to remain consistent, as altering the arrangement could alter the evaluation of selection criteria. \n \n2. Yes.  \n\n3. Per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered.  \n\nConcept Papers are intended to be high-level project overviews. Applicants will be asked to further develop their projects in the Full Application. \n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" "]
["Emailed","E 396","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","For the Concept Papers due next week, is there a preferred format/outline for the Needs Assessment attachments if we are using a 3rd-party energy engineer professional (and not the DOE QBAT Assessment Tool)?","If the analysis identifies the existing conditions and identifies the estimated costs, savings, and health and safety benefits of the proposed project, then it is sufficient."]
["Emailed","E 397","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Does the LEA have to serve as the lead applicant/fiscal agent?","An application consortium designates a Prime recipient, who submits the application in eXCHANGE. A non-LEA may be the designated Prime recipient. LEAs are also eligible Prime recipients. "]
["Emailed","E 398","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","A question we have as a district is what is your definition of concept papers to be submitted first by January 26th. If we aren't able to complete them by Jan. 26th will there be additional or future dates that will be open to submit or start the application process? Is the awarding of funds based on energy saving or HVAC needs or is funding based on your school districts size i.e. enrollment numbers. ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper.\n\nNo. Per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. \n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" \n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 399","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","We are submitting a project to replace old school busses with electric busses. Our question is, Is there a need to complete a “Facilities Assessment” for this topic, or is there something different for transportation needs like this?","In this case, the applicant should provide a written description which includes the equipment currently used and how the proposed project will save funds and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "]
["Emailed","E 400","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","I am preparing the Concept Paper for the grant application and am concerned about the data available via the “Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools” link. It is showing data that was accurate in 2017. It shows our student population at 784 with 2 schools and 44% Free and Reduced Price Meal Eligible Students. We currently have 3 schools, 1103 students, and have an 80% Free and Reduced Price Meal Eligible student population. It also states we do not have a Disadvantaged Community within our district boundaries, which other Federal databases show we do have. I am wondering if this outdated data will hinder our consideration for grant funding?","DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. \n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. Location within a DAC is one of these, but is not a requirement for eligibility.\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Emailed","E 401","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","The FOA states that “each Full Application must be limited to a single concept.”\n\nOur LEA has submitted a Concept Paper for Topic 1 “Energy Efficiency and Health Improvements.” Projects are planned at three buildings within one rural public school district: a high school, a middle school and an elementary school. The project is viewed as one comprehensive project by the LEA and many of the planned improvements at each of the three buildings are similar across buildings in that they involve HVAC upgrades, lighting upgrades, etc. If invited to submit a full application, will a separate application be submitted for each building or are we able to present one application that details the total project with a breakout for each building? Please clarify.","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number."]
["Emailed","E 402","2023-01-20","Emailed \nquestions","Can you provide any additional details on the Fiscal Needs and Capacity document that is required? Presumably the fiscal gap data from the DOE Energy Justice Tool is part of this, but is the additional information for the concept paper a short narrative on the lack of funding for the project or anything else specific? I can’t find a lot of specific information or templates for this document compared to what exists for the other portions of the concept paper.","The applicant should describe the disparity between the fiscal capacity of the eligible entity to carry out energy improvements at school facilities and the needs of the partnering LEA for those energy improvements."]
["Emailed","E 403","2023-01-21","Emailed \nquestions","We are wondering if there is a template for the concept paper for the Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities grant. If there is no template, what is the expected length of the document? We don't want to submit too much or too little.","The Cover Page has a page limit of 1, and the Project Description has a page limit of 2. There are no page limits for Statements of Need. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 404","2023-01-22","Emailed \nquestions","On pages 25-27 of the FOA, there is a table for guidance on the concept paper. The first row of the table states the Cover page should be 1 page. The second row states the Project Description should be 2 pages. The third row states the Statement of Need should be N/A pages. Does that indicate that there is not a page limitation for the statement of need? ","Correct, the Statements of Need portion of the Concept Paper has no page limit."]
["Emailed","E 405","2023-01-22","Emailed \nquestions","As needed for the Cover Page, how to cite the “names of team member organizations…” two questions: \n\nAre team member organizations required? \n\nFor example, would recurring work with the Maryland Dept. of the Environment qualify? This school system works with state agencies on energy saving streetlights, charging stations for electric school buses. These are co-related energy saving issues, but not direct to our request to Renew America’s Schools. ","If the consortium requirements are satisfied, additional team members are not required. One LEA with one school suffices for a consortium. Other entities may be included in the consortium, but this is not required."]
["Emailed","E 406","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Can you give me an explanation of what is a concept paper that is required to apply for a renew americas schools program.  Perhaps an example would be good.  ","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. No sample concept paper exists."]
["Emailed","E 407","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","With regard to the Energy Improvement at Public K-12 Schools Facilities grant, would a school district be able to apply to both Topic Areas, such as (Topic 1 -High Impact Energy Efficiency and Health Improvement and Topic 2-  Innovative Energy Technology Packages) or do they have to select one Topic Area? ","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools.  Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. Please refer to FOA Section III.F., Limitation on Number of Concept Papers and Full Applications Eligible for Review.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 408","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Can you please clarify what is meant by: \n\n•\tProject represents an innovation and scalability of technology packages partnership structures and/or financing options; and\n•\tApplicant articulates a feasible plan to execute and maintain improvements\n","The applicant should address any innovation in their project, as well as its potential for replicability.\nThe applicant should have a plan for executing the project and maintaining the improvements. "]
["Emailed","E 409","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a matching funds requirement?","The cost share requirement is 5%. Per FOA Section III.B.iii., Cost Share Types and Allowability, project teams may provide cost share in the form of cash or in-kind contributions.\n\nSee also Question DOE 3.14 or FOA Section III.B. "]
["Emailed","E 410","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","With the deadline fast approaching I'm reaching out to see if there are any webinars or support contacts. ","A recording of the informational webinar and a copy of the slide deck are available at EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756. Note that the webinar link on EERE eXCHANGE is static; please copy and paste into your web browser. \n\nIf you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R."]
["Emailed","E 411","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Questions regarding the Needs Assessments. We are applying for EVs and Chargers under Topic 2.\n\nOur 3rd Party Needs Assessments do not call out EVs in any way, none of the schools included in our application have EVs or EV Charger infrastructure. When investigating the resources provided by the DOE for Needs Assessments there was no information pertaining to EVs or Chargers. How should we address this in the Needs Assessment required for the Concept Paper submission? Particularly as the FOA states these assessments should \"calculate the expected energy efficiency, energy savings, and safety benefits of different energy improvements. Applicants for this Funding Opportunity may utilize any of these resources if they do not have other needs assessment reports available.\" \n\nShould we summarize the request and current conditions in a short narrative in addition to the Needs Assessment? \n","In this case, the applicant should provide a written description which includes the equipment currently used and how the proposed project will save funds and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "]
["Emailed","E 412","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","We used the Needs Assessment template provided; however, the platform only uploads PDFs.  When we save the Excel template to a PDF, it cuts the majority of the information off.","Check the \"page break preview\" found under \"view,\" since that defines the boundaries of what is printed to PDF."]
["Emailed","E 413","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Our company is submitting a concept paper in collaboration with a Virginia LEA and utility company school bus electrification project. My question is in regards to the following requirements: \n\nCommunity Need \nFacility Needs Assessment \n\n1. For community need, the school buses may serve several different schools within the school district. The electric school buses we’re requesting funding for through this program won’t necessarily serve specific school(s) but rather several throughout the school district as determined by need and operations. Is it acceptable to include a report from the Justice40 map tool for just our County Public Schools? \n\n2. For Facility Needs Assessment, again – the buses will likely serve multiple schools which won’t be determined until a later date. Charging infrastructure will be located at the bus depot rather than a school. What should we provide for Facility Need Assessment? We can certainly speak to the benefits of electric school buses but it doesn’t directly tie to a facility needs assessment. ","1. Yes. Since this is a district-level initiative, please include both the auto-generated District Level report from the Energy Justice Mapping tool and generate a District Wide EJ Report from the template posted with FOA Modification 001. This will ensure that all indicators are included. \n\n2. In this case, the applicant should provide a written description which includes the equipment currently used and how the proposed project will save funds and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "]
["Emailed","E 414","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","I found your grant opportunities here, and unfortunately this year my team does not have the capacity to apply by the deadlines. Are these grant opportunities that will have multiple cycles that I can share with my team so we begin planning for next year? \n","This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\"  "]
["Emailed","E 415","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","One section of the guidelines says to upload the DOE School Reporter Export document as a stand alone document and another says to include a short community need section. The community need upload area only allows for one document so should the narrative and the reporter export be combines and uploaded?","EERE Exchange has been updated to align with the FOA and provides four locations to upload documents as outlined below.  \n\n1.\tConcept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description)  \n2.\tCommunity Need - EJ Report  \n3.\tFacility Needs Assessment  \n4.\tFiscal Need & Capacity  "]
["Emailed","E 416","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Our Public Schools' personnel  have completed the requirements related to the first step of the Renew America's Schools Program. Prior to sending anything, I am looking for confirmation related to: the destination of such documents, the format of such documents, and any additional steps that need to be taken.","Applications are submitted via the EERE eXCHANGE portal.\n\nFor information on how to apply, see Question DOE 5.5. For information on the application process, see FOA Section IV.\n\nFor Concept Paper requirements, See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper."]
["Emailed","E 417","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Regarding the percent of effort.  Is that the percentage of budget dollars that our lead organization is putting toward the project?  This just seemed redundant because it’s listed under the Funds and Costs tab, so we wanted to ensure we were putting in what the reviewers were looking for.\n\nRegarding the Tab for TRL.  This seems like it is a question geared toward those choosing TOPIC AREA 2 for this grant.   We are choosing ONE.  We are not sure how to answer this one.  Is there a recommendation or further instruction we can use?","The level of effort is how much of the project scope will be completed by the given entity. All funding goes to the Prime recipient, who maintains contractual arrangements with other partners, regardless of effort.  \n\nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria.\n\nThe lower a proposed project is on the TRL scale, the closer it is to Research and Development; the higher on the scale, the closer the proposed project is to a commercial off-the-shelf project. For TRL scale definitions, see FOA Appendix C. \n\nTR Level will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 418","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","Good afternoon, our district is interested in applying for the DOE support for energy efficient improvements and infrastructure upgrades for K-12 schools. We have published an rfp for an Energy Service Company to develop and complete an Investment Grade Audit and enter into an energy performance contract for a net-metering facility for our district.\n\nGiven our timeframe, the assessment data is not available to complete the concept paper. Do you anticipate releasing this grant opportunity or a similar opportunity again? If yes, when?\n","Note that DOE provides free resources for facilities needs assessments; See Questions DOE 5.1, DOE 5.2.\n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\"  "]
["Emailed","E 419","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","While looking at the concept paper for the “Grants for Energy Improvements at Public Schools Facilities” the link to the energy justice report template found in Section IV.D.vi is a broken link. Can you provide this to me for the concept paper?","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 420","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","I see under submission deadlines that \"concept paper submissions\" are due in three days.  I won't be able to get anything done by then.  Can we still submit as long as we get everything in before the 4-21-23 date?  ","Per FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered.  \n\nNote that a concept paper submission is necessary to proceed to a full application.\n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\"  "]
["Emailed","E 421","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","I wasn't sure if my school district needs to be on the \"Teaming Partner List.\"","LEAs are not expected to be on the Teaming Partner List. The Teaming Partner List is more about private industry partners that think they have the skills or expertise to help an applicant complete their project."]
["Emailed","E 422","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","I am in need of assistance to submit the concept paper for DE-FOA-0002756. I have entered the information on most of the pages of the concept paper application. \n\nI see that the \"The application has not been submitted.  The application must be submitted for evaluation by the Department of Energy.\" Please tell me how I can submit the application to the DOE for evaluation. I look forward to your speedy reply because the due date for the concept paper is less than 40 hours from now. Is there a person who could walk me through the process over the phone or in a chat?","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 423","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","1. Our district's proposed project involves large-scale improvements to our metering and monitoring systems for electricity, natural gas, and water. According to several of your suggested websites, these are not considered retrofits. Does that mean that this project would not fit the grant requirements, although the argument can be made that improved metering and monitoring will result in better response times, historical overview, immediate fine-tuning, and thus lower usage rates and lower overall costs? \n\n2. You say in this Q & A document that a project contemplating district-wide changes should provide a district level facilities need assessment (rather than school by school). However the 4 tools you give for facilities needs assessment operate only at the school level, not district. Can you clarify how this district level facilities assessment would be done and written up? ","1. DOE will not make eligibility determinations for potential applicants prior to the date on which applications to this FOA must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant. \n\n2. In general, projects that target individual schools should be summarized at the school level. However, if the project affects multiple sites simultaneously (eg., building controls), we will likely consider this a district project and the following considerations apply:  \n\nA facilities needs assessment is required. This can be done at the district level, with a summary explaining how all schools are impacted. Using the DOE tools is not required (and none of them are designed for district-level assessments). Be sure your application demonstrates need and potential energy savings at the district level.   "]
["Emailed","E 424","2023-01-23","Emailed \nquestions","I am contacting you to request a bit of support as it relates to submission requirements for the FOA related to the DOE's BIL Renew America's Schools grant. On the actual concept paper, there is a tab entitled 'Upload and Submit,' in which there is a section for uploading the Facility Needs Assessment. My LEA has chosen 'Option 1' for completing these assessments, which relate to SEA forms, QBAT, Asset Score Retrofit Cost Estimator Tool, and Asset Score. For the aforementioned Facility Needs Assessment section, which of the assessments are needed? The concept paper only allows one attachment and we have 5 buildings. Would I need to connect 5 building assessments into one file and what file would that be? The submission page on the EERE also only accepts pdf and attempts to convert the SEA form, which is an Excel file, results in thousands of pages being created.","The SEA Form should be used in conjunction with QBAT, which generates the report. Reports for each of the five buildings should be completed individually and then compiled into a single PDF. For more assistance please consult the video tutorial, which can be found at https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/school-needs-and-benefits-assessment-resources"]
["Emailed","E 425","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","I am the Chief Academic Officer fan Independent School District located in Ky. I need information concerning who to submit the Concept Paper to involving the  2022 Funding Opportunity Announcement for Energy Improvements at Public K-12 School Facilities - Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) - Renew America's Schools.","All application materials are available on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportunity. Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE. "]
["Emailed","E 426","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","After trying to get this grant concept paper put together before the 1/26 cut off, it appears we’re not going to get it done.  However, we’re motivated to put together all the pieces for the next round of grant opportunities.  Can you provide a ballpark time frame on when the Renew America’s School grant will reopen for a second round of submissions?  ","This is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\" "]
["Emailed","E 427","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing to ask if you might be able to assist me in identifying any grant programs to assist the University of Missouri – Kansas City campus with making these same energy efficient improvements identified in the “Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities.”\n\nEach time I see advertisements for these types of programs they are all allocated for k-12 schools, with nothing for public universities. Is there any program that we can use?  Any help you might provide is greatly appreciated.","Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. For information on LEA eligibility, see answer to Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 428","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","Could you please tell me what the correct email address is to submit the Renew America's Schools Grant application?","All application materials are available on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportunity. Applications are submitted via EERE eXCHANGE. "]
["Emailed","E 429","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","I was wondering if a religious school (K-12) is eligible to participate in the DE-FOA-0002756?  I’m developing an energy efficiency project with a Lutheran campus in Missouri and was curious if they would be eligible for funding?  ","Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. For information on LEA eligibility, see answer to Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 430","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","I have been attending webinars and know that you are collecting questions about the FOA for the Renew America's Schools grant.\n\nIf possible are those posted publicly?\nOn the Energy Justice Map, what are the indicators that a particular school is considered high-need?  DAC, does it have to be a yes?  Title 1 eligible (also a yes)?  Does being a community shelter impact eligibility?\n","This public Q&A is located on EERE eXCHANGE under this funding opportinity. \n\nA variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. Location within a DAC (blue regions on the map), Title 1 eligibility, and community shelter designation are some of the factors that will be considered but are not required for eligibility. \n\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13\n\nFor information on the factors that influence DAC designation, see Question DOE 6.3."]
["Emailed","E 431","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","I am writing to ask if these grant funds could be used to improve energy efficiency at early learning facilities.  These are publicly-funded, private early childhood education centers that serve children ages 0 to 5.  We would likely make a grant proposal as part of a consortium led by the state Early Childhood Education and Care Department.  Please let me know if this would work or if you might suggest a different IRA grant that would serve us better.","Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. For information on LEA eligibility, see answer to Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Emailed","E 432","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","In the requirements for the Concept Paper, you request the following: a description of \"the disparity between the fiscal capacity of the eligible entity to carry out energy improvements at school facilities and the needs of the partnering LEA for those energy improvements.\"  \n\nCan you please clarify how the \"eligible entity\" and the \"partnering LEA\" are different? I thought that they were the same. Are you saying the individual school where implementation would take place versus the entire district? ","\"Eligible entity\" and \"partnering LEA\" can be the same. "]
["Emailed","E 433","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","Do the Mapping Tool forms need to have the header with the control number and the page numbers?","No."]
["Emailed","E 434","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","I'm assisting with the application process for the Energy Improvement Grants for the K-12 public schools. I noticed there's a Concept paper that is due January 26th . \n\nDoes the Concept paper have to be submitted by January 26th in order to be eligible to submit the full application in April?\n\nAre late applications for the Concept paper acceptable?\n","Submission of a Concept Paper is required in order to be eligible to submit a Full Application. Concept Papers are intended to be high-level project overviews. Applicants will be asked to further develop their projects in the Full Application. \n\nPer FOA Section III.C., DOE will not review or consider submissions submitted through means other than EERE Exchange, submissions submitted after the applicable deadline, or incomplete submissions. Additionally, per Section III.D., all “Applications Specifically Not of Interest,” as described in FOA Section I.C., are deemed nonresponsive and are not reviewed or considered. \n\nThis is the first tranche of a $500M program. BIL Section 40541(j) specifies: \"There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.\"  "]
["Emailed","E 435","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","We are planning on submitting the concept paper application tomorrow, prior to the deadline.  We would like to clarify what does the \"lead organization\" intended to represent? We were assuming it would be the Windham Southeast Supervisory Union (WSESU) which is the administrative unit (superintendent's office) of the school district in Vermont.\n\nWe assumed the Lead Organization % Effort reflects who is responsible for project administration.  We are assuming this would be the WSESU.\n","The Prime Applicant/Lead Organization should designate a Principal Investigator and Business Contact for the application.\n\nLead organization designation will not factor into evaluation criteria.\n\nThe level of effort is how much of the project scope will be completed by the given entity. All funding goes to the Prime recipient, who maintains contractual arrangements with other partners, regardless of effort.  \n\nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Emailed","E 436","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","We have a rural school system in WV that is in need of improvements for two similar but different project and two different vendors that we are in process of writing for.  \n\nDo you allow more that one submission?  Can we write two separate concept papers for funding these projects?","See Question DOE 5.6. An application should address a single topic area and may include multiple schools. Applicants may apply to both topics but must be submitted as two separate applications each with its own Exchange control number. Please refer to FOA Section III.F., Limitation on Number of Concept Papers and Full Applications Eligible for Review.\n\nEach concept paper must be targeted to specific topic area and must have its own control number. If applying to both topic areas then 2 control numbers MUST be created, and therefore 2 separate applications with their own control number."]
["Emailed","E 437","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","Hello, we have completed a log in to EERE Exchange and our District has an account with SAM.gov. We are having a hard time finding the MPIN required for creating the Fed Connect Account.\n\nDoes the Fed Connect Account need to be complete before submitting the Concept paper for the Renew America's Schools FOA?","Per FOA Section VI.B., There are several one-time actions before submitting an application in response to this FOA, and it is vital that applicants address these items as soon as possible. Some may take several weeks, and failure to complete them could interfere with an applicant’s ability to apply to this FOA, or to meet the negotiation deadlines and receive an award if the application is selected.\n\nThis includes registration in FedConnect. \n\nRegister in FedConnect at https://www.fedconnect.net. To create an organization account, your organization’s SAM MPIN is required. For more information about the SAM MPIN or other registration requirements, review the FedConnect Ready, Set, Go! Guide at \nhttps://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/Marketing/Documents/FedConnec\nt_Ready_Set_Go.pdf. "]
["Emailed","E 438","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","To my understanding,  \"To report the percent of total work effort for each organization, the response should be based on the percent of dollars for each entity: prime recipient and subrecipient(s).”    \n\nWe are the prime, and we do not have any subrecipients. \n\nWe will be having Contractors/Vendors as partners. \n\nCan Contractors/Vendors be part of percent of effort, or only Prime Recipients and Subrecipients. ","Level of effort is only determined at the prime and subrecipient level, so DOE recommends putting 100% for the prime recipient.\n \nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria. "]
["Emailed","E 439","2023-01-24","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a way that I can calculate the cost of administering the grant?  \n\nThe calculator tool for estimating the energy cost is fantastic, by the way. I wish I had that in CA when I worked on Calshape grants. They need to use a way to estimate that is similar. ","The structuring of the grant will influence how it is managed, and therefore the cost of administering it. "]
["Emailed","E 440","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","Attached is a copy of the Concept Paper for our township Public Schools to apply for the Renew America School Grant Program. Please confirm receipt and also let me know if I should email this to someone else as well. ","Concept Papers and Applications MUST be sumbitted via EERE eXCHANGE. "]
["Emailed","E 441","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","I have a quick question about the application process.  Do I need a SAM.GOV account to apply?  I don’t have one of those; however, I am registered on the EERE website and do have a LOGIN.GOV account.  If the answer is no, I don’t need a SAM.GOV account, and I submit the initial concept paper application using my EERE/LOGIN.GOV credentials is there a problem with my coworker (who does have a SAM.GOV account) continuing the application process if we make it to the next round?  ","Per FOA Section VI.B., There are several one-time actions before submitting an application in response to this FOA, and it is vital that applicants address these items as soon as possible. Some may take several weeks, and failure to complete them could interfere with an applicant’s ability to apply to this FOA, or to meet the negotiation deadlines and receive an award if the application is selected.\n\nThis includes registration in SAM.gov. \n\nRegister with the SAM at https://www.sam.gov. Designating an Electronic Business Point of Contact (EBiz POC) and obtaining a special password called a Marketing Partner ID Number (MPIN) are important steps in SAM registration. Please update your SAM registration annually.\n"]
["Emailed","E 442","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","Is a School District considered Academic or State/Local Government for the Organization Type?","Either answer is acceptable.  "]
["Emailed","E 443","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","I am helping a school with Concept Paper due January 26th. Where is it that the Concept Paper is uploaded? EERE is what am thinking - Assuming option to pick the Renew America as the grant program.\n\nCan you confirm where to upload?\n","Concept Papers and Applications MUST be sumbitted via EERE eXCHANGE. "]
["Emailed","E 444","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","I am very new at this, but cannot understand how to upload the concept paper.  I went to the APPLY button, but that looks as if it is the full application process.  Please advise.  ","The \"Apply\" button on EERE eXCHANGE begins the application process for Concept Papers until the deadline passes. "]
["Emailed","E 445","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","Are we required to follow the same form and content requirements for the concept paper as the full submission? \nSpecifically do we have to use calibri typeface, 12 point font, and footnote/endnotes for the concept paper? \n","Yes, these requirements apply to Concept Papers. "]
["Emailed","E 446","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","Do I need to create a SAM.gov account of the district if they already have a UEI number?\n\nCan you point me to where I can find the budget workbook for the application?\n","Per FOA Section VI.B., There are several one-time actions before submitting an application in response to this FOA, and it is vital that applicants address these items as soon as possible. Some may take several weeks, and failure to complete them could interfere with an applicant’s ability to apply to this FOA, or to meet the negotiation deadlines and receive an award if the application is selected.\n\nThis includes registration in SAM.gov. \n\nRegister with the SAM at https://www.sam.gov. Designating an Electronic Business Point of Contact (EBiz POC) and obtaining a special password called a Marketing Partner ID Number (MPIN) are important steps in SAM registration. Please update your SAM registration annually.\n\nThe Budget Justification Workbook is a required component of the Full Application (NOT the Concept Paper). It can be found under \"Application Forms and Templates\" on EERE eXCHANGE, under this funding opportunity. "]
["Emailed","E 447","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","As I am uploading our concept paper for the Renewing America's Schools grant, I am a little confused over the instructions vs portal.\n\nFor the community needs & facility needs summaries that accompany the reports, are those to be included on the concept paper itself which is how it appears in the instructions or uploaded in the Community Need EJ or Facility Need Report section along with those reports? \n","EERE Exchange aligns aligns with the FOA and provides four locations to upload documents as outlined below. \n\n1.\tConcept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description) \n2.\tCommunity Need - EJ Report \n3.\tFacility Needs Assessment \n4.\tFiscal Need & Capacity "]
["Emailed","E 448","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","I am unable to find a template for the concept paper for the Renew America's School Grant program. Could you please provide the template and/or insight into what needs to be included in the paper.","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official template for the Concept Paper. "]
["Emailed","E 449","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","Does the concept paper need to be in 12 point type with 1” margins and just 2 pages long?  Or can we reduce type somewhat to fit it on 2 pages? It is difficult to get everything in that you ask for with these limitations. \n\nIt is not clear if this refers to the concept paper as well as the application, or just the latter. ","Concept Papers should be in 12 point type with 1'' margins. Note that the Project Description has a page limit of 2 and there are no page limits for Statements of Need.\n\nConcept Papers are intended to be high-level project overviews. Applicants will be asked to further develop their projects in the Full Application. "]
["Emailed","E 450","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","I registered my account with the Exchange, but I am unable to start the application. I can log into the Login..gov site, but when I try to access the eXCHANGE, I receive a notification that says \"Your login attempt was not successful. Your username was not found.\"","The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
["Emailed","E 451","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","We completed the Concept Paper on the exchange website but do we need to upload a separate concept paper where it says concept paper upload?","The application portal on EERE Exchange provides four locations to upload documents as outlined below.  \n\n1.\tConcept Paper (Cover Page + Project Description)  \n2.\tCommunity Need - EJ Report  \n3.\tFacility Needs Assessment  \n4.\tFiscal Need & Capacity  "]
["Emailed","E 452","2023-01-25","Emailed \nquestions","Is there a person who can help with questions on our submission on 00002756?","If you have further questions, please submit them via email at SchoolsFOA@doe.gov. Please do not contact any DOE employees personally. In order to maintain a fair and transparent process, questions will be answered publicly in this Q&A document. See FOA Sections VII. and VIII.R. The EERE eXCHANGE Help Desk can be reached at eere-exchangesupport@hq.doe.gov "]
[null,null,null,"For newer questions, see the \"Q&A Full Application Stage\" tab"]
["Webinar Questions","W 1","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can we use funding to install air condition if it is not already in place in the building?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Webinar Question","W 2","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Will only those whose concept papers are acceptable be eligible to apply for the grant?","Per FOA Section IV.C., DOE makes an independent assessment of each Concept Paper based on the criteria in Section V. of the FOA. DOE will encourage a subset of applicants to submit Full Applications. Other applicants will be discouraged from submitting a Full Application. All applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result. "]
["Webinar Question","W 3","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Where is the FOA located for printing?","The FOA can be found at the EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756. It is downloadable as a PDF. "]
["Webinar Questions","W 4","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","How do public school districts use this tool - a bit foreign to us.: Energy Justice Mapping Tool for Schools","Please find tutorial videos for the Energy Justice Tool and other application tools at https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities under \"Related Resources.\" "]
["Webinar Questions","W 5","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","How do I print the presentation?","A copy of the slide deck is available at EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756."]
["Webinar Question","W 6","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","DOE should know that school districts struggle with such short deadlines for grant applications! Why is the timeline always so short?","LEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class\n\nTo encourage applications from underrepresented schools, DOE streamlined the application process for the Renew America's Schools funding opportunity. A variety of free assessment tools were developed by DOE to reduce administrative burden of compiling an application package. "]
["Webinar Question","W 7","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","How do schools determine what their cost share responsibility will be?","For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 or FOA Section III.B. "]
["Webinar Question","W 8","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can an LEA Partner with its own schools to be considered a consortium?","For eligbility requirements please see FOA Section III.A. "]
["Webinar Question","W 9","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","We are a public charter school and are considered our own LEA. Do we need an additional partner in order to apply, or can we apply as both a school and its LEA?","For eligbility requirements please see FOA Section III.A. "]
["Webinar Question","W 10","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","If a local school district is undertaking an HVAC replacement project and is receiving a state grant of approx 46%, can the district still receive this federal grant? Is there a minimum that the local school/town has to contribute. ","For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021).\n\nCost share requirements are stated in FOA Section III.B. "]
["Webinar Question","W 11","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can a school district partner with one of its own schools to be considered as a consortium?","For eligbility requirements please see FOA Section III.A. "]
["Webinar Question","W 12","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What will be done to help rural and low-income school districts conduct the facility needs assessments?","DOE has made efforts to streamline the process for conducting a needs assessment, and has curated a list of free tools that LEAs can use to develop a baseline energy needs assessment for a school facility. See Questions DOE 5.1 and DOE 5.2\n\nLEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class\n"]
["Webinar Question","W 13","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","For eligibilty, is there a definition of Local Educational Agency? Do Boards of Education or school districts administrations qualify? ","BIL Sec. 40541 specifies: “The term \"local educational agency” is defined in Section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. According to the Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR 300.28), a \"Local education agency or LEA means a public board of education or other public authority legally constituted within a State for either administrative control or direction of, or to perform a service function for, public elementary or secondary schools in a city, county, township, school district, or other political subdivision of a State, or for a combination of school districts or counties as are recognized in a State as an administrative agency for its public elementary schools or secondary schools.\""]
["Webinar Question","W 14","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What is definition of \"high need\"?","See Questions DOE 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5"]
["Webinar Question","W 15","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","So if a school is not labeled as a Disadvantaged Community, then it cannot be a recipient of improvements through these funds?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 16","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What is considered high percentage of free and reduced lunch?","See Question DOE 6.4"]
["Webinar Question","W 17","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can you post sample Concept Papers for General Topic I and Topic II projects. A sample Concept Paper for traditional projects such as 1) HVAC and related controlls replacement 2) Lighting upgrades, and EV charging and EV auto's (Topic II).","Please see FOA Section IV.C. for the content and form of the Concept Paper."]
["Webinar Question","W 18","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","When I use the energy justic mapping tool to check on a school. I see LOCATED IN A DAC and the Value = no. If it is\"NO\" then this school cannot receive improvements from this grant - correct?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 19","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can an applicant submit multiple concept papers and applications?","See DOE Question DOE 5.6"]
["Webinar Question","W 20","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","I am concerned for rural districts and small districts and LEAs that may not have the technical staff able to follow the DOE requirements for this process. Please offer samples and clear and accessable samples of what is required. ","LEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class\n\nTo encourage applications from underrepresented schools, DOE streamlined the application process for the Renew America's Schools funding opportunity. A variety of free assessment tools were developed by DOE to reduce administrative burden of compiling an application package. "]
["Webinar Question","W 21","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Do these funds require use of Davis Bacon Act?","Yes. See FOA Section IV.J.vii., Davis-Bacon Act Requirements. "]
["Webinar Question","W 22","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can multiple school districts partner together as group in order to apply collectively?","Consortia may include coalitions of LEAs that apply jointly for their mutual benefit. Note that one LEA or other consortium member must be identified as the prime recipient. \nSee answer to Question DOE 4.2."]
["Webinar Question","W 23","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Do you have to be considered a disadvantaged community to be eligible for funding?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 24","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","We are not a district of need, does this greatly impact our chances of getting funding? I notice it is worth up to 20% of the review process.","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 25","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Keep in mind that school districts are not corporations or federal agencies with large staffs.","LEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class\n\nTo encourage applications from underrepresented schools, DOE streamlined the application process for the Renew America's Schools funding opportunity. A variety of free assessment tools were developed by DOE to reduce administrative burden of compiling an application package. "]
["Webinar Question","W 26","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can we get a copy of the presentation?","A recording of the webinar and a copy of the slide deck are available at EERE eXCHANGE website under FOA-0002756."]
["Webinar Question","W 27","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Thank you so much for the information. The program is $500M but this opportunity is $80M can you clarify the process to make the rest of the funding available and timing?","The total allocation of $500m for this BIL section will be funded through DOE fiscal years FY22 - FY26. The first round of funding, this announcment, will encompass $80m and subsequent years will have similar levels of funding subject to congressional appropriations."]
["Webinar Question","W 28","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Will any exceptional clauses be accepted?","DOE does not understand what this question is asking. "]
["Webinar Question","W 29","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Does \"facilitate substantial additional investment\" indicate a desire for LEAs to contribute complementary funding to match the grant?","For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14. \n\n5% cost share is required however priority can be given to eligible entities that (per BIL Section 40541 (d)(1)(c)) \"leverage[s] private sector investment through energy-related performance contracting.\" See also Question DOE 6.14."]
["Webinar Question","W 30","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","2. Will the regional offices host office hours? Our LEAs benefit from that targeted support for the EPA Clean School Bus program.  \n\n2. Are non-public schools eligible applicants (as the primary applicant, not as part of a consortia, etc)? \n\n3. When does the period of performance for these grants end? \n\n4. Does Davis-Bacon apply?  \n\n5. Must an LEA hold title to the property to be eligible?  \n\n6. Does DOE require materials like historic preservation, approval of school board, etc. These are required documents for ESSER funded projects.   ","1. DOE cannot provide targeted support during a competitive FOA application process. However, the Schools and Non-Profits program does intend to create additional training materials in the future. DOE has provided application information, an informational webinar, and videos (all available at our landing page: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/grants-energy-improvements-public-school-facilities) but cannot provide office hours. DOE will provide technical assistance to awardees.  \n\nSee Question DOE 4.5 for a list of resources for assistance with various project stages.      \n\n2. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. For information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. \n\n3. Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11. \n\n4. Yes. See FOA Section IV.J.vii., Davis-Bacon Act Requirements.\n\n5. LEAs do not need to hold title to the property, but must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the Full Application as a Letter of Commitment (FOA Section IV.D.v.).\n\n6. Historic preservation policies will depend on the characteristics of each school (age, historic designation, etc). DOE encourages applicants to check the policies of the local jurisdiction(s) of all schools included in the application. \n\nRegarding school board approval: Please check the policies of your LEA. \n\nNote, DOE’s decisions on whether and how to distribute federal funds under this FOA are subject to NEPA (42 U.S.C. § 4321, et seq.). (FOA Section VI.B.vi.)  "]
["Webinar Question","W 31","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","To clarify on cost-share - does this mean DOE would cover 95% of the cost of the project, while 5% would need to be provided by the awardee?","Yes, subject to rules and regulations. See FOA Section III.B."]
["Webinar Question","W 32","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can an LEA form a consortium with schools from another LEA? Or must an LEA partner with schools that are within the same LEA?  ","Yes, an LEA can form a consortium with schools from another LEA. Schools are not eligible to apply separately from an LEA. Consortia may include coalitions of LEAs that apply jointly for their mutual benefit. Note that one consortium member must be identified as the prime recipient.  \n\nSee also Question DOE 4.2. "]
["Webinar Question","W 33","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Is $500,000 the absolute floor for funding? i.e., Will projects less than $500,000 be considered?","$500,000 is not the absolute floor and applications for projects requesting less than $500,000 may still be considered. An application for a project requesting less than $500,000 still needs to meet the full intent of the program. For information on project types that would be competitive to recieve funding, see Question DOE 1.3.  "]
["Webinar Question","W 34","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Are their certain school districts that are highlighted for reduced/free lunch that would get approved quicker? Are lower income schools going to be graded more favorable?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 35","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What would DOE expect to award for a grant-funded solar- or wind-powered, renewable energy system...so that we can have some idea of shared cost?","As part of the Full Application, applicants must complete and submit the Budget Information (SF-424A) spreadsheet (FOA Section IV.D.iii.). \nFor information on the cost share requirement, see Question 3.14\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Webinar Question","W 36","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What is required for the concept paper? Can ESCOs complete concept papers for schools?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper.\nAny member of the application consortium can submit an application as long as the overall applicant eligibility requirements are met (see Question DOE 2.2). The entity registered in Exchange will be considered the Prime applicant. "]
["Webinar Question","W 37","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","DOE should know the challenges school districts have with such short timelines on grant applications! Especially for the targeted disadvantaged school systems that don't have bandwidth to jump on opportunities like this.","LEAs interested in building capacity for energy management should consider applying for the Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize), a competitive program which is now open, and which will provide energy management training and cash prizes of $100,000 for up to 25 LEAs. Applications for the Energy CLASS Prize can be found at the following webpage: https://www.herox.com/energy-class\n\nTo encourage applications from underrepresented schools, DOE streamlined the application process for the Renew America's Schools funding opportunity. A variety of free assessment tools were developed by DOE to reduce administrative burden of compiling an application package. "]
["Webinar Question","W 38","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","If an LEA is not a registered SAM, can they partner with another org that IS a registered SAM? In otherwords, can a NON-LEA be the lead applicant?","A non-LEA may be the designated Prime (lead) recipient as long as that entity is eligible per FOA Section III.A. "]
["Webinar Question","W 39","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Does new construction project qualify for this program? Or renovations with energy efficiency upgrades only?","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Webinar Question","W 40","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","On the first page of the application in EERE Exchange, there is a question that asks, \"Lead Organization Percent Effort\" - what information are you looking for here? How many FTEs from the applicant organization will be involved? Or what percent of the organization's overall work will be devoted to this project? Or somthing else?","The level of effort is how much of the project scope will be completed by the given entity. All funding goes to the Prime recipient, who maintains contractual arrangements with other partners, regardless of effort.  \n\nLevel of effort will not factor into evaluation criteria."]
["Webinar Question","W 41","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can these funds be combined with additional funding on a new school construction project?","For information on eligibility of new construction, see answer to Question DOE 1.8"]
["Webinar Question","W 42","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","We are a public charter school and are considered our own LEA. Do we need an additional partner in order to apply, or can we apply as both a school and its LEA?  ","A consortium may consist of an LEA applying on behalf of one or more schools. Partnering with a nonprofit, for-profit, or other community partner is encouraged but optional. See FOA Section III.A., Eligible Applicants. "]
["Webinar Question","W 43","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Are school districts eligible to apply on their own of do they need to partner with another organization to be eligible?  ","A consortium may consist of an LEA applying on behalf of one or more schools. Partnering with a nonprofit, for-profit, or other community partner is encouraged but optional. See FOA Section III.A., Eligible Applicants. "]
["Webinar Question","W 44","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","To clarify the cost share of 5%. Does that mean if a customer is awarded $100,000 of the grant they have to contribute $5,000 towards the project?","The awardee must contribute 5% of the total project cost, with the remaining 95% funded by the Renew America's Schools grant. In your example, if DOE awards $100,000 then the cost share contribution must be a minimum of $5,264. Total project costs are then $105,264.\n\nFor information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14 and FOA Appendix A. "]
["Webinar Question","W 45","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Do non-public schools qualify such as church operated schools or non-profit schools?","Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program. The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. For information on LEA eligibility, see answer to Question DOE 2.3. "]
["Webinar Question","W 46","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Does a consortium need to include all the partners listed on page 15, section IIIA of the FOA? ","A consortium may consist of an LEA applying on behalf of one or more schools. Partnering with a nonprofit, for-profit, or other community partner is encouraged but optional. See FOA Section III.A., Eligible Applicants. "]
["Webinar Question","W 47","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","If a school district is not located within an identified disadvantaged community as identified on the energy justice mapping tool, are they still eligible to apply?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see answers to Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 48","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Do the school districts have to submit a concept paper and full application for each school site or can they do one for the district as a whole and then note sites within the documents?","See Question DOE 5.6"]
["Webinar Question","W 49","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","We have swamp coolers in some of our classrooms. We need to bring electricity over in order to put AC's on. Would we be able to bring the electrictiy in in order to update our units?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Webinar Question","W 50","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can we use funding to install air condition if it is not already in place in the building?","For information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Webinar Question","W 51","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can this grant be used to cover the cost of already-existing eligible projects?","For information on eligibility of projects already in progress, see Question DOE 1.4. DOE cannot fund any work that happened or was obligated before the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) was enacted (Nov. 15, 2021)."]
["Webinar Question","W 52","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Just for clarity- an LEA can't apply alone correct? They must apply as part of a consortium?","An LEA must apply as part of a consortium. Please see FOA Section III.A. for full eligibility requirements."]
["Webinar Question","W 53","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Does this grant apply to Charter Schools?","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program.\n\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see Question DOE 2.3"]
["Webinar Question","W 54","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Will applicants receive a response following the concept paper submission, to indicate whether or not they are invited to submit a full application?","Per FOA Section IV.C., DOE makes an independent assessment of each Concept Paper based on the criteria in Section V. of the FOA. DOE will encourage a subset of applicants to submit Full Applications. Other applicants will be discouraged from submitting a Full Application. All applicants who submit a Concept Paper may submit a Full Application, regardless of encourage/discourage result. "]
["Webinar Question","W 55","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","If an LEA already has a contract with an energy performance contractor for energy efficiency improvements, will the LEA, in the event of winning an award, be able to continue working with the same energy performance contractor to complete the new project so as to maintain a consistent implementation of energy efficiency upgrades?","See answer to Question E 82."]
["Webinar Question","W 56","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can you further define the term LEA? We are representing a K-12 public school that only has 200 students.","BIL Sec. 40541 specifies: “The term \"local educational agency” is defined in Section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. According to the Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR 300.28), a \"Local education agency or LEA means a public board of education or other public authority legally constituted within a State for either administrative control or direction of, or to perform a service function for, public elementary or secondary schools in a city, county, township, school district, or other political subdivision of a State, or for a combination of school districts or counties as are recognized in a State as an administrative agency for its public elementary schools or secondary schools.\""]
["Webinar Question","W 57","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can a school district partner with one of its own schools to be considered as a consortium?  ","A consortium may consist of an LEA applying on behalf of one or more schools. Partnering with a nonprofit, for-profit, or other community partner is encouraged but optional. See FOA Section III.A., Eligible Applicants. "]
["Webinar Question","W 58","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What is the statute of limitations on any existing engineer audits or assessments of a school?  ","DOE encourages audits/facilities assessments that have been conducted within the past five years. Older assessments can be included for reference, but in that case DOE recommends also completing a needs assessment via DOE's freely available tools (see Question DOE 5.2).   "]
["Webinar Question","W 59","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","When you say “each school in the proposal” needs a Needs Assessment, do you mean each building?  ","Each facility/building being considered as part of the application needs its own needs assessment. For more information on developing a Baseline Energy Needs Assessment, see DOE’s School Needs and Benefits Assessment Resources webpage: https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/school-needs-and-benefits-assessment-resources  "]
["Webinar Question","W 60","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Are non-public schools eligible to apply for these funds?","The following types of schools are eligible if they qualify as public, K-12 schools, and are part of an application from an LEA: traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, and virtual schools with qualifying infrastructure. Private schools, daycares, preschools, community colleges, colleges, and universities are NOT eligible for funding under the Renew America's Schools grant program.\n\nFor information on LEA eligibility, see answer to Question DOE 2.3"]
["Webinar Question","W 61","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","May grant funds be used for \"New Builds\"?","For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8"]
["Webinar Question","W 62","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","An allowable \"improvement\" is alternative fueled vehicle.  Can vehicle include a utility piece of equipment, and not a passenger vehicle...as our schools do not have assigned passenger vehicles?","For information on project eligibility, see answer to Question DOE 1.1 and E 116."]
["Webinar Question","W 63","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","One of the schools in our city is across the street from the designated DAC, but has a NO value for DAC. This school serves the DAC neighborhood. Is there a way for this to still qualify?","DOE encourages applicants to provide this additional level of detail within the written \"Project Description\" section of the Concept Paper. DOE is aware that this discrepancy can happen, as the DACs are based on census tracts which typically don't align with school boundaries. "]
["Webinar Question","W 64","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Do State Energy Offices need to be involved for applying? Or can the eligible applicants submit an application on their own?","State Energy Offices do not need to be involved in the application process, and eligible applicants may submit an application on their own. DOE encourages applicants to engage with their State Energy Offices to learn more about state and local Energy Efficiency initiatives. DOE encourages applicants to research certifications, accreditations, and recommendations offered by State Energy Offices, utilities, nonprofits, and professional organizations. "]
["Webinar Question","W 65","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Are charter schools eligible if they are considered an LEA by the state? What if they do not own the building?","Yes, charter schools considered an LEA by the state are eligible.   \n\nLEAs do not need to hold title to the property, but must provide written permission to make the energy improvements. This written permission must be provided in the full application as a Letter of Commitment (Section IV.D.v.)"]
["Webinar Question","W 66","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can this money be used for asbestos abatement as it does relate to health improvements?  ","Limited testing and/or containment, removal or disposal of asbestos identified during the course of project activities is allowed provided that the asbestos is required to be contained or removed as a result of installing an “energy improvement” as defined in the FOA. All incidental measures relating to hazardous materials identified during the project activities must be managed in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements.\n\nFor information on project eligibility, see DOE Question 1.1.  "]
["Webinar Question","W 67","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","How many orgs need to be in a consortium? Is 2 enough?  ","A consortium must consist of an LEA and one or more: schools, non-profits, for-profits, community partners. See FOA Section III.A., Eligible Applicants. "]
["Webinar Question","W 68","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What is considered a high percentage of Free/Reduced Price Lunch eligibility?","See Question DOE 6.4"]
["Webinar Question","W 69","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Is a charter school considered an LEA?","States have different policies regarding the LEA status of charter schools. DOE encourages applicants to research their own local and state policies.   "]
["Webinar Question","W 70","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Part of our proposed building consolidation project (moving HS into the E/M building) is using ESSERS funds to purchase HVAC units amounting to a little over 2 million dollars. Can we use those funds to fulfill our local share?  ","ESSER funds are considered federal funds and therefore ineligible as cost share. See FOA Section III.B.iii. for more information.  "]
["Webinar Question","W 71","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Does High Need also mean Disadvantaged Community as determined in the EJ mapping tool?","Disadvantaged Community designation is one measure of need. A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 72","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","What is \"high need\" and what is considered high % of free and reduced lunch?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees, and need can be demonstrated in a variety of ways.\nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 73","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","May green infrastructure be funded? Depaving and tree planting, for example?","No, this does not meet the definition of \"energy improvement.\"\nFor information on project eligibility, see Question DOE 1.1"]
["Webinar Question","W 74","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","We are a CEP qualifying school. Does that qualify us for funding?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 75","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Are new builds eligible for awards? Is there a spend deadline? Are planning grants available?","1. For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8.\n\n2. Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11.\n\n3. See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs\nApplicants selected for award negotiations (selectee) must request prior written approval to charge pre-award costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the federal award directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency, through the DOE Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs cannot be incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. Pre-award expenditures are made at the selectee’s risk. EERE is not obligated to reimburse costs: (1) in the absence of appropriations; (2) if an award is not made; or (3) if an award is made for a lesser amount than the selectee anticipated.” All costs associated with submitting the application are ineligible and unallowable for reimbursement."]
["Webinar Question","W 76","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can design fees be included in the project?   ","Any allowable cost incurred post-selection may be approved for reimbursement, provided it is approved by the Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs are ineligible for reimbursement except with prior written approval. See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs, and Question DOE 5.3. "]
["Webinar Question","W 77","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Is there a template and specific questions applicants should use for the concept paper?","See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. There is no official application/form for the Concept Paper. "]
["Webinar Question","W 78","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","1. Please confirm if the Grant will focus on funding only renovation projects or will new buildings also be considered? The guidelines clearly outline the renovation and upgrading of facilities, but if a new energy efficient building is being built because the old building has exceeded its useful life, will this be considered for funding?\n\n2. For the application process, may an entity apply for the grant on behalf of a grant applicant, or must the application be entered into the system directly by the requestor of the grant? In other words, other Federal Grants that we work with require the application to be entered directly by a School District due to the direct reimbursement system they have in place. Is this grant application set up the same way?","1. For information on eligibility of new construction, see Question DOE 1.8\n\n2. Any member of the application consortium can submit an application as long as the overall applicant eligibility requirements are met (see Question DOE 2.2)."]
["Webinar Question","W 79","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Should the application be submitted by the LEA or the for profit or non-profit consortium partners?","Any member of the application consortium can submit an application as long as the overall applicant eligibility requirements are met (see Question DOE 2.2). The entity registered in Exchange and submitting the application will be considered the prime entity. "]
["Webinar Question","W 80","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","When is the deadline to join the Teaming Partner List?","For information on joining the Teaming Partner list, see Question DOE 4.14. The deadline to submit teaming list information is the same for full applications, however it is best to include your information as soon as possible so other applicants have a chance to review your specific expertise."]
["Webinar Question","W 81","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","If a school is not labeled as part of a Disadvantaged Community, but is a rural district, can it qualify for these funds?","A variety of factors will be considered when reviewing applications and selecting awardees. \nFor information on selection and prioritization, see Questions DOE 6.1, DOE 6.2, DOE 6.3, DOE 6.4, DOE 6.5, DOE 6.6, DOE 6.7, DOE 6.8, DOE 6.9, DOE 6.10, DOE 6.11, DOE 6.12, DOE 6.13"]
["Webinar Question","W 82","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Can grant funding be used for third party monitoring of labor standards on the project (third party monitoring stopping on the project)?","See FOA Section IV.J.vii., Davis-Bacon Act. Award administration fees are allowable costs. "]
["Webinar Question","W 83","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Are the teaming partners considered a sub-recipient of the fundung?","One member of the application consortium must be designated as the Prime recipient; the others are sub-recipients or subcontractors (vendors) of the project."]
["Webinar Question","W 84","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","If money is awarded, when is the deadline for it to be spent by?","Performance periods are expected to vary by project depending on scope, schedule, and award date if selected for negotiations. For more information on the anticipated range of funding periods and timelines, see Question DOE 3.11."]
["Webinar Question","W 85","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Is there a page range for the Concept Papers?","The Cover Page has a page limit of 1, and the Project Description has a page limit of 2. There are no page limits for Statements of Need. See FOA Section IV.C., Content and Form of the Concept Paper. "]
["Webinar Question","W 86","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Is it the expectation that LEAs will apply and then all relevant schools will be included as partners as a consortium? vs. considering the entire District?","An LEA and all relevant schools outlined in the application are partners in the consortium. "]
["Webinar Question","W 87","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Will pre-award costs be allowed?","See FOA Section IV.Jii., Pre-Award Costs\nApplicants selected for award negotiations (selectee) must request prior written approval to charge pre-award costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the federal award directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency, through the DOE Contracting Officer. Pre-award costs cannot be incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. Pre-award expenditures are made at the selectee’s risk. EERE is not obligated to reimburse costs: (1) in the absence of appropriations; (2) if an award is not made; or (3) if an award is made for a lesser amount than the selectee anticipated.” "]
["Webinar Question","W 88","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Who needs to be the lead applicant?","The proposed prime recipient and subrecipient(s) must be domestic entities. The following types of domestic entities are eligible to participate as a prime recipient or subrecipient of this FOA:\n1. Institutions of higher education; \n2. For-profit entities;\n3. Non-profit entities; and\n4. State and local governmental entities, and Tribal Nations.\n\nTo qualify as a domestic entity, the entity must be organized, chartered, or incorporated (or otherwise formed) under the laws of a particular state or territory of the United States; have majority domestic ownership and control; and have a physical place of business in the United States. (FOA Section III.A.i.)"]
["Webinar Question","W 89","2022-12-06","Questions asked in the Webinar","Are we able to ask for more than 5%?","For information on the cost share requirement, see Question DOE 3.14"]
[null,null,null,"For newer questions, see the \"Q&A Full Application Stage\" tab"]