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["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this funding opportunity announcement should be emailed under the DE-FOA-0003274 - MACRO: Mixed Algae Conversion Research Opportunity, submit questions to MacroFOA@ee.doe.gov. "]
[2,"All questions pertaining to EERE Exchange should be emailed to EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov. Include FOA name and number in subject line."]
[3,"All questions and answers pertaining to this FOA will be posted on EERE Exchange within this spreadsheet."]
[4,"DOE will attempt to respond to a question within three business days, unless a similar question and answer has already been posted in this spreadsheet. "]
[5,"All questions should be submitted not later than three business days prior to the application due date. Questions submitted after this date will not be answered."]
[6,"Questions are assigned a number in accordance with when they are reviewed by DOE.  "]
[7,"Questions are assigned a topic area by DOE when reviewed."]
[]
["TIPS"]
[1,"Applicants may sort questions and answers in the question tabs of this spreadhseet by selecting the drop-down box arrow on the column headers and selecting any of the listed attributes."]
[2,"Applicants may search for questions and/or keywords by holding CTRL+F on the keyboard and typing in a phrase or keyword."]
[3,"Applicants who are unable to open pdf documents are advised that it could be due to an error with the user's web browser or the user's Adobe software.  We recommend closing your web browser and then opening a different web browser to navigate to the Exchange website to open/download the document.\" If that doesn't work, please contact the Exchange Help Desk at the web address provided on the FOA in Exchange. "]

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["ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
["DE-FOA-0003274 - MACRO: Mixed Algae Conversion Research Opportunity"]
["Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
[1,"2024-04-10","Technical Topics","While looking at the estimated funding (FOA page 19), I found that [for Topic Area 1] the total funding available for all awards is ~$8.8M, while the maximum funding per individual award is $1.5M.  This seems not consistent with the anticipated number (3-4) of awards? ","The table on page 19 is incorrect, section II.A.i Estimated Funding correctly states that under Topic Area 1: EERE anticipates making approximately 5-6 awards under this FOA. EERE may issue one, multiple, or no awards."]
[2,"2024-04-11","Eligibility","Are Foreign Applicants eligible for this FOA?  I am interested in collaborating with other applicants, how can I participate in this FOA?","Potential applicants should review the FOA Eligibility Requirements (section III). Additionally, a Teaming Partner List is available for this FOA on the EERE-eXCHANGE website here: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/TeamingPartners.aspx?foaid=5b00376e-30b6-47b5-a0e7-6497aadad055"]
[3,"2024-04-11","Technical Topics","Would the conversion of seaweeds into a high performance bio-derived intermediate for bioproducts fall within the scope of [Topic Area ]1?","Yes a bio-derived material is within the scope of Topic Area 1, provided the other requirements are met."]
[4,"2024-04-11","Technical Topics","Will EERE confirm my proposed project is within the scope of Topic Area 1? Is hydrothermal liquefaction of interest under this FOA? ","Please see FOA Section I.B.i. Topic Area 1 Conversion of Seaweeeds to Low-Carbon Fuels and Bioproducts for applications of interest under this FOA.  Please see FOA Section I.C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest. Please see FOA Section II.G. Questions Regarding Eligibility. \"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 apply in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.\""]
[5,"2024-04-16","Technical Topics","[Is] there is any definition about low-carbon fuels and bioproducts?","Please see FOA Section I.B for Green House Reduction targets for each topic. Topic Area 1 key performance parameter requires that by the end of the project, the targeted product demonstrates a 50% or greater lifecycle GHG reduction, defined as g CO2e seaweed-based product LCA emissions / g CO2e petroleum or incumbent LCA emissions. Topic Area 2 requires that bioproducts must demonstrate lifecycle emissions that are at least 10%, and preferably 25%, less than an equivalent incumbent product."]
[6,"2024-04-16","Labs/FFRDCs","Are Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC) required to submit an SF-LLL?","No, only the prime applicants are required to submit the SF-LLL form. See section III for eligibility requirements, FFRDCs can not apply as prime applicant."]
[7,"2024-04-16","Labs/FFRDCs","Are FFRDCs required to submit a budget justification in addition to the work proposal (that also contains a budget estimate)?","No. See Section IV.D.xii, Budget for DOE/NNSA FFRDC, the DOE work proposal (WP) is sufficient detail for FFRDC budgets. The prime applicant's budget justification should include FFRDC costs under the contractual tab."]
[8,"2024-04-16","Labs/FFRDCs","For the FFRDC field work proposal, who is the POC that should be listed in box #7 for Headquarters Office Program Manager (with phone and email address)?","The Headquaters Office Program Manager may stay blank.  Should an Applicant's submission be selected for award negotiation, the FFRDC FWP may be updated to reflect any changes. "]
[9,"2024-04-16","Labs/FFRDCs","Are Letters of Commitment required for FFRDCs?","No. See Section IV.D.xii, Authorization for Non-DOE/NNSA or DOE/NNSA FFRDCs. \"The federal agency sponsoring the FFRDC must authorize in writing the use of the FFRDC on the proposed project.\""]
[10,"2024-04-16","Application Content/Format","For the current and pending support documentation, is the automatic disclosure statement generated through the SciENcv NSF formatted system sufficient, or should there be an additional disclosure statement generated for each current and pending? ","See Section IV.D.xvi, Current and Pending Support. \"The information may be provided in the approved common disclosure format available at Common Form for Current and Pending (Other) Support (nsf.gov). If the NSF format is used, the individual must still include a signature, date, and a certification statement using the language included in the paragraph above. Information on disclosures required by all senior/key personnel for the Current and Pending Support document is available at https://new.nsf.gov/funding/senior-personnel-documents#current-and-pending-other-support-5db.\""]
[11,"2024-04-16","Technical Topics","Please clarify the sources of CO2 intended to be used in Topic Area 2. Are the following acceptable for 'concentrated CO2'?\n1. Algae technology as a form of Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology directly (no pre-concentration of CO2 required)\n2. A separate commercial technology to preconcentrate CO2 prior to DAC technology such as algae technology\nFor Topic Area 2 can simulated flue gas be used during the project when demonstrating at TRL4-5??","To fit under the Topic Area 2 definition of anthropogenic CO2, the CO2 must be concentrated by human activity prior to being introduced to the algae. Thus, CO2 pulled directly from air (or water) would not be considered anthropogenic CO2.\n\nSee Appendix E of the FOA, TRL 4 specifies a laboratory environment and TRL 5 specifies a relevant environment."]
[12,"2024-04-16","Technical Topics","Would bioproducts beyond agricultural/animal feed products, be acceptable to Topic Area 2?","See Section I.B.ii. Bioproducts for agricultural applications (including animal feed) are the desired primary end products. Other products would be suitable as secondary streams, so long as they are not specifically prohibited by the Topic Area 2 language (e.g. biofuels). see FOA Section I.C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest."]
[13,"2024-04-17","Technical Topics","Per MACRO FOA Topic 2, “concentrated CO2 supplied from DAC technologies” is supposed to be used for algal cultivation. Would cultivation of algae at high pH or with seawater naturally enriched in CO2 from air be an acceptable DAC “technologies” for proposals submitted in response to this FOA? ","See Section I.B.ii The term “anthropogenic CO2” is defined as CO2 that has been created or concentrated through human technology, including Direct Air Capture (DAC). See Section I.C Applications Specifically Not of Interest: Topic Area 2 only: Conversion of non-anthropogenic sources of CO2."]
[14,"2024-04-17","Eligibility","Is it possible for a non-US startup to participate as a first step to landing in the US?","Potential applicants should review the FOA Eligibility Requirements in Section III.A. Additionally, Section III.A.v: Foreign Entities provides information about applying as a foreign entity. Additionally, a Teaming Partner List is available for this FOA on the EERE-eXCHANGE website here: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/TeamingPartners.aspx?foaid=5b00376e-30b6-47b5-a0e7-6497aadad055 "]
[15,"2024-04-17","Technical Topics","Can bioproduct development in battery applications be considered in Topic Area 2? Would any [other] product development be equally considered?","See Section I.B.ii. Bioproducts for agricultural applications (including animal feed) are the desired primary end products. Other products would be suitable as secondary streams, so long as they are not specifically prohibited by the Topic Area 2 language (e.g. biofuels). see FOA Section I.C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest."]
[16,"2024-04-17","Technical Topics","[For Topic Area 2 would] \"agricultural applications\" include things like biotechnology-enabled processes to create food ingredients, additives, or final products?","See Section I.B.ii. Bioproducts for agricultural applications (including animal feed) are the desired primary end products. Other products would be suitable as secondary streams, so long as they are not specifically prohibited by the Topic Area 2 language (e.g. biofuels). see FOA Section I.C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest."]
[17,"2024-04-17","Webinar","Will a list of attendees from the April 17th webinar be made available ?","No, DOE cannot release webinar attendee information. A Teaming Partner List is available for this FOA on the EERE-eXCHANGE website here: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/TeamingPartners.aspx?foaid=5b00376e-30b6-47b5-a0e7-6497aadad055 "]
[18,"2024-04-17","Technical Topics","[For Topic Area 2], would bioplastics also fall under the definition of 'agricultural products' since plastics are included in a wide variety of agricultural equipment?","See Section I.B.ii. Bioproducts for agricultural applications (including animal feed) are the desired primary end products. Other products would be suitable as secondary streams, so long as they are not specifically prohibited by the Topic Area 2 language (e.g. biofuels). see FOA Section I.C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest."]
[19,"2024-04-18","Other","The file DE-FOA-0003274_-_MACRO_-_Mixed_Algae appears damaged and can't be opened.","Please contact EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov for technical assitance with the EERE EXchange website."]
[20,"2024-04-18","Technical Topics","[For Topic Area 2] can the byproducts come under the food ingredients sector?","See Section I.B.ii. Bioproducts for agricultural applications (including animal feed) are the desired primary end products. Other products would be suitable as secondary streams, so long as they are not specifically prohibited by the Topic Area 2 language (e.g. biofuels). see FOA Section I.C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest."]
[21,"2024-04-18","Other","I am going to join an Institution of Higher Education this August as a faculty, and unsure if I would be able to submit as a PI. \n\nIf not, can this be resolved by having a faculty member from the Institution as an acting PI, and then I be  listed as co-PI. ","Please review section III.A.iv [sic] on eligible applicants. Per section IV.D.i, submission of a full application requires that a SF-424: Application for Federal Assitance must be signed and submitted by an authorized representative of an eligible applicant.  Per FOA Section II.G. Questions Regarding Eligibility. \"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 apply in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.\""]
[22,"2024-04-22","Eligibility","Our anticipated collaborative proposal spans both Topics. Can we apply to both Topics?","See  Section III.F of the FOA: \"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 an eligible Concept Paper was submitted for each Full Application.\"  See Section IV.C and D: Applicants must specifiy the topic to which a concept paper and full application are being submitted on the cover page."]
[23,"2024-04-23","Technical Topics","For Topic Area 1, can wet waste be utilized as a stand alone source?","See Section II.B.i, Topic Area 1 specifically requires the use of Seaweed, Seaweed wastes or blends of Seaweed with other wastes. R&D proposed for only wet wastes that are not blended with Seaweed is not within the intent of Topic Area 1."]
[24,"2024-04-22","Other","Will a recording of the webinar be made available? ","A recording of the Webinar is available at the following link. https://youtu.be/fLDpwMNp5uQ"]
[25,"2024-04-28","Technical Topics","(1) The FOA defines anthropogenic CO2 as CO2 that has been created or concentrated using human technology. Given that current atmospheric CO2 levels are largely a result of human technology, is atmospheric CO2 considered anthropogenic for the purposes of this FOA?\n\n(2) Does the project need to use anthropogenic CO2 as part of the work or simply demonstrate that the anthropogenic CO2 could be used for the developed microalgal processes. For example would a lab need to source CO2 from a direct air capture plant or can one use commercial CO2 vendors for technology development? \n\n(3) Does the algal cultivation method used need to already have a mechanism for incorporating anthropogenic CO2 into the cultivation. In other words, does the mechanical engineering design need to already be set up to intake high CO2 levels.\n\n(4) Is there a minimum CO2 level for the incoming feedstock that is necessary for the work to be within scope for this FOA? e.g. at least X% CO2 gas input.  ","1. No, atmospheric CO2 is not considered anthropogenic CO2 unless it has been concentrated via human technology (e.g. Direct Air Capture). \n2. For AOI 2 the required beginning TRL is 4 and target TRL state is 5 by the end of the project (See Section I.B.ii). Referencing Appendix E, TRL 4 specifies a laboratory environment, and TRL 5 specifies a ‘relevant’ environment, which could include synthetic gas mixtures assuming they accurately represent the conditions (temperature, pressure, etc…) and composition (CO2 concentration, water concentration, trace contaminants, etc…) of the proposed anthropogenic source.    \n3. For AOI 2 the required beginning TRL is 4 (See Section I.B.ii). Referencing Appendix E, TRL 4 specifies “Component and/or breadboard validation in a laboratory environment,” therefore all components required for the proposed process would need to have been demonstrated in a laboratory environment.\n4. The only requirement is that the CO2 is from an anthropogenic source as defined in the FOA. Anthropogenic sources typically range from a low of 4 mol% CO2 (e.g. natural gas combustion in air without recirculation) to nearly pure (e.g. DAC)."]
[26,"2024-04-29","Webinar","Unfortunately we were unable to make the Webinar on the 17th for the MACRO funding opportunity.\n\nIs there an opportunity to connect with someone at your office to discuss our questions for the program?","See FOA Section VII. Questions/Agency Contacts, \"Upon the issuance of a FOA, DOE personnel are prohibited from communicating (in writing or otherwise) with applicants regarding the FOA except through the established question and answer process described below.\" A recording of the Webinar is available at the following link. https://youtu.be/fLDpwMNp5uQ"]
[27,"2024-05-01","Technical Topics","Macroalgae of interest?","No, there is not a species or cultivar of macroalgae that is of specific interest."]
[28,"2024-05-01","Labs/FFRDCs","If we are interested in submitting do we send an email (teaming partner list) how do we move forward?","The Teaming Partner List is available for this FOA on the EERE-eXCHANGE website here:https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/TeamingPartners.aspx?foaid=5b00376e-30b6-47b5-a0e7-6497aadad055. At the top of the section is a button to 'submit entry to teaming partner list'. Potential applicants should review the FOA Eligibility Requirements (section III)."]
[29,"2024-05-01","Other","What do I do if I cannot get the Q&A log to download using EERE Exchange? (i.e. when we open the section for this FOA the page is blank)","Please contact EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov for technical assitance with the EERE EXchange website. The link to the FOA Q&A document download is here: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/FileContent.aspx?FileID=a521d065-7a34-492f-afcf-8a34e21b4c4f, note that this link goes directly to a download of the excel spreadsheet, with some browsers you may need to search your downloaded files."]
[30,"2024-05-03","Technical Topics","[For] topic area 1:\n1. To what extent is the DOE interested in downstream applications that would further process extracted chemicals from algae and seaweed into materials ready for commercial use? I.e., should the scope include secondary and tertiary processing of chemicals, beyond primary extraction, into materials that are more ready for consumer use? \n2.To what extent is the DOE interested in seeing project partners that would perform secondary and tertiary processing of extracted chemicals and the creation of consumer goods? ","1. Yes, finished materials are of interest provided the process begins with appropriate feedstocks and aligns with the requested TRLs (See Section I.B.i). Also, see question #3 above. 2. See Topic Area 1 Section I.B.i for areas of interest."]
[31,"2024-05-06","Webinar","We are reaching out again to see how we can gain access to the recording if there was one or the summary of the informational webinar zoom meet that took place April 17th. ","A recording of the Webinar is available at the following link. https://youtu.be/fLDpwMNp5uQ"]
[32,"2024-05-09","Eligibility","I am a researcher based outside the United States. As an international applicant, I encountered an issue during the submission process related to mobile number validation. The system requires a US-based mobile number for validation, and unfortunately, my country's number format is not accepted. I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide guidance or alternative methods for international applicants to complete the validation process and submit their concept papers. Are there specific provisions or procedures in place for researchers outside the US who encounter such validation challenges?","Potential applicants should review the FOA Eligibility Requirements (section III). Please see FOA Section II.G: \"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 apply in response to this FOA lies solely with the applicant.\" Applicants who experience technical difficulties with submission PRIOR to the FOA deadline should contact the EERE eXCHANGE helpdesk for assistance (EERE-eXCHANGESupport@hq.doe.gov)."]
[33,"2024-05-09","Concept Paper","I would greatly appreciate any information or guidance you could provide regarding the application process.","See section IV of the FOA for all application and submission information."]
[34,"2024-05-10","Concept Paper","I made an error in my concept paper submission in Exchange regarding total budget numbers and did not catch the error until after the submission deadline, can this be modified for the concept paper review process?","Please see FOA Section IV. C. Content and Form of the Concept Paper. Applicants can reference the Applicant Guide for any FOAs Create after 1/12/23 at the following link for assistance with EERE-Exchange fields. https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Manuals.aspx"]
[35,"2024-05-27","Concept Paper","Could you please let us know when we should expect Concept Paper encouraged/discouraged decisions?","The Concept Paper decisions have been released in Exchange as of 5/28/2024."]
[36,"2024-05-29","Concept Paper","We mistakenly submitted a concept paper under the wrong topic and it was discouraged. Can we submit a full proposal under the correct topic?","See Section VI.A.ii of the FOA: \"Applicants may submit a Full Application even if they receive a notification discouraging them from doing so.\""]
[37,"2024-05-29","Concept Paper","Our designated contact in Exchange who submitted the concept paper is out of office and we’re unable to review our decision. Are you able to re-assign to another person who has access to Exchange?","Please contact EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov for technical assitance with the EERE EXchange website."]
[38,"2024-06-03","Due Dates","Can you please confirm the deadline for submission and will any further changes be announced, or do I need to periodically check the main EERE page?","Please see the title page of the Funding Opportunity Announcement and the updated Full Application Submission deadline in EERE-Exchange.  The Full Application Submission deadline has been extended to July 18th, 2024. "]
[39,"2024-06-04","Application Content/Format","We plan to have two budget periods in the project, but there is no 2BP budget justification template under \"Application Forms and Templates\". ","Applicants may use the 3 Budget Period Budget Justification in the Full Application Submission.  EERE does not have a 2 Budget Period Budget Justification Template. "]
[40,"2024-06-06","Technical Topics","The FOA indicates that for Topic Are 2, the reactor volume must be at least 1000 L. I would like to know if this can be multiple reactors with a total volume of > 1000 L? Or does it have to be one reactor?","The reactor volume requirement will be met so long as the total volume is 1000 L (i.e. multiple reactors are acceptable). It is expected that R&D supported under TA2 will achieve TRL 5, which is defined in Appendix E on Page 101 as “Component and/or breadboard validation in a relevant environment,” thus the environment (including effects associated with the scale of the reactor) should be relevant to prototype-scale operations."]
[41,"2024-06-11","Due Dates","Can you please confirm the deadline for Full Application Submissions is July 18, 2024? ","Please see the title page of the Funding Opportunity Announcement and the updated Full Application Submission deadline in EERE-Exchange.  The Full Application Submission deadline has been extended to July 18th, 2024. "]
[42,"2024-06-11","Labs/FFRDCs","To whom should DOE FFRDCs address/direct the required \"Authorization for DOE/NNSA FFRDCs\"?  Please provide the name, title, and mailing address.  Previous funding announcements included DOE Grantor Contact/Contract Specialist information in the FAQ.","For the purposes of this FOA, please leave this field blank since multiple offices are supporting this FOA and the DOE Grantor Contact/Contract Specialist may vary. "]
[43,"2024-06-18","Application Content/Format","My concept paper has now been encouraged for a full proposal. As I am now eligible and prepared to submit the full proposal as the PI, can I list myself as the PI and the other professor as the Co-PI when I submit the full proposal","Yes, it is acceptable to update your full proposal to reflect the current project team."]
[44,"2024-06-25","Technical Topics","Regarding Topic Area 2, Conversion of Algal Biomass for Low Carbon Agricultural Bioproducts: We plan to work in an area where solar radiation is much lower during parts of the year than in more southern areas of the country.  In that case, does the DOE allow use of artificial lighting to simulate solar radiation available during 12h light-dark cycles during summer months or in other parts of the country?","The use of artificial lighting to simulate solar radiation duration and availability of other geographic locations is acceptable under Topic Area 2 of the FOA."]
[45,"2024-06-26","Application Content/Format","I am assisting my PI in submitting a proposal to DOE DE-FOA-0003274: MACRO - MIXED ALGAE CONVERSION RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY in the eXCHANGE portal however, there is no apply button located anywhere within the opportunity.  Is there a reason that I am not seeing it?  Other opportunities do have the apply button visible.  I've taken a screenshot of what I see (no 'Apply 'button is visible) when I pull up the opportunity.  \n\nI am pulling up this FOA under my eXCHANGE account...does it need to be pulled up under the PIs account?","EERE-Exchange allows the primary user to share access to the submission with other users.  In this scenario, EERE recommends having the PI share access to the application submission.  Guidance for how to share access can be found in User Manuals in the EERE-eXCHANGE Applicant Guide 2023 FOA Submission guidance document. https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Manuals.aspx"]
[46,"2024-06-28","Cost Sharing","Hello - i have a question about whether the costs we incur prior to award are applicable to our Cost Sharing basis. Specifically, the costs in question will be for activities developing the technologies necessary for execution of the grant project, but not included in the direct costs of the grant application, e.g. reactor development, outreach and preparation of supply chain [development]. Can you please clarify if it’s allowable for us to account for these unreimbursed indirect labor costs, incurred prior to the project period, as Cost Sharing payments in kind? If potentially allowable, what is the process for requesting prior approval?","Per FOA Section I. ii. Pre-Award Costs, only costs incurred AFTER selection are allowable project costs. Further, successful applications are only selected to enter negotiations, DOE is not obligated to reimburse any costs incurred prior to successful negotiation of an award."]
[47,"2024-07-01","Cost Sharing","I wanted to check on allowable indirect costs for the federal budget. I see that we can use indirect costs for cost sharing/match; is there a limit to indirect costs for the federal budget, or would we use our NICRA? ","See 2 CFR 200.306 as amended by 2 CFR 910.130 for additional cost sharing requirements, indirect costs are allowable project costs (either federal or recipient provided cost share). If the applicant has a previously negotiated rate agreement with a federal agency, those rates should be used for execution of the project."]
[48,"2024-07-02","Eligibility","I was curious if it's too late to apply for this grant?","See FOA section IV.A Application and Submission Information: \"Only applicants who have submitted an eligible Concept Paper will be eligible to submit a Full Application.\""]
[49,"2024-07-02","Technical Topics","Regarding Topic Area 2, Conversion of Algal Biomass for Low Carbon Agricultural Bioproducts: The Anticipated Period of Performance is shown as up to 24 months. To produce an adequate amount of algal biomass for a series of careful animal tests and data evaluation, it would be beneficial to extend the performance period beyond 24 months — e.g. to 30 months.  Would this be allowed?","See section II.A.ii, The FOA states \"DOE anticipates making awards that will run up to 24 months in length.\" Applicants should address in detail any specific time requirements or proposed deviation from that schedule with justification in the application details."]
[50,"2024-07-03","Application Content/Format","I have a question regarding the Diversity plan. The instructions state that it is required and that a metric must be used for each year. As this proposal only has a couple of full time people in specialized areas and a couple part time people, Is there a way to simply reference what we are currently utlizing as diversity and not include additional metrics?","See Section IV.D.vii of the FOA: \"The plan should include at least one SMART milestone per Budget Period supported by metrics to measure the success of the proposed actions\". Additionally, applications will be reviewed against specific criteria around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion goals, see section V.A.ii, Criteria 4: \"The quality and manner in which the measures incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion goals in the project\""]
[51,"2024-07-04","Application Content/Format","There is no mention of a verification process for Topic Area 2 in the MACRO FOA; whereas there is for Topic Area 1. We are applying for Topic Area 2. Do we need to include a project verification BP1 in this proposal or is that not required for Topic Area 2?","No, Topic Area 2 does not have a specified verification process requirement. See section I.B.ii, \"Applicants [to Topic Area 2] must detail an optimized process for converting algae to bioproducts, and the algae-production technology must be verified via proof of performance in relevant environments.\""]
[52,"2024-07-08","Application Content/Format","The University Sponsored Projects Office requires contact information in the form of a name (of cognizant program officer) and phone number, in addition to this [Q&A] email provided on the FOA.","See questions #8 and #42, similarly here multiple offices are supporting this FOA and the DOE Grantor Contact/Contract Specialist may vary. If selected for negotiations applicants may revise the SF424 application file."]
[53,"2024-07-08","Application Content/Format","We have a question regarding the subrecipient budget justification workbooks.  The eXCHANGE portal [appears to] only let you upload one excel spreadsheet.  If we have 4 different subrecipients with 4 different budgets, how do we submit them as one Excel worksheet?  ","Exchange will allow up to 5 subrecipient budget justification workbooks to be uploaded."]
[54,"2024-07-10","Application Content/Format","I am assisting with a proposal submission and want to clarify the requirement that all application documents have an upper right corner header with the control number.  Documents with proscribed templates such as the excel files (Locations of Work), the SF-LLL form,  and the NSF biosketch and CPS formats cannot be edited to add such a header.  Similarly, the Letters of Commitment signed by the subrecipient official representative cannot be easily edited to add a header.  Can some documents be exempted from this requirement?","Yes, the header requirement in some of the existing templates can be exempted, however, the applicant should follow the file naming conventions detailed in Section IV.D.i - xix, Full Application Content Requirements of the FOA."]
[55,"2024-07-10","Labs/FFRDCs","A question was posed on 4/16 asking if FFRDC’s were required to submit a budget justification, or if the Field Work Proposal (FWP) is acceptable. Per the answer, FFRDC’s WP was sufficient, and a budget justification was not required. However, per the FOA itself it states that FFRDC’s are required to submit the budget justification and WP. Can you please clarify which instructions we are supposed to follow?","See Section IV.D.xi and xii, Full Application Content Requirements of the FOA: \"Applicants must provide a separate budget justification for each subrecipient that is expected to perform work estimated to be more than $250,000 or 25% of the total work effort, whichever is less.\" \n\nFFRDC's are required to provide a Work Proposal as a budget document for this Funding Opportunity Announcement. See FOA Section IV.D.xii. Budget for DOE/NNSA FFRDC. \"If a DOE/NNSA FFRDC is to perform a portion of the work, the applicant must provide a DOE work proposal (WP) in accordance with the requirements in DOE Order 412.1A, Work Authorization System, Attachment 2, available at: https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0412.1-BOrder-a-chg1-AdmChg. \n\nSave the WP in a single PDF file using the following convention for the title “ControlNumber_LeadOrganization_WP”.\""]
[56,"2024-07-11","Registration Requirements","I have completed my registration in SAM.gov and obtained a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). However, I do not currently have a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code, as I only registered for Federal Assistance awards. The announcement specifies the need for SAM registration, UEI, and MPIN, but does not explicitly mention a CAGE code requirement. I would like to confirm whether a CAGE code is required for submitting an application to this FOA.","Please see the FOA title page and FOA Section IV.F. for the following guidance pertaining to SAM registration and Unique Entity Identifiers.  \"• Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management (SAM) - Each applicant (unless the applicant is excepted from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110) is required to: (1) register in the SAM at https://www.sam.gov before submitting an application; (2) provide a valid UEI number in the application; and (3) maintain an active SAM registration with current information when the applicant has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency. DOE may not make a federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable UEI and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time DOE is ready to make a federal award, DOE will determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant.\" A CAGE code was not referenced in the FOA and an Applicant is required to meet the 3 requirements listed in the FOA guidance referenced in Section IV.F."]
[57,"2024-07-12","Application Content/Format","Regarding the Budget Justification for the Sub Awardee, do they also have to submit a full workbook with all the periods and all tabs included? Or just Contractual?","See Section IV.D.xi, Full Application Content Requirements of the FOA: \"Applicants must provide a separate budget justification for each subrecipient that is expected to perform work estimated to be more than $250,000 or 25% of the total work effort, whichever is less.\" Each subrecipient (an entity with a vested interest in the project outcome, not a vendor) should submit a complete budget justification if they expect to perform work estimated to be more than $250,000 or 25% of the total work effort, whichever is less."]
[58,"2024-07-12","Application Content/Format","On the budget workbook, Fringe benefits, says: \"When this option is checked, the entity preparing this form shall submit an indirect rate proposal in the format provided in the Sample Rate Proposal at https://www.energy.gov/eere/funding/downloads/sample-indirect-rate-proposal-and-profit-compliance-audit, or a format that provides the same level of information and which will support the rates being proposed for use in the performance of the proposed project. Does this need to be submitted with the grant proposal application or it applies for award negotiations?","An indirect rate proposal is not required at time of application, see Section IV.D.i-xix."]
[59,"2024-07-12","Due Dates","We would like to request an extension of our submission deadline in response to DE-FOA-0003274. On July 7th-8th, Houston was hit with a Category 1 hurricane that knocked out power to over 2 million residents and required the university to close for the entire week, from Monday, July 8th – Friday, July 12th due to lack of power, flooding and widespread damage to infrastructure. Members of the research team and staff were unable to work on the submission this week, and many are still without power, therefore we are behind on our preparations for the full proposal response. We kindly request an extension for our proposal submission date to Thursday, July 25th. If this request is granted, please inform us of the means to submit our proposal. Specifically, should we still submit the proposal through the EERE Exchange website or through some other means?","EERE appreciates that your organization has been impacted by Hurricane Beryl, however, EERE has previously extended the Full Application Deadline from June 27th, 2024 to July 18th, 2024.  EERE will not extend the full application submission deadline any further."]
[60,"2024-07-16","Application Content/Format","We had a question regarding the transparency of funds documentation (TFC). If us as a primary recipient and all of our vendors we are planning to use operate in the United States and have no foreign funding is it possible to bypass this portion of the grant and state “not applicable?”","DE-FOA-0003274 MACRO does not have a required document for the Transparency of Funds.  Applicants are required to submit a Transparency of Foreign Connections document. Requirements for this submission document are listed in FOA Section IV.D.xviii."]
[61,"2024-07-18","Application Content/Format","Based upon the updated Q&A from today there is an inconsistency between the answers regarding the budget justification for FFRDC’s. The first question asked on 4/16 asks if FFRDC’s are required to complete the Budget justification in addition to the work proposal and the response was that the FWP was enough (question #7), however later the later clarifying question if FFRDC’s did or do not need to include the budget justification got the response of >$250K or 25% (question 55). Due to this discrepancy and unclear instructions, we would like to request an extension to allow FFRDC’s to complete their budget justification and ensure that we are compliant with our responses to this solicitation.","FFRDC's are required to provide a Work Proposal as a budget document for this Funding Opportunity Announcement. See FOA Section IV.D.xii. Budget for DOE/NNSA FFRDC. \"If a DOE/NNSA FFRDC is to perform a portion of the work, the applicant must provide a DOE work proposal (WP) in accordance with the requirements in DOE Order 412.1A, Work Authorization System, Attachment 2, available at: https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0412.1-BOrder-a-chg1-AdmChg. \n\nSave the WP in a single PDF file using the following convention for the title “ControlNumber_LeadOrganization_WP”.\""]
[62,"2024-07-18","Other","I can not access the EERE exchange website, nor can my colleague. We  are trying to upload our Macro proposal docs but can not get on the exchange. ","Please retry accessing the website and to contact EERE Exchange Support if she continues to have difficulty access the website."]

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["Cost Sharing"]
["Due Dates"]
["Application Content/Format"]
["Intellectual Property"]
["Data Management"]
["Other"]
["U.S. Manufacturing Plan"]
["Application Reviews"]
["Technical Topics"]