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["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this funding opportunity announcement should be emailed to CCPilotsFOA@ee.doe.gov. "]
[2,"All questions pertaining to EERE Exchange should be emailed to EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov. Include FOA name and number in subject line."]
[3,"All questions and answers pertaining to this FOA will be posted on EERE Exchange within this spreadsheet."]
[4,"DOE will attempt to respond to a question within 3 business days, unless a similar question and answer has already been posted in this spreadsheet. "]
[5,"All questions should be submitted not later than 3 business days prior to the application due date. Questions submitted after this date will not be answered."]
[6,"Questions are assigned a number in accordance with when they are reviewed by DOE.  "]
[7,"Questions are assigned a topic area by DOE when reviewed."]
[]
["TIPS"]
[1,"Applicants may sort questions and answers in the question tabs of this spreadhseet by selecting the drop-down box arrow on the column headers and selecting any of the listed attributes."]
[2,"Applicants may search for questions and/or keywords by holding CTRL+F on the keyboard and typing in a phrase or keyword."]

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["ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
["DE-FOA-0003136 - Connected Communities 2.0 FOA"]
["Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
[1,"2024-07-22","Eligibility","We do qualify under the USDA definition of disadvantaged community. Does the non-compliance with Justice40 automatically disqualify us from even applying for funding or are you able to determine that 40% of the total benefit from all projects receiving portions of the $65M is your yardstick. Does the 40% benefit need to be derived from each project funded by EERE?","Eligibility to apply for this FOA appears in Section III.A \"Eligible Applicants.\" The Justice40 Executive Order discussion (pg. 10 of the FOA) outlines priorities for at least 40% of federal climate, clean energy, affordable and sustainable housing, and other investments to flow directly to disadvantaged communities and is not a requirement for individual projects proposed under this FOA. 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."]
[2,"2024-07-24","Application Content/Format","How do I submit a request to be added to the \"Teaming Partners\" list for the CCPilots?","Please refer to Section I.A.v \"Teaming Partner List.\" SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS: View the Teaming Partner List by visiting the EERE eXCHANGE homepage and clicking on \"Teaming Partners\" within the left-hand navigation pane. This page allows users to view published Teaming Partner Lists. To join the Teaming Partner List, submit a request within eXCHANGE. Select the appropriate Teaming Partner List (TPL-0000052) from the drop-down menu and fill in the following information: Investigator Name, Organization Name, Organization Type, Topic Area, Background and Capabilities, Website, Contact Address, Contact Email, and Contact Phone."]
[4,"2024-07-29","Application Content/Format","Can you share an example template for SF-424A Budget & Budget Justification application?","The template for the SF-424A Budget & Budget Justification can be found at https://www.energy.gov/eere/funding/eere-funding-application-and-management-forms under \"Application & Negotiation Templates.\""]
[5,"2024-07-29","Cost Sharing","If we go with Subtopic 1a, is it a flat 50% cost share or, if there is a combination of development and demonstration, will there be a 30% cost share for the development phase and a 50% cost share for the demonstration phase? Thank you","Section III.B of the FOA discusses Cost Sharing. For projects submitted under Subtopic 1A, cost share must be at least 50% of the total project costs for demonstration projects."]
[6,"2024-07-29","Concept Paper","Is the Concept paper template already on EERE exchange","EERE Exchange does not provide a concept paper template. Content and form of the concept paper (including page limits) is discussed in Section IV.C of the FOA. The Technology Description Spreadsheet discussed in Section IV.C.i of the FOA is also required as part of the concept paper submission. Should the applicants choose to use the template for the Technology Description Spreadsheet, it is provided at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/"]
[7,"2024-07-29","Eligibility","Can you clarify if utilities are eligible under the \"For Profit entities\"","Public utilities are generally considered not-for-profit entities. A public utility may be eligible to apply under other categories per Section III.A.i \"Domestic Entities.\" Evaluation of an applicant's eligibility takes place during the concept paper review phase. DOE cannot make determinations of eligibility prior to the concept paper review phase."]
[8,"2024-07-29","Application Content/Format","Can you please elaborate on the requirement related to \"Energy Efficiency\" technologies. For example would a project that focuses on managed charging coordinated with grid availability qualify?","Energy Efficiency imrpoves when a given level of service is provided with reduced amounts of energy inputs or services are enhanced for a given amount of energy input. Energy efficiency measures may include more efficient end use loads, controls to improve operational efficiency, envelope improvements to enhance the service for a given amount of energy input, or any other measure that meets this definition. Managed charging more closely aligns with the definition of demand flexibility."]
[9,"2024-07-29","Application Content/Format","Please describe the desired role of the utility hosting the project. The technology must benefit \"planners of the electrical grid\" so will the utility distribution planning department need to attest to the benefits?","Yes. For project results to successfully instill confidence in grid planners broadly and scale, it will require the relevant utility departments to be involved in the project. Throughout the FOA, the text specifies users, operators, and planners of the electric grid."]
[10,"2024-07-29","Eligibility","In Texas, in addition to utilities, customers are served by Electric Co-ops and Retail electric providers.  Are proposals that involve these entities sufficient to meet the ‘utility-teaming’ requirement?","Table 1 Requirement Area 4 in Section I.B of the FOA details that projects must include a utility as a project partner. Additional details are found in Appendix P Table 1 Category 4 D - Project Partners & Stakeholders. Specific eligibility determinations take place during the concept paper review phase. DOE cannot make determinations of eligibiilty prior to the concept paper review phase."]
[11,"2024-07-29","Cost Sharing","Does equipment installed by Third Party participants Ie: Microgrid developers, private building improvements by consumers count as Cost share?","Please see Section III.B.iii \"Cost Share Types and Allowability\" and Section IV.I.i \"Allowable Costs.\" Third party cost share comes from entities that do not have a role in performing the scope of work.\n\nFederal cost principles provide additional guidance and are available under FAR Part 31 (for-profit entities) and 2 CFR Part 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles (all other non-federal entities).\n\nIn-kind contributions include but are not limited to the donation of volunteer time or the donation of space or use of equipment. Determinations of allowable cost share will be made as part of the review and award processes."]
[12,"2024-07-29","Webinar","One slide says just one technology can be included, but the other slides appear to contradict that by using the plural, technologies.","Each concept paper should be limited to one project proposal concept. The language on Slide 22 of the webinar is the template concept paper language. Each project concept can include multiple technology types."]
[13,"2024-07-29","Application Content/Format","Can you further explain \"unique\"  in  \". . . Smart Charge Management of Electrical Vehicles in various unique urban, suburban, and rural use cases.\"","For the purposes of this FOA, \"unique\" means \"not already extensively documented.\""]
[14,"2024-07-29","Concept Paper","I believe that the document that is posted under the “Concept Paper” section, which is called “Technology Description Spreadsheet Template” is not the right document.\n\nThis document appears again under the Full Application section and in the FOA PDF is listed under the full application.\n\nIt seems that the eere-exchange website is missing the concept paper template.","The Technology Description Spreadsheet is a required component of the concept paper application and the full application, as described in Sections IV.C.i and IV.D.xxi.\n\nThere is no concept paper template provided in EERE Exchange. Content and form of the concept paper (including page limits) is discussed in Section IV.C."]
[15,"2024-07-29","Application Content/Format","Can a wind turbine be one of the allowable  DERs for this project be used as an energy resource in a smart microgrid?","Given the information provided, your proposed project could possibly fall under topic 1. Please see Section I.B Topic Areas of the FOA document for more information about the objectives of each topic area to determine which topic would be the best fit. 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."]
[16,"2024-07-29","Application Content/Format","Would systems that seasonally and/or temporarily shift electrical loads to fossil fuel-powered generators such as emergency and backup generators, if they are coordinated with the “grid edge” be considered applicable for the FOA?","Applications should propose strategies that advance the Nation's goals to achieve carbon pollution-ree electricity by 2035; that enable grid planners to right-size grid upgrades alongside planning for new loads from transportation, industry, and buildings; and that improve resilience of customers and the grid. While fossil fuel-powered generators are not included in Section I.C \"Applications Specifically Not of Interest\" and therefore are an eligible technology category, applications are expected to meet the goals of the FOA, including decarbonization goals."]
[17,"2024-07-29","Other","Q1:  Since DOE prohibits FFRDCs from lobbying to influence federal officials in connection with the awarding of grants or contracts, are DOE federally owned and operated laboratories still required to provide a signed SF-LLL when there's nothing to report?\n\nQ2:  DOE FFRDCs should address the required \"Authorization for DOE/NNSA FFRDCs\" to whom, name, title, and mailing address, please?  Past funding announcements have provided the DOE Grantor Contact/Contract Specialist information via the FAQ.\n\nQ3: In most cases, partnering FFRDCs will be funded independently of the project team.  Should those partnering FFRDCs still provide their project lead a completed sub-recipient budget justification?\n\nQ4. Are DOE/NNSA FFRDC National Laboratories required to provide the Prime Applicant with a Letter of Commitment Along with the Authorization from cognizant Contracting Officer for FFRDC?\n\nQ5. Are FFRDC’s required to complete the SF-424?","A1: DOE/NNSA FFRDC National Laboratories are not required to submit an SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities.\n\nA2: The FFRDC Authorization can be addressed to:\nU.S. Department of Energy\n1000 Independence Avenue, SW\nWashington, DC 20585\n\nA3: Please see Section IV.D.xiii of the FOA for \"Budget for DOE/NNSA FFRDC (if applicable). DOE/NNSA FFRDC National Laboratories must provide a DOE work proposal (WP) as detailed in this section. They do not need to provide a Subrecipient Budget Justification.\n\nA4: Please see Section IV.D.xiv of the FOA for \"Authorization for Non-DOE/NNSA or DOE/NNSA FFRDCs (if applicable).\" This will take the place of the Letter of Commitment.\n\nA5: Only the prime recipient needs to complete the SF-424."]
[18,"2024-07-29","U.S. Manufacturing Plan","Appendix D of the FOA-0003136 – requires that all manufactured products of the project are produced in the United states.  In the event of a Geothermal project with geothermal heat pumps.  Many of the products on the market include foreign made companies such as Samsung or Fujistu.   Would these geothermal heat pump components fall into the manufactured products component and disqualify a project from being accepted?","Appendix D of the FOA references 2 CFR 184.3 for definitions of \"Manufactured Products.\" Geothermal heat pumps or heat pump components that fall under the definition in this reference that are not produced in the United States do not immediately disqualify a project from being considered; please see Appendix D Section D. \"Waivers\" for the limited circumstances when a waiver may be applied, and for the process to have a waiver considered."]
[19,"2024-07-29","Registration Requirements","[Organization redacted] would be interested in participating with other partners if logistics fit for this opportunity.","DOE cannot facilitate partner outreach for projects under this FOA."]
[20,"2024-07-29","Webinar","I was wondering if you could possible share or get a link to recording of the webinar that we presented today.","The webinar recording will be posted to EERE Exchange https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/"]
[21,"2024-07-30","Webinar","Apologies I was not able to make the informational webinar. Was it recorded? If so, could you please share the recording?\n\nIf not, can you please guide me as to:\nWho can apply, what kind of organization?\nWhat would it take for an org. to apply to this funding opportunity?\nCan it again be a community team? Could the applicant be a utility company?","The webinar recording will be posted to EERE Exchange https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/\n\nInformation on eligibility, application steps, and teaming requirements are covered in the FOA DE-FOA-0003136 Connected Communities 2.0, available at EERE Exchange."]
[22,"2024-07-30","Application Content/Format","We are having technical difficulties downloading the pdf that provides the details of the opportunity. Specifically the link that reads \"DE-FOA-0003136 - Connected Communities 2.0 (Last Updated: 7/21/2024 10:16 PM ET).\"  Each time I try to download the document, it says the file is corrupted. "," Please either try a different browser, reach out to your IT department (in case your system is blocking it), or reach out to the EERE eXCHANGE helpdesk (EERE-eXCHANGESupport@hq.doe.gov) for further assistance."]
[23,"2024-07-31","Concept Paper","When is the anticipate response date for the concept papers?","EERE makes an independent assessment of each Concept Paper based on the criteria in Section V.A.i. EERE will encouarge a subset of applicants to submit Full Applications. Other applicants will be discouraged from submitting a Full Application. Applicants will have approximately 30 calendar days from receipt of the Encourage/Discourage notification to prepare and submit a Full Application."]
[24,"2024-07-31","Application Content/Format","What defines a utility partnership in the context of the CC FOA? Would a university that acts as a utility qualify as a utility partner or is this limited to IOUs, municipal utilities, and cooperatives?","Evaluation of an applicant's eligibility takes place during the Concept Paper review phase. DOE cannot make determinations of eligibility prior to the Concept Paper review phase. So long as the utility partners identified throughout the FOA text, including users, operators, and planners of the electric grid are represented; how they engage with the PUC, investment, and/or governing authority is clearly explained; and these groups can acheive the goals of the FOA, including scalability and replicability of results, you are encouraged to apply."]
[25,"2024-07-31","Cost Sharing","On page 33 of the FOA, it reads \"In accordance with the cost share reduction waiver, cost share must be at least 30% of the total allowable costs for commercial application projects.\"\n\nIf a proposal idea is for communities, not commercial applications per se, then can one submit a concept paper with cost share less than 30%? What would be that cost share requirement?","According to Section III.B \"Cost Sharing,\" the Cost Share Reduction determination for this FOA is applicable to eligible entities applying under the FOA. In accordance with that waiver, cost share must be at least 30% of the total allowable costs. "]
[26,"2024-08-02","Eligibility","Would any of these teaming configurations be acceptable: [redacted]","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."]
[27,"2024-08-05","Application Content/Format","I’m writing to clarify the technical requirements for a submission to appropriately respond to the FOA and be eligible for full consideration.\n\nTable 1, [Requirement] 2 states the following:\nEach project must:\n• Include two or more of the measures listed below (A-E) to demonstrate system level integration to optimize distribution system planning and/or offer improved resilience. Projects with greater number of grid edge technical measures will receive priority (outside of the EV sub-topic); and\n• Include energy efficiency (buildings, industry, and vehicles) alongside two or more of the grid-edge technical measures listed below.\n\nHowever, Appendix P, Category 2 states:\nEach project must:\n• Include two or more of the measures listed below to demonstrate system level integration to optimize distribution system planning and/or offer improved resilience\nEach project is encouraged to:\n• Include energy efficiency alongside two or more other of the grid-edge technical measures listed below.\n\nMy questions for clarification:\n•\tCan you clarify what are the required project aspects for a submission to be eligible for full consideration?  Do both bullet points in Table 1, Category 2 need to be addressed for full consideration?  Or do we follow the guidance in Appendix P, Category 2?\n•\tHow does the second bullet point in Table 1, Category 2 differ from Grid-Edge Technical Measure A in Appendix P?","Please refer to the requirements in the FOA body (Table 1, Requirement 2) over the appendix. The main text supercedes the appendices. Both bullets should be satisfied. Grid Edge Technical Measure A in Appendix P provides further details and examples of how the energy efficiency requirement may be met. The list provided is not all inclusive to meet this requirement, and other strategies may be employed to meet the energy efficiency requirement."]
[28,"2024-08-05","Other","I am considering applying to this FOA. I will propose building communities with industrial DER assets built into them from the ground up. The DER will be privately owned and the communities served by the DER will be private. \n\nCan I use grant funding towards the purchase of the DER that serves these communities (either storage or generation)?","Yes, DERs may be purchased under a federal award, but property and equipment purchased is required to follow specific standards. Federal property standards can be found in 2 CFR 200.310-200.316. DERs may be purchased under a federal award, however there are specific rules around management and maintenance for property and equipment purchased under a federal award. At the conclusion of the project, there may also be specific requirements for the disposition of the property or equipment depending on the cost and categorization of purchased DER(s). Disposition instructions may include:\n1. The nonfederal entity (NFE) could retain title after compensating the federal awarding agency.\n2. The NFE could be directed to sell the property and compensate the federal awarding agency.\n3. The NFE could be directed to transfer title to the federal awarding agency or to a third party."]
[29,"2024-08-05","Application Content/Format","There are two budget justification forms listed on the EERE's website, as follows:\n\nEERE_T_540.132-01_Budget_Justification_(3_BPs)_1\nEERE_T_540.132-02_Budget_Justification_(5_BPs)_1\n\nWhich should I use? ","Both forms contain the same information in the same format. The file including \"3_BPs\" is for 3 budget periods. The file including \"5_BPs\" is for 5 budget periods. EERE anticipates making awards that will run from 36 months up to 60 months, comprised of one or more budget periods. Applicants determine how many budget periods are appropriate for their application. EERE may establish more than one budget period for each award and fund only the initial budget period(s)."]
[30,"2024-08-05","Concept Paper","The funding opportunity announcement for Connected Communities 2.0 (DE-FOA-0003136) asks for two attachments at the concept paper stage – both a concept paper and a technology description spreadsheet. Currently the EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange page for this FOA does not include any place to upload any attachments. Can you please advise how we should submit these attachments?","Applicants who experience technical difficulties with submission prior to the Concept Paper deadline should reach out to the EERE eXCHANGE helpdesk (EERE-eXCHANGESupport@hq.doe.gov) for further assistance."]
[31,"2024-07-26","Eligibility","What are the employment requirements for the Principal Investigator?  Does s/he have to be a full-time employee of the applicant or can they be part-time, an employee of a teaming partner, the teaming partner themselves, or an independent contractor?","The Principal Investigator (PI) is required to be employed by the prime recipient.  In extenuating circumstances, the Grants Officer may consider an alternative employment situation for the PI. Personnel designated as PI should have the skill and expertise needed to successfully execute the project plan, as well as the appropriate level of commitment to the project. Specific guidance on documenting these qualifications can be found in Sections IV.C and D of the FOA."]
[32,"2024-08-06","Foreign Entities/Work","I am writing to you from [a foreign entity], I am highly interested in this call for proposals.\n\nI am requesting your agreement and a waiver to apply and submit my proposal. Please let me know if this is possible and provide the link to the necessary documents and application process.","Please see Section III.A.ii \"Foreign Entities\" and Appendix C. A foreign entity may submit a Full Application to this FOA, but the Full Application must be accompanied by an explicit written waiver request.\n\nForeign entities are not required to submit a waiver request at the Concept Paper phase."]
[33,"2024-08-06","Foreign Entities/Work","Going through the slides of the webinar, I need  some clarification on the eligibility criteria for a Domestic Entity \n\n\"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.\"\n\nThe clarification is regarding the \"majority domestic ownership and control\". [Redacted] is [an] Incorporated Company where the majority shareholders are not US citizens nor Residents. The US company owns the IP for our solution and has no foreign company ownership in it. Do we qualify in that case, just would like to know the meaning of Domestic ownership and control. ","Please see Section III.A.I \"Domestic Entities.\" To qualify as a domestic entity, the entity must be organized, chartered, or incorporated (or otherwise formed) under the laws of a particular state of territory of the United States; have majority domestic ownership and control; and have a physical place of business in the United States.\n\nEntities that do not have a majority domestic ownership and control do not qualify as domestic entities."]
[34,"2024-08-07","Other","1.\tThe FOE states “The FOA projects are expected to have utilities as a primary or a substantial contributing partner (including financially).” As well as “Applications Specifically Not of Interest [include] Applications that do not have a line of sight and concrete plan for adoption and implementation such as through customer programs or through new distribution planning and analysis methodologies.”\na.\tOur utility provider is engaged and ready to work with us to submit a concept paper, but they would like more guidance on this if possible. \nb.\tDoes cost share through staff time dedicated to executing this grant meet this financial obligation? \nc.\tDoes a new program providing for demand response in large customers who electrify meet these criteria?\nd.\tGiven that all new tariffs/rate cases must go through the PUC, does having a “concrete plan” require that to be done before we submit the grant application, or can that process of exploring and building a new rate be part of the grant execution process? \ne.\tPlease let me know if there is more guidance on this topic.","1.\na. EERE cannot provide guidance to individual applicants at the Concept Paper phase. Encourage/discourage decisions will be provided to applicants after Concept Papers have been reviewed.\nb. Please see Section III.B \"Cost Sharing\" for additional details on cost share. Per Section III.B.iii \"Cost Share Types and Allowability,\" \"Cash contributions include but are not limited to personnel costs,\" which could include staff time. Please see Section IV.I.i \"Allowable Costs\" for additional guidance on Funding Restrictions and cost principles.\nc. EERE cannot provide guidance to individual applicants at the Concept Paper phase.\nd. The process of expoloring and builidng a new rate is within scope. PUC approval is not required before submitting the grant application. \ne. Please refer to the FOA."]
["34 cont.","2024-08-07","Other","2.\t[Redacted] currently has funding enumerated by the [State] we are using to complete an electrification project (ground source heat pump conversion). We would like to source our 30% matching funds through this enumeration, and as far as I can tell CFR 200 subpart D and E allow this. My questions are:\na.\tCan you please confirm this is an allowable source of matching funds?\nb.\tThe project is executed by the state, and [redacted] pays for this through regular debt service payments. Given the requirement that the cost share dollars be spent throughout the life of the grant I would like to know if the construction/installation of the new ground source heat pump system during the grant period will count towards this cost share requirement (the timeline for construction and grant execution aligns perfectly) and/or if paying the actual payments for this project over the 15 to 20 year life of the bond discounts this project as being a source of matching dollars. If we cannot use this project as matching dollars, we will not be able to apply.","2.\na and b. EERE cannot confirm if individual applicant cost share proposals meet cost share requirements at the Concept Paper phase. Please see the above referenced sections for general cost share guidance and principles."]
["34 conc.","2024-08-07","Other","3.\tLastly, the FOA does not specific if the technical point of contact needs to be a PI. We have faculty working with us to complete research on this project who can take on the role of the PI, but the project, if funded, will be coordinated heavily by myself and our facilities team. \na.\tDoes the technical point of contact need to be the PI?\nb.\tCan the technical point of contact be a Facilities Director, or member of the partnering utility?","3.\na and b. EERE cannot confirm if individual applicant cost share proposals meet cost share requirements at the Concept Paper phase. Please see the above referenced sections for general cost share guidance and principles."]
[35,"2024-08-07","Cost Sharing","I have questions about the cost share requirements on page 32.  As an academic institution, are we eligible for the cost share reduction waiver?  And if granted, does the 30% cost share waiver also apply to subtopic 1A projects?  \n\nIn Appendices A and B, it shows an example where there is 20% cost share for the R&D portion of the proposal, and 50% or the demonstration or deployment portion.  Is that allowable for this FOA under Subtopic 1A, where we have an R&D phase with 20% cost share, and a demonstration/deployment phase with 50% cost share, with a total cost share of 30% for the total project?","The cost share reduction waiver is applied to this FOA generally and is not something that individual applicants can apply for. Cost share must be at least 30% of the total allowable costs for commercial application projects. Cost sharing under subtopic 1A projects must be at least 50% of the total project costs for demonstration projects.\n\nAppendices A and B provide examples of how to calculate cost share. For the purposes of this FOA, cost share for applications submitted under subtopic 1A must be at least 50% of the total project costs for demonstration projects."]
[36,"2024-08-07","Other","[Does] the grant program fund software development for grid infrastructure?","Software development is within scope. Please refer to the FOA, including but not limited to section VI.B.xxiv Open-Source Software Distribution Plan, Appendix E, and relevant sections on copyright (VIII.M.) and export control (VIII.N.)."]
[37,"2024-08-08","Concept Paper","To what extent is it permissible to modify the project concept and associated partnerships after the submission of the concept paper?","The Concept Paper must provide a detailed description of the project. Partnerships listed in the Concept Paper may be updated or adjusted due to proposal development betweeen Concept Paper and Full Application phases, but the Full Application should align with the work proposed in the Concept Paper, as the encourage/discourage decisions are based on a review of the content of the Concept Paper."]
[38,"2024-08-09","Cost Sharing","We plan to file an advice letter (i.e. to request funds) so we can use these funds as cost-share and in-kind for DOE funded opportunities like this one.  We plan to file in September, and the process can take 6-12 months.\n\nCan you include this possible future source of funds as cost share?","EERE cannot confirm if individual applicant cost share proposals meet cost share requirements at the Concept Paper phase. Please see the above referenced sections for general cost share guidance and principles. Other federal funds cannot be used as cost share."]
[39,"2024-08-09","Concept Paper","I had a question on this FOA and wanted to see if you had to submit a technical review for the full topic area or if we can just bid on Topic 1","Applicants can submit a Concept Paper to either Topic 1: Connected Communities 2.0 or to Topic 1A: Smart Charge Management. An entity may submit more than one Concept Paper to this FOA, provided that each Concept Paper describes a unique, scientifically distinct project and is submitted under either Topic 1 or Subtopic 1A."]
[40,"2024-08-09","Application Content/Format","Just to clarify this is in reference to if we need to address each requirement area listed in the table on page 21 of the PDF connected communities document.  \n\nMy understanding from reading the pdf is that we need to address each requirement listed in table 1. Meaning Requirement 1 Grid Planning and Resilience is not separate from Requirement Area 4 – Implementation, Scaling, and Replicability. All of these requirements and sub requirements should be addressed.\n\nIs that correct?\n\nAdditional question: Sorry last clarification:  can bid at the requirement level or if we need to do all 4 in order to bid","Table 1 lists requirements for all projects not applying under the SCM subtopic (subtopic 1A). Each of the requirement areas and subrequirements should be addressed."]
[41,"2024-08-09","Other","•\tIf our project spans several States, do we require a utility partner in every State? \n•\tCan we add/remove project partners between the Concept Paper and the Full Application?\n•\tThe project would include a Canadian-based company. We will follow the guidance regarding waivers when submitting the Full Application. However, will it make a difference if the Canadian company is the lead applicant or one of the project partners?","• Section I.A.iv discusses Partnership Requirements. FOA projects are expected to have utilities as a primary or a substantial contributing partner. Individual applicants will need to demonstrate how utilities contribute to proposed projects. There is no specific requirement for each state where work is conducted to have a utility partner, but the applicant will need to demonstrate how the project will be supported by utilities.\n• Project partners may changed between Concept Paper and Full Application phases, however, applicants must show how the projects proposed in the Concept Paper phase will be carried out during the Full Application phase, and discuss how any changes have been made and the impact to the proposed projects.\n• Eligibility is discussed in Section III.A.i \"Domestic Entities\" and .ii \"Foreign Entities.\" Projects will be evaluated based on criteria discussed in Section V.A.i."]
[42,"2024-08-09","Application Content/Format","The FOA only mentioned 120V heat pumps was that intended or was it intended to say 120V HPWHs?","120V heat pumps for both space conditioning and domestic hot water production are within scope of this FOA. "]
[43,"2024-08-12","Other","I have a client [redacted] and they are looking to install solar, batteries, and ev charging stations at each of the 11 facilities for $3M or $33M in total.  \n\n1.\tCould they apply for the connected communities 2.0 grant?\n2.\tWhat is the historical percentage of applications approved?\n3.\tIs there a video or youtube recording of the informational webinar that I can watch?\n4.\tWhat is required in the concept paper submittal?  Is there a template?  How many pages need to be submitted under this tight timeframe?\n5.\tThe full application submittal on 10-10-24 includes what information?  How many pages is the application?  Is there a link to the application?\n6.\tWhat is the maximum award for a project like this?","1. Eligibility information for this FOA is discussed in Section III.A. EERE does not make eligibility determinations at the Concept Paper phase.\n2. EERE does not make this information available.\n3. Slides and a link to the informational webinar are available on EERE Exchange.\n4. Content and form of the Concept Paper is discussed in Section IV.C.\n5. Content and form of the Full Application is discussed in Section IV.D.\n6. Individual awards may vary between $3M and $6M. Additional information is discussed in Section II.A \"Award Overview.\""]
[44,"2024-08-14","Concept Paper","Would it be possible to get an extension to the concept paper deadline for this FOA?","Per the FOA, EERE will not review or consider submission submitted after the applicable published deadline. The deadline for Concept Paper submission is 8/20/2024 at 5pm ET."]
[45,"2024-08-14","Concept Paper","Our team is considering proposing a cybersecurity solution focused on securing electric vehicles (EVs) and smart charge management systems. Given the growing integration of EVs into the grid, we believe that cybersecurity will play a crucial role in maintaining grid resilience and protecting these distributed energy resources  (like solar panels, energy storage, and EVs) from potential cyber threats.\nWe would like to inquire if a proposal solely focused on cybersecurity for EVs—specifically in securing smart charge management systems and the communication between vehicles, charging stations, and the grid—would align with the goals of this FOA. Our approach aims to enhance grid resilience, reduce potential disruptions from cyberattacks, and contribute to the overall success of EV integration into the grid.","EERE does not provide specific guidance on proposal specifics at the Concept Paper phase."]
[46,"2024-08-14","Eligibility","The funding notice states that state and local governmental entities, as well as federally recognized Indian Tribes, are eligible to apply. It specifies that \"To qualify as a domestic entity, the entity must be organized, chartered, or incorporated (or otherwise formed) under the laws of a state or territory of the United States; have majority domestic ownership and control; and maintain a physical place of business within the United States.\" To clarify, does this mean that U.S. territories, specifically a government entity from [an American territory], are eligible to apply for this funding?","Eligibility to apply for this FOA appears in Section III.A \"Eligible Applicants.\" 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."]
[47,"2024-08-14","Cost Sharing","We are planning to submit a concept paper to Topic Area 1: Connected Communities 2.0. If our project is not considered/identified as a “commercial application project”, do we, being an institution of higher education, still need to commit at least 30% (of TPC) cost share?","Guidance on Cost Share requirements is discussed in Section III.B \"Cost Sharing.\" EERE will not make individual determinations on cost share requirements at the Concept Paper phase."]
[48,"2024-08-15","Other","We submitted information for inclusion on the Teaming Partner List (TPL-0000052), but erroneously entered our Project Manager as the Principal Investigator. We did not see a way to correct that information, so I'm hoping you can tell us how, or please do it for us?","Thank you for using the Teaming Partner List. We have made the requested edit. Please verify in Exchange that this information is now correct."]
[49,"2024-08-15","Application Content/Format","My colleagues and I are considering to submit a concept paper for \"Subtopic 1A Smart Charge Management\" of DE-FOA-0003136 (Connected Communities 2.0), and we have questions about the two requirements:\n•\tA description of the scalability of the proposed SCM system as EV volumes increase into the millions;\n•\tA detailed demonstration plan, including the distribution grid, charging locations, types, and power rating, the EVs that will participate in the demonstration including the allowable charge rate, and how the benefits of the SCM System will be quantified;\n\nOur team has access to actual charging schedules and load data from multiple charging infrastructure providers and grid service aggregators, but we do not have access to actual sites where we can experiment with different smart charging management scenarios and algorithms using existing equipment. Is it acceptable to validate the SCM in a lab setting using hardware-in-the-lop simulators such as RTDS, Opal-Rt and Typhoon, or is this FOA exclusively interested in validation using charging stations and homes/buildings equipped with charging hardware and software and measuring their impact on an actual distribution grid?","This FOA is seeking field validation using charging stations in real-world settings. We encourage teams to explore the FOA Teaming Partners List (TPL) on Exchange to identify partners who may be able to offer field demonstration sites.\n\nThe TPL can be found at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/TeamingPartners.aspx. Select TPL-0000052: Teaming Partner List for DE-FOA-0003136 Connected Communities 2.0 FOA."]
[50,"2024-08-15","Cost Sharing","I am wondering if there is any possibility for a waiver of the cost share when 2 academic institutions are submitting.  \nWe will be responding to Connected Communities 2.0\" Topic Area 1.  In some previous DOE solicitations there has been an option for this, I did not see it in this solicitation but wanted to confirm whether or not we might have the option to request a waiver of cost share.","EERE does not make specific cost share determinations at the Concept Paper phase. However, eligible applications should include a utility as a project partner, beyond the 2 academic institutions referenced in this question."]
[51,"2024-08-15","Other","Can you please send me the DE-FOA-0003136 - Connected Communities 2.0 (Last Updated: 7/19/2024 11:27 AM ET) as it is not opening correctly through your website"," Please either try a different browser, reach out to your IT department (in case your system is blocking it), or reach out to the EERE eXCHANGE helpdesk (EERE-eXCHANGESupport@hq.doe.gov) for further assistance."]
[52,"2024-08-16","Concept Paper","Will the DOE provide Concept Paper encourage/discourage notifications? If so, can you share the expected date? It was not identified in the FOA coversheet","Encourage/discourage decisions will be provided to eligbile applicants upon conclusion of the Concept Paper review phase. Decisions will be provided approximately 30 days prior to Full Applications being due (10/10/2024)."]
[53,"2024-08-18","Webinar","I am able to find the copies of the slides used for the informational webinar held on July 29, 2024.  I recall that the webinar was recorded.  Is the recording available?  I was unable to find a recording on the https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/ website","The recording has been posted to EERE Exchange."]
[54,"2024-08-18","Other","How do I submit a proposal?","Please refer to DE-FOA-0003136 Connected Communities 2.0 for detailed instructions on how to submit a proposal."]
[55,"2024-08-18","Concept Paper","I wanted to inquire if there was any possibility for a concept paper extension for the “Connected Communities 2.0: Innovations to Manage Growing Transportation, Building, and Industrial Loads to the Grid” Funding Opportunity?","Per the FOA, EERE will not review or consider submission submitted after the applicable published deadline. The deadline for Concept Paper submission is 8/20/2024 at 5pm ET."]
[56,"2024-08-18","Concept Paper","1) There is only one link under the Concept Paper section, the link for the technology description spreadsheet template. Is this the only document you need for the Concept Paper submission?\n\n2) Should I be emailing the technology template directly to this email? I don’t see a submit button anywhere.","1) Please see section IV.C \"Content and Form of the Concept Paper.\" The Concept Paper and Technology Description Spreadsheet must both be submitted to be considered.\n\n2) Submissions are only accepted through the EERE Exchange website. Please see section IV.A.i \"Additional Information on EERE eXCHANGE.\""]
[57,"2024-08-20","Concept Paper","Can Concept Papers be submitted through any way other than Exchange?","To apply to this FOA, applicants must register with and submit application materials through EERE Exchange, EERE's online application portal."]
[58,"2024-08-20","Cost Sharing","What are the Cost Share requirements for this FOA?","Please see Section III.B \"Cost Sharing.\" Full applications submitted under Topic must meet 30% cost share. Full applications submitted under Subtopic 1A must meet 50% cost share."]
[59,"2024-08-20","Application Content/Format","Do full applications require involvement of a utility company? We didn't identify one in the concept paper and are still in talks with a utility.","Please see Section IV.D \"Content and Form of the Full Application.\" Full applications are required to have a utility partner identified, specifically in the Technology Description."]
[60,"2024-08-22","Application Content/Format","Please define subrecipients and project partners. What criteria are used to determine whether a project partner is also a subrecipient? We’re trying to determine whether our project partners are considered subrecipients and therefore need to complete the forms indicated in the FOA (Disclosure of Lobbying Activities, Current and Pending Support, etc.)","Generally, a subrecipient performs activities that are unique to the project under the direction of the prime applicant. Project partners provide goods, services, or support not necessarily unique to the project. Subrecipients must provide forms as indicated in the FOA (please see Section IV.D \"Content and Form of the Full Application\"). Please also refer to 2 CFR 200.331 Subrecipient and contractor determinations"]
[61,"2024-08-22","Application Content/Format","If we can participate with a partner how do we start? Is there a video we can watch for guidance?","We encourage teams to explore the FOA Teaming Partners List (TPL) on Exchange to identify potential partners.\n\nThe TPL can be found at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/TeamingPartners.aspx. Select TPL-0000052: Teaming Partner List for DE-FOA-0003136 Connected Communities 2.0 FOA."]
[62,"2024-08-22","Application Content/Format","First, section D of the FOA starts with \"Applicants must complete the following application forms found at EERE Funding Application and Management Forms and on the EERE eXCHANGE website at https://eere-eXCHANGE.energy.gov/.\"\n\nThere are several forms on the EERE Funding Application and Management Forms website that are not included on the EERE eXCHANGE website nor mentioned in the full application content requirements of the FOA. These forms include the Environmental Questionnaire, the Certifications and Assurances for Use with SF-424, the Petition for Advance Waiver of Patent Rights Under 10 C.F.R. Part 784, the EERE Pre-Award Information Sheet, the Petition for Waiver to Contractor of Government to an Identified Invention, and the EERE Location(s) of Work Template.\n\nCan you please clarify whether the forms listed above are required for the full application? If so, do we submit them through the EERE eXCHANGE website when we submit the application (except for the Environmental Questionnaire, which is submitted through the EERE-PMC website?)","Please refer to Section IV.D.ii \"Full Application Content Requirements\" to identify the documents required (or required if applicable) for this FOA. Additional requirements are identified in Section IV.E \"Post Selection Information Requests\" for those projects selected to move forward."]
["62 conc.","2024-08-22","Application Content/Format","Second, there are two Budget Justification Workbook Templates, one for 3 budget periods, and one for 5 budget periods. The FOA states \"EERE may establish more than one budget period for each award,\" so are we expected to create provisional budget periods for the application, then EERE will finalize them if we are awarded? How do we know whether to use the 3 BP or 5 BP workbook?","Applicants should complete the Budget Justification Workbook appropriate for their project. Please refer to Section II.A.ii. Period of Performance. "]
[63,"2024-08-22","Technical Topics","I was writing to ask whether the Connected Communities funding could potentially be used by utilities to develop solutions to provide whole building energy data, or by state bodies to support and promote such utility solutions.","Applications must speak to the goals outlined in the FOA. So long as the solution is not listed as specifically not of interest, it may be considered."]
[64,"2024-09-11","Concept Paper","I wanted to find out why our concept paper was discouraged. Will applicants who provided concept papers receive individualized feedback?","Please see Section VI.A.ii \"Concept Paper Notifications.\" By discouraging the submission of a Full Application, EERE intends to convey its lack of programmatic interest in the proposed project. Such assessments do not necessarily reflect judgments on the merits of the proposed project. The purpose of the Concept Paper phase is to save applicants the considerable time and expense of preparing a Full Application that is unlikely to be selected for award negotiations."]
[65,"2024-09-12","Eligibility","[Institution A] received an encouraged to apply based on the concept paper submitted. [Institution A] was designated as the prime/lead applicant for the concept paper.\n\nFor a full application, may we change the organization that is the prime/lead? If we can change, what is the process for the new lead applicant? Would we be able to use the same control number or would a new one be issued?","The prime applicant can change up until the submission of the Full Application as long as the new prime applicant meets the eligibility requirements in the FOA. The content and proposed work of the encouraged concept paper cannot change after it is submitted. Please update the Lead Organization information in the Full Application phase of the submission process in Exchange. Any questions about the Exchange system should be directed to the EERE eXCHANGE helpdesk (EERE-eXCHANGESupport@hq.doe.gov). The same control number will be used."]
[66,"2024-08-13",null,"Would you be able to provide some guidance on the relationship between the award awarded under this funding opportunity and the IRA’s ITC for energy storage projects? Can we apply both the funding awarded under this award and the ITC to an energy storage project?","DOE cannot provide tax advice, please consult your accountant or tax professional.  Please also reference https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/federal-solar-tax-credits-businesses and 2 CFR 200.406."]
[67,"2024-09-16","Other","Is there any guidance on the earliest possible start date for the award?","EERE does not provide specific guidance on start dates. Applications selected to move forward into negotiations may adjust start dates as needed. Applicants should select start dates that support project goals."]
[68,"2024-09-16","Due Dates","1. The FOA states that the expected date for EERE selection notification is Winter 2025, should that be Winter 2024 with Negotiations expected for Spring 2025?\n2. With the recent announcement of concept paper encouragement notifications, we respectfully ask if DOE would consider granting a two-week extension to the full application due date to allow necessary time for application preparation.","1. Selections are anticipated to be made in January 2025 (Winter 2025) with negotiations to follow.\n2. Please see Section IV.G \"Submission Dates and Times.\" All required submissions must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. ET on the dates provided on the cover page."]
[69,"2024-09-18","Other","What B&R should (a national laboratory) use?","Applications from National Labs either as sub recipients or as primes do not need to include B&R codes. DOE / EERE will assign B&R codes after selections are announced."]
[70,"2024-09-23","Cost Sharing","Given the academic and research-focused nature of our project, we would like to clarify whether we are required to adhere to the 30% cost share requirement (for Topic Area 1).","Please see Section III.B \"Cost Sharing.\" Full applications submitted under Topic must meet 30% cost share. Full applications submitted under Subtopic 1A must meet 50% cost share."]
[71,"2024-09-24","Other","Is the $250,000 threshold for subrecipient budget justifications for federal request, or total federal + cost share?","The $250,000 threshold is for total project costs, federal + cost share. "]
[72,"2024-09-25","Application Content/Format","1. Can the concept paper that was approved for submission for a full grant application be renamed and some of the partners list can be revised?\n2. The letters of commitment can not state that they will be allocated funding from the approved grant application. In other words we will supply a cost share but out of those funds we need to allocate finance for the purchase of a text EV charging station and the interconnection costs? Is this statement permissible?","1. The concept paper can be renamed and partner list revised for the full application, provided the work described in the concept paper does not significantly change.\n2. DOE does not advise on content of LOCs. Cost share and budjet allocations are addressed during award negotiations."]
[73,"2024-09-26","Due Dates","We would like to ask for an extension on the full proposal submission. Preparations have been impacted by Hurricane Helene.","Please see Section IV.G \"Submission Dates and Times.\" All required submissions must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. ET on the dates provided on the cover page."]
[74,"2024-09-28","Cost Sharing","Our team…wants to know whether we can list the following items as cost share.","EERE does not provide specific guidance on cost share at the full application stage. For guidance on what is allowed as cost share, please see Section III.B \"Cost Sharing\" and Appendix A - Cost Share Information. From Appendix A, specific rules include FAR Part 31 for For-Profit entities, (48 CFR Part 31); and 2 CFR Part 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles for all other non-federal entities."]
[75,"2024-09-30","Other","We received discourage notifications and will not be submitting full applications. We'd like to learn more about the program though and wanted to know if there will be any future webinars and/or opportunities to ask questions about the program. What would be the best way to stay in the loop on future opportunities?\n\nLikewise, are the applications of successful projects ever made public for review?","Please continue to monitor https://www.energy.gove/eere/buildings/building-technologies-office for future opportunities. Publicly releaseable project summaries from successful projects are often included in press releases and public events."]
[76,"2024-10-01","Application Content/Format","Are we allowed to include any appendices (in the Technical volume) for information that we've referenced? Or does absolutely any detail need to be kept within the 20-page limit?","Please adhere to the 20-page limit outlined in the FOA, as well as the other Full Application Content Requirements in Section IV.D.ii."]
[77,"2024-10-02","Application Content/Format","Within the FOA it requests that any confidential information is marked, and that the applicant must provide two copies of the submission documents. The first copy should be marked \"non-confidential,\" with the information believed to be confidential deleted. the second copy should be marked \"confidential\" and must clearly identify the trade secrets or business-sensitive, proprietary, or otherwise confidential information.\n\nAfter logging into the EERE Exchange and setting up the application, we noticed that each section for uploading specific documetns -- except for the subrecipient budget justification -- allows for only a single document upload. Could you please advise on the process for submitting a second document?","Please submit both copies as one document, with the first portion (sequentially) marked \"non-confidential\" and the second portion (sequentially) marked \"confidential\" and identifying the applicable information. Upload this single document into Exchange where appropriate."]
[78,"2024-10-02","Other","Under this grant can a utility participate as advisor/partner in both Topic 1 and 1a under separate proposals?","Yes, a utility can participate in both Topic 1 and 1a under separate proposals."]
[79,"2024-10-02","Other","(Our PI) has identified (a national lab) as a consultant (non-subawardee) on the project. Please advise if the authorization statement listed on pg. 37, Section E \"Other Eligibility Requirements\" applies.","Section III.E.i \"Requirements for DOE/NNSA and Non-DOE/NNSA FFRDCs Included as a Subrecipient\" details requirements if a national lab participates as a subrecipient. If a national lab is acting as a consultant and does not meet subrecipient requirements, then the requirements to submit documentation under that section do not apply."]
[80,"2024-10-02","Other","Reaching out to see if I can get some help with form SF424 Application for Federal Assistance. We've tried multiple browsers and multiple OS but we keep getting an error message that says the form has to be opened with Adobe Reader 8.0 or greater. We continue to get the same error message. Is there a way you can forward me a known good version of this form?","If you are having difficulty downloading documents, please contact EERE Exchange as EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov. You can also access generic SF-424 forms at grants.gov."]
[81,"2024-10-03","Other","Can you provide any details on the reporting requirements for (this FOA)? How often and how detailed will the reporting need to be to proceed to each budget period.","Reporting requirements are determined during selection negotiations and may vary from project to project. EERE cannot advise on specific reporting requirements at the full application stage."]
[82,"2024-10-03","Due Dates","Is it possible to extend the deadline to the end of October?\n\nIs it possible to submit \"Letters of Commitment\" at a later date?","Per the FOA, EERE will not review or consider applications submitted after the applicable published deadline. The deadline for Full Application submission is 10/10/2024 at 5pm ET. The absence of any required components of the application that are missing at that time will be considered in the totality of the application"]

{"sheet":"Admin Pick List","index":2,"n_rows":17,"n_cols":1,"rows_kept":17,"cut":false,"hidden":true,"merged":[]}
["Pick List"]
[]
["Registration Requirements"]
["Webinar"]
["Concept Paper"]
["Eligibility"]
["Labs/FFRDCs"]
["Foreign Entities/Work"]
["Cost Sharing"]
["Due Dates"]
["Application Content/Format"]
["Intellectual Property"]
["Data Management"]
["Other"]
["U.S. Manufacturing Plan"]
["Application Reviews"]
["Technical Topics"]