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["Highligted questions and answers were previous \"reserved\" questions that have now been answered."]
[]
["Question Number","Date Question Received","Question","Answer","Posted"]
[1,"2026-03-12","Is there a minimum award amount? NOFO states there is an an “Approximate dollar amount of individual awards (DOE Share): $10,000,000 - $100,000,000.”  Are we correct that the $10m “approximate dollar amount” is not a “minimum” project award? ","Please see Part 1 of the NOFO. Section I. Basic Information,1. Funding Details.  The funding details are defined by Topic Area.  The funding amounts vary by Topic Area and are approximate.  There is no \"minimum\" project award amount. ","2026-03-18"]
[2,"2026-03-13","I am writing to seek clarity on the eligible applicants for SPARK, Topic Area 1. I represent a trade association of rural electric distribution cooperatives (those cooperatives would also meet the definition of a “small utility”). I am interested in whether the trade association, a cooperative, as a non-profit 501(c)(6), would be (and if not currently, could be) considered an eligible entity if it submitted a single concept paper / full application on behalf of a conglomerate of multiple distribution cooperatives for implementation of a singular project idea. \n\nIn short, the idea would be for the trade association to submit a singular application to implement a single project idea and/or technology type on behalf of a select group of its member cooperatives. If awarded, the cooperative would serve as the award administrator and manager for the total project and sub-award the specific allocations to each distribution cooperative, based on the approved project details. The non-Federal cost share would be provided by each distribution cooperative, flowing through cooprative (which acknowledges it would be the legally required entity providing the cost share). \n\nThe goal would be to allow the cooperative to provide its resources to support its small utility members in federal grant-related writing and long-term award management compliance, while delivering non-administrative funds directly to the distribution cooperatives for project implementation. It would also seek to maximize a single award and spread its benefits across multiple distribution systems, benefiting a larger number of ratepayers. ","Consistent with 42 USC 18711(a)(2) and the eligibility information for Topic Area 1 contained in Section II.A. of the NOFO, only the following domestic entities are eligible to apply as the prime recipient: electric grid operator; electricity storage operator; electricity generator; transmission owner or operator; distribution provider; fuel supplier; and any other relevant entity, as determined by the Secretary.  An applicant must be one of these listed entities in order to be a prime recipient of an award under Topic Area 1 of this NOFO. Entities that are not part of this list but seek to be designated by the Secretary as eligible (a \"relevant entity\") can email GRIP@hq.doe.gov for more information on this process. DOE cautions that it cannot guarantee approval will be provided in advance of the concept paper deadline.  An entity could, instead, consider having one of its members that does meet the eligibility requirements apply as a prime, and the trade association and other members of the cooperative could apply as subrecipients/team members.  For example the trade association could act as an award administrator (in a subrecipient capacity) to the eligible entity applying as the prime.  There are various teaming arrangements that an entity can consider and DOE does not endorse or recommend any particular structure, other than to ensure eligibility requirements are met.  It is up to the eventual Prime Applicant to solely determine its team composition and structure.","2026-03-18"]
[3,"2026-03-13","I work for a fuel transmission line (gasoline, diesel, jet fuel) that the gulf and east coast are dependent on for almost all gas stations and airports. To adapt our system to the increased voltages of transmission upgrades from SPARK we will need to somehow identify areas being upgraded and implement solutions to protect our cathodically-protected lines from the AC interference of the upgraded or newly installed electrical transmission lines. Does the SPARK grant also provide funding for companies like ours that want to research how to protect our fuel delivery lines from the AC interference? We are part of critical US infrastructure that the entire east coast economy is dependent on. ","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-03-18"]
[4,"2026-03-13","Would the replacement of substation transformers with larger more efficient transformers be a potential project under this grant?\n\nIncreasing the size and efficiency of a municipal electric utility substation transformer provides key operational and financial benefits, including reduced energy losses, greater capacity for load growth, and improved grid reliability. These upgrades align well with municipal utilities' needs for cost control and regulatory compliance.\n\nCapacity Expansion\nLarger transformers handle higher loads from population growth, electrification (e.g., EVs), and renewables without overloading, reducing outage risks during peaks. This scalability supports community development while avoiding frequent infrastructure additions.\n\nEfficiency Gains\nMore efficient transformers minimize no-load and load losses—often 1-2% of total power—through better materials like copper windings and modern designs meeting DOE standards. \n\nCost Savings\nUpgrades cut operational costs via lower energy waste, maintenance, and utility bills, plus extend equipment life (30-40 years). Life-cycle analyses show higher upfront costs offset by reduced losses, yielding positive ROI for public power systems.\n\nReliability Improvements\nBigger, efficient units enhance power factor correction, voltage stability, and integration of distributed energy resources, bolstering resilience. \n","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-03-20"]
[5,"2026-03-13","I am inquiring to determine if several projects would meet eligibility requirements for the NOFO. We are experiencing some new growth in Nebraska City and some trying to meet some Economic Development stimulation as well. We are looking to add some 69kv line extensions to feed 2 new substations. Engineers estimate the substations, and the line extension would exceed the minimum $10m requirements for the NOFO. Could you please assist in determining if these projects would be a good candidate for the programs. \nThank you.","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-03-18"]
[6,"2026-03-13","We are looking for a registration link for the SPARK Informational Webinar on March 19. Alternatively, will it be a pre-recording that's posted? Looking forward to your guidance and thank you for your time. ","As outlined in infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details, the webinar will be posted in the near future.  The webinar will be a recording which can be viewed anytime, and is not a live event.  ","2026-03-18"]
[7,"2026-03-13","Upon reviewing the eligibility criteria we were unable to determine if a federal agency is eligible to apply. \n\nCould you please if Washington Headquarters Servies (WHS), a Department of War (DoW) field activity as a federal agency, would be an eligible recipient for this funding opportunity?","Please see the NOFO Part 1, Section II.A.2. \"Federal agencies and instrumentalities (other than DOE) are eligible to participate as a subrecipient but are not eligible to apply as a recipient.\"","2026-03-20"]
[8,"2026-03-13","I am interested in attending the informational webinar that is listed in part 1 of the NOFO on page 5. It states that there will be a webinar on March 19th, but I am unable to find the time for the webinar or a link to register. I checked the NOFO, Infrastructure Exchange, and the DOE website. Can you please send me the link, so I may attend? Thank you for your assistance!\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[9,"2026-03-13","Is there are template for the concept paper for SPARK? Is so, please send a link to it. Thank you.","There is not a concept paper template.  Please see Section IV.  Application Content and Form. Part C. Concept Paper for concept paper requirements.","2026-03-18"]
[10,"2026-03-13","This FOA is worded differently from the previous GRIP FOA with regards to eligibility. Under Section A. Eligible Applicants, 2. Domestic Entities, Participant Limitations; the FOA reads \n\n“Participation of the following entities is limited as follows:\n• Federal agencies and instrumentalities (other than DOE) are eligible to participate as a \nsubrecipient but are not eligible to apply as a recipient, except for the \nTennessee Valley Authority, which is eligible to participate as a recipient and as a \nsubrecipient under Topic Area 1”\n\nQuestions: \n1)\tIs the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) eligible to be a subrecipient of funding under this FOA?\n2)\tIs WAPA able to contribute to cost share if the project benefits WAPA lines? ","See NOFO Part 1, Section II.A.2.  WAPA is considered DOE and is not eligible to apply either as a prime Recipient or a subrecipient.  If WAPA wants to contribute costs share as a non-participant, it may do so as long as it meets all Cost Sharing requirements and limitations stated in NOFO Parts 1 and 2.  ","2026-03-20"]
[11,"2026-03-13","We would like to apply for the SPARK funding opportunity.  What time is the Informational Webinar on March 19th and how can I retrieve the link?\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[12,"2026-03-14","Could you provide me the details about the informational webinar for the DOE SPARK funding opportunity (DE-FOA-0003580) that is scheduled for 3/19/26? ","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[13,"2026-03-16","\nHow does one register for March 19th webinar.","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[14,"2026-03-16","Is there a concept paper template for this FOA? ","Reference question 9 response.","2026-03-18"]
[15,"2026-03-16","I have downloaded and read the NOFO details, but before putting together a concept paper, I have a quick question.\n\nThe summary states “Projects submitted under this NOFO must demonstrate measurable improvements in electric grid capacity and system value (usefulness), combining physical capacity gains, which include solutions such as reconductoring or other infrastructure upgrades with operational efficiency and/or flexibility from other Advanced Transmission Technologies (ATTs).”\n\nBecause of the and/or statement in the last part of this description, would I be correct in my understanding that this applies to 3-phase distribution infrastructure, not just transmission?","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-03-20"]
[16,"2026-03-16","I am reaching out to obtain the login resources for the March 19th webinar for the Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK).\n\nWould you please share details on the webinar?","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[17,"2026-03-16","How do we register for the webinar on Thursday?","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[18,"2026-03-16","I’m interested in the March 19th SPARK webinar but can’t find a link to register. Could you please provide a registration link? Or is the DOE planning to post a recording on 3/19?","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[19,"2026-03-16","Greetings,\nI have two questions regarding this grant opportunity:\n1.)\tWebcast -- I noted that a webcast is scheduled for Thurs 3/19 but did not see any information on how to join. Can you please forward any associated links so that our Company can participate?\n2.)\tConcept Paper – In light of the tight timeline for the concept paper, can you please let me know if a template of required information is available for the concept paper?\n\nA reply at your earliest convenience would be very much appreciated.","1.  Reference question 6 response. \n\n2.  Reference question 9 response.","2026-03-18"]
[20,"2026-03-16","Good afternoon, I’ve been looking for the link to the DOE SPARK Grant program informational webinar for this Wednesday, March 19th, but I’ve been unable to find it. Could you please send me the link for the SPARK informational webinar? Or is it that you’ll post the link to the webinar by this Wednesday?  Either way, if you have the link, please share it with me. Given the tight turnaround, we’re not wanting to miss any deadlines.\n ","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[21,"2026-03-16","Given what is being requested and the topic areas associated with this solicitation, can 'grid security' be included to address 'grid resiliency'? Understanding this falls under CESAR, but many cybersecurity elements should be considered and drawn in/ included in a schematic of any solution, even if the goal is 'reconductoring' or other means of amping up electricity to support evolving missions. \n\nIf that is not intended to be addressed here or included in the $1.9B in funds, is it being considered and will it be integrated later into these efforts?e","See BIL section 40101(e)(2), as codified at 42 USC § 18711(e)(2) and  NOFO Part 1, Section III.F.  Cybersecurity may not be funded under Topic Area 1.  The NOFO will be modified in the future to strengthen the language around this prohibition.  ","2026-03-20"]
[22,"2026-03-16","I had a question for the SPARK program regarding funding. We have a project that wants to apply for EDF loan financing in addition to SPARK funding in order to cover the costs of the project. Are we able to use both sources of funding to finance the project?","Please see NOFO Part 1, Section II.C.2, cost share derived from the DOE loan program and DOE Loan Guarantees are considered Unallowable cost share sources.","2026-03-20"]
[23,"2026-03-16","The NOFO states \"Each concept paper must be limited to a single concept, technology, or project.\" Can you clarify if a project, for example led by a utility, can consist of multiple technologies and vendors? For example, could reconductoring several different lines with advanced conductors and deploying DLR in different parts of the territory be bundled together and submitted as a single project per the FOA rules?\n ","This sentence will be deleted and removed from the NOFO via a future modification.  DOE does expect projects may have multiple technologies and vendors.  ","2026-03-18"]
[24,"2026-03-17","Could you send me a link to register for the webinar?\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[25,"2026-03-17","1. Could you help clarify how \"resilience\" funding is being defined under this program? We noticed that some of the eligibility requirements reference previous resilience-related spending by the applicant, and we want to make sure we understand what qualifies as resilience spending for the purposes of that calculation. Specifically, we want to confirm what types of historical investments or expenditures would count toward the three-year spending threshold so we can accurately assess our eligibility before determining whether we may have an applicable project.\n\n2. The program details reference distribution providers as eligible applicants under Topic Area 1 and note that the program will fund transformational transmission and distribution technology solutions. Could you speak to how distribution cooperatives might be able to participate in this program, or what types of distribution-level projects would be considered?\n\nWe understand this round may primarily be geared toward transmission-scale work, but we want to make sure we're not overlooking an opportunity.","1.\t  See NOFO Part Section IV.D.8 for content to be provided for the Report on Resilience Investments (Topic Area 1).  As noted in this section, resilience includes activities to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events, which is when electric grid operations are disrupted; preventively shut off; or cannot operate safely due to extreme weather, wildfire, or a natural disaster. \n\n2.\tDOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible.\n","2026-03-23"]
[26,"2026-03-17","I am reaching out to ask if you could share details regarding a planned information webinar on March 19th for the DOE funding opportunity DE-FOA-0003580 (SPARK)\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[27,"2026-03-17","I really want to be able to watch the webinar, only all I've found is the date, but not time. Could you please link me the appropriate time to be on.","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[28,"2026-03-17","Can you provide where I can sign up for the webinar on this opportunity (https://www.energy.gov/oe/speed-power-through-accelerated-reconductoring-and-other-key-advanced-transmission-technology#information)?\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[29,"2026-03-17","Will the Informational Webinar on March 19th have a Q&A portion? Is there a registration link available to sign-up for the webinar?","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[30,"2026-03-17","I’d like to ask a specific question regarding the FOA requirements. We are excited about the potential to support, partner with, or supply smaller utilities like rural electric cooperatives (RECs) which have strategic set-asides in the FOA. For FOA Requirements, I see “Buy America preferences apply to infrastructure; Davis-Bacon Act for labor.” Is Buy America preferred or required or a phased-in plan acceptable? \n\n","Please see NOFO Part 1, Section IV, F.1 Funding Restrictions and Build America Buy America (BABA) references in Section VIII.  BABA applies to projects under this NOFO.  See Build America, Buy America and 2 CFR 184 for applicable definitions and other information.","2026-03-20"]
[31,"2026-03-17","I am trying to find information about the webinar for DE-FOA-0003580.\nCan you kindly provide guidance on the registration process?","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[32,"2026-03-17","I cannot find the registration link for this webinar.\nWould you be able to provide that so I can sign up.","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[33,"2026-03-17","I would like to get additional details regarding the March 19th webinar. Where can we register for the session?","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[34,"2026-03-17","In the SPARK NOFO, part 1, p5, it states that there will be a SPARK informational webinar ON March 19.\nIn the SPARK press release (Energy Department Announces $1.9B Investment in Critical Grid Infrastructure to Reduce Electricity Costs | Department of Energy), it states that an informational webinar will be posted to OE website BY March 19.\n\nWill the webinar be live? Will there be registration? Is it simply pre-recorded, and will only be available online?","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[35,"2026-03-17","Can you confirm the link and time for the webinar for SPARK that is scheduled for March 19? Thanks","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[36,"2026-03-17","Is a reconductoring project using advanced conductors that are compatible with other ATTs -- but does not include integrating other ATTs as part of the scope -- eligible under Topic Area 2?\n\nFor reference:\n•\tUnder Topic Area 2, Page 22 of the NOFO states: \"DOE is looking for projects that: Replace existing conductors with advanced conductors compatible with other ATTs\" \n•\tHowever, below this it states: \"Standalone reconductoring projects that do not include smart grid integration are not of interest under this Topic Area.\"  \nWe are trying to clarify whether a standalone reconductoring project using advanced conductors would be eligible, if it is compatible with a smart grid but does not include smart grid integration in the SPARK project scope. ","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-03-20"]
[37,"2026-03-17","1) Are projects that build transmission to enhance existing grid infrastructure and strengthen grid reliability eligible?\n\n2) Are projects to install advanced metering hardware and software (meter data management systems), to enable functions for real time operation of the grid, eligible?","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-03-20"]
[38,"2026-03-17","I was interested in information webinar on March 19,2026. However, I could not find any webpage to register for this webinar.\n\nIs there a webpage to register for this webinar?\n\n\n\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[39,"2026-03-17","I’m writing to inquire whether a webinar is planned for the SPARK funding opportunity (DE-FOA-0003580). If so, could you please let us know when the webinar will take place and share the registration link once available? We would be very interested in attending to better understand the program details and expectations.\n\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[40,"2026-03-17","SPARK Team – As with the earlier GRIP NOFOs, the Concept Paper (CP) is a required pre-condition to submitting a Complete Application (App), subject to DOE encouragement after CP review.\n\nThe same is true for SPARK. However, the NOFO is prescriptive (p 5) only for the deadlines for CP submission (Apr 2) and App submission (May 20). There is no stated target date for DOE feedback of encouragement or discouragement.\n\nCan you provide more information on encouragement / discouragement timeline, please?\n","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[41,"2026-03-17"," I've opened a startup of almost 2 years old on energy data analytics.  Would you comment how we can help SPARK on data analytics?","The SPARK NOFO is seeking concept papers and applications that are responsive to the objectives and topic areas of the NOFO.  This funding opportunity does not have a Teaming Partner List.","2026-03-20"]
[42,"2026-03-17","Do you have a template Concept Paper that you could share for this opportunity?\n\nSpeed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK) | Department of Energy\n","Reference question 9 response.","2026-03-18"]
[43,"2026-03-18","We are eager to learn more and would appreciate it if you could share the details on how we can access the session.\n\nPlease let us know the registration process or if there are any specific steps we should follow. We look forward to your response and to joining the webinar.\n\n\n","Reference question 6 response.","2026-03-18"]
[44,"2026-03-18","Can you please direct me to the registration for the SPARK grant webinar, if available? I see that it will be posted March 19 but I’m not sure when it takes place. \n\nIf it’s passed, where will the webinar recording be posted? \n\n\n","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[45,"2026-03-18","Hello, can you tell me how to register for the info webinar tomorrow and what time?","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[46,"2025-03-18","We are interested in the SPARK program and are seeking the link for the informational webinar mentioned in the FOA and on the website. Can you please share this link?\n\n\n","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[47,"2025-03-18","We are interested in attending the webinar referenced in the attached funding opportunity DE-FOA-0003580.\n\nWhen checking the Infrastructure Exchange portal and NOFO, we were unable to locate the information on how and when to join the webinar. Could you please let us know if those details have been posted yet? If so, would you mind sending the meeting information to the recipients copied on this email?","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[48,"2026-03-18","Could you please clarify how ‘sub transmission lines’ are defined for purposes of DE FOA 0003580? Specifically, what voltage levels are considered eligible, and would sub transmission infrastructure in the 12.5 kV to 25 kV range qualify as eligible reconductoring candidates under this FOA?","The NOFO does not define sub transmission lines.  Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible.DOE independently assesses each concept paper based on the technical review criteria for Concept Papers described below.  DOE will either encourage or discourage applicants from submitting an application based on these assessments.  Please see NOFO Part 2, Selection and Award Notices—Concept Paper Notifications.  ","2026-03-20"]
[49,"2026-03-18","Can you please help me find the registration link or the link to join the Informational Webinar for DE-FOA-003580 that is happening tomorrow March 19?\n\n","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[50,"2026-03-18","We are reaching out to see if the Informational Webinar for the DE-FOA-0003580: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)  funding opportunity is occurring tomorrow, March 19. The Webinar details were not posted online yet last time we checked. Kindly confirm. \n","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[51,"2025-03-18","Can you please provide the webinar link to tomorrow’s webinar for SPARK?\nThe website says details are pending.\n","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[52,"2026-03-18","Hope all is well. I am currently in search for the webinar details for DE-FOA-0003580, or SPARK on March 19th. If you have a link, can you please send it to my email so that I may register and join tomorrow? ","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[53,"2026-03-18","I am trying to find more information about when the SPARK funding informational webinar will be occurring. We saw there is a date of March 19 on the page, but we weren’t clear if that would be a link to a recording or for the webinar itself. \nOr let me know if there’s someone else I should reach out to instead! Thanks in advance.\n","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[54,"2026-03-18","Reserved \n",null,"2026-03-20"]
[55,"2025-03-18","Can the SPARK program be used to deploy new microgrids?","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. Microgrids are not identified as activities to be funded under this NOFO.","2026-03-20"]
[56,"2026-03-18","Should I only include one person as a POC in eXCHANGE?  ","We recommend that you identify more than one POC in eXCHANGE and that you Share Access with Other Users, for instance, other Technical and Business Points of Contact. (They also will need an Account in eXCHANGE).  The reason we recommend this is because the application and its status can only be accessed by the person who submitted the application, and anyone who has been provided “share access” to the application. See the User Guide at https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Manuals.aspx titled \"Infrastructure_eXCHANGE_Applicant_User_Guide\" and refer to the section titled \"Share the Submissions with Other Users.","2026-03-20"]
[57,"2026-03-18","Reserved",null,"2026-03-20"]
[58,"2026-03-18","Will organizations which applied to the previous version of the DOE OE SPARK program have their applications carriwed over to this one or does it require a new application altogether?   Since time is short we would like to know if we already met the filing requirement for the B1.9$ effort just announced?","No.   A concept paper along with a full application must be submitted through eXCHANGE, consistent with the NOFO requirements, to be considered eligible for award under this announcement","2026-03-20"]
[59,"2026-03-19","If an organization submitted a response to the DOE Speed to Power RFI in November 2025, can it also submit to the DOE SPARK program?","Yes.  A Request for Information (RFI) is simply a request for information and not a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). A concept paper and new application must be submitted to be considered for award under this NOFO. ","2026-03-20"]
[60,"2026-03-19","We are tracking a SPARK webinar scheduled for the 19th of Mar, but I can not locate the any links to register.","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[61,"2026-03-19","I am looking over the NOFA for the upcoming Grip funding and see that the cost share requirement is 50%. I am wondering if this is applicable to an SEO as a prime recipient for topic 2 and 3, or if this would only be applicable to the subrecipient. ","Please see NOFO Part 1, Section II.C. 50% cost share is applicable.  ","2026-03-20"]
[62,"2026-03-19","Can you please provide a link to the webinar today?","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[63,"2026-03-19","What is the minimum award size for DE-FOA-0003580, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) — Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK)?\n\nSome places say $1 others $10,000,000.","Please see Part 1 of the NOFO. Section I. Basic Information,1. Funding Details.  The funding details are defined by Topic Area.  The funding amounts vary by Topic Area and are approximate.  There is no \"minimum\" project award amount.","2026-03-20"]
[64,"2026-03-19","Reserved",null,"2026-03-20"]
[65,"2026-03-19","I am pleased to submit our Letter of Intent in response to DE-FOA-0003585: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – Speed to Power (SPARK).\n\nThe project aligns strongly with DOE SPARK objectives by integrating advanced technologies that strengthen grid capacity while serving an underserved rural region.\n\nWe are prepared to advance rapidly into full application development and implementation upon invitation.\n\n","Letters of Intent are not required.  Applicants must review the NOFO and determine whether they will apply to the NOFO.  If an Applicant decides to apply, it must first submit a Concept Paper.  DOE will review the Concept Paper and issue an Encourage or Discourage notification.  You are strongly encouraged to read the NOFO and determine if your project is eligible. See NOFO Part 1, Sections III.C for Program Goals and Objectives. ","2026-03-20"]
[66,"2026-03-19","We are trying to log into the webinar listed for today for  DE FOA 0003580 and we are seeing this message: \"The webinar details will be provided at a later date. The webinar will be a recording which can be viewed anytime, and is not a live event.\"\n\nWould you be able to send us the link to view the webinar when it is available","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[67,"2026-03-19","Checking in to see if the webinar covering the latest SPARK grant funding is available? Thanks!","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[68,"2026-03-19","I would like to propose a liquid sodium BESS solution to be added to the US power grid as part of the SPARK Initiative.\n\nIt would increase the resiliency of the power grid county wide.\n\nId this something Biolargo could propose as part of the SPARK funding?","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. Battery Energy Storage Systems are not identified as activities to be funded under this NOFO.","2026-03-20"]
[69,"2026-03-19","When will the webinar be posted?","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[70,"2026-03-20","We are a pre-seed electricity storage operator aggregating residential battery systems into a utility-contracted virtual power plant that provides dispatchable capacity and peak load reduction services directly to electric utilities. \nWe are considering a Topic Area 1 application in partnership with a utility where our VPP assets would demonstrably defer transmission infrastructure investment and reduce congestion on existing transmission corridors. \nDoes DOE consider aggregated distributed battery storage operated as a utility-contracted resource to constitute an eligible 'electricity storage operator' and an eligible Advanced Transmission Technology for purposes of Topic Area 1? We are asking given the tight concept paper timeline.","Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, Section II for eligibility, and Section III to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-03-20"]
[71,"2026-03-20","Reserved Duplicate Question\n",null,"2026-03-20"]
[72,"2026-03-20","I’m reaching out following the recent announcement of the $1.9B SPARK program focused on reconductoring and advanced transmission upgrades.\n\nOur firm, works specifically on the structural integrity and corrosion risk of transmission tower infrastructure — the steel that ultimately carries the upgraded conductors these programs rely on.\n\nIn conversations with utilities and engineering firms preparing SPARK concept papers, a consistent question is emerging:\n\nHow do applicants demonstrate that aging transmission structures are structurally ready for reconductoring without independent engineering validation?\n\nOur team specializes in converting inspection data into engineering-grade corrosion and structural condition assessments for transmission towers. That information can support grant narratives, reliability planning, and life-extension strategies for existing transmission infrastructure.\n\nI would welcome a brief conversation to understand how your organization is thinking about corrosion risk and structural readiness as part of grid modernization and resilience planning.\n\nIn particular I’m interested in how utilities and system planners are approaching one question:\n\nAcross large transmission networks, is corrosion risk on steel structures being tracked at a system level — or mostly addressed site-by-site?\n\n","The SPARK NOFO is seeking concept papers and applications that are responsive to the objectives and topic areas of the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible and whether to apply.","2026-03-20"]
[73,"2026-03-20","Please let me know how to participate in the March 19 Informational webinar.  I have already registered for the DOE eXCHANGE  website but didn't see anything there about it.","The webinar has been posted and is available in Infrastructure Exchange under Webinar Details (click on March SPARK Webinar). https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06. ","2026-03-23"]
[74,"2026-03-23","I'm reaching out as I'm hoping you can clarify how DOE will be handling the limitation on the number of concept papers submitted for this opportunity. The solicitation states that an entity can only submit one concept paper per topic area, but the application process through DOE eXchange means that PIs could technically just submit on their own without going through the institution. If this happens, how will DOE clarify with the institution which concept paper is allowed to go through? ","The NOFO has a limitation of one concept paper per Topic Area per entity.  Per NOFO Part 1, Section II.B, \"If an entity submits more than one, we will only review the last timely submission.\"","2026-03-25"]
[75,"2026-03-23","May TVA participate in Topic 2 as, e.g., a sub-awardee of another entity? The FOA only says TVA is eligible to participate in Topic 1 area proposals but does not mention Topic 2.","Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is eligible to participate as a sub-recipient in all topic areas. This will be clarified with a forthcoming modification to the NOFO.","2026-03-25"]
[76,"2026-03-23","Does power-to-thermal energy storage qualify for Spark funding?  \n\n \n","The SPARK NOFO is seeking concept papers and applications that are responsive to the objectives and topic areas of the NOFO. DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible.  ","2026-03-25"]
[77,"2026-03-23","I have created an application in the Energy Infrastructure eXCHANGE system for DE-FOA-0003580 (SPARK); however, I was not able to locate the assigned Control Number within the system.\nCould you please advise where the Control Number can be found or accessed within the system, and whether it is also provided via email?\nYour guidance on this matter is needed to proceed.\n","Answered by Infrastructure Exchange (NOFO email was cc'd)     The Infrastructure Funding Opportunity Exchange website creates your Concept Paper record and assigns it a Control Number when you do the following:\n\n1.\tLogin to the Infrastructure Funding Opportunity Exchange website (http://Infrastructure-Exchange.energy.gov).\n2.\tLocate the DE-FOA-0003580 Notice of Funding Opportunity announcement.\n3.\tClick the “Apply” button.\n4.\tComplete the “Concept Paper Details” information page.\n5.\tClick the “Create Concept Paper” button.\n\nGuidance on how to use the Infrastructure Funding Opportunity Exchange website can be found in the “User Guides” section (left side navigation panel) of the website.","2026-03-25"]
[78,"2026-03-23","Reserved ",null,"2026-03-25"]
[79,"2026-03-23","I am writing to see if the DoE plans on having this SPARK Grant funding be a reoccurring funding option, or if this will only be available this award period?\n\n","SPARK is part of the GRIP program. This is anticipated to be the last round of funding for the GRIP program. ","2026-03-25"]
[80,"2026-03-23","We are compiling a concept paper for the Topic 2: Smart Grid and would like to see if we can submit the document directly via mail or we need to log into the DOE website and upload.","All required submissions must be submitted to the eXCHANGE site https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx\n See the Key Facts section of NOFO Part 1 for additional details regarding deadlines for submissions.   ","2026-03-26"]
[81,"2026-03-24","We are reviewing DE-FOA-0003580 and request clarification on language regarding eligibility requirements under Topic Area 1: Grid Resilience (IIJA Section 40101(c)), specifically as they relate to existing or planned reliability, resilience, and hardening efforts.\nIn Section III.E.1 (Objectives), the NOFO states that: “Projects must replace or supplement existing hardening or reliability efforts and reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events through reconductoring and other ATTs.” \nHowever, Section III.E.3 (Requirements) states that: “Projects must be supplemental to existing or planned reliability, resilience, and hardening efforts.” \nThis creates ambiguity as to whether eligible Topic Area 1 projects must strictly supplement existing or planned efforts, or whether projects may also replace previously planned or existing hardening or reliability investments and still be considered eligible.\nWe note that this ambiguity was also reflected during the informational webinar for this NOFO, where Topic Area 1 presentation slides referenced projects that “replace or supplement” existing efforts, while the presenter verbally states that projects \"must supplement...\" existing efforts.\nAccordingly, we respectfully request clarification on the following:\n•\tMay Topic Area 1 projects replace existing or previously planned reliability, resilience, or hardening efforts (e.g., substituting reconductoring and/or ATTs for conventional approaches), or\n•\tMust Topic Area 1 projects only supplement such efforts in order to be eligible?\n","Thank you for watching the webinar!  As outlined in the NOFO. Topic Area 1 projects must replace or supplement. ","3/25/20026"]
[82,"2026-03-24","Per the NOFO, “The Buy America Preference does not apply to prime recipients that are for-profit entities.” \n\nPer the Q&A Question Number 30, “BABA applies to projects under this NOFO”. \n\nDoes BABA apply to projects that are from for-profit entities?\n","Thank you for reading our Q&As!  BABA does not apply to for-profits that are Prime Recipients.  Please see NOFO Part 1, Section IV.F.1 Buy American Preference for Infrastructure Projects. Here you will see a link to DOE’s Standard Terms and Conditions that provides a more detailed explanation of the Buy American requirements that should be considered by all potential applicants.  Please also see https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-11/DOE%27s%20Implementation%20of%20the%20Buy%20America%20Preference%2011-17.pdf ","2026-03-25"]
[83,"2026-03-24","How does the DOE SPARK NOFO 0003580 define “transmission” and “sub-transmission” ? What kV levels are covered under this NOFO (e.g., 34.5 kV up to 765kV)?","The NOFO does not define transmission and sub transmission.  DOE will use the Concept Paper phase to assess each Concept Paper and determine whether the project is of interest to DOE and whether it is encouraged or discouraged.  ","2026-03-25"]
[84,"2026-03-24","I am attempting to submit an application for funding for this opportunity and am unable to access it. I have tried on the grants.gov site and the apply button does not work. Is there another way to apply or has the application not been open as of yet?  ","To submit a full application, you must submit a concept paper as outlined in NOFO Part 1 by the specified deadline.  The concept paper must be created/submitted first at  https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#FoaId77dcb4d3-c11b-4230-a2b0-74927d4cee06.   Please see NOFO Part 1,  Sections IV and V for more information regarding Application Content and Submission Requirements.","2026-03-25"]
[85,"2026-03-24","Had a quick question about multiple submissions in the same topic area. If we have multiple UEI's for different operating companies, is it safe to say that we could submit one for each UEI and operating company? Or is it a firm, one submission per topic area no matter how many UEI's or operating companies? ","The NOFO has a limitation of one concept paper per Topic Area per entity.  Entity is defined by Unique Entity Identification (UEI) number.  So, if an entity has multiple UEIs, each UEI may submit a concept paper per Topic Area.  So if an entity has 3 UEIs, it could submit 3 concept papers per Topic Area (one concept paper per UEI entity.)","2026-03-25"]
[86,"2026-03-24","Could you let me know who the best contact is on the SPARK NOFO for Transmission Technologies (DE-FOA-0003580)\nDOE: Under Secretary for Energy eXCHANGE: Funding Opportunities\n\nThe SPARK NOFO is clear that battery storage would be considered nonresponsive, but I'd like to explore the role that non-battery Long-Duration Energy Storage could play","The SPARK NOFO is seeking concept papers and applications that are responsive to the objectives and topic areas of the NOFO.  This funding opportunity does not have a Teaming Partner List and DOE is not facilitating the establishment of partners.  DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible.  ","2026-03-25"]
[87,"2026-03-24","Reserved",null,"2026-03-25"]
[88,"2026-03-24","Looking to verify if federal entities are able to apply for this funding and if projects are able to be on the installation? \n\n","Please see the NOFO Part 1, Section II.A.2. \"Federal agencies and instrumentalities (other than DOE) are eligible to participate as a subrecipient but are not eligible to apply as a recipient.\"","2026-03-25"]
[89,"2026-03-25","We are writing to respectfully request clarification on project eligibility for the SPARK NOFO (DE-FOA-0003580), specifically concerning Topic Area 1: Grid Resilience.\nWould a concept paper and subsequent application for a project with the scope focused exclusively on the distribution system—be considered permissible for Topic Area 1? Furthermore, would such a project have a reasonable chance of being competitive for an award, given the NOFO's stated focus on transmission and sub-transmission capacity enhancements?\n\nWe understand that the overarching goal of the SPARK program is to enhance the reliability and resilience of the nation's grid. The described project strongly aligns with these goals, particularly in its focus on hardening infrastructure against disruptive events and ensuring reliable power delivery.\n\nHowever, we wish to be fully transparent about a key point of uncertainty. The project is centered entirely on the distribution system. We note that the NOFO for Topic Area 1 explicitly states that projects must \"expand the transfer capability of existing transmission or sub-transmission.\"\n\nYour clarification on this matter is crucial and will directly inform the decision on whether to proceed with submitting a concept paper for this project.","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible.","2026-03-25"]
[90,"2026-03-25","Our project involves reconductoring multiple lines. What is the best way to respond to “Project Location” for the concept paper and “Locations of Work” workbook? Should the ‘address’ be the relevant substations or is there another method preferred?","For the concept paper list all Cities and States that are affected.  For the Locations of Work workbook, see NOFO Part 2 for specific instructions.  If the project covers multiple transmission lines, you can leave the Address field blank and include the other requested information.","2026-03-30"]
[91,"2026-03-25","In the Transparency of Foreign Connections form (version 2/4/26), Question 12, please clarify whether the question is asking about if a project provides upstream supply chain support for the BESS industry (such as a component manufacturing project supplying to a BESS manufacturer), or if the question is asking specifically about whether DOE funding will be used to buy BESS equipment for use in the project.","For purposes of this NOFO, the Transparency of Foreign Connections form (version 2/4/26), Question 12, refers to whether DOE funding will be used to buy BESS equipment under the project. ","2026-03-30"]
[92,"2026-03-25","Will previous applications for GRIP/SPARK be made public?","No ","2026-03-30"]
[93,"2026-03-26","Does DOE have an anticipated date for making concept paper encourage/discourage notifications for the SPARK program? ","Yes, as discussed in the webinar, the concept paper feedback will go out around the end of April. ","2026-03-30"]
[94,"2026-03-24","If I am a battery supplier looking to provide battery components for battery cell manufacturers and LDES storage technologies.\n\nI do not have a UEI number, but I would like to apply for funding.","At concept paper submission, applicants can insert \"N/A\" if the UEI is still in process.  However, some of these actions may take several weeks, so it is vital that applicants address the registration requirements detailed in section V.A of NOFO Part 1 before full application submission as soon as possible as high demand for SAM registrations and UEI requests are taking longer than expected to process and failure to complete could interfere with an applicant’s ability to apply to this NOFO. If entities have technical difficulties with the SAM registration or UEI validation process they should utilize the HELP feature on SAM.gov. SAM.gov will address entity service tickets in the order in which they are received and asks that entities do not create multiple service tickets for the same request or technical issue.","2026-03-30"]
[95,"2026-03-26","1.\tMust the Applicant (State in this case) own the project facilities (e.g. transmission lines) or can a subrecipient be the owner/stakeholder of the project facility?\n\n2.\tCan a staff member of a Subrecipient  (RTO or Transmission Owner)  be either the Principal Investigator and/or the Lead Project Manager?\n","1.  A subrecipient can be the owner.  It does not have to be the State.\n\n2. Yes. However, as a best practice the prime applicant could designate someone to be the CO-PI.","2026-03-30"]
[96,"2026-03-27","I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to reach out with a quick question regarding the current NOFO opportunity. Specifically, I’m wondering if projects that are already underway—particularly those in the design, planning, or procurement stages—are eligible for submission. Any clarification you can provide on this would be greatly appreciated.","Projects currently underway could be considered as long as they clealy articulate the impact that DOE funding would have on the proposed project.  Pre-award costs would not be allowable prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis (NOFO Part 2 Section IV.D.2). ","2026-03-30"]
[97,"2026-03-27","Advertisement",null,"2026-03-30"]
[98,"2026-03-27","Advertisement",null,"2026-03-30"]
[99,"2026-03-27","We are preparing a Topic Area 1 (Grid Resilience) concept paper under DE-FOA-0003580 and have grouped a small number of related clarification questions below for efficiency.\n\n1. Inclusion of Non-Owned Assets for Topic Area 1\nFor Topic Area 1 projects involving transmission upgrades, can DOE confirm whether assets not owned by the applicant may be included in the project scope where:\n•\tThe applicant has a legal or contractual obligation to fund or implement the upgrades\n•\tAppropriate agreements are in place with the asset owner\n•\tThe upgrades are necessary to realize the project capacity / benefits\n\n2. Application of “Innovation” Criterion for Topic Area 1\nRegarding the following concept paper criterion: “The applicant clearly describes the proposed technology, how the technology is unique and innovative, and how the technology will advance the current state of the industry” – the bolded words are less applicable to topic area 1 projects. Will that be taken into consideration when evaluating topic area 1 submissions?\n\n3. Cost Share – Use of RUS Financing\nSection II.C.1 indicates that federal loans may be used as cost share if authorized under the loan terms.\nCan DOE confirm whether financing from the Rural Utilities Service, structured as a repayable loan, is considered allowable non-federal cost share for purposes of this NOFO?\n\nWe appreciate your consideration and guidance.","1. Yes, those assets can be included.\n2. The DOE is looking for applications that go beyond standard practices to achieve measurable capacity and resilience gains.  Demonstrating the uniqueness and innovation of the proposed technology is crucial for showing how it will effectively advance the current state of the industry in improving grid performance.\n3. Federal loans may be used as cost share if authorized under the RUS loan terms.","2026-03-30"]
[100,"2026-03-27","I am helping a faculty member with their concept paper and then with a potential application. I read in the NOFO and heard on the webinar that national labs cannot be prime applicants or subs. I did not see or hear anything about collaborators. Is a national lab or an employee of a national lab (working outside the scope of their job) eligible to be a collaborator on a SPARK proposal?","National labs cannot receive funding under this NOFO. The collaboration may be acceptable only if not paid under the SPARK project.","2026-03-30"]
[101,"2026-03-27","Regarding the highlighted portion of the webinar slide shown below, is the award maximum the “lesser of” or “greater of” the amount spent over last 3 years or $100 M?   ","For Topic Area 1 the award maximum is equal to or lesser than the amount spent over last 3 years in resilience investments as outlined in the NOFO.","2026-03-30"]
[102,"2026-03-30","can the applicant include a description of the broader project scope—including upstream resource development, mining, and extraction activities—even though those components will not be included as allowable project costs in the grant amount request? Inother words,  would DOE prefer that applicants describe the full scope of the overall project even if the upstream components are not included in the project costs requested under the grant, or keep the project narrative strictly relative to the scope of the costs covered in the grant request? Thank you.","The concept paper and full application should focus on the scope of the DOE project. References can be made to a broader scope but it should be kept to a minimum and only be what is necessary to discuss the project being proposed to DOE.  If a broader scope is mentioned, it should be clearly articulated what scope is and is NOT part of the DOE project.\n ","2026-03-31"]
[103,"2023-03-30"," I am writing to ask whether financing from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) may be used as part of the applicant cost share for a DOE application FOA 0003585 when the financing supports the same scope of work as the proposed project.\nCould you please confirm if EXIM financing would be allowable toward the applicant cost share requirement, and whether there are any specific conditions or limitations we should be aware of\n","Federal loans, considered non-appropriated funds, may be used as cost share as long as authorized under the loan terms.","2026-03-31"]
[104,"2026-03-30","We would like to confirm whether a letter of intent is required to be submitted with the SPARK Concept Paper this week.\n\nPart 1 of the NOFO states on page 47 that a letter of intent should be submitted with the concept paper. However, the Q&A indicates that letters of intent are not required.\n","Letters of Intent are not required. ","2026-03-31"]
[105,"2026-03-30","For the Concept Paper submission, is it required that Percent Effort and Percent Work Location total 100% for each category? Given that we expect to include Other Organizations in the full proposal, how should this be reflected at this stage if formal commitments are not yet in place? Would it be appropriate to allocate 100% of both Effort and Work Location to the Lead Organization for now and revise these allocations during the full Application phase?","See NOFO Part 1, Section IV.C.  For the concept paper, percent effort and percent work location is not required.","2026-03-31"]
[106,"2026-03-30","Hi there - our company is interested in potentially submitting a concept paper in response to the DOE's SPARK NOFO. I'm wondering if you can please provide any guidance on minimum requirements on the info you're hoping applicants would include in such a paper. ","See NOFO Part 1, Section IV.C. for information that is required for the concept paper.","2026-03-31"]
[107,"2026-03-30","Has there been a change in the concept paper due date that will be announced soon?","No"]
[108,"2026-03-30","Do I need a SAM.gov account to submit a concept paper? My entity has a UEI and an administrator for SAM. I understand that I may need an account for the application, but I couldn’t locate information specific to the Concept Paper in NOFO Part 1 or Part 2.","*Similar question to #94 above  (on line 97)\nAt concept paper submission, applicants can insert \"N/A\" if the UEI is still in process.  However, some of these actions may take several weeks, so it is vital that applicants address the registration requirements detailed in section V.A of NOFO Part 1 before full application submission as soon as possible as high demand for SAM registrations and UEI requests are taking longer than expected to process and failure to complete could interfere with an applicant’s ability to apply to this NOFO. If entities have technical difficulties with the SAM registration or UEI validation process they should utilize the HELP feature on SAM.gov. SAM.gov will address entity service tickets in the order in which they are received and asks that entities do not create multiple service tickets for the same request or technical issue.\n\n","2026-03-31"]
[109,"2026-03-30","Are DOE national laboratories eligible as subrecipients for topic area 2 of this NOFO?","No. See NOFO Part 1, Section II.D \"FFRDC Eligibility Criteria\" for detailed information on National Lab eligibility","2026-03-31"]
[110,"2026-03-31","We are writing on behalf of several utility clients to ask whether an extension can be granted for the due date of the concept papers. Since this is a holiday week, many people are on spring break this week and next. Any extension of the due date would be welcomed. ","The due date for concept papers remains unchanged and is 4/2/2026 at 5 pm Eastern Time.","2026-04-01"]
[111,"2026-03-31","Reserved ",null,"2026-04-01"]
[112,"2026-03-31","We are writing to respectfully request a short extension to the concept paper submission deadline. Our submission is contingent upon securing a UEI from SAM.gov, which requires action from our Puerto Rico government partners. The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is currently observing Semana Santa (Holy Week) — an official government holiday — and all relevant public offices are closed until April 7th, 2026. This delay is beyond our control and limited strictly to the UEI coordination step.\n\nAll other components of our concept paper are prepared and ready for submission. We are requesting either:\n- A brief extension of the deadline to accommodate our government partners' return from the holiday period, or\n- Confirmation that we may submit our concept paper and provide the UEI within a short grace period following the holiday.\n","*Similar question to #94 above  (on line 95)\nThe due date for concept papers remains unchanged and is 4/2/2026 at 5 pm Eastern Time.\nAt concept paper submission, applicants can insert \"N/A\" if the UEI is still in process.  However, some of these actions may take several weeks, so it is vital that applicants address the registration requirements detailed in section V.A of NOFO Part 1 before full application submission as soon as possible as high demand for SAM registrations and UEI requests are taking longer than expected to process and failure to complete could interfere with an applicant’s ability to apply to this NOFO. If entities have technical difficulties with the SAM registration or UEI validation process they should utilize the HELP feature on SAM.gov. SAM.gov will address entity service tickets in the order in which they are received and asks that entities do not create multiple service tickets for the same request or technical issue.","2026-04-01"]
[113,"2026-03-31","Is there a publicly available list of applicants for the SPARK grant?  Will their applications be made public?","No.","2026-04-01"]
[114,"2026-03-31","Where is the link for submission please ?","As stated in NOFO Part 1 Section VI.C.1, All submissions for concept papers and applications must be uploaded and successfully submitted in the eXCHANGE site indicated in the Key Facts section at the beginning of this NOFO.  As indicated in the Key Facts section, the eXCHANGE URL is https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx\nSee the Key Facts section of NOFO Part 1 for additional details regarding deadlines for submissions.   ","2026-04-01"]
[115,"2026-03-31","How to submit a concept paper?  Do I have to register or is there a link?","As stated in NOFO Part 1 Section VI.C.1, All submissions for concept papers and applications must be uploaded and successfully submitted in the eXCHANGE site indicated in the Key Facts section at the beginning of this NOFO.  As indicated in the Key Facts section, the eXCHANGE URL is https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx\nSee the Key Facts section of NOFO Part 1 for additional details regarding deadlines for submissions.   ","2026-04-01"]
[116,"2026-03-31","Please find attached the concept paper submitted in response to Notice of Funding Opportunity DE-FOA-0003580 (SPARK), Topic Area 1: Grid Resilience.","As stated in NOFO Part 1 Section VI.C.1, All submissions for concept papers and applications must be uploaded and successfully submitted in the eXCHANGE site indicated in the Key Facts section at the beginning of this NOFO.  As indicated in the Key Facts section, the eXCHANGE URL is https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx\nSee the Key Facts section of NOFO Part 1 for additional details regarding deadlines for submissions.   \n\nConcept papers submitted outside of eXCHANGE will not be accepted.","2026-04-01"]
[117,"2026-04-01","We are registering on the DOE exchange site.\n\nWe have a login.gov and sam.gov registration.\n\nWhen registering for the exchange, why do you need a drivers license and social security number?  We are submitting the app under the entity, not an individual person.\n\nCan you please advise? The paper is due on 4/2 and want to submit today.","Applicants are not required to create Login.gov accounts with the enhanced identity proofing requirement that includes providing a driver’s license and ssn.  \n\nPlease ensure you are registering with the Applicant option and not the Reviewer option.  If you already have a login.gov account, you just need to authenticate with your existing account and complete the rest of the registration process in exchange.\n\n ","2026-04-01"]
[118,"2026-04-01","Dear Review Committee,\nPlease find attached concept paper submission for the SPARK funding opportunity.\nWe appreciate your consideration and look forward to the opportunity to participate.","As stated in NOFO Part 1 Section VI.C.1, All submissions for concept papers and applications must be uploaded and successfully submitted in the eXCHANGE site indicated in the Key Facts section at the beginning of this NOFO.  As indicated in the Key Facts section, the eXCHANGE URL is https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx\nSee the Key Facts section of NOFO Part 1 for additional details regarding deadlines for submissions.   \n\nConcept papers submitted outside of eXCHANGE will not be accepted.","2026-04-01"]
[119,"2026-04-01","We recently submitted our concept paper for the SPARK program and would appreciate your guidance on a few follow-up questions as we prepare for potential next steps:\n\n1.\tAre applicants permitted to include additional partners or subcontractors under the lead organization during later stages of the program?\n2.\tAs the current lead applicant listed in the concept paper, would it be permissible to change the primary/lead organization if the concept paper is encouraged to advance?\n3.\tIf invited to submit a full application, are there any restrictions or expectations regarding modifications to the original project scope, team composition, or technical approach?\n4.\tAre there specific eligibility or compliance considerations we should keep in mind when adding new partners (for example, domestic requirements, cost-share implications, or organizational qualifications)?\n5.\tCould you please clarify the anticipated timeline for feedback on concept papers and subsequent application phases?\n\nWe appreciate your time and guidance, and we look forward to the opportunity to further engage with the program.\n","1. Yes.\n2. No.\n3. Per NOFO Part 1, Section IV.D., \"Each application must be limited to a single concept and be generally consistent with \nwhat was proposed in the concept paper.\"  DOE will assess any changes from the concept paper to the full application at the full application review stage.\n4.  See NOFO Part 1, Section II for Eligibility requirements.\n5. As noted in the SPARK webinar, DOE anticipates issuing encourage/discourage notifications by the end of April.  Remaining timeframes for applications and subsequent awards are listed in the NOFO Part 1, Section I.A.\n","2026-04-14"]
[120,"2026-04-01","I just signed up to the OCED for the first time so I can submit a concept paper for DE-FOA-0003580. Unfortunately, it says there are no funding opportunities available. I tried using the search function, but it didn’t work.\n\nCan you please help me figure out how to submit my concept paper? The deadline is tomorrow afternoon.","This NOFO is not available on OCED eXCHANGE but is available on infrastructure eXCHANGE, at https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/.  Please register and submit to infrastructure eXCHANGE consistent with the NOFO.","2026-04-01"]
[121,"2026-04-01","Reserved",null,"2026-04-01"]
[122,"2026-04-01","Reserved",null,"2026-04-03"]
[123,"2026-04-01","Reserved ",null,"2026-04-03"]
[124,"2026-04-01","Reserved",null,"2026-04-03"]
[125,"2026-04-02","For projects on Tribal lands or affecting Tribal subsurface rights, is proof of notification (e.g., certified mail delivery) sufficient to meet the requirement for “documentation of an Indian Tribe’s awareness” if the Tribe does not respond to a request for a letter of support or resolution? Or is affirmative support (e.g., letter of support or resolution) required for eligibility? Additionally, can the SMR FOA guidance—allowing documentation of awareness via delivery records (pg. 46 of Gen II+ SMR FOA)—be applied to the SPARK NOFO?","From NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D.3 \"For projects sited on Tribal land(s) or intersecting with Tribal subsurface rights: Applicants are required to submit documentation of support from the relevant Indian Tribes at the time of application submission\".   What constitutes \"Documentation of Tribal Support\" is spelled out in the table outlined in Section IV.D.3 which reflects tribes \"must express support for the project.\" Proof of notification, such as certified mail delivery, is not sufficient. The required documentation is either a \"Letter of Support from Tribal Leadership\" or a \"Tribal Council Resolution, Board resolution (including the Board of Directors of an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC)), or similar act passed by the legislative body of the Tribal government or Board of Directors of an ANC.\" \n \nThe requirements form the SMR FOA could be different from SPARK.  The SPARK NOFO sets out its own specific and direct requirements.","2026-04-03"]
[126,"2026-04-02","1.\tOn page 36 of the NOFO, the last paragraph under the \"Impacted Indian Tribes Documentation\" section says, \"If the applicant or DOE determines an Indian Tribe(s) will be impacted, the applicant must provide information on the project location, potential impacts and how the applicant will engage with Indian Tribe(s) during the period of performance of the agreement, and, if necessary, after the end of the agreement.\" Is this information expected to be included in the application? If yes, which section should it be included in? Or is this something that would be requested after/if awarded? \n\n2.\tSimilarly, the \"Guidance on Assessing Potential Impacts to Indian Tribe Resource or Reserved Rights\" table on pages 35 and 36 of the NOFO lists actions, assessments, and mitigation measures. Are applicants expected to conduct and include this analysis within their application? If yes, which section should it be included in?","1. Yes, this information is requested as part of the application submission. The summary of application requirements is outlined in NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D.2. This information should be part of the application itself, specifically within the \"Impacted Indian Tribes Documentation\" section (Section IV.D.3).\n\n2. Yes, the referenced \"Guidance on Assessing Potential Impacts to Indian Tribe Resource or Reserved Rights\" table is provided to help applicants prepare the required \"Impacted Indian Tribes Documentation\" (Section IV.D.3) as part of the application.\n\n","2026-04-03"]
[127,"2026-04-02","Reserved",null,"2026-04-03"]
[128,"2026-04-02","We have uploaded and submitted the concept paper yesterday.\n\n1.\tCan you confirm that there is nothing more needed to do at the moment, as it is due today? Can you confirm you received?\n\n2.\tAnd will we receive an action point to move forward with submitting the full application by 5/20/2026?\n\nI just want to be clear on the next steps.\n\n3.\tAlso, when we registered, we registered with the Enhanced External User as the applicant. Hope Ok.","DOE will not provide confirmation on concept paper submission. DOE's notification to encourage/discourage concept papers is anticipated by the end of April, as mentioned in the SPARK webinar.  ","2026-04-14"]
[129,"2026-04-02","In reference to the subject solicitation; are we able to submit a proposal even though we haven't submitted a Letter of Intent (LOI)?","Letters of intent are not required.","2026-04-03"]
[130,"2026-04-02","I support the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs.   We share resources on our funding page.  It just came to my attention that the Concept Paper for SPARK is due today. Must an entity submit a concept paper in order to submit an application? I ask as we are updating our webpage tomorrow, and I will remove the program if they need a concept paper in order to be eligible. I have looked in the NOFO and Q & A and don’t see a clear answer. Will start looking at the webinar now, but thought I would ask.","Consistent with NOFO Part 1, Section IV. C, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" ","2026-04-03"]
[131,"2026-04-02","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[132,"2026-04-02","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[133,"2026-04-02","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[134,"2026-04-02","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[135,"2026-04-03","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[136,"2026-04-03","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[137,"2026-04-03","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[138,"2026-04-06","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[139,"2026-04-06","Last week I submitted the attached concept paper under Infrastructure Exchange.  When might we get word if the DOE will encourage or discourage our application?","As discussed in the webinar, the concept paper feedback will go out around the end of April. ","2026-04-10"]
[140,"2026-04-06","Can you please provide clarification regarding Page 7 of Part 1 NOFO.   \n\nMy question is, if City has Agreement legally obligating $3.6 million for transmission system upgrade and work is set to commence prior to SPARK awards, can this be used toward the amount city has spent in previous 3 years?  \n","42 USC § 18711(c)(3) states that DOE “may not award a grant to an eligible entity in an amount that is greater than the total amount that the eligible entity has spent in the previous 3 years on efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events.” DOE has determined “in the previous 3 years” to be 3 years prior to the application due date.","2026-04-14"]
[141,"2026-04-06","Does this NOFO require a transparency of foreign connection disclosure? ","Yes.  Please refer to section IV.D of the NOFO Part 1 that lists the Application Requirements","2026-04-10"]
[142,"2026-04-07","One could make the case that prohibiting waivers might be inconsistent with “Speed to Power” objectives (2 CFR 187.4 (a) (1).\n\nFor entities that will be obligated to comply with BABAA if awarded, will BABAA waivers be considered? There are several categories of BABAA waivers and exceptions that might be applicable. Among them:\n1.\tUnreasonable Cost Waiver – if including U.S.-produced materials increases project costs by more than 25%.\n2.\tDe Minimis Waiver – When up to 5% of total cost of covered materials (up to $1 million) is non-compliant with BABAA).\n3.\tPhased Implementation Waiver – Allows for gradual compliance for certain materials, depending on effective dates set by Federal Agency.\n","As outlined in the NOFO Part 1, please reference Section IV.F.  Please refer to the DOE standard Terms and Conditions and the Build America, Buy America Act, Requirements term.","2026-04-10"]
[143,"2026-04-07","If we submitted a concept paper within the 4/2 5pm deadline through Infrastructure Exchange, when and where can we go to create our work space to begin on the full application?","See Infrastructure eXCHANGE User Guide for Applicants (available at the site - see left hand side).  In the User Guide for Applicants, see Section on \"Creating the Full Application when a Concept Paper Is Applicable (starts on page 49); \nIf a Concept Paper is applicable to the opportunity, you will not be able to start the Full Application submission until after an eligible Concept Paper has been submitted, and the Concept Paper decisions (encourage/discourage decisions) have been released.\nTo start the Full Application, select the ‘My Submissions’ option from the “Submissions” category in the left-hand navigation, locate the applicable Control Number under ‘Concept Paper Submissions,’ and select the ‘Start Full Application’ link (to the left of the Control Number).","2026-04-14"]
[144,"2026-04-07","We only learned of this funding opportunity after the concept paper deadline. Is it possible to submit a full application without having submitted the concept paper?","The due date for concept papers has passed  (April 2, 20206). Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-04-10"]
[145,"2026-04-07","I don’t know if there is a way to confirm that the Concept Paper we submitted is still being evaluated, but I had some provided the incorrect Certificate of Formation last week.  Hope that is sorted out now. ","DOE will not provide confirmation of concept paper submission; however if a concept paper was correctly submitted per the NOFO instructions, as discussed in the webinar concept paper feedback will go out around the end of April.","2026-04-10"]
[146,"2026-04-07","SPARK team – if a client timely submitted concept paper ad is encouraged to grant phase, could they broaden the application for grant to include extensions, as long as basic CP scope was included?","Changes to the project scope between concept paper and full application will be reviewed by DOE during the full application review stage. ","2026-04-14"]
[147,"2026-04-07","We are preparing a Topic Area 1 (Grid Resilience) concept paper under DE-FOA-0003580 and have some additional questions we would like to ask in the future.","The due date for concept papers has passed  (April 2, 20206) has passed. Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application.\".  No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-04-10"]
[148,"2026-04-08","Announcement: DE-FOA-0003580: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK)\nSubmission Date: 4/2/2026 10:48 AM\nI have a few questions pertaining to my final application:\nRegarding my submitted Concept Paper for DE-FOA-0003580, I am preparing the Full Application\nQUESTION 1: Does the DOE require a formal notification of this optimization strategy prior to the May 20th Full Application deadline?\"\n\nQUESTION 2: Should I choose option A (allowing modification later) or B (risky if not selected) or is it irrelevant at this stage?\n\nQUESTION 3: With the concept project update should I address the reasoning for the location change in the Technical Volume of my Full Application with the reasons listed below or does it need to be addressed separate from Technical Volume as additional information?\n\nQUESTION 4: Can you please confirm my numbered master checklist of additional Information to be submitted along with the Primary Technical Volume 20 pg. max PDF, and If additional information is missing from the list below can you please include it in your response?\n\n\n","DOE will send an encourage/discourage notification on the concept paper.  Changes to the project scope between concept paper and full application will be reviewed by DOE during the full application review stage. The strategy for which UEI to submit under is not a DOE decision and we recommend you wait for the concept paper notification before deciding.  Please refer to and read Section IV.D \"Application Content Requirements\" of NOFO Part 1. This section provides guidance and lists the Summary of Application Requirements should you choose to submit a concept paper.","2026-04-14"]
[149,"2026-04-08","Reserved",null,"2026-04-10"]
[150,"2026-04-08","We are currently preparing an application under DE-FOA-0003580 and are in the process of reviewing and beginning to populate the Budget Justification Workbook.\n\nAs we work through the template, we anticipate having several clarification questions to ensure that all cost categories, assumptions, and inputs are completed accurately and in alignment with DOE expectations.\n\nTo support this effort, could you please advise on the appropriate point of contact for questions related specifically to the Budget Justification Workbook? Our goal is to resolve any uncertainties early and submit a complete and accurate budget package.\n\nWe appreciate your guidance and look forward to your direction.","Please refer to the Budget Justification instructions on each worksheet tab. DOE cannot provide applicants with specific direction on how to complete the budget justification.","2026-04-10"]
[151,"2026-04-07","I’m reaching out regarding the SPARK NOFO (DE-FOA-0003580).\nWhile SPARK emphasizes physical upgrades such as reconductoring and advanced transmission technologies, we are working on:\n\nIdentifying load that can be permanently eliminated (not shifted or reduced temporarily) Increasing available system capacity without new infrastructure Reducing system stress to improve reliability and asset lifespan\n\nIn many cases, a portion of projected load growth is:\nNon-persistent\nEconomically sensitive\nStructurally removable at the device level\n\nThis raises a question:\nWould demand-side approaches that create measurable capacity gains through permanent load reduction be considered?\n\n","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible. ","2026-04-10"]
[152,"2026-04-09","We wish to submit our company information for the Teaming Partner Registration for DE-FOA-0003580. We've attempted to use the Teaming Partner List Registration website, but the drop-down for DE-FOA-0003580 is not available. \n\nWe've provided the attached form with the required information and appreciate if DOE/NTEL can make our information available to Prime applicants, or let us know an alternative method for making our Teaming Partner information available to them.","A teaming partner list is not available and DOE will not be providing team list to any potential applicants.  Applicants must arrange their own teaming arrangements and partnerships.","2026-04-14"]
[153,"2026-04-10","We would like to participate in the Power Generation Through Accelerated Conductor Renewal and Other Significant Advanced Transmission Technology Improvements (SPARK) program.\nHowever, we were unable to submit the concept paper by April 2nd.\nIf we submit our full application by May 20th, would it be acceptable?\nIs it possible for us to receive grant funding for this project?\nWe will continue our work based on your response.","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-04-10"]
[154,"2026-04-11","Please accept this official Amendment to our original Concept Paper submitted under DE-FOA-0003580, Topic Area 3: Grid Innovation Program.\nThis amendment adds two important supporting documents that further strengthen the project’s policy alignment and resiliency focus.\nBoth materials directly support our model. We are also preparing an upcoming presentation. We will be happy to share the details or slides once completed.\nThe full signed Amendment document (including the two supporting files) is attached.\nThank you for your consideration. We remain committed to using every available Federal and State resource to create AI-ready infrastructures protected against all hazards.\nPlease let me know if you need any additional information.","DOE will send an encourage/discourage notification on the concept paper.  Changes to the project scope between concept paper and full application will be reviewed by DOE during the full application review stage.","2026-04-14"]
[155,"2026-04-13","For proposed DOE SPARK projects, could optical ground wire (OPGW) technology be considered an eligible cost? While OPGW may not increase transmission capacity, one could make the case that grounding makes for much stronger grid resilience for overhead transmission, offering projection against lightning strikes, real-time fault detection, etc.","If the cost directly supports the technical scope; is reasonable, allowable, and allocable; and isn't prohibited by the cost principles or expressly prohibited by the NOFO, it is likely allowable.  ","2026-04-14"]
[156,"2026-04-13","In evaluating reconductoring projects under this NOFO, how will DOE consider differences between solutions that use conventional or widely deployed approaches to meet the minimum ≥50% transfer capability increase versus solutions that achieve the same transfer capability increases with more innovative, unique, or emerging technologies?\n\nIf both solutions achieve the same project-level end result, does the DOE prefer the latter for broader system-level benefits, such as commercializing emerging technology or advancing the current state of the industry? ","DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible and meet the required technical readiness levels.","2026-04-22"]
[157,"2026-04-13","Our municipality missed notification of the request for Concept Papers for the SPARK Funding Opportunity.   Will you still accept a concept paper?  If not, are we still able to apply without submission of a concept paper?","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-04-17"]
[158,"2026-04-14","My team submitted a concept paper under DE-FOA-0003580 (Topic Area 2 – Smart Grid) on April 2nd. I am curious about when you might respond to applications with encouraged/discouraged feedback. If you have any idea on the timeline it would really help us to know roughly when to expect feedback so we can plan accordingly.","As discussed in the webinar, the concept paper feedback will go out around the end of April. ","2026-04-17"]
[159,"2026-04-14","Is using the SciENcv website to complete biosketches required or encouraged? ","Yes, the use of the SciENcv website is a requirement. Please refer to NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D(5) for details and instructions on completing the Biographical Sketch.","2026-04-17"]
[160,"2026-04-14","I have a clarifying question regarding the project timeline requirements for Topic Area 1 under NOFO DE FOA 0003580. In NOFO Part 1, page 8 notes that the approximate award project period is up to 48 months. On page 5, the estimated period of performance is listed as October 2026/January 2027 through October 2030/January 2031. Could you please confirm whether projects are required to be completed by the end of the stated period of performance (October 2030/January 2031), regardless of award execution date, or whether DOE expects project activities to be completed within a fixed duration (e.g., 48 months) following contract execution?\n \n","DOE anticipates awards to be completed within 48 months of the award start date. ","2026-04-17"]
[161,"2026-04-14","I wanted to confirm that an RUS loan can be used as a cost match under SPARK? I know that part 2 of the NOFO states that DOE loan guarantees are not eligible.","Federal loans may be used as cost share if authorized under the RUS loan terms.","2026-04-17"]
[162,"2026-04-14","We have three questions on SPARK. Thank you for your time!\n\nA.\tThe NOFO states that technical approaches of interest for Topic Area 3 include “Transmission Expansion and Upgrades: Substantially upgrade transmission lines and associated facilities to achieve at least a 50% increase in transfer capability….” Can you clarify if these project types would be in scope for Topic Area 3? 1) New transmission lines using advanced conductors along new transmission corridors, 2) New transmission lines using advanced conductors using existing transmission corridors, and 3) Rebuilds of existing transmission lines using advanced conductors using existing transmission corridors.\nB.\tFor Topic Area 3, if structural work is planned for towers to be used by an advanced conductor installed through a SPARK-funded project, can the structural work be utility-funded and not part of the federal project?\nC.\tFor a Topic Area 3 award, is a program structure available where a government entity is the prime recipient and invoice payments are made directly to a subrecipient/company? This assumes the prime recipient provides all necessary documentation as outlined in the NOFO.","A. Please reference Technical Approaches of Interest under Topic Area 3. Additionally, DOE will not provide feedback on what activities are eligible or not of interest under the NOFO. Applicants should read NOFO Part 1, including but not limited to, Sections III.E and III.F, to determine if activities are eligible.  B. Yes. C. No - all payments will be made to the prime recipient","2026-04-27"]
[163,"2026-04-15","Reserved",null,"2026-04-17"]
[164,"2026-04-15","We are working on a Topic Area 1 application. The concept paper has been submitted and is showing “Under Review.” When will the full application be available on eXCHANGE? If a concept paper is not encouraged, will that prevent a full application from becoming available? ","As discussed in the webinar, the concept paper feedback will go out around the end of April. Per the NOFO, “Applicants may submit an application even if they receive a notification discouraging them from doing so. By discouraging the submission of an application, DOE 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 an application that is unlikely to be selected for award negotiations.”","2026-04-17"]
[165,"2026-04-15","One of our portfolio companies is an ideal match for this grant. Unfortunately, we were just made aware of the garnt at last week's ARPA-E Summit in San Diego and the company has not filed a Concept Paper.\n\nWould it be possible to file that Concept Paper with you now to get an Encourage/Discourage?\n","In order to submit to the SPARK NOFO, you must have submitted a concept paper. That deadline has passed so you are not eligible to submit a full application.  ","2026-04-17"]
[166,"2026-04-15","The Environmental Questionnaire is shown as an attachment in the list of required documents but is not listed in the requirements of Section IV. Please confirm the Environmental Questionnaire is a requirement for submission. ","Yes, the Environmental Questionnaire is required as is shown on the '\"Summary of Application Requirements\" table in NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D(2).","2026-04-17"]
[167,"2026-04-16","We would like to ask for clarification on two items in the NOFO Part 1:\n1) Footnote 1 on pg 7: \"DOE cannot award a cooperative agreement to an eligible entity greater than “the total amount that the eligible entity has spent in the previous 3 years on efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events”. DOE will interpret “efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events” as those activities, technologies, equipment, and hardening measures eligible for award under this provision.\"\nWe would like to confirm that such documentation should be included in the required \"Report on Resilience Investments (Topic Area 1 only),\" or if such documentation needs to be provided elsewhere. If this is not the appropriate location, when and how do you prefer we provide such documentation?\n2) Per both Footnote 1 on pg 7 and the description of \"Report on Resilience Investments (Topic Area 1 only)\" on pg 43, could you please clarify the following:\nWhen should we consider the prior three-year window to begin? Three years before date of application submission? (e.g. May 20, 2023 - May 20, 2026) If not, please clarify the three-year submission window. Similarly, when should the 3-year forecast begin? On the date of submission (e.g. May 20, 2026 - May 20, 2029)\nCan you clarify any eligibility criteria for \"efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events?\"\n\nRegarding spending:\n- Should our report include capital only, or can O&M be included?\n- Should our report include budgeted or actuals, or both?\n- Should we use obligated or expended funds?\n- What is the required level of financial documentation required? (audited vs. estimated)","1.NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D provides a detailed description of the content for Applications to this NOFO.   NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D.2 provides a tabular summary of the required components of a Full Application.  \nThe Report on Resilience Investments is a distinct required component of an Application submitted in response to Topic Area 1.   NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D.8 details the required content for this report.  The Report on Resilience Investments must not exceed 10 pages.   It is not necessary nor desired to repeat this content elsewhere in the application.\n\nIn addition to submission of the report, applications to Topic Area 1 must include a PDAD that confirms the total amount (USD) of qualifying resilience investments that have been spent for the previous 3 years and the time period utilized for calculation of the reported amount by completing and certifying the PDAD.\n\n2.DOE has determined “in the previous 3 years” to mean 3 years prior to the application submission deadline date (e.g. May 20, 2023 – May 20, 2026).   Dates for the “current” and “future” efforts are at the applicants discretion to define.  \n\n3. Eligible investments for Topic Area 1 are eligible for inclusion in the Report on Resilience Investments.  To the extent possible, investments in the previous 3 years should be actual expended funds.  For current and future investments, budgeted costs are permissible.  \n\nAs described in NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D.8, “Applicants must submit a report detailing past, current, and future efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events.  The report must summarize any programs and related approved funding the Applicant has implemented over the past 3 years to reduce the likelihood of events when electric grid operations are disrupted; preventively shut off; or cannot operate safely due to extreme weather, wildfire, or a natural disaster.  The report must also summarize current and future efforts planned over at least the next 3 years to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events.”  Financial documentation to support the actual costs of investments is not requested nor desired.  \n ","2026-04-22"]
[168,"2026-04-16","If an entity is eligible to submit an application for both topic areas, can an entity that submitted a concept paper under Topic Area 1 change to apply under Topic Area 2 in the full application? ","Yes, you can SWITCH topic areas.  For instance, if you submitted under Topic Area 1 but have a project that also enables Smart Grid, you can INSTEAD submit under Topic Area 2.  Always ensure that you meet all requirements for a Topic Area before submitting, including eligibility, cost share, and scope/technical requirements, as well as applicable submission files.  For example, if you change and submit under Topic Area 2 instead of 1, you will also need to complete a Cybersecurity Plan.  ","2026-04-27"]
[169,"2026-04-16","Reserved",null,"2026-04-17"]
[170,"2026-04-18","1.\tThe concept paper deadline (April 2) has passed. Can we submit \nlate, or go directly to a full application (due May 20)?\n\n2.\tIs there a way to partner with a utility or national lab that \nalready submitted a concept paper under Topic 2? Our software could add \nto an existing team.\n\n3.\tIs there someone working on Topic 2 we could talk to about \ntechnical fit before we commit to a full application?\n\n\nHappy to provide demonstrations, benchmark data, or the article \nmanuscript.","In order to submit to the SPARK NOFO, you must have submitted a concept paper. That deadline has passed so you are not eligible to submit a full application.  \n\nDOE is not posting a Teaming List so we cannot assist you with partnering with other organizations.","2026-04-22"]
[171,"2026-04-20","Has the DOE sent encourage/discourage notifications for the concept papers submitted for the SPARK Grant (DE-FOA-0003580)?","As discussed in the webinar, the concept paper feedback will go out around the end of April. ","2026-04-22"]
[172,"2026-04-20","SPARK Team – I downloaded the Budget Justification Workbook (BJW) from eXchange, for DE-FOA-0003580, SPARK.\n\nin most tabs, BJW has room only for Budget Period 1. Only exceptions are the SF-424A tabs, which have room for budget periods 1-5.\n\nQuestion: should we complete all BJW tabs with entire budget, or only budget for year 1, subject to favorable GO decision near end of Budget Period 1, with 90-day advance request for authorization of funds for Budget Period 2-4? (Maximum period of performance is 4 years, so period 5 will be 0.)\n","Please read the instructions tab of the budget justification workbook. This tab is where you can choose  the number of budget periods, the budget justification tabs will then update.","2026-04-22"]
[173,"2026-04-20","Reserved",null,"2026-04-22"]
[174,"2026-04-21","On page 41 of the NOFO Part 1 document, the table notes under Appointments and Positions that there “should be no lapses in time over the past 10 years or since the age 18, whichever period is shorter”. For someone older than age 28, is the intent of this instruction that:\n\nA. All previous appointments/positions must be reported, even beyond 10 years. But the last 10 years should have no lapses.\nB. Only the last 10 years needs to be reported, and with no lapses.","For someone over age 28, identify ALL domestic and foreign professional appointments and positions, both inside and outside the primary organization but ensure that there are no lapses in time over the past 10 years.  (Per NOFO Part 1 Section IV.D.5 (DOE/NNSA NOFO-Specific Biosketch Instructions).","2026-05-01"]
[175,"2026-04-21","Reserved",null,"2026-04-22"]
[176,"2026-04-21","We are in the process of supporting a large utility in their application to the SPARK funding opportunity – Topic Area 1: Grid resilience.\n\nWe are aware of the requirement for the applicant’s Biosketeches and Current and Pending Support submissions to be completed in the SciENcv-compliant format. Could DOE please advise on the process of generating these documents in the SciENcv system. At this point to project team will comprise about 20 people who will individually have to create accounts and transfer their information into the system. Alternatively, could DOE please provide a template to be completed as an offline document, which will follow the SciENcv format.","The DOE specifically requires researchers to use SciENcv to prepare their Biosketches for most funding opportunities (including DE-FOA-0003580). While some older NIH forms might have offered offline templates, these are no longer available. ","2026-04-27"]
[177,"2026-04-24","During the Concept Paper Feedback Webinar at approximately the 14:00 mark, Brittley is discussing submitting an application under a different topic area than the topic area under which the concept paper had been submitted. She explains that you can do so as long as you meet all of the associated requirements of the topic area to which you are switching. She provides an example of switching to Topic Area 2 and calling out the associated cybersecurity plan that must be submitted for Topic Area 2. Can you please confirm that the cybersecurity plan is not required as part of the application and is only required during the award negotiation phase (as per NOFO pt 1, pg 56)?","Correct. A cybersecurity plan is not required as part of the application for this NOFO, but all projects selected under this NOFO must submit a cybersecurity plan during the award negotiation phase. Please see NOFO Part 1 Section VIII.3 for more information. ","2026-04-27"]
[178,"2026-04-24","I just received the discouragement notice citing ‘proposed concept/technology appears to be outside the scope of the NOFO’.\nIn the NOFO, it is clearly explained in this screenshot that storage directly integrated as control elements of ATT systems for resilience are eligible.\n\nDiscouragement could have been due to an entity submitting this concept paper as a small business. We intend to collaborate with a Tribe and a small utility company in the area for the full application. If either the Tribe or the small utility leads the full application, could this issue be resolved?","DOE received significantly more concept papers than can be selected with the funding available for this NOFO. By discouraging the submission of a Full Application, DOE intends to convey that the application is unlikely to be selected for award negotiations due to the relative strength of the concept paper and/or its alignment with DOE’s programmatic interests for this NOFO. Nevertheless, an applicant who receives a discouraged notification may still submit a Full Application. DOE will provide a full technical merit review to all eligible and compliant Full Applications.\n\nThe same entity that submitted the Concept Paper must submit the Full Application.","2026-04-27"]
[179,"2026-04-23","A multi-operating company utility submitted 3 concept papers for their respective territories (each operating company submitted their own concept paper), with a common technology, scope, and impact. All 3 concept papers were encouraged to proceed. \n\nThe company feels like the combined impact across all three operating companies would better demonstrate the ‘scaling’ aspect of the proposal  as it can demonstrate broader capacity and other benefits (as well as takes advantage of efficiencies through combination) which are extremely well aligned to the intent and overall objective of SPARK. With that being said:\n\n1. Are we able to combine the 3 encouraged scopes into a single full application for this full application? (Again, all 3 were encouraged and all 3 were effectively the same technology and proposal, just nuanced to their respective territory)\n2. If so, the company would like to leverage its parent company as the lead applicant in the full application, versus choosing a single operating company. This is due to better alignment with the utility’s regulatory and cost-sharing frameworks. Is this feasible? \n3. If so, we have 3 control numbers – would we select just one? \n","Yes, you can combine the scope from three encouraged concept papers into one single full application provided the applicant is one of the entities that submitted a concept paper since  an entity that did not submit a concept paper cannot  submit a full application.  This would mean you submit under one control number.  Please ensure you meet all eligibility and other requirements for the Topic Area you submit under, and consider the approximate DOE funding available for each Topic Area to ensure you do not stray from the anticipated maximum amount.  ","2026-04-27"]
[180,"2026-04-23","The NOFO states that all applicants that have a R&D function of their grant proposal have to fill out a biosketch.  It is not clear though if that applies to everyone or simply if you have an R&D component of your proposal.  We plan to submit via Topic Area 2 and at this time there is no R&D component.\n\nSo do we still have to do this?  And if so then who all needs to have a biosketch completed within our organization?\n","Per NOFO Part 1, Section IV.D.5, \"As part of the application, each Covered Individual at the applicant and subrecipient levels must submit a biographical sketch (Biosketch).\"  This is for every Covered Individual regardless of any R&D component.  The PID component, referenced in NOFO Part 2, Section IV.B.10 is only for R&D NOFOs.","2026-04-27"]
[181,"2026-04-23","We are moving forward with an application for Topic Area 3. Some of our partners in our application include rural cooperatives.  Does the 25% cost share apply to rural cooperatives in Topic Area 3 as well? ","The cost share exception for small utilities is only for Topic Area 1. ","2026-04-27"]
[182,"2026-04-23","Submitted a concept Paper via email","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-04-27"]
[183,"2026-04-24","Reserved",null,"2026-04-27"]
[184,"2026-04-24","We are preparing a Topic Area 1 (Grid Resilience) application in response to DE FOA 0003580.\nWe are seeking clarification to ensure the Locations of Work (LOW) spreadsheet is completed in a manner consistent with DOE expectations reconductoring projects.\nBased on our review of NOFO Parts 1 and 2 and the posted Questions and Answers on Infrastructure eXCHANGE, our understanding is that:\n•\tFor projects spanning multiple miles without a single representative location, it is acceptable to leave the Address field blank in the LOW.\n•\tThe LOW should identify the cities and states affected, without listing individual structures or mileposts.\n•\tFor projects crossing multiple jurisdictions, it is acceptable to use separate rows by state or representative cities, consistent with the Concept Paper.\n\nWe would also appreciate clarification on whether DOE expects the LOW to include the location of the prime recipient’s management and engineering activities (e.g., project management and design), or whether the LOW should be limited to physical locations where field work will occur for reconductoring and related activities.\n","There is a Location of Work template in eXCHANGE that is required for this file.  For field locations spanning multiple miles, you can leave the Address blank but you must complete the fields for all Cities, States, and Zip Codes affected.  You should separate rows by state or representative cities.  \n\nLocations of work should include not only field work but also the location of the prime recipient’s management and engineering activities (e.g., project management and design).","2026-04-27"]
[185,"2026-04-24","Can the applicant organization change between the concept paper and the full application if the project team remains substantially the same?","No. The same entity that submitted the Concept Paper must submit the Full Application.","2026-04-27"]
[186,"2026-04-23","Reserved",null,"2026-04-27"]
[187,"2026-04-27","Do Subrecipient with less than $500,000 cost need to provide all the required forms (LOC, lobbying form, etc.)?","The $500,000 threshold is specific to  the subrecipient budget justification workbook. If a subrecipient's total proposed budget does not exceed $500,000, then the form is not required but can be requested during negotiations if the project is selected. ","2026-05-07"]
[188,"2026-04-28","I wanted to clarify the summary slide for public release requirements. In Part 1 of the NOFO, the summary slides indicate a maximum length of two pages. In Part 2, however, it states that applicants must provide a single slide summarizing the proposed projects, while the template itself appears to include two slides. \n\nCould you please confirm whether the maximum length is two pages? Also, is use of the template required, or is it simply strongly recommended?\n","Per NOFO Part 1, the summary slides indicate a maximum length of two pages.  Applicants should utilize the provided template which includes two pages.","2026-05-01"]
[189,"2026-04-28","Will you be providing details on how many concept papers were submitted versus how many encouraged by Topic Area? In previous rounds of this funding, numbers were provided and it was helpful to understand just how competitive/popular the funding is.","DOE does not anticipate providing that information for this Round.","2026-05-01"]
[190,"2026-04-28","Is the SciENcv (Science Experts Network Curriculum Vitae) required, particularly for non acadmic project team members? We note that recent DOE NOFO including  he Mines and Metals Capacity Expansion 3583 made the use of a particular format optional for resumes, and the SCineCV requirement seems even less applicable here to non technical and industry project team members.\n\nWe are further concerned that requiring a potentially inapplicable form instead of just asking for the required information may violate the Paperwork Reduction Act, which already requires agencies to minimize paperwork burden, and the spirit of recent executive orders directing less unnecessary regulatory requirements, including the  March 2025 order “Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy.\"\n","Per NOFO Part 1, Section IV.D.5, \"As part of the application, each Covered Individual at the applicant and subrecipient levels must submit a biographical sketch (Biosketch).\"  This is for every Covered Individual regardless of any R&D component.  The PID component, referenced in NOFO Part 2, Section IV.B.10 is only for R&D NOFOs.","2026-05-01"]
[191,"2026-04-28","I seek clarification regarding concept paper submission for an infrastructure project that, achieves most of the goals in the SPARK solicitation to serve 50 million Citizens in Florida, Georgia, Alabama.\nWe have a UHVDC transmission study, and Virtual Twin assessment, system impact study, in need of DOE financial assistance:","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-05-01"]
[192,"2026-04-28","Reserved",null,"2026-05-01"]
[193,"2026-04-28","A utility noted this on the PDAD form:\nPer IIJA section 40101(e)(2) (C) APPLICATION LIMITATIONS. —An eligible entity may not submit an application for a grant provided by the Secretary under subsection (c) and a grant provided by a State or Indian Tribe pursuant to subsection (d) during the same application cycle.\n\nTherefore, is the eligible entity a Subawardee/contractor under an application submitted under IIJA Section 40101(d), ALRD 2736?  If “YES”, please describe the differences between the SPARK NOFO 3580 application (40101(c)) and the ALRD 2736 (40101(d)) applications in the box below: [...]\n\nDoes this 40101d application fall into the same “application cycle” as SPARK? Is the utility able to apply for SPARK funding this year, given that they received 40101d funding from an earlier fiscal year? \n\nOur read of this is that since 40101d was under an older FY than for SPARK, the \"application cycles\" should be different. Additionally, from an FAQ posted for 40101d back in 2024 (https://netl.doe.gov/sites/default/files/2024-09/40101d%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions_09172024.pdf), it looks like applicants are only disallowed from submitting the same project under 40101c and 40101d in the same \"application cycle.\"\n\nAs stated in the IIJA, an eligible entity may not submit an application for a grant provided by the Secretary under subsection (c) and a grant provided by a State or Indian tribe pursuant to subsection (d) during the same application cycle. Can DOE provide more clarity and guidance on this issue?\n\nAn eligible entity is not allowed to submit the same application for a grant under IIJA Section 40101(c) and Section 40101(d) in the same application cycle. DOE considers a \"grant\" to have a specific scope (i.e., a unique project). Accordingly, an eligible entity may not submit a grant application with the same scope under both Sections 40101(c) and 40101(d) in the same application cycle. Eligible entities can submit proposals to both Sections 40101(c) and 40101(d) in the same application cycle as long as they are separate scopes of work that address different resilience measures.\n\nIs this correct?\n","Regardless of the application cycle/round, an eligible entity cannot submit the same application/with same scope under both a 40101(c) NOFO and a 40101(d) ALRD.  ","2026-05-01"]
[194,"2026-04-29","Good morning, NETL SPARK Team! Two more questions.\n\n1.\tBABAA Exemptions for Prime Awardees – In SPARK NOFO, p 44, “Buy America Preference does not apply to prime recipients that are for-profit entities.”\na.\tPrime recipient / applicant is a for-profit entity and, if awarded, will be exempt from BABAA.\nb.\tPresumably, that exemption flows down to contractors. Contractors would also be exempt from BABAA.\nc.\tPlease confirm.\n2.\tConcept Paper Webinar – For TA2 (IIHA-40107), webinar stated that Applications need to meet a minimum Technical Readiness Level (TRL) of 7 (out of 9). Applications that incorporate ATT or HPC need minimum of only 6 (of 9).\na.\tIn the portal, I don’t see a place to select TRL scoring. Where would that be entered?","1. Per DOE Financial Assistance Letter (FAL) 25-08:  If BABA is included in the prime award, it must be flowed down to all subrecipients regardless of entity type; conversely, if BABA is not included in the prime award, then it does not apply to any subrecipients, even if they a non-Federal entity to whom BABA would normally apply.\n2. Applicants do not identify specific TRLs in the portal or in their application.  DOE can discern the TRL based on the specific technology and scope provided.  ","2026-05-01"]
[195,"2026-04-29","I am aware that DOE cannot provide specific feedback on proposed activities. However, we are looking for a definition of “Ancillary Hardening Upgrades” under Topic Area 1, as it is not clearly defined in the NOFO. To achieve the 50% capacity increase, necessary but costly infrastructure is needed, to accommodate reconductoring efforts. ","DOE does not have a single, standalone “ancillary hardening upgrade” definition. For this NOFO we are looking for initiatives that enhance overall reliability and resilience while incorporating reconductoring and system upgrades.","2026-05-12"]
[196,"2026-04-29","Is a PID or Research Security Training Required for this NOFO?","Per section IV.D(5) of the NOFO Part 1, \"The PID field is required for all NOFOs and Awards that encompass R&D activities or technical assistance to support R&D activities. \nFor NOFOs and Awards that do not meet the criteria above, the PID field is optional.\"\nPer section IV.B(11) \"The Research Security Training Required is required for R&D applications. \"\nThis does not apply as these applications are non R&D.","2026-05-01"]
[197,"2026-04-29","DOE Team,\nTEA\nRegarding the requirement for the Cost Benefit and Support of Wide Scale Adoption section of the Technical Volume to include a Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA) of the proposed technology solution:\n\nDo you have any guidance or examples for developing a TEA for applicants of Topic Area 1 that do not have R&D components?\n\nFor example, previous NOFO DE-FOA-3605 provided NETL links that were deemed as potentially helpful for that type of project.\n\n","Here are two links to resources that are potentially helpful:  1) The manuscrupt titled \"A Cost-Benefit Framework to Evaluate Capacity Upgrade Options in Overhead Line Transmission Planning\":    https://www.osti.gov/biblio/3020441 and 2) REFA – Reconductoring Economic & Financial Analysis Tool:\nhttps://gridintegration.lbl.gov/refa","2026-05-07"]
[198,"2026-04-29","We received guidance under another DOE grant program that items that become attached to and part of the electric grid should be itemized in the budget workbook on the Supplies tab, regardless of per-unit cost. Should applicants populate the budgets required for the SPARK applications consistent with this guidance?","Yes this is appropriate as often these items are consumed in use.  If DOE needs these items recategorized we will contact you during negotiations.","2026-05-01"]
[199,"2026-04-29","We have the following question related to the Report on Resilience Investments for TA-1 applicants:\n\nRegarding the “efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events”, would a list of broad categories be sufficient, or is a line-item list required?  For example, could activities to replace poles be cited broadly, along with a dollar amount, or would specific projects need to be outlined?  Or, as another example, would a dollar amount for the category of a ‘system capital rebuild’ be sufficient?","At a minimum the Report on Resilience Investments should include the Investment Type and a detailed description of the activities/investments, the date of the activities/investments and the costs associated with the activities/investments.","2026-05-07"]
[200,"2026-04-30","We are submitting a grant application for the SPARK grant program – Topic Area 1.  We have seen some conflicting information on whether RUS funding can be used for the cost match.  I wanted to confirm that RUS funding is allowable as the 75% cost match if we do the SPARK project as part of our construction work plan through RUS.","Please reference the previous lines where this question was already answered (Questions 99 & 161)","2026-05-01"]
[201,"2026-04-30","Good morning DOE,\nIs there any option to turn in whitepaper and full application by 5/20/2026?\nBACKGROUND:\nOur organization is working with severely underfunded cities and state of RI to add grid resiliency to national security as well as hospitals/fire/police/schools.. all together.\n","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-05-01"]
[202,"2026-05-01","I am writing to request confirmation regarding the appropriate approach for submitting Environmental Questionnaires (EQs) for linear utility facilities under the SPARK Funding Opportunity.\n \nI have reviewed the applicable SPARK NOFOs as well as the posted Questions and Answers, and I understand that Environmental Questionnaires must be submitted for each location where physical work will occur. Our project consists of physical activities occurring along a continuous, linear transmission corridor, with similar scope of work and environmental setting throughout, and all work is proposed to occur within existing utility rights of way.\n \nBased on our review of the NOFO language, the EQ instructions, and the posted Q&A, we understand that DOE may consider a continuous corridor with a uniform scope of work and environmental characteristics as a single “location of activities,” provided that the full corridor extent is clearly described and accompanied by an appropriate location map.\n \nTo ensure alignment with DOE expectations and avoid any compliance issues during NEPA review, could you please confirm whether a single Environmental Questionnaire may be submitted to cover a continuous transmission corridor under these circumstances, or whether DOE would prefer separate EQs for each community or segment identified in the Locations of Work spreadsheet?\n \nWe appreciate your guidance and want to ensure our submission is fully consistent with DOE requirements prior to finalizing our application materials.\n","You can submit this on one Environmental Questionnaire for purposes of the Full Application submission.  If DOE needs you to instead submit the information on separate EQs, if selected and during negotiations, we will request that of you at that time.  ","2026-05-07"]
[203,"2026-05-01","Under Topic Area 2, NOFO Part 1 Section III.B (citing 42 U.S.C. §\n17386(c)) excludes \"expenditures for travel, lodging, meals, or other personal costs\" from qualifying Smart Grid investments. Our project requires field crews to install hardware on the utilities' infrastructure, which cannot be performed without domestic travel and per diem. Can you confirm whether this type of travel and per diem is allowable under TA2, or how DOE prefers these costs be treated?\n","The prohibition for TA2 is on personal travel costs, not on official travel costs for the project which are “necessary and reasonable for the performance of the Federal award\".  For addtional information please see 2 CFR 200.403(a).","2026-05-07"]
[204,"2026-05-04","The SciENcv format is not easily accessible by Individuals that work in Industry, respectfully request we can use all the same fields as those in the SciENcv format including signatures, without having to register in the portal?"," As we understand the SciENcv format may not be easily accesible, the DOE specifically requires researchers to use SciENcv to prepare their Biosketches for most funding opportunities (including DE-FOA-0003580).","2026-05-07"]
[205,"2026-05-04","I am writing to clarify if the Summary Slides will be for public release. In NOFO Part 1 in the Summary of Application Requirements table, it is noted as “Summary Slides for Public Release” but in NOFO Part 2 it does not explicitly state if the slides are for public release. \n\nCan you please confirm?\n","Summary slides, or the informtion contained therein, may be released publicly.","2026-05-07"]
[206,"2026-05-04","Reserved",null,"2026-05-07"]
[207,"2026-05-04","Dear Madam or Sir – With regard to the ‘Letters of Commitment’ requirement of formal application submittals, is this required by the Prime Application themselves (essentially to memorialize what’s summarized in SF-424, Budget Justification Form, and PDAD), or is this only required by additional formal partners or sub-recipients whom will/may share in a portion of the federal funding provided (and the non-federal funding requirement) if awarded?","Letters of commitment are required from all subrecipients and all third-party cost share providers. Refer to NOFO Part 2 Section IV.B.2","2026-05-12"]
[208,"2026-05-05","We intend to finance our non-federal cost share for SPARK through a loan. Are capitalized interest costs associated with that loan eligible as either non-federal match or allowable grant costs under 2 CFR Part 200?","Interest costs are generally unallowable (as cost share and DOE share) consistent with 2 CFR Part 200.449 and FAR Part 31.205-20","2026-05-12"]
[209,"2026-05-05","We are interested in submitting an application for the Speed to Power funding opportunity, specifically related to worker and industry training and test laboratory development. We responded to the Request for Information (RFI) in November.\n\nWe did not submit a Concept Paper during the April submission window and would appreciate clarification on whether this omission fully disqualifies us from submitting a full application, or if our application may still be considered.\n","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-05-07"]
[210,"2026-05-05","Hello. I also left a voicemail for Jessica Perry. BPA has been approached by a potential entity that intends to apply for a SPARK grant. The entity originally asked whether BPA could be a “sub-applicant” in the grant application. Given BPA is a federal entity, even with our non-appropriated, ratepayer funding, in the past BPA has been excluded from being a sub-applicant in these types of grants. In the slides describing the requirements for application, there is a statement which states that the DOE labs may not be proposed as a sub-recipient which seems to also suggest that BPA also may not be proposed as a sub-recipient. \n\nIt’s not clear if that exclusion also extents to being a “participant” only where BPA would be a participant for purposes of information sharing among the participants?\n\nBPA would be willing to be a participant with the entity, but we do not want to inadvertently cause the entity to be ineligible because we are mentioned in the application. Do you know whether there is an expectation that entities like BPA would or would not be able to participate?\n","DOE Power Marketing Administrations (PMAs) are not eligible as a Prime or Subrecipient. PMAs could be a \"participant\" that does not receive any funding.  ","2026-05-12"]
[211,"2026-05-05","Is it acceptable to submit the most recent 861M (monthly) report, or do you require an 861 Annual Report?","Recipients are required to submit the EIA-861 Annual Electric Power Industry Report. Please submit the most recently submitted version of the report.  ","2026-05-07"]
[212,"2026-05-06","Under category 3, is it Is it possible to add a sister state government department (a department within the same state government) as co-applicant to an application?  ","DOE will only enter into an agreement with one entity using one UEI.  A co-applicant would be considered a sub-recipient/partner.","2026-05-12"]
[213,"2026-05-06","Reserved",null,"2026-05-12"]
[214,"2026-05-06","Is it permissible for a project team (e.g., a utility and technology vendor) to enter into a contract or master services agreement and begin preparatory activities such as software development, planning, or other non-construction work prior to award selection? If so, what are the restrictions associated with engaging in such activities? What are the potential restrictions if the early activities are funded entirely through non-federal sources (e.g., cost share)?  Additionally, would entering into such a contract or conducting early activities affect the project's eligibility for reimbursement post-award or DOE's ability to complete required reviews such as NEPA, particularly where activities are limited to non-environmentally impactful work, such as software development and planning?\n","See NOFO Part 2 Section IV.D.2.  Pre-award costs would not be allowable (either as DOE Share or Cost Share) if incurred prior to the Selection Official signing the Selection Statement and Analysis. That section of the NOFO also discusses restrictions on pre-award costs related to NEPA.  ","2026-05-12"]
[215,"2026-05-07","We are preparing an application under Topic Area 1 of the NOFO and would appreciate clarification on the “Report on Resilience Investments” requirement. Specifically, should the report capture company-wide resilience investments, or is it sufficient to include investments limited to relevant business units (e.g., Transmission or Grid Modernization) that are directly aligned with the proposed project? Thank you.","The Report on Resilience Investments should only include the documented investments of the entities directly involved in the application. ","2026-05-12"]
[216,"2026-05-08","I am writing to inquire about DE-FOA-0003580: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK).\nI noticed that the Concept Paper submission deadline was April 2, 2026, and the Full Application submission deadline is listed as May 20, 2026. Could you please confirm whether this funding opportunity is still open for Full Application submissions?\nAdditionally, I would like to ask whether an applicant who did not submit a Concept Paper is still eligible to submit a Full Application, or whether Concept Paper submission was required in order to proceed.\n","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-05-12"]
[217,"2026-05-10","On the “Upload and Submit” tab on the Exchange site, the SF-LLL has a red asterisk indicating the form is required. But the NOFO instructs that the SF-LLL is needed only if there are lobbying activities to disclose; otherwise, the OMB 4040-0013 form is appropriate. Will the Exchange site allow submission if an SF-LLL is not uploaded? If not, please clarify how it is best to proceed.","Refer to NOFO Part 2 Section IV.B.18(b) \"Lobbying Activities\".  If you do not have Lobbying Activities you will complete and upload the OMB 4040-0013 to the SF-LLL field.","2026-05-12"]
[218,"2026-05-10","I am writing in regard to the notice of funding provided that the date for official submission of concept has passed, yet we are still within the window of submitting a full application. \n\nIf so allowed, I would like to provide a formal concept of project and scope, how we plan to manage and accomplish the goal, and the potential cost of development of the national electrical grid system to accommodate current and future energy requirements.\n","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-05-12"]
[219,"2026-05-11","If the grant requires forms that are not applicable to state agencies, what should we upload in place of those documents?\nFor example, for the Lobbying Activities Form (SF-LLL) and the Impacted Indian Tribe Documentation, should we upload a blank form, a statement indicating the requirement is not applicable, or leave those sections blank?\n","If a file/form is not applicable then you would not upload it.  However, for the SF-LLL please refer to NOFO Part 2 Section IV.B.18(b) \"Lobbying Activities\".  If you do not have Lobbying Activities you must complete and upload the OMB 4040-0013 to the SF-LLL field.","2026-05-12"]
[220,"2026-05-11","•\tThe NOFO Part 1 document summary of application requirements table lists the Waiver for Foreign Entity Participation and the Foreign Work Waiver. Are these documents required even if we have no foreign entity participation or foreign work? Or do we only submit them if we have a need for a waiver?\n•\tThe NOFO Part 1 document summary of application requirements table does not list a Community Benefits Plan. Meanwhile, the Part 2 document has an entire section on it. The section references a template on eXCHANGE that does not exist, and links to a DOE link that has been removed by the administration. Is a community benefit plan a requirement of this application? \n•\tThe Locations of Work template in the eXCHANGE is very simple, with a few columns to fill out. The NOFO Part 2 document encourages applicants to use the template but provides a list of information to provide if the template is not used. That list of information is far more extensive than what is contained in DOE’s template. Should we just defer to the template in this case? \n","1. These documents are required if a request for Foreign Work Waiver applies.\n2. Please ensure you are looking at the appropriate NOFO Part 2 document for SPARK NOFO DE-FOA-0003580 and not documents from an old or outdated notice of funding opportunity.  The SPARK NOFO Part 2 does not have a Community Benefits section.\n3. It is up to the applicant whether to use the template or provide the information requested in the NOFO.  Generally, more information on Locations of Work is preferred from a DOE perspective.","2026-05-12"]
[221,"2026-05-11","Is it required to include personnel costs for the project if the expenditures that were included in the Concept Paper for project cost estimate were only for supplies/equipment and contractual costs? In other words, does the Recipient have to include personnel costs in their budget? ","All costs necessary to complete the proposed project should be included in the budget justification.  Costs must be reasonable, allocable, and allowable and within scope of the proposed project. ","2026-05-18"]
[222,"2026-05-12","For a Topic 3 application, if a public entity as a lead applicant names a transmission owner and an ATT vendor as both subrecipients or anticipated subrecipients, would the vendor still need to be selected under a later procurement process in compliance with the CFR if the DOE selects the application for award? Please assume a transaction amount over $350,000.","Procurement Standards in 2 CFR 200 are required regardless of when a vendor is identified, and must be followed in order for the Recipient to be in compliance with the regulations and for costs to be reasonable, allowable and allocable.  ","2026-05-19"]
[223,"2026-05-12","The requirements section on page 23 of the NOFO states \"Supporting documentation can include reports, studies, or supplemental analysis quantifying the expected benefit.\" \n\nAre applicants allowed to upload these reports/supporting documentation as part of the application? Could you point us to where in the eXCHANGE application we would upload these reports? I did not see a section for this specifically. Do these reports count against any page limits?\n","Supporting information or documentation can be summarized and/or referenced within the Technical Volume of the application and is subject to the page limits outlined in the NOFO.  Uploading of separate reports, studies, or supplemental analysis for review is not permissible.","2026-05-18"]
[224,"2026-05-12","If an award is received and reimbursements begin, are the reimbursement payments made dollar-for-dollar until the maximum award is fully paid, or are reimbursements made in proportion to the Calculated Federal Share of Total Project Costs? I've provided an example and 2 scenarios I thought could be possible.\n\nExample:\nIf the total project cost is $300,000,000 and the awarded amount is $100,000,000:\n•\tCalculated Federal Share of Total Project Costs: 33.3%\n•\tCalculated Non-Federal Cost Share of Total Project Costs: 66.6%\nScenario 1: Award payments are made dollar-for-dollar until the maximum award amount ($100,000,000) is reached. This could potentially result in the full award amount being fully paid before the project is completed, assuming that the majority of expenses are early in the project period.\n\nScenario 2: Award payments are made at a rate equal to the Calculated Federal Share (33.3%). This scenario would likely take the recipient the entire period of performance along with having reportable expenses equal to the Non-Federal Cost Match in order to receive the full award amount.\n \nCould you please clarify the reimbursement process and rate, and let us know whether either of the scenarios above accurately reflects how reimbursements are calculated?","Costs are generally shared in proportion to cost share percentages. So, in the example, if the cost share ratio is 33.3% federal and 66.6% non-federal, then the cost on each invoice would be 33.3% federal and 66.6% non-federal because the Recipient is required to meet its cost share requirement even if the project ends early or is not funded to completion.  Ensuring cost share is met throughout the award mitigates the risk that the Recipient wouldn't meet its cost share requirement, and would owe DOE a refund.  DOE may consider different approaches to the reimbursement approach during negotiations, if requested by the Recipient.","2026-05-18"]
[225,"2026-05-12","I am supporting an application under Topic Area 1, with an applicant that is eligible as a small utility.\n\nWe are having difficulty locating an Excel version of the most recent EIA Form 861. When logging into the EIA portal, the form is only available for download as a PDF, and when reformatted to Excel, the formatting does not transfer correctly. In the portal and per the NOFO, this form must be submitted as a MS Excel file. \n\nCould you please advise on the best way to submit this information, or how to download an official Excel version of the form?\n","The Form (Excel file) for the EIA 861 form can be found at the following location: https://www.eia.gov/survey/#eia-861   Note the instructions for completing the form is a .pdf document but the actual form is an Excel file.","2026-05-18"]
[226,"2026-05-12","As a follow-up to Question #198 (which seems to imply that all tangible personal property that become attached to and part of the electric grid) , could you confirm whether capital assets that meet the definition of \"Equipment\" per 2 CFR 200 should be included on Tab d. Equipment or e. Supplies?","If an item meets the definition of equipment then it is appropriate to list as equipment. If a project is selected and DOE determines this item needs to be re-categorized that will be discussed during negotiations.","2026-05-18"]
[227,"2026-05-13","Due to the complexity of the technical solution and scope of the proposed project, the team has developed an extensive risk analysis to support DOE’s award decision. \nIn order to meet the 20-page limit for the Technical Volume, are appendices permitted as long as they contain detailed, packaged information to enhance the Technical Volume?","Supporting information or documentation can be summarized and/or referenced within the Technical Volume of the application and is subject to the page limits outlined in the NOFO.  Uploading of separate reports, studies, or supplemental analysis for review is not permissible.","2026-05-18"]
[228,"2026-05-13","When completing the Proposals and Active Projects section of the CPS creation, the site has a field named \"Total Anticipated Proposals and Projects Amount\".  By the name alone, it seems to indicate the TOTAL project cost.  However, when you hover over the box, there is text that says, \"Enter the total award amount for the entire period of performance....\".   Regardless, once this field is populated and a CPS pdf is created, the amount entered is displayed on the PDF file as the \"Total Anticipated Proposal/Project Amount\".\n\nCan you please clarify what amount should be entered here.","Please enter the total anticipated proposal/project amount.","2026-05-18"]
[229,"2026-05-13","We understand that the concept paper deadline for this opportunity was April 2, 2026. However, after reviewing the opportunity further, our team wanted to reach out respectfully to determine whether there may still be any opportunity for participation in the current funding cycle, or whether any additional submission pathway remains available.\nWhile reviewing the opportunity listing on Grants.gov, we noticed that although the opportunity currently remains listed as “Posted,” the “Package” section indicates that there are currently no opportunity packages available for submission through Grants.gov. We therefore wanted to clarify whether:\n•\tsubmission of a concept paper was mandatory in order to access the full application stage;\n•\tthe application process is being handled through another DOE portal or workspace;\n•\tand whether there is currently any available access link or submission pathway associated with this opportunity.\nOur proposal relates to waste-to-energy and localized power generation concepts with intended contributions toward energy recovery, reduction of landfill waste, and potential support for grid resiliency and localized energy infrastructure.\nOur organization already maintains a Grants.gov registration, we would sincerely appreciate any guidance you may be able to provide regarding the submission process or whether participation may still be possible under this funding opportunity.","DOE is using https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/ not Grants.gov for the receipt of concept papers and applications.  Notwithstanding, per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.\n\n","2026-05-18"]
[230,"2026-05-14","Our Finance team was completing the Budget Justification Workbook for this application, and they noted that the SF-424A is formulated to round to the nearest whole number whereas on the summary tab, there isn’t a round feature in the formulas. This will result, when finalizing the budget justification, a variance between both tabs. They wonder if an updated budget justification form is available where the summary tab can be rounded.","The budget justification workbook that is available for use in exchange is the current version. Per the instructions on the summary tab of budget justification - the summary tab will auto populate with information provided from tabs a through j. Budget information is not enterd on the smmary tab. Each budget period is rounded to the nearest dollar. ","2026-05-18"]
[231,"2026-05-14","DOE – If we submitted a qualified & accepted (and encouraged) Concept Paper targeted toward Topic Area 1, is it allowable to switch our Application to target Topic Area 2?","Yes, you can SWITCH topic areas.  For instance, if you submitted under Topic Area 1 but have a project that also enables Smart Grid, you can INSTEAD submit under Topic Area 2.  Always ensure that you meet all requirements for a Topic Area before submitting, including eligibility, cost share, and scope/technical requirements, as well as applicable submission files.  For example, if you change and submit under Topic Area 2 instead of 1, you will also need to complete a Cybersecurity Plan if selected and during negotiations.  ","2026-05-18"]
[232,"2026-05-14","The Budget Justification Workbook available under Application Forms and Templates includes a note regarding indirect rates on the summary page. The note indicates a maximum indirect rate of 15% per DOE Policies PF 2025-26 and PF 2025-27. When reviewing these DOE policies, each has a note saying, “Effective January 23, 2026, with the signing of H.R. 6938, the “Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026,” this Policy Flash is no longer in effect.”\n\nSince these policies are no longer in effect, are we able to propose actual indirect rates that are higher than 15% for this NOFO?\n","That is correct, the 15% maximum indirect rate is no longer in effect. ","2026-05-18"]
[233,"2026-05-15","Could you please tell me what is the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number that pertains to the IIJA - SPARK grant under FOA-0003580?","See page 6 of NOFO Part 1.  The CFDA/Assistance Listing number is 81.254 Grid Infrastructure Deployment and Resilience.","2026-05-18"]
[234,"2026-05-15","I came across a recent Department of Energy opportunity, Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK) and noticed that the deadline for Concept Papers (April 2, 2026) has passed. Seeing if it is still possible to submit a full application by May 20, 2026 if a Concept Paper was not submitted.","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-05-18"]
[235,"2026-05-15","First, for the EIA-861 requirement, the application instructions state the attachment should be uploaded as an .xls or .xlsx file. The EIA system, however, generates the official report as a PDF export. The website would not let me upload a PDF so I created an .xls using the PDF as a guide. Can you check if I did this correctly? \nSecond, regarding the lobbying forms, the application instructions reference the SF-LLL form. My understanding is that the SF-LLL is only required if there are lobbying activities to disclose, and that applicants without lobbying activities would instead submit the Certification Regarding Lobbying form (OMB 4040-0013). Can you confirm? I Uploaded the Certification -0013 because there are no lobbying activities to report.\n","1  - This has been updated in exchange, you can upload either a .xls or PDF file.\n\n2 - Yes that is correct. Per NOFO Part 2 Section IV.B.18 Recipients and Subrecipients that have no lobbying activities to disclose should use form OMB 4040-0013.","2026-05-18"]
[236,"2026-05-17","The relevant text is in NOFO Part 2, Section V, item 5 (Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs):\n\n\"Applicants must provide a separate budget for each year of support requested and a cumulative budget for the total project period of performance.\"\n\nIf we choose one (1) Budget Period per the NOFO -- like we are using for GRIP, then we get 1 BP in the Budget Justification document.\n\nWhere do we put the Year by Year Budget? \n\nDo you want us to select four (4) Budget Periods  and enter that for each year?\n","The overall project should be one budget period but will have go/no-go decision points on an annual basis.  Please select four budget periods to show the budget on an annual basis.","2026-05-18"]
[237,"2026-05-17","4. Project Management Plan \nRefer to the NOFO Part 1, Technical Volume for specific requirements. If required, applicants must submit a PMP. The PMP template is available in eXCHANGE, which is provided for the administrative convenience of the applicant. Applicants are strongly encouraged to use the template to complete their PMP. If the template is not used, the PMP must address all the elements described in NOFO Part 1, Technical Volume, and as outlined in the template. \n\nAm I missing a template?","Per the NOFO, a PMP is not required for the application and a template is not provided in the \"Application forms and templates\" in Exchange for FOA-0003580. ","2026-05-18"]
[238,"2026-05-18","The NOFO calls for a file named _Resumes but the biosketches, as certified documents, cannot be combined.  Can we submit them individually?","Wherever possible, resumes should be combined into one file.  Files that cannot be combined can be submitted individually. ","2026-05-19"]
[239,"2026-05-18","It is quite confusing how there are so many different titles noted across required application documents and on Infrastructure portal. \n\nThis said, can you please clarify or make recommendation into expectations or preferences involving the following roles and titles?\n\n               SF-424 Template:\n-\tSF-424: Includes ‘Applicant Information’ section with ‘Name and Contact Info of Person to be contacted’ \no\tShould this be same as ‘Business Point of Contact’ or ‘Principal Investigator’?\n-\tSF-424: Includes ‘Authorized Representative’ at end of template on final page (hover over signature cell says ‘AOR’) \no\tShould this be an actual ‘Authorized Person’ of applicant Company (whom may not have Grants.gov account)?\no\tOr should this be ‘Business Point of Contact’ or ‘Principal Investigator’ (whom probably both have Grants.gov account)?\no\tHovering over sign field on SF-424 has hover note indicating ‘AOR Signature: Completed by Grants.gov upon submission’\n\nDOE Funding Opportunity Exchange Portal:\n-\tGeneral tab: Includes ‘Lead Organization Information’ with ‘POC’ input fields for Name, Email, Address) \no\tShould this be same as ‘Business Point of Contact’ or ‘Principal Investigator’ (whom probably both have Grants.gov account)?\n-\tContact Information tab: Includes ‘Business Point of Contact’ and ‘Principal Investigator’ input fields (Name, Email, Address, Phone) \no\tShould this be same person whom signs bottom of last page of SF-424 since that sign field is apparently mean to be e-sign?\no\tHovering over sign field on SF-424 (as noted above) has note that ‘AOR Signature: Completed by Grants.gov upon submission’\no\tThis said, what is the expectation and/or preference for whom is listed on Infrastructure portal, and then whom signs SF-424?\n","SF-424 Template: \n- 8.f Name and contact information of person to be contacted - this can be either the Business Point of Contact (BPOC) or the Principal Investigator (PI), but should be the person to be contacted on matters involving the application per the instructions.\n\n- 21 Authorized Representative - to be signed and dated by the authorized representative of the applicant organization. This is an individual that is authorized to sign as the official representative of the applicant. Per the instructions a copy of the governing body's authorization must be on file in the applicant's office.\n\nDOE Funding Opportunity Exchange Portal:\n\n- General Tab - this can be either the BPOC or the PI, this should be the person to be contacted on matters involving the application. \n\n- Contact Information Tab - include the contact information for the Business Point of Contact and the Principal Investigator.  This contact information is not necessarily the same as the person signing the SF 424 as the AOR.  It depends on whether the BPOC or PI have authority within their organization to certify documents and information on behalf of their organization (i.e., whether the BPOC or PI are AORs).  Each organization is different.  \n\n","2026-05-18"]
[240,"2026-05-18","Hello, i was wanting to partner with a local company in my area working with energy. ","This funding opportunity does not have a Teaming Partner List.","2026-05-18"]
[241,"2026-05-18","The budget template includes language referencing PF 2025-25, -26, and -27, and flags indirect costs (fringe + indirect charges) at 15% or above as a red-line threshold against total project costs. Our understanding is that all three policy flashes were rescinded in January 2026, so we're a bit surprised to see the language still in the template.\n\nI'm wondering if either of you can provide some guidance on two questions:\n\n1. Should we treat the 15% cap as operative for this application, or does the rescission apply to new awards under this FOA?\n\n2. Regardless of the regulatory status — is there a policy-agnostic reason to keep indirect costs at or below 15% to improve our standing with reviewers, or is that not a factor in how applications are evaluated?\n","Please use the budget template available in exchange. The 15% cap is no longer in effect.","2026-05-18"]
[242,"2026-05-14","We have started to upload our files for the GRIP 3 NOFO. \n\nWe have 14 subrecipients and Sam.gov limits it to 10. For GRIP 1 and 2, they (DOE) were able to add another field to allow us to add the budget justification forms in for the remaining. \n\nPlease let us know if that is possible or if we should do something different.","We have adjusted the maximum allowed files for subrecipient budget justifications.","2026-05-18"]
[243,"2026-05-18","This is worth a direct clarifying question to DE-FOA-0003580@netl.doe.gov before submission tomorrow — specifically asking whether the cap is measured against total project costs or only the recipient's non-federal share for grants received under §40101(c).\n","As stated in NOFO Part 1, Section I.A.1 Funding Details, \"DOE cannot award a cooperative agreement to an eligible entity greater than “the total amount that the eligible entity has spent in the previous 3 years on efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events”; the cap refers to the limit on the DOE share (dollar value) of the award.","2026-05-19"]
[244,"2026-05-18","We have outstanding reconductoring technology but we missed the April 2nd deadline - how can we proceed? ","Per section IV.C of the NOFO Part 1, \"Applicants must submit a concept paper by the specified due date and time to be eligible to submit a full application. Applicants who do not submit a concept paper cannot submit an application.\" No additional concept papers will be accepted.","2026-05-19"]
[245,"2026-05-19","The NOFO calls for a file named _Resumes but the biosketches, as certified documents, cannot be combined.  Can we submit them individually?","Please see response in Row 241 (Q238).","2026-05-19"]
{"$rows_empty":226}
[null,null,null,"2026-03-18"]