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["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this funding opportunity announcement should be emailed to AFFECTBIL@hq.doe.gov. "]
[2,"All questions pertaining to S3 eXCHANGE should be emailed to InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov. Include FAC name and number in subject line."]
[3,"All questions and answers pertaining to this FAC will be posted on S3 eXCHANGE within this spreadsheet."]
[4,"DOE will attempt to respond to a question within 3 business days, unless a similar question and answer has already been posted in this spreadsheet. "]
[5,"All questions should be submitted not later than 3 business days prior to the application due date. Questions submitted after this date will not be answered."]
[6,"Questions are assigned a number in accordance with when they are reviewed by DOE.  "]
[7,"Questions are assigned a topic area by DOE when reviewed."]
[]
["TIPS"]
[1,"Applicants may sort questions and answers in the question tabs of this spreadhseet by selecting the drop-down box arrow on the column headers and selecting any of the listed attributes."]
[2,"Applicants may search for questions and/or keywords by holding CTRL+F on the keyboard and typing in a phrase or keyword."]

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["ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
["DE-FOA-0003026 - ASSISTING FEDERAL FACILITIES WITH ENERGY CONSERVATION TECHNOLOGIES (AFFECT) BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCUTRE LAW (BIL) ADVANCING NET-ZERO FEDERAL FACILITIES"]
["Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
["0 General Q&A",null,"Other","What is the purpose of a Federal Agency Representative registering in FEDConnect? Is this required to apply or receive funds? Is getting registered in FEDConnect required before the FAC application deadline?","Per Section VI.B.i. Registration Requirements the AFFECT BIL FAC requires Applicants to complete several one-time actions. For Applicants selected for a grant under this FAC, FedConnect is where all award documents and award modifications will be posted. While this registration is not required in order to submit your application, it will need to be completed as soon as possible if selected for award negotiations."]
["0 General Q&A",null,"Technical Topics","Can [a DOE National Laboratory] help [Federal agency] site staff develop an NOO that will be included as part of an AFFECT grant application?","Eligible AFFECT BIL FAC Applicants as described in footnote 8 of Section III.A. Eligible Applicants, are permitted to coordinate the development of application content, information, and documentation as required for submission with DOE National Laboratory, ESCO or Utility, or Contractor Partners as per their preference. The application, however, must be submitted by the Eligible Applicant Federal agency."]
["0 General Q&A",null,"Technical Topics","Is a federal agency eligible to submit an application under the AFFECT FAC where the work will be performed on Federal property housing a National Laboratory?","For a project limited to a Lab complex on Federally-owned land to be eligible under an application submitted by a Federal agency, other requirements must be met – particularly the requirement that the Federal agency pays the utility bills; receives the benefits of the reduced utility bills; contracts with and pays the ESCO; and contains a Measurement and Verification (M&V) Plan that tracks actual project savings; such that the Federal agency’s guaranteed utility bill savings exceed the ESCO payments for each year of the contract. This arrangement should be demonstrated in the application, e.g., in instances where actual utility bill payments are sent by the Lab to the utility, demonstrating via a Lab budget line item that the Federal agency is ultimately the source of utility bill payments, and therefore the beneficiary of utility bill savings."]
["0 General Q&A",null,"Application Content/Format","Regarding the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance, how should the following fields be filled out:\n\na) In Box 8a, Legal Name?\n\nb) For Boxes 8b and 8c, do an EIN/TN and UEI...what are they, or where do I find them?\n\nc) For Box 8d, is there a particular building...I should use,...or is a generic...address acceptable?\n\nd) Box 9?\n\ne) Box 10?\n\nf) Box 18 funding?","Applicants are instructed to complete the yellowed- and red-outlined boxes in submission of the SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance form only, and can disregard other, grayed-out boxes.\n\na) Applicants may utilize the name of the Federal agency applying for box 8a. Legal Name.\n\nb) Applicants are required to provide UEI information as described in Section IV.D. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management (SAM), completing any necessary registrations, in order for DOE to make an award to a selected Applicant.\n\nc) Applicants are free utilize a relevant address for the Federal agency applying, including the proposed project site, site developing the application, or Agency Headquarters.\n\nd) 'X: Other' - U.S. Government, Federal Agency\n\ne) U.S. Department of Energy.\n\nf) Box 18A. Federal - include only the DOE share requested in the application. Box 18B. Applicant - include the total Cost Leverage amount.\n\nIf selected for award, DOE may seek additional clarification or revisions to this form, as necessary."]
[1,"2023-03-23","Eligibility","In the Applications Specifically Not of Interest section “applications that propose the acquisition of one or more Electric Vehicles (EVs) unless the battery is being used extensively for load management, in which case AFFECT can only support the incremental vehicle cost associated with the batter” are specifically called out. For the FAC in question what is DOE’s position on Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment?","Per Section I.E., applications that propose the acquisition of one or more Electric Vehicles (EVs) are not of interest and not eligible under this FAC unless the battery is being used extensively for load management, in which case AFFECT can only support the incremental vehicle cost associated with the battery. \n\nElectric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) that provides managed charging solutions (controls when vehicles are charged or allows for bi-directional charging) may be included subject to guidelines provided in the Federal Energy Savings Performance Contracts: Frequently Asked Questions on the Scope of 42 U.S.C. §8287 et seq. (https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/federal-energy-savings-performance-contracts-frequently-asked-questions-scope-42)."]
[2,"2023-03-24","Other","How can we access previous AFFECT funding opportunities to view the projects awarded funding?","To learn about the previous AFFECT recipients, please see: https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/federal-energy-management-program-closed-funding-opportunities. You can also review past AFFECT FACs using the solicitation title links."]
[3,"2023-03-24","Eligibility","Is it allowable for Indian Health Service (IHS) to partner with a Tribe when applying and using these funds for Tribal or Joint Venture projects?","The Energy Policy Act of 1992 authorized the Secretary of Energy to establish a fund with the stated purpose of providing competitive grants to federal agencies to assist them in meeting the energy and water conservation requirements in Section 543 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. § 8253). Section 543 of NECPA requires federal agencies undertake certain energy and water conservation activities at federal buildings. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC. Only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC. See Section III.A of the FAC.\n\nPer Section III. D. \"FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.\"\n\nIt is recommended, IHS should evaluate the full FAC and make a determination whether to submit an application."]
[4,"2023-03-27","Cost Sharing","I am assuming that the latest AFFECT announcement on March 23, 2023, will require leveraged funding for a proposal to be considered...leveraged funding had to be “non-federal” such as ESPC and UESC. Will this non-federal funding requirement be in place for the March 23, 2023, proposal call?","Per Section II.B. Cost Leverage, “in accordance with the factors established in 42 U.S.C. § 8256(b)(3)(C) and (D), consideration of cost leverage evaluates the amount requested by the applicant federal agency as compared to the total investment cost of the subject project. Specifically, cost leverage refers to the amount of funding committed to the project by the agency requesting financial assistance and the extent that a proposal leverages financing from other non-federal sources (e.g., private financing used in a performance contract, incentives from utilities and/or state/local government, etc.).”\n\nAlso, for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, as outlined in Sections I.D.ii. and D.iii. respectively: “In evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds. Non-federal funds applied to projects proposed under Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3 may include (a) funding under an energy savings performance contract (i.e., ESPCs, ENABLE) and/or UESCs (collectively, energy performance contracts); (b) rebates and other financial incentives from utilities and state or local government agencies, and (c) other non-Federal funding sources as may be authorized for applicant agency. FEMP will also consider the amount of funding committed to the project by the applicant agency’s appropriations.”"]
[5,"2023-03-28","Registration Requirements","A) The AFFECT grant program states that a SAM.gov profile is required; however, we would like to confirm that it is required and used for Department of Defense (DoD) projects.\n\nB) If a SAM.gov profile is required, does it need to be setup prior to AFFECT grant project selection?\n\nC) If a SAM.gov profile is required, can the AFFECT team link us up with a POC from another DoD Service who has successfully received FEMP Grant funding so we can inquire how they set up their account and acquired funds?\n\nD) For past [AFFECT] funding recipients within the DoD, did those installations have a SAM.gov profile?","A) Per Section VI.B.i. Registration Requirements the AFFECT BIL FAC requires applicants to complete several one-time actions. For applicants selected for a grant under this FAC, SAM registration is one of those required, one-time actions, whose registration must be updated annually. This includes DoD projects.\n\nB) As provided in IV.D of the FAC FEMP may not make a federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable UEI and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not complied with the requirements by the time FEMP is ready to make a federal award, FEMP may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant. \n\nIt is recommended that applicants make every attempt to ensure SAM registration prior to submission of an application. However, FEMP recognizes there may be challenges that cannot be addressed in time. In such cases, the decision to apply is solely that of the applicant and if selected the responsibility of the applicant to comply with all requirements for awards distribution. \n     \nC) FEMP is not in a position to provide this service. DoD installations may have operating and accounting procedures that are specific to that installation (this would also be true between different DoD Services). As such, applicants who are encountering technical issues registering for SAM.gov are recommended to scroll down to the Customer Service Contact section (https://sam.gov/content/about/contact) on the SAM homepage, to connect with a SAM representative who is a subject-matter-expert, and should be able to guide the applicant through the process of registering or reactivating a SAM account as applicable.\n\nD) Per Section IV.D. “FEMP may not make a federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all appliable UEI and SAM requirements.”  As such, for a selected applicant to receive AFFECT grant award funds, they must have a registered, active SAM.gov account."]
[6,"2023-03-30","Eligibility","Under [Section II. D.] i. Topic Area 1 Final Deliverables, can an Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program (ERCIP) project fall under the third bullet?","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the very limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nAs provided in I.D.i of the FAC, Topic Area 1 includes projects executed through procurement means other than energy savings performance contracts and utility energy service contracts. It appears that a DOE ERCIP project would be eligible under Topic Area 1.\n\nInterested applicants are strongly encouraged to review the full AFFECT BIL FAC in detail, ensuring that they are at a minimum eligible to apply, can complete and submit an application's content requirements, and are submitting an application of interest that is in alignment with programmatic priorities, policy considerations, topic areas, and technical review criteria."]
[7,"2023-03-27","Application Content/Format","Which version of eProject Builder (ePB) Calculating Template must be used for the AFFECT grant program application analysis?","Per Section IV.B.vi., use the latest version of the ePB Calculating Template and submitted electronically in native MS Excel format as part of the application package. \n\nThe templates are available under ePB Help/Documentation, Data Templates at: https://eprojectbuilder.lbl.gov. Be sure to use the Calculating Template 3.0 and not the Non-Calculating Template 3.0."]
[8,"2023-03-28","Application Content/Format","Clarification is requested regarding the approving authority required to satisfy the Letter of Endorsement requirement.","Per Section IV.B.iv, “applicants must submit a separate Letter of Endorsement from the federal site’s leadership or the applicant's headquarter official responsible for sustainability, energy management or procurement, stating that the application has the support of central agency officials and would be allowed to be implemented if an AFFECT BIL grant is awarded.”\n\nThe decision of the appropriate leadership level lies solely with the applicant, each agency’s organizational structure, and policies/procedures."]
[9,"2023-03-28","Eligibility","For the purpose of the AFFECT grant program, is USPS considered an eligible federal ‘agency?’","For the purpose of the AFFECT grant program, USPS is a federal ‘agency.’\n\nThe purpose of the AFFECT grant program is to assist agencies in meeting the statutorily established energy and water requirements at 42 U.S.C. § 8253. For the purpose of 42 U.S.C. § 8253, ‘agency’ has the meaning as defined in 5 USC § 551(1)."]
[10,"2023-03-31","Eligibility","Princeton Plasma Physics Lab (PPPL) has a DOE Office of Science funded project to build a new signature building. The project is in the design phase and our construction contract has not been awarded as of yet. Just wanted to confirm that falls into Topic Area 3?","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nAs described in Section I.D. the three Topic Areas are: i. Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Opportunity Development, ii. Modify Existing Projects for Net-Zero Buildings, and iii. New/In Development Net-Zero Buildings Projects. \n \nBased on the limited information provided in your question, if your project has not been awarded yet, it appears it would fall under Topic Area 3. It is recommended, PPPL evaluate the full FAC and determine the most appropriate Topic Area to submit an application under."]
[11,"2023-03-31","Application Content/Format","A) Could you please confirm that the requirement that “Applicants must submit a separate Letter of Endorsement from the federal site’s leadership or the applicant’s headquarter official responsible for sustainability, energy management, or procurement…” may be at the sub-agency / bureau level?\n\nB) Could you confirm that no endorsement or approval of an application is required by the department-level Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO)? \n\nC) Would it increase an application’s score or chance of award if, in addition to the sub-agency / bureau level letter of endorsement, one from the department-level CSO is provided as well even if not required?","Per section IV.B.i., a letter of endorsement is required as part of each application. Furthermore, per section IV.B.iv, “applicants must submit a separate Letter of Endorsement from the federal site’s leadership or the applicant's headquarter official responsible for sustainability, energy management or procurement, stating that the application has the support of central agency officials and would be allowed to be implemented if an AFFECT BIL grant is awarded.”  Finally, per section III.A. only U.S. federal agencies, including sub-agencies, are eligible to applicants. \n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining how you wish to proceed with your application:\n \nA) Per the FAC, sub-agencies are eligible applicants. The decision of the appropriate agency level, such as sub-agency or bureau, lies solely with the applicant, each agency’s organizational structure, and policies/procedures. \n\nB) The FAC does not prescribe a required leadership level recognizing that each agency is different. As such, the decision of the appropriate leadership level lies solely with the applicant, each agency’s organizational structure, and policies/procedures. \n\nC) Each application will be evaluated against the technical review criteria as described in section V.A. for Topic Area 1 and V.B. for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3."]
[12,"2023-03-31","Due Dates","If you don't submit for the first deadline, can you still submit for subsequent deadlines?","The AFFECT BIL FAC has four defined application submission deadlines. Applicants may submit an application prior to any of the four deadlines. There are no requirements to submit under the first deadline to be allowed to submit under subsequent deadlines."]
[13,"2023-03-31","Application Content/Format","Will there be a template or an online form for the letter of endorsement?","There is no set template or online form for the letter of endorsement. The only requirement is that one be submitted in PDF format as noted under section IV.B.i. by the appropriate “federal site’s leadership or the applicant’s headquarter official responsible for sustainability, energy management, or procurement, stating that the application has the support of central agency officials and would be allowed to be implemented if an AFFECT BIL grant is awarded” per section IV.B.iv."]
[14,"2023-03-31","Eligibility","Can subagencies or units of agencies apply?","Per section III.A., “only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.” \n\nAs expressly provided in Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nFor purposes of clarification regarding the Section III.A. eligibility requirement, however, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application:\n\nPer the FAC, sub-agencies are eligible applicants. The decision regarding which appropriate agency level, such as sub-agency or unit, should submit an application lies solely with the applicant, each agency’s organizational structure, and policies/procedures. "]
[15,"2023-03-31","Due Dates","Is winter 2025 the deadline for spending or allocating money?  ","Winter 2025 is the last expected date for selection notifications. Per section II.D., “the funding distribution timeline of projects selected under this FAC will be based on the agency recipient’s execution of one or more Final Deliverables and will depend on the Topic Area involved and stage of project development. FEMP anticipates releasing grant funding to recipient agencies within 24 months of grant award, following the recipient agency’s completion and submission of the Final Deliverables as outlined below. Funding disbursements will occur consistent with timetables developed during award negotiations with the intent for funding to be available in advance of task order award or modification, as described below.” Please see section II.D. for detailed information on deliverables by Topic Area.\n\nIt is recommended that the applicant review the final deliverables required for trigger of funding release for each Topic Area as described in section II.D.i., ii., and iii. "]
[16,"2023-03-31","Other","Noted issue: Problem getting attorneys on the same page with the funding and that it's not reappropriation. Can language be shared to clarify this for agencies internally?","As written, FEMP does not understand your question and does not recognize the “language” to which you are referring. If you will clarify your question through a subsequent submission that includes additional specifics, we will attempt to respond. "]
[17,"2023-03-31","Application Content/Format","Will projects that address agencies’ Climate Action Plans and Sustainability Plans be favored?","For details on how each application will be evaluated, it is recommended that the applicant review the technical review criteria as described in section V.A. for Topic Area 1 and V.B. for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3."]
[18,"2023-04-03","Eligibility","I'm writing to inquire about how a private company may get involved with the AFFECT bill application process? As I read the bill, applications are to be submitted by government agencies hoping to get additional funding for Net Zero building projects/building improvements. Is there a place whereby private companies can submit their products to be reviewed and/or selected for use in these project applications? \n\nWe offer HVAC filter solutions that outperform currently available filter products while simultaneously providing significantly increased flow rates that can reduce the electrical power requirements by HVAC units up to 40%. We are still a small company but know that our technology can provide significant reductions in power usage in both the public and private sector. Right now, our biggest hurdle is getting our name out there to the folks who would benefit most from our products. ","Per section III.A. “Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.”  Furthermore, as noted in footnote 8: “Eligible Applicants are permitted to coordinate the development of application content, information, and documentation as required for submission with National Laboratory, ESCO or Utility, or Contractor Partners as per their preference. The application, however, must be submitted by the Eligible Applicant federal agency.”\n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information: \n\nThe FAC does not prohibit applicant agencies from working with private companies. "]
[19,"2023-04-04","Eligibility","A) Can we apply for this grant for stand-alone net-zero ECMs, or must it be a part of a larger project?\na. ENABLE project audit is under way, initial solar ECM was evaluated but based on cost/savings/interest rates this ECM is unable to stand on its own.\nb. Can you apply for grant if is only for solar\n\nB) How close should the project be to completion before submitting for grant?\na. We are at 90% development; final cost numbers are coming in this month\nb. Do we need to have all numbers final cost/savings before submitting applications?\n\nC) How quickly will applications be reviewed, winners selected, and funds be submitted\na. Will funding align with project acceptance, signing or will the funding come in after signing and during construction?\nb. What limitations does this grant have on project acceptance if funding is not approved/provided before award\nc. Can project be approved, and signed with just funding approval from FEMP but funds not in hand?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question and keeping in mind that per section III.A. only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply under this FAC, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nA) The FAC does not set an ECM requirement count nor type. The main goal of the AFFECT BIL FAC, as stated under section I.C., is to promote and support projects that contribute to a federal path towards net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings.\n\nB) The FAC allows for submission of application at different stages of a project and depending on the Topic Area for which an application is submitted, different deliverables are required as noted in section II.D. It is recommended, the applicant evaluate the full FAC and make a determination whether to submit an application and the appropriate Topic Area.\n\nC) The submission deadlines for each application round along with expected date for selection notification are noted on the first page of the FAC. While the timeline for funding distribution and final deliverables that trigger funding release will vary based on the Topic Area for which the application was submitted under and negotiation process. The awards negotiation process will take approximately 60 days. It is recommended the applicant evaluate the full FAC for additional information on funding alignment and project status."]
[20,"2023-04-04","Eligibility","For projects to be considered, does agency funding need to be secured and available? For example, if there was a DOD project submitted for Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program (ERCIP) Funding to be executed in FY27 (but yet to be approved), would this be acceptable for Topic 3 application? Or does the project need to have an execution plan that starts within a certain window in order to be considered for funding?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nIt is recommended the applicant evaluate the full FAC, especially the section II.B. Cost Leverage and II.D. Deliverables and Timeline for Funding Distribution, before making a determination whether to submit an application. Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, Criterion 3 both consider the extent to which the applicant leverages its agency funding commitment and non-federal financing. Furthermore, applicant agencies must submit a letter of endorsement to demonstrate leadership commitment and support for the project."]
[21,"2023-04-05","Eligibility","We are presently working with several federal civilian agency clients to apply for AFFECT grants to supplement appropriated funds use for the procurement of energy resilient facility improvements in furtherance of their goals to achieve CFE and Net Zero emissions in meeting the requirements of E.O. 14057. Due to long lead times of ESPCs/UESCs, these agencies are using alternate procurement mechanisms (IDIQs) to design and implement energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions in their facilities /campuses. Specifically, clients are seeking to install Solar Carport and battery storage which fell out of projects due to cost and payback criteria. Based on the presentation, it seems like applications leveraging 3rd party funds, via UESC and ESPCs will be scored higher than applications funded by appropriated dollars. Is this correct and should agencies using other methods of procurement besides ESPCs & UESCs even bother to apply? The argument can be made that the utilization of appropriated dollars in conjunction with an AFFECT grant is financially advantageous to the Government and Taxpayers when compared to the added cost associated with utilizing 3rd part non-appropriated funds. Looking forward to your posted response. ","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nTopic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, as outlined in Sections I.D.ii. and D.iii. respectively state: “In evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds. Non-federal funds applied to projects proposed under Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3 may include (a) funding under an energy savings performance contract (i.e., ESPCs, ENABLE) and/or UESCs (collectively, energy performance contracts); (b) rebates and other financial incentives from utilities and state or local government agencies, and (c) other non-Federal funding sources as may be authorized for applicant agency. FEMP will also consider the amount of funding committed to the project by the applicant agency’s appropriations.”"]
[22,"2023-04-05","Application Content/Format","I have a question regarding the Topical Area 2 & 3 Application form for FAC # DE-FOA-0003026 (see subject line) I was hoping to seek clarification for: \n\nSection 1.3 of the Application for Topical Area 2 & 3 asks “What are the additional ECMs for which you are seeking AFFECT funding to make the current project a net-zero buildings project? (Use table below).” Are we to list all of our proposals for this AFFECT Grant in the table or only those applicable to this specific application/project?","As stated in section IV.B.i., as part of the Full Application Content Requirement an application form, a summary slide, two versions of the ePB Calculating Templates, a letter of endorsement, and a SF-424 form are required. \n\nThe ePB Calculating Templates ask for the full list of ECMs in the project, one without the AFFECT grant ECMs and the other with. The application form and summary slides only ask for the difference, in other words just the additional ECMs in the ePB Calculating Template with the AFFECT grant. Be sure to list all the relevant ECMs in the two ePB Calculating Templates based on the scenario of with and without AFFECT grant funds."]
[23,"2023-04-05","Eligibility","Which Grant Release Trigger would apply to an M&O contract at a National Lab?","The deliverables and timeline for funding distribution outlined in section II.D. for each Topic Area are applicable to all applicants. As for which apply to an M&O contract at a National Lab, it depends on which Topic Area the application was submitted for. \n\nAdditionally, as stated in section III.A. Eligible Applicants footnote 9, “In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT applicant must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility.”  Therefore, grant release to an M&O contract is subject to the agreement between the M&O and the federal agency. It is recommended, the M&O contractor coordinate with the appropriate federal contracting personal for additional guidance."]
[24,"2023-04-05","Other","What is the definition of third-party funding, would this include Lab overhead, SLI funding, IRA funding, other sponsor funding on on-going projects?","As used in this FAC, third-party funding encompasses performance contracting as well as non-federal sources of funding that may be available to federal agencies. Performance contracts include Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC), ENABLE, and Utility Energy Service Contract (UESC). See Appendix B for more information on performance contracts. Per 42 USC § 8256, non-federal sources of funding may consist of utility incentives programs such as rebates.\n\nLab overhead, SLI funding, IRA funding, or other sponsor funding that originated from appropriated funds are considered federal funds."]
[25,"2023-04-05","Due Dates","If you don't get selected on round 1, can you adjust the submittal and re-submit?","If an application is not selected in an earlier round, it is at the applicant’s discretion to adjust the submittal and re-submit."]
[26,"2023-04-05","Eligibility","We have a large portfolio of proposed PV projects totaling >$100M; would this be an appropriate source of funds to help support more of that scope as the energy generation would apply to more than just one building?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nIf the proposed PV projects contributes to an agency’s net-zero buildings goals, then it fits the objectives of the FAC. "]
[27,"2023-04-05","Registration Requirements","Is it our Field Offices that need to register in SAM.GOV or the M&O?","Per section III.A. “This FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC. Only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.”  Hence, applications must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer. If your Field Office fulfils the requirement of being a cognizant Federal Contracting Officer, then they need to register in SAM.GOV."]
[28,"2023-04-05","Registration Requirements","Who has to use the SAM.gov website? DOE employees only?","SAM.GOV is open to federal and non-federal users.\n\nPer Section VI.B.i. Registration Requirements the AFFECT BIL FAC requires applicants to complete several one-time actions. For applicants selected for a grant under this FAC, SAM registration is one of those required, one-time actions, whose registration must be updated annually.\n\nAs a potential applicant, it is recommended that you ensure the appropriate personal has access to SAM.gov for funding distribution should your application be selected for award."]
[29,"2023-04-05","Registration Requirements","Who is eligible to register for an S3 eXCHANGE User Account? DOE employee only?","S3 eXCHANGE is open to federal and non-federal users.\n\nPer section III.A., “only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.” Additionally, per section III.A. footnote 8: “In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT applicant must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility.”  \n\nHence, it is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure the appropriate personal have registered for an account with S3 eXCHANGE."]
[30,"2023-04-05","Application Content/Format","Are the topic areas known for the next 3 phases of this BIL AFFECT Funding as indicated by the dates below? I will check the Q&A for the answer.","The topic areas in the FAC apply to all of the application rounds announced in the FAC. To the extent FEMP were to modify a topic area, any such modification would be posted in S3 eXCHANGE."]
[31,"2023-04-05","Registration Requirements","Difficulties registering with SAM.gov (https://sam.gov/) and getting a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number, please advise.","On April 4, 2020, the unique entity identifier used across the federal government changed from the DUNS Number to the Unique Entity ID as generated by SAM.gov. For more information on this transition and how to get or retrieve an UEI please visit: https://sam.gov/content/duns-uei"]
[32,"2023-04-06","Eligibility","We would like to clarify whether DOJ’s sub-agencies (bureaus) can submit their AFFECT grant applications directly to DOE (or) Department HQ needs to submit the applications for its bureaus.","Per section III.A. only U.S. federal agencies, including sub-agencies, are eligible to applicants. \n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining how you wish to proceed with your application: \n\nPer the FAC, sub-agencies are eligible applicants. The decision of the appropriate agency level, such as sub-agency or bureau, lies solely with the applicant, each agency’s organizational structure, and policies/procedures.  "]
[33,"2023-03-30","Eligibility","A) If a project covers multiple facilities, can an agency submit multiple applications under the same contracts? We have many different facilities under one ESPC or UESC contract. Are we able to submit a separate application for different facility on one Energy Performance Contract or is the submission at the contract level (one submission per contract)? \n\nB) If an agency completed an ESPC task order recently but wants to do a follow-on task new order rather than a mod for the electrification work being submitted on for the grant, can they submit under Topic Area 2 and include the original award for leverage?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you: \n\nA) It is recommended that the applicant evaluate the full FAC and determine the best path for submitting an application. The FAC does not limit the applicant from including multiple facilities or multiple contracts in the application. It is the applicant’s responsibility to assess the potential impact on project(s) and contract(s), and feasibility for contract(s) management when determining the best path for submission of an application.\n\nB) Topic Area 2 recognizes that recently awarded projects may have had their scope reduced to be financeable. It is recommended that the applicant review the Final Deliverables for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3 under section II.D.ii. and iii., respectively and consult with the contracting officer for the ESPC task order regarding path(s) for modifying an existing task order and appropriate Topic Area for submission of an application."]
[34,"2023-04-05","Technical Topics","Questions regarding net zero definitions in section I-C: \n\nA) Our building, at a US military base in Japan, is not “connected to a regional electrical grid fully serviced by carbon pollution free electricity,” and we don’t know our utility’s plans for such a grid. Does AFFECT require us to calculate our utility’s scope 2 emissions and current percentage of carbon-pollution-free power? \n\nB) Can our application target one single aspect of net zero: emission OR water OR waste? “net zero emission, water, and/or waste building” seems ambiguous as stated.","A) Assuming that the said U.S. military base meets the eligibility requirements outlined in section III.A., then if you are submitting an application under Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3, as part of the full application content requirement (IV.B.i.) two versions of eProject Builder (ePB) Calculating Template, with and without the AFFECT grant, are required. Additionally, the application forms ask for estimated reductions in scope 1 and scope 2 GHGs for the proposed project as estimated in the ePB templates. The application does not ask for current percentage of carbon-pollution-free power, but rather reductions in emissions based on the project. \n\nNote the ePB Calculating Template is unable to calculate electricity GHG reduction for projects located outside of the U.S. We are addressing this issue in the FAC and will post a modification to S3 eXCHANGE shortly.\n\nB) The FAC provides flexibility and hence, it is the decision of the applicant to pursue a combination of net-zero goals or just one."]
[36,"2023-04-05","Technical Topics","A) If you propose a project under Topic 3 and use a procurement mechanism of RFP/RFQ, we cannot issue and RFP/RFQ if we do not have the money. To issue the RFP/RFQ, we must have the funds available and attached to the procurement mechanism in our procurement system before the RFP/RFQ can be issued. So how does that fit the 3rd trigger for Topic 3?\n\nB) For Topic 1, it appears to be what you could call a seed funding opportunity. Would getting an ESCO to help find, evaluate, and develop projects be an eligible project to apply? Would a list of potential ECMs be required? What would be a necessary component of a Topic 1 proposal to fit the details in this slide?","Based on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n \nA) The submission deadlines for each application round along with expected date for selection notification are noted on the first page of the FAC. The timeline for funding distribution and final deliverables that trigger funding release will vary based on the Topic Area for which the application was submitted under and the award negotiation process. The award negotiation process will take approximately 60 days. It is recommended the applicant evaluate the full FAC and prepare for the negations should you be selected. During negations, the applicant will have the opportunity to express funding needs and the preferred timeline for distribution. \n\nB) Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nPer section I.D.i. Topic Area 1 states: “For purposes of this AFFECT BIL FAC, ‘assistance’ includes but may not be limited to review of identified ECMs to determine life-cycle cost effectiveness, analysis of ECMs to determine the feasibility of a performance contract, and development of documentation and analysis to pursue a project.”  Moreover, per section III.A. footnote 8: “Eligible Applicants are permitted to coordinate the development of application content, information, and documentation as required for submission with National Laboratory, ESCO or Utility, or Contractor Partners as per their preference. The application, however, must be submitted by the Eligible Applicant federal agency.”  Finally, as stated in section II.D.i. Topic Area 1 final deliverables for funding distribution list: issued NOO for ESPC or ENABLE projects; issued LOI or Sources Sought RFP for UESC projects; or issued RFP or RFQ for projects executed through other procurement mechanisms. \n\nIt is recommended, that you evaluate the full FAC and make a determination whether to submit an application and the most appropriate Topic Area."]
[37,"2023-04-11","Eligibility","I’m hoping to get a concrete answer about whether or not BPA – and PMAs in general – are eligible to apply for AFFECT funding. I’ve gotten conflicting answers from different SMEs on this topic.","For the purpose of the AFFECT grant program, the Power Marketing Administrations (PMAs), consisting of Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), Southeastern Power Administration (SEPA), and Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA), are considered a federal ‘agency.’\n\nThe purpose of the AFFECT grant program is to assist agencies in meeting the statutorily established energy and water requirements at 42 U.S.C. § 8253. For the purpose of 42 U.S.C. § 8253, ‘agency’ has the meaning as defined in 5 USC § 551(1). "]
[38,"2023-04-07","Technical Topics","A) Will the $250 million funds be spread out relatively evenly among all four submission rounds, or will funding be awarded on a first-come first-serve basis? (I.e. Could all award funds be accounted for in the first round, hypothetically, if there is a significant number of quality applications?)\n\nB) If an ESPC or UESC is currently in construction phase, would an additional “phase 2” project be eligible for an AFFECT Grant under Topic Area 2 (Modify Existing Projects), provided it involves a net zero project and meets all other requirements?\n\nC) Will an eligible project be required to bring a building fully to net zero, or is it acceptable for a project to bring a building ‘towards’ net zero in a phased approach, especially for large-scale federal buildings?","A) Per Section II.A., FEMP intends to expend the FAC funds over approximately the next two years, with four sperate application submission opportunities. FEMP may issue one, multiple, or no awards. \n\nThe FAC allow for four separate application submission opportunities over a two year period to provide interested applicants adequate time for developing net-zero projects, recognizing the complexities of these projects. \n\nB) Per Section I.B.ii. applications submitted under Topic Area 2 are for proposed projects that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts. \n\nC) The BIL FAC supports agencies on their path towards net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings, as noted in Section I.C."]
[39,"2023-04-08","Eligibility","\"Only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.\"\n\nDoes this include locations outside the U.S. and its territories? Specifically, are facilities owned by the U.S., but located in Japan, Korea and/or Diego Garcia eligible for this grant?\n\nWould any project overseas be competitive given some of the selection factors focused on U.S. job creation and disadvantaged communities?","Per Section III.A., the BIL FAC is available to U.S. federal agencies only, including sub-agencies. The BIL FAC is not limited to domestic facilities only, meaning projects may be eligible for consideration, application submission, and funding under this FAC, that are implemented at any facility, whether located in the U.S. (i.e., CONUS), its territories, or internationally (i.e., OCONUS), that meet the definition of “federal building” as of 42 U.S.C. § 8259(6), which includes buildings, structures, or facilities owned or leased by the federal government and which consume energy.\n\nPer Section V., applications will be reviewed under the relevant Topic Area Technical Review Criteria, as described in Sections V.A. and V.B., respectively and Program Policy Factors under Section V.D. There are many factors that are taken into consideration during the application review process. It is at the discretion of the applicant to apply or not."]
[40,"2023-03-28","Eligibility","I work for the State of Colorado and had the pleasure of speaking on a panel in Washington DC last year regarding IRA. We are working on a project called the Global Energy Park in Colorado and I monitor what funding sources we have available to help with the funding gaps for the project. I came across the AFFECT program and wanted to know if NREL, our partner on this project, would be able to apply for the funds or if it is strictly only for federal agencies? Would the State of Colorado although not a federal agency, but a partner on a project be eligible or is the program strictly for federal agencies only?","Per section III.A., “only U.S. federal agencies (including sub -agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.”  Furthermore, as noted in footnote 8: “Eligible Applicants are permitted to coordinate the development of application content, information, and documentation as required for submission with National Laboratory, ESCO or Utility, or Contractor Partners as per their preference. The application, however, must be submitted by the Eligible Applicant federal agency.”\n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information: \n\nThe FAC does not prohibit applicant agencies from working with their local state agencies."]
[41,"2023-04-11","Application Content/Format","If an Agency is applying for multiple distinctly separate projects (project applications) in the same Topic Area, should a single slide template, application form, AND SF424 be submitted for each individual project or is there a different method/combination preferred?\n\nIs there a disadvantage, as it pertains to the review process, to applying for multiple distinctly separate project applications in the same topic area?","Per section III. Eligibility Information grant awards will be issued through FedConnect, using the Intra Governmental Payment and Collection (IPAC) payment method. \n\nHow funds are further distributed and managed, will be subject to agency policies and procedures. It is recommended you consult with the cognizant contracting officer and project team."]
[42,"2023-04-11","Technical Topics","For topic 2 and 3, if we have a project that is already funding by another means, does adding scope that aligns with NZERO with AFFECT money align with FEMPs goals/visions.","Per Section I.B.ii. applications submitted under Topic Area 2 are for proposed project that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts. While per Section I.B.iii. applications under Topic Area 3 are for new projects or projects in development that support net-zero buildings efforts. \n\nIt appears, should an already funded project be adjusted to add scope in support of net-zero buildings it would align with the BIL FAC goals."]
[43,"2023-04-11","Cost Sharing","Would a topic 3 project that was dependent on FY25 SLI funding (not yet confirmed) be considered, or would it be prioritized low because initial SLI funding is not yet approved?","Per   section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nIt is recommended the applicant evaluate the full FAC, especially sections II.B. Cost Leverage and II.D. Deliverables and Timeline for Funding Distribution, before making a determination whether to submit an application. Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, Criterion 3 both consider the extent to which the applicant leverages its agency funding commitment and non-federal financing. Furthermore, applicant agencies must submit a letter of endorsement to demonstrate leadership commitment and support for the project."]
[44,"2023-04-11","Technical Topics","What phase (e.g., design vs near completion of construction) of a project can it be considered under topic area 3?","Based on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information: \n\nIt is recommended the applicant evaluate the full FAC, before making a determination of whether to submit an application and which Topic Area. As provided in I.D.ii. and iii., Topic Area 2 is for proposed projects that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts, and Topic Area 3 is for new projects or projects in development (i.e., projects not yet awarded)."]
[45,"2023-04-11","Technical Topics","Can resilient operation improvement or cost of carbon be added to the life cycle cost analysis to help justify decarbonization projects?","As provided in section I.B of the FAC, the goals of the FAC include assisting agencies in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. § 8253 and the goals of Executive Order (E.O.) 14057, Catalyzing America’s Clean Energy Economy Through Federal Sustainability and E.O. 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. Sections V.A and V.B specify the criteria against which applications will be evaluated, including for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, and the cost savings to the agency."]
[46,"2023-04-11","Cost Sharing","Can matching funding be used to “buy down” a life cycle? I.e, $12M project with 30yr payback and 20yr life cycle hurdle. If $4M of funds were used to “buy down” the ECM and meet a 20 year life cycle, would this project be accepted?","Per section II.C. “Eligible Project Costs,” the BIL grants may be spent on equipment and/or technical assistance, and other services related to planning, development, or implementation of an eligible project. Additionally, the goal of the BIL FAC grant is to assist agencies in making net-zero projects that are not financeable without the grant be financeable. Hence, it is at the applicant’s discretion to use the funds to “buy down” ECMs to reduce the life cycle of the project."]
[47,"2023-04-07","Technical Topics","A) The ESPC is in Year 4 of the Performance Period. Do we even have the option of re-opening the contract to add scope? Is that just something that we'd discuss with the ESCO?\n\nB) What kind of additional scope is allowable? Would we be limited to expanding scope on the existing ECMs or is there an option to add a new ECM with the grant funding?\n\nC) Given that the AFFECT funding requires an ePB report, I assume we'll need to work closely with the ESCO to put an application together. If our current ESCO isn't interested in pursuing the grant/adding scope to the contract, is that a dealbreaker? Or would we have the option of finding another ESCO for the added scope?","A) It is recommended that you consult the contracting officer for the ESPC regarding path(s) for re-opening.\n\nB) Per Section I.B.ii. applications submitted under Topic Area 2 are for proposed project that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts. While per Section I.B.iii. applications under Topic Area 3 are for new projects or projects in development that support net-zero buildings efforts.\n\nAs for what may be allowable to add to an existing contract, again, it is recommended that you consult the contracting officer for the existing ESPC.\n\nC)  Per section III.A., footnote 8: “Eligible Applicants are permitted to coordinate the development of application content, information, and documentation as required for submission with National Laboratory, ESCO or Utility, or Contractor Partners as per their preference. The application, however, must be submitted by the Eligible Applicant federal agency.”\n\nIt is at the discretion of the applicant which ESCO assists with the completion of the ePB Calculating Template. The FAC does not prohibit applicant agencies from working with an ESCO. "]
[48,"2023-04-13","Application Reviews","What will the requirements be as part of the pre-award review process? Will they focus on indirect rate or financial capability review?","As noted in section V.ii. Pre-Selection Clarification, FEMP may determine that pre-selection clarification are needed. This may occur before, during, or after the merit review evaluation process. If FEMP, contacts an applicant for pre-selection clarification purposes, it does not signify that the applicant has been selected for negotiation of award nor that the applicant is amongst the top ranked applicants. The pre-selection clarification focus will vary and depend on the application content and Topic Area.\n\nUnder Topic Areas 2 and 3, as directed in section IV.B.iv of the FAC, the application must include a completed ePB Calculating Template showing a financeable project that does not include an AFFECT BIL grant and a completed ePB Calculating template showing a financeable project that does include the AFFECT BIL grant."]
[49,"2023-04-13","Other","• Who is responsible for the oversight of the grants and the expenditures therein? \n• What does this look like? \n• Will the funding be provided to all recipients through Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP)? \n• Will SF-425 reporting be required?","As noted in section VI.B.x. Reporting, FEMP will conduct project monitoring during the lifetime of the project with specific reporting requirements and reporting to be discussed during the project award negotiations. However, this does not constitute contract or project oversight. Agencies are responsible for compliance with their contract oversite processes and procedures.\n\nIn regard to ASAP, per section III. Eligibility Information, payments will be issued through FedConnect, using the Intra Governmental Payment and Collection (IPAC) payment method.\n \nIn regard to SF-425, financial reporting will be required during the performance period of a grant."]
[50,"2023-04-13","Other","• Since the CO is required to apply for a national laboratory, will the funding be awarded to the Agency? \n• If so, how will the national laboratory access the funding? \n• Will the funds be placed on the lab contract? \n• If so, will we track these obligations and costs using a unique code in STARS?\n• If the grant is awarded to DOE and a lab performs the work, would DOE use GINV to create a reimbursable agreement within DOE?\n• Will DOE require that DOE-awarded projects have a universal SSP number or project number assigned for these projects? \n• Will DOE Labs report these costs as part of their incurred cost submission? \n• How are costs segregated in the lab’s system?","Per section III. Eligibility Information grant awards will be issued through FedConnect, using the Intra Governmental Payment and Collection (IPAC) payment method. \n\nHow funds are further distributed and managed, will be subject to agency policies and procedures. It is recommended you consult with the cognizant contracting officer and project team. "]
[51,"2023-04-13","Other","• How will the cost savings be utilized? \n• Will projects with reduced costs be de-obligated and returned to the Treasury or utilized to offset future obligation needs? \n• How will cost savings be tracked and verified?","The BIL FAC does not set parameters for utilization of cost savings. Utilization of cost savings will be, in part, subject to the authorities under which an agency pursues a project (e.g., ESPC authority). It is recommended that you consult your procurement team."]
[52,"2023-04-13","Other","How are recipients expected to demonstrate that they can track funding for these projects and determine that it is a net zero-zero project?","As noted in section VI.B.x. Reporting, FEMP will conduct project monitoring during the lifetime of the project with specific reporting requirements and reporting to be discussed during the project award negotiations. \n\nAs noted in the FAC, the AFFECT grant is to support agencies in complying with the energy and water use requirements in 42 U.S.C. 8253. Recipients should be prepared to report out to FEMP per section VI.B.x. It is recommended that you consult with the project management team on agency tracking systems and tools."]
[53,"2023-04-13","Other","• How do you advise that AFFECT funding not create an augmentation if funding for a project was previously approved and the AFFECT funding to help the building achieve net zero emissions? \n• What steps will DOE require for internal projects with higher TEC thresholds and CD stage approvals?","It is recommended that you consult your agency procurement, project management, and contracting team for advice. How the funds are added to a previously approved project will vary by agency."]
[54,"2023-04-13","Other","How does AFFECT funding correlate with DOE projects subject to complete and usable requirements?","The BIL FAC does not supersede other requirements that may be applicable to agency projects. It is recommended that you consult your procurement team and project management team."]
[55,"2023-04-13","Other","• Does Congress have to approve a new project using AFFECT funding (i.e., a new project under Topic Area 1)? \n• Is there a threshold for total AFFECT funding to support?","Congressional approval of projects is typically agency and project specific. Should an applicant submit an application under Topic Area 1, be selected for award, and the project subject to Congressional approval, then it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure compliance. \n\nAs described in section I.D.i., the focus of Topic Area 1 is to assist applicants with the development of net-zero buildings projects. Anticipated number of awards and award values are provided in section II.A. Estimated Funding. For Topic Area 1, anticipated award amounts are $0 to $100K."]
[56,"2023-04-13","Other","Will there be an energy/cost savings validation requirement, and who is responsible for that validation?","The BIL FAC does not establish an independent energy/cost savings validation requirement. This should not be construed as projects selected for AFFECT grant funds are exempt from validation if required by agency policy or procedures, and if subject to 42 U.S.C. § 8253 (f)(5)."]
[57,"2023-04-13","Other","• Can recipients use AFFECT grant funding to fund/accelerate an existing energy savings project (approved in the budget)? \n• If so, would the recipient need to demonstrate that they reduced the previously approved funding?","As provided in I.D.ii. and iii., Topic Area 2 is for proposed projects that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts, and Topic Area 3 is for new projects or projects in development (i.e., projects not yet awarded). \n\nPer section II.C. “Eligible Project Costs,” the BIL grants may be spent on equipment and/or technical assistance, and other services related to planning, development, or implementation of an eligible project.\n\nRecommend working with the project contracting officer to learn how the AFFECT grants may impact previously approved funding."]
[58,"2023-04-13","Application Content/Format","• Will the Letter of Endorsement require a signature from the financial officer attesting to the grantee’s financial reporting or agency capability?\n• For DOE, will this be done at the Departmental level?\n• If not, then at what level will the signature be required? (Agency or national laboratory)","Per Section IV.B.iv, “applicants must submit a separate Letter of Endorsement from the federal site’s leadership or the applicant's headquarter official responsible for sustainability, energy management or procurement, stating that the application has the support of central agency officials and would be allowed to be implemented if an AFFECT BIL grant is awarded.”\n\nThe decision of the appropriate leadership level lies solely with the applicant, each agency’s organizational structure, and policies/ procedures."]
[59,"2023-04-13","Award Information","• What are the reporting requirements? \n• When awarded to a National Laboratory, will this information also be submitted by the CO?","As noted in section VI.B.x. Reporting, FEMP will conduct project monitoring during the lifetime of the project with specific reporting requirements and reporting to be established during the project award negotiations. \n\nIt is at the discretion of the federal contracting officer to include other point of contacts for reporting. "]
[60,"2023-04-13","Application Content/Format","What is the definition of “environmental justice and equity”? Will this driver take priority over technical and scientific merit and results?","Per footnote 10, the BIL FAC leverages the White House Council of Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST) for defining and when determining whether a project is in a location that has been categorized as a disadvantage community as defined by the Office of Management and Budget’s Interim Justice40 Implementation Guidance M-21-28 and addendum M-23-09.\n\nFor details on how each application will be evaluated, it is recommended that the applicant review the technical review criteria as described in section V.A. for Topic Area 1 and V.B. for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, as well as section V.D. for program policy factors."]
[61,"2023-04-13","Award Information","How will these grants be monitored during execution to ensure funds are not misappropriated or wasted?","Per section VI.B.x. Reporting, FEMP will conduct project monitoring during the lifetime of the project with specific reporting requirements and reporting to be established during the project award negotiations. "]
[62,"2023-04-13","Application Content/Format","Will the reduction in emission measurements be calculated using total emissions or based on the percentage of emissions per facility? If the former, how do applicants account for the impact of telework?","Reduction in emissions as a result of the project will be calculating using the ePB Calculating Template. The ePB Calculating Template focuses on Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions. While the Application Form for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3 asks for how the project reductions compare relative to without the project for all facilities in the scope of work for the project. Keep in mind the BIL FAC focus is on net-zero buildings emissions, which is Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions as noted in section I.C."]
[63,"2023-04-13","Other","Will these grants be subject to the single audit requirement of 2 CFR 200?","The AFFECT grants are not subject to the single audit requirement of 2 CFR 200. "]
[64,"2023-04-13","Eligibility","Can a contractor-operator apply for the AFFECT grants? Or must it be a government entity? Also, would you please link me to the guidance/ policy where this is outlined?","Per section III.A, this FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC. Only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.\n\nPer section III.A. Eligible Applicants footnote 9, “In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT applicant must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility.”"]
[65,"2023-04-17","Application Content/Format","A) Section III.A states that more than one application may be submitted to this FAC. Is this to be interpreted that agencies or sub-agencies may submit more than one application per selection round?\n\nB) Is a project submitted under Topic 2 or Topic 3 required to achieve Net-Zero definition? Will projects that achieve significant energy reduction from Scope 2 GHG be rated with a lower score than buildings that achieve full Net-Zero per Section V.B Criterion 1 & 4?\n\nC) Our team has several more questions on developing project submissions for our specific geographic area… Is there a direct point of contact at FEMP for working with agencies on application development?","A) The BIL FAC does not limit the number of applications that may be submitted. It is at the discretion of the applicant to submit applications for each submission round and topic area.\n\nB) The main goal of the BIL FAC, as stated under section I.C., is to promote and support projects that contribute to a federal path towards net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings. Furthermore, as defined in section I.C. net-zero emission buildings includes both scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions. \n\nC) Due to the competitive nature of the AFFECT FAC, FEMP personal are prohibited from assisting applicants with application development. Questions must be submitted and will be process through the AFFECTBIL email."]
[66,"2023-04-18","Award Information","In some cases, it may take utility scale studies/designs to bring the idea of Net-Zero buildings to life, especially for larger campuses. These projects would fit into topic Area 1 “Assistance with Net-zero buildings opportunity development.”  Campus scale study would not be possible if funding was capped at $100k but may be necessary to achieve net-zero buildings on a broad and reproducible scale. Is there a strict cap at $100k, that would result in an application focused on larger campus scale infrastructure design/study to not be considered under this FAQ?","The AFFECT grant funding information provided in section II.A. Estimated Funding, are estimates and anticipated values. Additionally, as reflected in section V.A. Topic Area 1 Technical Review Criteria, applicants are expected to leverage resources for replicability and/or scalability of the project. Should the AFFECT grant not be sufficient for Topic Area 1 assistance with developing net-zero building projects, the applicant may want to consider leveraging other resources to increase the scale of the project.\n\nIt is recommended, that the applicant evaluate the full FAC and make a determination whether to submit an application."]
[67,"2023-04-18","Application Content/Format","How can diesel savings be shown? USMC’s Camp Fuji AFFECT application would include diesel and electricity savings. On “ePB Sch-Cost Savings by ECM,” there is no provision for diesel savings. We will have no natural gas savings. ","The ePB Calculating Template has the option to calculating GHG emissions for sources other than natural gas and electricity. This option will be used consistently across all applicants, as applicable. Please enter the annual MMBtu savings from diesel in the other columns (U-X) for tab Sch4-Cost Savings by ECM."]
[68,"2023-04-18","Award Information","Is this funding considered “No-year funds,” or what funding basket does this fall under? IE:  If the funds are awarded by DOE in August of 2023, does the project have to be awarded by the end of the fiscal year (September 30th of 2023) or can the procurement and award of the project happen in the following fiscal year?","As noted in section I.A., BIL Section 40554 provide authorization for the funds to remain available until expended. Applicants selected for award will then have the opportunity to discuss and negotiate project specific deliverable and timeline for funding distribution as noted in section II.D."]
[69,"2023-04-18","Registration Requirements","This grant application requires the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer to submit the application through S3 Exchange, does this same person need to be the one to register for the other registration requirements (SAM.gov account, FedConnect, & Grants.gov) or can other members of the application team fulfil this requirement by registering?","The BIL FAC does not require the same team member to register for all the one-time registrations requirements. It is recommended for projects at a government-owned, contractor-operator facilities, that the team member registration for systems be cognizant federal employee on the cognizant federal contracting officer’s team."]
[70,"2023-04-18","Eligibility","I took a look at the FEMP AFFECT grant topic areas to see if this topic could be applied, for now I believe we cannot utilize AFFECT funds for this scope. Here is the summary of my review:\n• The AFFECT application criteria require us to demonstrate how completion of the project (and funding) would support achieving the agencies net-zero building energy conservation measures (ECM)\n • In order for us to apply for this project– radiological clearance /screening to support leasing the land for renewable energy projects, we would need to demonstrate how this project would benefit the agency in meeting its ECMs for net-zero buildings (e.g., calculations with emissions savings etc.) To determine this, we would need to know how much power would be generated, who would be the recipient. And more importantly – if the power generated is not being supplied to the site, the site cannot take credit for third party produced/sold energy to offsite consumers as a renewable energy credit to offset our own non-renewable energy consumption, then we cannot meet the ECM criteria. Unless this answer has changed, we cannot demonstrate in the application how the project helps Hanford or EM meet its net-zero ECMs.","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you: \n\nAs provided in section II.A, only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC. The applicant must demonstrate how the project will benefit a federally owned facility and how the project will support the agency’s net-zero efforts. "]
[71,"2023-04-24","Registration Requirements","I’m the federal AFFECT POC for a program office at Department of Energy (DOE). When registering for S3 eXCHANGE, should I be registering as an applicant or a DOE employee? Should I be registered on SAM.GOV as a prime awardee to get the UEI for my registration on S3 eXCHANGE?","For S3 eXCHANGE registration, it is recommended the federal POC registers as an applicant in S3 eXCHANGE. \n\nFor SAM.GOV registration, the applicant’s organization must register in SAM.GOV. This will vary by each agency’s policy and procedures. It is recommended that you check with your procurement team on if registration is needed or not, and if so, on preferred approach."]
[72,"2023-04-25","Application Content/Format","Is it possible to submit multiple buildings as separate grant applications from one project?","As provided in section III.A. of the FAC, an applicant may submit more than one application to this FAC, provided that each application describes a separate, distinct project. The FAC does not prohibit the submission of separate and distinct projects for the purpose of the FAC that are otherwise treated by the agency as a single project. "]
[73,"2023-04-19","Cost Sharing","Would an ESPC including a solar PPA qualify under the AFFECT grant?","The FAC allows for projects that rely on energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs) as non-federal cost share, see section II.B. An ESPC, defined in Appendix B of the FAC, may include an energy sales agreement (ESA), which is similar to a power purchase agreement (PPA). For more information on ESPC ESAs please see: https://www.energy.gov/femp/frequently-asked-questions-about-energy-savings-performance-contract-energy-sales-agreements#:~:text=An%20energy%20savings%20performance%20contract%20energy%20sales%20agreement%E2%80%94known%20as,on%20federal%20buildings%20or%20land."]
[74,"2023-04-13","Application Content/Format","On the ePB calculation, how do we fill it out and what are the: Sch5 cancellation ceiling, Sch3 Perfect Period Cash Flow, Sch2 ESA Payments.","The FAC allows for eligible applicants to coordinate the development of application content, information, and documentation as required for submission with National Laboratory, ESCO or Utility, or Contractor Partners as per their preference. However, the application must be submitted by the eligible applicant federal agency. \n\nAdditionally, there is an Introductory Demonstration and Training Webinar video under the Training and Information Videos section and eProject Builder 3.0 User Guide under the Training Documentation section located at: https://eprojectbuilder.lbl.gov/help."]
[75,"2023-04-13","Other","A) Are there any Lesson Learned presentations/information to share from someone who has been through the process through this program award process?\n\nB) Define project implementation sites? how specific is location? (i.e., LLNL or the address or coordinates?)\n\nC) What level of estimate is required for the TEC of the project? Class 3 or 4?\n\nD) Can a project obtain funding for NEPA project activities (Tier1) to support Topic Area 3 implementation? (OR Can AFFECT funding be awarded to a project that has not completed the NEPA process?)\n\nE) Does AFFECT awards fund options on a project? Example, we have a project that will get funded in FY24 and we would like to expand the PV capacity of the project to include additional buildings. (Options have Class 5 estimate=$5M ea.)\n\nF) In an existing ESPC where a buydown option is being considered, can a site add a new ECM that was not originally identified in the initial ESPC Preliminary Assessment (PA)? (For example, add a new building to the existing ESPC contract?)","A) To learn more about the previous AFFECT recipients, please see: https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/federal-energy-management-program-closed-funding-opportunities. You can also review past AFFECT FACs using the solicitation title links. \n\nB) The application forms for all Topic Areas asked for street address location including name of location, street, city, state, and zip.\n\nC) The FAC does not prescribe a cost estimate level, however, applicants should strive to request a grant award amount based on the best available project cost estimates at the time of application that assist the project meeting the goals of the BIL FAC, as described in section I.C. \n\nD) Per section VI.A.iv. FEMP’s decision whether and how to distribute federal funds under this FAC is subject to NEPA (42 U.S.C. § 4321, et seq.). NEPA compliance is a federal agency responsibility, and the ultimate decisions remain with the applicant federal agency. All recipients selected for an award will be required to assist in the timely and effective completion of the NEPA process in the manner most pertinent to their proposed project. If FEMP determines certain records must be prepared to complete the NEPA review process (e.g., biological evaluations or environmental assessments), the costs to prepare the necessary records may be included as part of the project costs.\n\nIt is at the discretion of the applicant to apply to Topic Area 1 for assistance project development which may include NEPA project activities or to apply to Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3 and include the NEPA cost as part of the total project cost. \n\nE) Topic Area 2 recognizes that recently awarded projects may have had their scope reduced to be financeable. It is recommended that the applicant review the Final Deliverables for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3 under section II.D.ii. and iii., respectively and consult with the contracting officer for the project regarding path(s) for modifying an existing project and appropriate the Topic Area for submission of an application.\n\nF) Per section II.C. “Eligible Project Costs,” the BIL grants may be spent on equipment and/or technical assistance, and other services related to planning, development, or implementation of an eligible project. Additionally, the goal of the BIL FAC grant is to assist agencies in making net-zero projects that are not financeable without the grant be financeable. Hence, it is at the applicant’s discretion to use the funds to “buy down” ECMs to reduce the life cycle of the project. \n\nAgain, it is recommended that the applicant consult with the cognizant contracting officer as to whether an ECM not in the initial ESPC PA would be permissible, as well as the appropriate Topic Area for submission of an application."]
[76,"2023-04-14","Eligibility","If a DOE National Laboratory Prime M&O contractor holds the purchased power and natural gas contracts and pays the bills out of operating funds provided by DOE, does this qualify as the federal agency paying the bills and receiving benefits?","Per the section III.A. Eligible Applicant footnote 9: In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT applicant must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility. \n\nIt is recommended that an applicant for a project that is at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility be prepared to demonstrate how the criteria listed in the FAC footnote 9 would be met."]
[77,"2023-04-14","Eligibility","Page 10 of the FAC states “Only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.”  Can a government agency apply for a project in a GSA-leased, privately-owned building, where the agency is the sole tenant and pays the utility bill?","Per the FAC, only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.\n\nAs described in the question, the leasing arrangement whereby the building is privately-owned and leased through GSA, would not be eligible."]
[78,"2023-04-17","Technical Topics","A) Will an application, or award, for the AFFECT 2022 program preclude the federal agency from applying for a grant under AFFECT 2023?\n\nB) Would the AFFECT grant be available to federal customers as a means of executing funded projects that move their sites towards CFE (Carbon Free Electricity)?","A) Since at this time there is no AFFECT 2023 FAC, we are not able to advise. The AFFECT BIL FAC has four defined application submission deadlines, which an applicant may submit an application prior to any of the four deadlines. There are no requirements to submit under the first deadline to be allowed to submit under subsequent deadlines.\n\nB) The main goal of the AFFECT BIL FAC, as stated under section I.C., is to promote and support projects that contribute to a federal path towards net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings. \n\nShould the project contribute to net-zero emission via carbon-pollution free electricity projects, it would appear AFFECT funds could be used."]
[79,"2023-04-19","Other","A) The AFFECT BIL strongly emphasizes net-zero emissions design and construction as a programmatic priority. Similarly in line with the goals EO 14057 and the Federal Building Performance Standard, is the AFFECT BIL grant cycle meant to emphasize deep energy retrofits (reducing energy use by at least 40%) as a programmatic priority? \n\nB) Can DOE FEMP clarify the phased submission deadlines? Specifically, will FEMP use as many phases as needed to award all $250M, or are there preset budgeted allotments for each deadline as individual subsets of the $250M? It is unclear on the approach from the FAC document.","A) The main goal of the AFFECT BIL FAC, as stated under section I.C., is to promote and support projects that contribute to a federal path towards net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings. One path for identifying ECMs that contribute to the goals is deep energy retrofits. It is at the discretion of the applicant whether to include deep energy retrofits as part of their project and thereby application. \n\nB) Per Section II.A., FEMP intends to expend the FAC funds over approximately the next two years, with four sperate application submission opportunities. FEMP may issue one, multiple, or no awards. \n\nThe FAC allow for four separate application submission opportunities over a two-year period to provide interested applicants adequate time for developing net-zero projects, recognizing the complexities of these projects. Anticipated number of awards and award values are provided in section II.A. Estimated Funding by Topic Area. "]
[80,"2023-04-20","Award Information","A) Can awarded AFFECT Grant money be added to in-direct money?\n\nB) For Topic Area 1, what is meant by \"Final Deliverables/Grant Release Trigger\"? Is this referring to the RFP/RFQ for the Study within 12 months of the grant being awarded? Is there a timeframe for delivering the outcome of the Study (report & Cost Estimate)?","A) Based on our understanding that “in-direct money” is the same as indirect funds which are funds derived from overhead type charges, we provide the following information:\n\nIn evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds. The FAC does not limit the funding type. However, agencies may have limits on adding AFFECT grant funds to indirect funds. It is recommended that the applicant consult the contracting officer for the project and procurement team for agency specific advice.\n\nB) For each Topic Area, there are required final deliverables, which once received, FEMP then can release grant funding to the applicant. These deliverables and timeline are described in section II.D. \n\nFor Topic Area 1, selected awardees are to issue a NOO for an ESPC or ENABLE project, issue a LOI or Source South RFP for an UESC project, or issue an RFP or RFQ for a project executed through other procurement mechanisms within 12 months of grant award for release of the grant funding. Additional deliverables may be included as part of the negotiation with negotiated timelines."]
[81,"2023-04-20","Technical Topics","I have a question on the scope of projects that could be included in this AFFECT grant FAC. Would the scope of the AFFECT Grant allow us to apply for funds to cover some of the site construction activities to expand the footprint of a building, if we are planning a project to consolidate two sites into one? We believe that combining the two facilities will result in energy savings overall (elimination of redundant systems) but are not sure if this level of construction falls within the grant scope.","As provided in sections I.B and I.C, the goals of the FAC include agency implementation of ECMs that further the Administration’s net-zero goal. As defined in Appendix B of the FAC, an ECM is a measure that is applied to an existing Federal building that improves energy efficiency and is life cycle cost effective and that involves energy conservation, cogeneration facilities, renewable energy sources, improvements in operation and maintenance efficiencies, or retrofit activities.\n\nPer section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nTo the extent that an applicant can demonstrate a measure meets the definition of ECM, such measure(s) would likely be eligible."]
[82,"2023-04-21","Application Content/Format","If we have already uploaded a financial model file in eProject Builder for the last application and now need to create another FM for the same project for this application, how do we save the new eProject Builder FM file? Do we use the application FAC number in the file name? ","Per section IV.B.i. Full Application Content Requirements, two ePB calculating templates, one with the AFFECT BIL grant and the other without, are to be uploaded to S3 eXCHANGE as part of the full application. Each file name should include the control number assigned by S3 eXCHANGE, not the FAC number."]
[83,"2023-04-24","Application Content/Format","On page 11 of the Fac- Item IV.2 Application Submission Information (attached) – please clarify maximum page limit. The application references to follow the page limit and word count on the AFFECT BIL Application Form to include cover page, charts, graphs, maps, photographs. The only page limit on the application is for 1.1 (2 pages) and 1.2 (1 page) and then word counts for the questions (250 words). How should an applicant upload charts, budgets, graphs, or photographs and still adhere to the final page count for the complete submission?","Per section IV.B.i. Full Application Content Requirements, consist of the application form in PDF format, SF-424 application for federal assistance, letter of endorsement in PDF format, a summary slide in MS PowerPoint, and if the application is for Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3, two ePB calculating templates in MS Excel format. \n\nAs specified in section IV.A., 2. Application requirements: “Each submission must not exceed the specified maximum page or word limit, including cover page, charts, graphs, maps, and photographs when printed using the formatting requirements set forth above and single spaced. If an applicant exceeds the maximum page/word limits, FEMP will review only the authorized number of pages/words and disregard any additional pages/words;”\n\nThe AFFECT BIL application forms include page and word limits for each question. For questions with page limits FEMP will only review the authorized number of pages, including charts, graphs, maps, and photographs. For questions with word limits FEMP will only review the authorized number of words."]
[84,"2023-04-25","Award Information","If we receive the funding, how quickly do we need to spend it? What if there is a supply chain delay or the schedule slips? Is there going to be regular follow up as to when the agency has spent the money?","Per section II.D., “the funding distribution timeline of projects selected under this FAC will be based on the agency recipient’s execution of one or more Final Deliverables and will depend on the Topic Area involved and stage of project development. FEMP anticipates releasing grant funding to recipient agencies within 24 months of grant award, following the recipient agency’s completion and submission of the Final Deliverables as outlined below. Funding disbursements will occur consistent with timetables developed during award negotiations with the intent for funding to be available in advance of task order award or modification, as described below.” Please see section II.D. for detailed information on deliverables by Topic Area.\n\nIn addition, for awardees, there will be regular check-ins with FEMP for project status update. Should there be delays to project timeline, please discuss and address with the FEMP team at the time and as need be."]
[85,"2023-04-25","Other","What is the NEPA requirement, who has to conduct it, are some agencies exempt?","Per section VI.B.iv. FEMP’s decision whether and how to distribute federal funds under this FAC is subject to NEPA (42 U.S.C. § 4321, et seq.). NEPA compliance is a federal agency responsibility, and the ultimate decisions remain with the applicant federal agency. All recipients selected for an award will be required to assist in the timely and effective completion of the NEPA process in the manner most pertinent to their proposed project. If FEMP determines certain records must be prepared to complete the NEPA review process (e.g., biological evaluations or environmental assessments), the costs to prepare the necessary records may be included as part of the project costs.\n\nCEQ maintains a list of NEPA categorical exclusions at:  https://ceq.doe.gov/nepa-practice/categorical-exclusions.html"]
[86,"2023-04-25","Other","Is the DAC tool we’re using the same one that CEQ is using?","Per footnote 10 and the application forms, please use the White House Council of Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST) to determine whether the project is in a location that has been categorized as a disadvantage community as defined by the Office of Management and Budget’s Interim Justice40 Implementation Guidance M-21-28 and addendum M-23-09. \n\nCEJST is available at:  https://screeningtool.geoplatform.gov/en/#3/33.47/-97.5 "]
[87,"2023-04-25","Eligibility","EVSE projects need to be tied to building load management: does that mean they need to be bidirectional? What if it’s a standalone system but the charged vehicles support field equipment (so there’s functionality beyond mobility)?","Per Section I.E., applications that propose the acquisition of one or more Electric Vehicles (EVs) are not of interest and not eligible under this FAC unless the battery is being used extensively for load management, in which case AFFECT can only support the incremental vehicle cost associated with the \nbattery. \n\nElectric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) that provides managed charging solutions (controls when vehicles are charged or allows for bi-directional charging) may be included subject to guidelines provided in the Federal Energy Savings Performance Contracts: Frequently Asked Questions on the Scope of 42 U.S.C. § 8287 et seq. (https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/federal-energy-savings-performance-contracts-frequently-asked-questions-scope-42).\n\nBased on the limited information provided, since the EVSE would not be tied to a building it would not be eligible."]
[88,"2023-04-27","Application Content/Format","For our application we are focusing on topic area 3. We currently have a direct funded project with a list of ECMs, and we are looking to expand this project to include electrification of space heating and domestic hot water systems to meet decarbonization goals. According to the AFFECT BIL FOA, applicants are required to create two scenarios using the eProject Builder (ePB) application, one without AFFECT funding and one with. The FOA also specifies that applicants must use the calculating template to submit information on these scenarios. However, according to the ePB training website direct projects can only be tracked in the non-calculating template. Given this information, I am looking for feedback on how to proceed with our proposal or if we are eligible to submit a proposal under this scenario.","One of the main differences between the calculating template and non-calculating template is the backend calculations for amortization of a financed project to generate payment schedule and savings for the period of performance, along with loan/performance contract term.\n\nFor direct funded projects and non-performance/financed contracts, you can still use the calculating template. Continue to complete as much of the information known, then on tab Sch 1-Ann Cost Save & Payment in cell D6 for Payments in Year 0 enter the total amount of the project cost/price.\n\nWe note, as specified in section I.D.iii, and as reflected in the criterion at V.B, in evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds."]
[89,"2023-05-01","Technical Topics","We are starting several ESPC projects across our federal portfolio, primarily at energy-intensive labs. These projects will greatly improve the energy efficiency of the sites but will not be able to get them to net-zero energy due to the intense energy usage of each site. Would these projects still be eligible for this grant funding given that the probability of achieving net-zero is very low?","The main goal of the AFFECT BIL FAC, as stated under section I.C., is to promote and support projects that contribute to a federal path towards net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings. One path towards this goal is through energy efficiency and water conservation requirements set in 42 U.S.C. § 8253 for which the AFFECT FAC supports per its authority in 42 U.S.C. § 8256(b)(3). Furthermore, the Implementing Instructions for E.O. 14057 (https://www.sustainability.gov/pdfs/EO_14057_Implementing_Instructions.pdf) does allow for exclusion of fossil-fuel based process loads. As such, it is understood that not all projects will lead to buildings that are fully net-zero."]
[90,"2023-05-01","Eligibility","We would like to make infrastructure upgrades to a facility that houses our data center, however we (DOE) lease this building from GSA. Can we apply for a grant for the facility upgrades for a building we occupy but is owned by another federal entity?","Per the FAC, only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.\n\nAs described in the question, the leasing arrangement whereby the building is GSA-owned and leased through GSA, would be eligible. It is further recommended, that the applicant ensure the necessary agreements are in place between the two agencies or that GSA submit the application as the owner of the facility."]
[91,"2023-05-03","Technical Topics","Please clarify or confirm that the Topic Area 1 NOO, LOI, or RFP referenced would be for the project development and feasibility studies, as Topic Area 1 does not include project construction/execution.","As noted in section I.D.i., applications submitted under Topic Area 1 are for proposed assistance requests for the initiation and development of an opportunity that will lead to a replicable process or program for future net-zero buildings projects. The applicable final deliverable required under Topic Area 1 for funding to be released is dependent on the type of opportunity development proposed as a result of the assistance received.\n\nThe objective of Topic Area 1 is to provide assistance that results in the development of project proposal."]
[92,"2023-05-03","Award Information","SAM.gov has required fields for banking and financial information to complete entity registration. I was able to begin registering to get a UEI number but am unable to progress further with entity registration. Will application in S3 eXCHANGE: Funding Opportunity Exchange (energy.gov) require active registration in SAM or will inactive, work in progress status suffice? Will grants be provided in g-invoicing or DOEPAC as required for inter and intra agency transfers or is banking information required? ","A SAM.GOV active account is not required at the time of application submission. However, one is required before award distribution. Furthermore SAM.GOV registration should be at an organization level. \n\nFEMP has received many questions in regard to SAM.GOV and plans to work with agencies to assists applicant with SAM.GOV registration, as needed, in time for award distribution. \n\nFEMP is also aware of the federal government migration to G-Invoicing for Intergovernmental Transactions. Grant payments are unique from Intergovernmental Transactions. FEMP will make grant payments to federal agencies, other than DOE, through Intra Governmental Payment and Collection (IPAC) for awards made under this FAC. If FEMP makes an award to a DOE office, then payment methods and terms will be addressed with the individual award."]
[93,"2023-05-03","Application Content/Format","A)  Reference: Application Form. AFFECT BIL FAC: Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3. Q 1.5 - What is the net-zero buildings project’s proposed funding and execution plan (e.g., authorities, vehicles, and funding sources)? (250 words or less). RFI: For a new building construction without using an ESCO or UESC, does FEMP need to know the funding profile for the entire building or just the systems targeted at reducing carbon emissions (e.g., photovoltaics, geothermal, etc.)?\nB) Reference: Application Form. TA 2 & TA 3. Section 3 Leverage. RFI: For new building construction without using an ESCO or UESC, what is meant by \"the project\" for the purpose of identifying the source and amount of funding? Does \"the project\" mean the entire new building, all energy conservation measures (ECMs) incorporated into the design (e.g. photovoltaics, geothermal, enhanced lighting controls, etc.) but not other aspects of the building, only systems that are to be modified by the proposed AFFECT ECM (e.g. mechanicals systems if the AFFECT ECM reduces HVAC energy use) but not other aspects of the building, or only the proposed AFFECT ECM?\nC)  Reference: SF-424. 18 Estimated Funding. RFI: Same question as above regarding if we should enter funding values for the entire building or only some aspect. Also, where (a, b, c, d, e, or f) should we enter the requested AFFECT funding amount?\nD) Reference: ePB_Calculating file, tab Sch4-Cost Savings by ECM and Application Form. TA 2 & TA 3. Section 2.\na. RFI: For a new construction building, what do we use as the \"baseline\" for energy use, energy costs, and O&M costs for the savings calculations?\nb. RFI: For a new construction building, what values should we use for \"usage and cost\" for the \"the previous fiscal year\" to calculate the percentage reduction? The building doesn't exist yet, so it's unclear if there is any previous fiscal year usage and costs.\nE) Reference: ePB_Calculating file, tab Sch4-Cost Savings by ECM. RFI: For a new construction building, should we include each energy conservation measure (ECM) in the building design in Sch4, regardless of whether it is an ECM for which we are seeking AFFECT funding? This question applies to both Scenario 1 and Scenario 2 as defined in the FAC Section IV, C, vi eProject Builder.\nF) Reference: SF-424. 18 Estimated Funding. RFI: Where do we enter utility incentives (a, b, c, d, e, or f)? Where do we enter the requested AFFECT funding? ","In response to parts A thru D of the question: Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you: \n\nThe applicant must determine the scope and subject of the project submitted in an application. When determining the scope and subject of a proposed project, keep in mind, that the statutory purpose of the AFFECT program is to assist agencies in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. § 8253. The requirements of 42 U.S.C. § 8253 generally apply to existing buildings. In the context of energy savings performance contracts, FEMP has addressed new construction, including the appropriate baselining of energy and water use, in Guidance on New Construction under an Energy Savings Performance Contracts available at: https://www.energy.gov/femp/articles/guidance-new-construction-under-energy-savings-performance-contract and in question 17 of the Federal Energy Savings Contracts FAQ available at: https://www.energy.gov/node/2206881. \n\nE)  As noted in the FAC, for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, an application must include two scenarios modeled via the ePB Calculating template illustrating the current scope of work versus the scope of work with measures which the applicant seeks AFFECT grant funds for. Therefore, yes, each ECM should be included.\n\nF) It is recommended that utility incentives be entered in c, d, or e depending on the source. For example, if utility incentive is derived from a State program, enter the value in c. The AFFECT grant funding being requested must be entered in a."]
[94,"2023-05-05","Application Content/Format","Certifications and Assurances – does the Contracting Officer have to complete the form found at the link and submit somewhere or does their signature on the SF-424 mean they are agreeing with the form and following the requirements?","Per section IV.B.i., only the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance form is a required document for the full application. The link provided in section IV.B.iii. with the list of certifications and assurances is the detailed information as related to SF-424 Field 21. The contracting officer’s agreement in SF-424 Field 21 will indicate that they agree to the list of certifications and assurance as provided here: https://www.energy.gov/management/articles/certifications-and-assurances-use-sf-424 "]
[95,"2023-05-05","Application Content/Format","SF-424 Project Period Dates – currently we do not have any specific dates. Do we leave it blank or give our best estimated dates?","If submitting an application for Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3, please provide your best estimates for start and end date of the project. If submitting an application for Topic Area 1, since this is requesting assistance with developing a project, it is ok to leave the fields blank."]
[96,"2023-05-05","Application Content/Format","Application Form – We have been completing the Application Form in a Word document template from the S3 eXCHANGE website. The instructions indicate it would be available in a PDF format to submit. As of the date of this email, it is still a Word document. Do we submit as a Word document, or do we convert to a PDF to submit?","As noted in the FAC, please upload a PDF version of application form as part of your full application. Once you have completed the Word version of the application form, convert to PDF for submission. "]
[97,"2023-05-10","Application Content/Format","S3 eXCHANGE has the following language for the Funds and Costs section of the application start: “DOE eXCHANGE requires applicants to contribute at least 20% of the total project cost.” Please advise how this relates to AFFECT. ","This is the default language in S3 eXCHANGE, the AFFECT BIL FAC does not have a set percentage requirement. S3 eXCHANGE language has been updated."]
[98,"2023-05-11","Application Content/Format","We are planning to submit a proposal in response to the DE-FOA-0003026 - Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) and we need some clarification. Is there any specific form related to budget we need to fill out or just section 18 (Estimated Funding) of the SF-424 form would suffice.","Other than the estimated funding values requested in Field 18 of the SF-424 form, no additional forms related to budget are needed for the FAC application.\n\nIf applying to Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3 note that the project’s total implementation price is also included in the ePB_Calculating template."]
[99,"2023-05-09","Application Content/Format","In relation to the required ePB templates for Topical Area 2 & 3 in the AFFECT BIL grant, we have been experiencing issues with filling out the template in for our direct-funded project. We reached out to the ePB team and scheduled a training session to find a solution, however, the ePB team determined that the calculating template is not for use with direct-funded projects; ePB is designed so that direct-funded projects must use the non-calculating template.\n\nGiven this new information for direct-funded projects, would it be acceptable to only submit only the non-calculating template for our direct-funded projects?","The FAC leverages the use of ePB Calculating Templates to ensure consistency in data submission and calculations. We recognize there may be limitations to the tool and sometime not so obvious workarounds. Please reach out to the ePB team for assistance with these limitations at: epb-support@lbl.gov. \n\nAdditionally, note that the ePB Calculating Templates are one of many documents that are part for the full application as noted in section IV.B.i. Furthermore, it is recommended that the applicant review the Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3 Technical Review Criteria in section V.B. for details on how full applications will be reviewed."]
[100,"2023-05-15","Technical Topics","Are projects that support EV charging using appropriated funds eligible?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nThe focus of this FAC is buildings as required by 42 U.S.C. § 8253. Moreover, as noted in the FAC section I.E., Applications Specifically Not of Interest: Applications that propose the acquisition of one or more Electric Vehicles (EVs) unless the battery is being used extensively for load management, in which case AFFECT can only support the incremental vehicle cost associated with the battery.\n\nFinally, we provide an example of what may be included: electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) that provide managed charging solutions (controls when vehicles are charged or allows for bi-directional charging)."]
[101,"2023-05-11","Application Content/Format","The ePB has limitations. We cannot get the TO schedules to work accurately in the calculating template. It does not allow for different start dates, interest rates, and guaranteed savings factors, etc. For Topic Area 2 only, can a non-calculating template be used for the combined template? Or could the second template only show the modification? \n \nIf not, we would need to indicate that all inputs have been adjusted to try and make it look as close as possible, but it isn't the real anticipated financial structure. The ePB team has acknowledged this limitation and provided recommendations to only include the modification on the calculating template.","The FAC leverages the use of ePB Calculating Templates to ensure consistency in data submission and calculations. We recognize there may be limitations to the tool and sometime not so obvious workarounds. \n\nBased on the information provided, we recommend adjusting the inputs to align closely with real anticipated financial structure as advised by the ePB team. You may also note this in the application form as part of the project description."]
[102,"2023-05-16","Application Content/Format","Please clarify to whom the Letter of Endorsement (LOE) should be addressed and provide the associated contact information that should be used in the letterhead. We are working with several DoD installations, who are requesting clarification on this matter since their leadership needs to sign the LOE, but they don’t know to whom it is to be submitted. ","The FAC does not specify whom to address the Letter of Endorsement, as the approach may vary by applicant. The key aspect of the Letter of Endorsement is to validate the application has the support of central agency officials and would be allowed to be implemented if an AFFECT grant is awarded (IV.B.iv.).\n\nFor applicants who would like more guidance on whom to address the Letter of Endorsement, you may address the letter to: Department of Energy, Office of the Under Secretary for Infrastructure, Federal Energy Management Program"]
[103,"2023-05-18","Technical Topics","Do projects have to include building changes or would a microgrid that provide CFE to 3 buildings qualify?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nThe FAC defines ECM, in part, as a measure that is applied to an existing Federal building that improves energy efficiency and is life cycle cost-effective and that involves energy conservation, cogeneration facilities, renewable energy sources, improvements in operation and maintenance efficiencies, or retrofit activities. \n\nA measure must satisfy four criteria in order to qualify as an “energy conservation measure (ECM).”  It must (1) be applied to a federal building; (2) improve energy efficiency; (3) be lifecycle cost-effective; and (4) involve energy conservation, cogeneration facilities, renewable energy sources, improvements in operation and maintenance efficiencies, retrofit activities or energy consuming devices and required support structures. \n\nA measure satisfies the “applied to a federal building” criterion of the ECM definition if it is applied to, serves, or impacts an existing Federal building. \n\nFor more information on ECMs, see, FAQs 14 and 16 of Federal Energy Savings Performance Contracts Frequently Asked Questions on the Scope of 42 U.S.C. § 8287 et. seq located at: https://www.energy.gov/femp/articles/federal-energy-savings-performance-contracts-frequently-asked-questions-scope-42-usc\n\nMoreover, the buildings must be eligible buildings, which are defined as agency owned buildings (III.A.). \n\nFinally, we suggest reviewing the Financing Federal Microgrids presentation provided by the FEMP team in 2020 (https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy21osti/78137.pdf) for case studies and additional resources."]
[104,"2023-05-18","Application Content/Format","How long does it typically take to complete these applications?","This data point is not collected. FEMP streamlined the application process in 2022 by utilizing an application form, whereas before there was none, and ePB Calculating Template. The time to complete an application will vary and depend on Topic Area, project scope, funding source(s), agency procedures, and other factors."]
[105,"2023-05-18","Eligibility","If a facility and/or project previously received AFFECT grant funding from a prior year FAC – for example, the base project received an AFFECT grant in 2019 and the project is now considering a modification for Net Zero buildings – is that facility and/or project eligible to receive an award through one of the phases on the AFFECT BIL FAC?","As noted in section V.D., previous history of agencies or sub-agencies receiving AFFECT awards will be considered. Unlike some prior AFFECT grant FAC which would not consider applications for projects previously funded through an AFFECT grant, the AFFECT BIL FAC does not apply this limitation."]
[106,"2023-05-17","Application Content/Format","A) SF-424 Question 8e: Can the Department Name be a DOE Office of Science Site Office and the Division Name be the name of the National Laboratory? Or should the Division Name be the DOE Office of Science Site Office division assisting with the grant?\nB) SF-424 Question 8f:  Can this be an employee of a National Laboratory, or does it need to be a federal employee?","Per section III.A. footnote 9: “In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT applicant must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility.”  Furthermore, as noted in section III.A. the FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY.\n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nA) It is recommended for projects at a government-owned, contractor-operator facilities, that the information for the cognizant federal organization be entered. For SF-424 Question 8e, your suggestion to enter the DOE Office of Science Site Office for the Department Name and the National Laboratory as the Division Name is a good approach.\n\nB) For SF-424 Question 8f, it is recommended the employee be a cognizant federal employee on the cognizant federal contracting officer’s team.\n\nFor more information on completing the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance, please see: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/instructions/SF424_4_0-V4.0-Instructions.pdf"]
[107,"2023-05-18","Application Content/Format","For Form SF-424, application for Federal Assistance, how should the following fields be filled out:\nBox 12: Funding Opportunity number:  please confirm that this is the FOA number. For example:  DE-FOA-0003026 for Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Advancing Net-Zero Federal Facilities.\nBox 13: Competition Identification number? Where can this number be located?","If applying the AFFECT BIL FAC, yes the correct Funding Opportunity Number is: DE-FOA-0003026 and the Title:  Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Advancing Net-Zero Federal Facilities, Federal Agency Call (FAC).\n\nThere is no Competition Identification Number/Title for this FAC and therefore Box 13 can be left blank.\n\nFor more information on completing the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance, please see: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/instructions/SF424_4_0-V4.0-Instructions.pdf"]
[108,"2023-05-18","Application Content/Format","I am developing a grant application for Topic Area 1. I have the following two questions about the subject AFFECT grant application.\n\nA) Are grant applications for Topic Area 1 required to submit for review by state (see SF-424 Q19)?\n\nB) Are grant applications for Topic Area 1 required to complete the eProject Builder Calculating Template?","A) Executive Order 12372 directs Federal agencies to provide opportunities for consultation by elected officials of those State and local governments that would provide the non-Federal funds for, or that would be directly affected by, proposed Federal financial assistance or direct Federal development. The applicant agency must determine whether EO 12372 applies to a project that is the subject of an application under this FAC. \n\nPer the SF-424 instructions: “Applicants should contact the State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) for Federal Executive Order 12372 to determine whether the application is subject to the State intergovernmental review process. Select the appropriate box. If ‘A.’ is selected, enter the date the application was submitted to the State.”  The full instructions can be found here: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/instructions/SF424_4_0-V4.0-Instructions.pdf \n\nB) As stated in section IV.B.i., as part of the Full Application Content Requirement an application form, a summary slide, a letter of endorsement, and a SF-424 form are required for Topic Area 1 applications."]
[109,"2023-05-19","Application Content/Format","For Topic Areas 2 and 3, the applicant is required to submit two scenarios in eProject Builder. For Scenario 1, the FAC states “Scenario 1 Project Without AFFECT BIL Grant. Submit the completed ePB Calculating Template showing a financeable project that does not include an AFFECT BIL grant. This scenario represents a project that is financeable and that an applicant can implement with an ESPC, UESC, or other funding sources that does not receive an AFFECT BIL grant.”  My agency is developing several projects to renovate, expand, or otherwise modify existing buildings, to be paid for using appropriated funds. Can our current documents (drawings, lists of materials, contract SOWs, etc.) for these projects serve as the input for Scenario 1? This is what we intend to build without the AFFECT BIL grant.","Agency specific documents (drawings, list of materials, contract SOW, etc.) are very good resources to inform completing an application. The FAC does not apply limitation on source documents for completing an application. The FAC does limit what can be submitted as part of an application. Please see section IV.B.i. Full Application Content Requirements for details on required documents by Topic Area."]
[110,"2023-05-19","Eligibility","Section II.C of the FAC states: “AFFECT BIL grant funding may be spent on any of the equipment and/or technical assistance and other services related to the planning, development, or implementation of an eligible project.”  Is the operation and maintenance of ECMs a “service related to…the implementation of an eligible project”? ","As noted in section II.C of the FAC, “AFFECT BIL grant funding may be spent on any of the equipment and/or technical assistance and other services related to the planning, development, or implementation of an eligible project.”  Implementation of an eligible project does not include operation and maintenance as related to this FAC. "]
[111,"2023-05-22","Application Content/Format","Within the ‘Funds and Costs’ tab on the Exchange (and a synonymous input within the SF-424 on Box 18), there are boxes that indicate cost-sharing. Our plan is to apply for funds from this opportunity in addition to utilizing appropriated funds. For an easy example, if we plan to split funding 50/50 between a grant and appropriated funds, should we put 100% of the expect costs in the “Federal Share (DOE)” field, because it is all technically federally funded? Or is the intent of the form to have us include the requested grant amount in the “Federal Share (DOE)” field, and to include the amount of appropriated funds in the “Non-Federal Share” field, which would generate a 50% cost-sharing between the grant and our use of appropriated funds? ","It is recommended that the AFFECT grant request is reported separately by entering the requested grant value in the “Federal Share (DOE)\" field and all other costs, both federal and non-federal in the “Non-Federal Share” such that the Total Project Cost is as accurate as possible. "]
[112,"2023-05-23","Application Content/Format","On the Application Form, do both the Primary and Backup Points of Contacts need to be federal employees? Or can they be employees of the M&O Contractor of a National Laboratory? ","Both the primary point of contact and the backup point of contact must be cognizant federal employees. "]
[113,"2023-05-23","Application Content/Format","I am having problems digitally signing the SF-424 form. Does it have to be a wet signature? ","FEMP will accept either written or electronic signatures on the SF-424, so long as the form is signed by an authorized representative of the applicant organization. "]
[114,"2023-05-23","Application Content/Format","In the SF-424 form, box 9, there is not a specific drop-down option for our agency. Please advise. ","For SF-424 Question 9, please select “X: Other (specify)” then in the “Other (specify)” enter “Federal Government.”\n\nFor more information on completing the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance, please see: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/instructions/SF424_4_0-V4.0-Instructions.pdf"]
[115,"2023-05-24","Application Content/Format","We are working on an application for Topic Area 3 where the project is directly funded by the agency. As a result, we don't have a \"guaranteed cost savings.\" Can you confirm that we should just fill out the \"estimated cost savings\" column of Schedule #1 in the eProject Builder Spreadsheet?","For completing the ePB calculating template for a direct funded project, it is optional to provide a value for “estimated cost savings” in cell B6, Tab Sch 1-Ann Cost Sav & Pymts. "]
[116,"2023-05-25","Other","A) Are there training opportunities for eProject Builder available from FEMP?\n\nB) Will there be additional AFFECT training opportunities or information releases (e.g., release of awarded projects once that information comes available)?","A) FEMP anticipates training for ePB in future rounds. Similar to the AFFECT BIL FAC, the training session would be announced on S3 eXCHANGE once scheduled and the session recorded and posted for all.\n\nB) Other than an ePB training, we will further analyze the Q&A and may provide additional guidance based on our findings. Should anything be provided, it will be posted to S3 eXCHANGE for all."]
[117,"2023-05-23","Application Content/Format","I’d need help clarifying a few of the application items for the AFFECT Funding. I’m not sure who to select for the “Lead Organization” or what to enter for the “Lead Organization Percent Effort.” “Enter the percentage of the work the lead organization will complete”: Is this in reference to the work on the application or the actual construction of the ECMs?","For S3 eXCHANGE “Lead Organization” recommend entering the organization that is either providing the contracting officer and/or funding for cost leverage. The Lead organization will be responsible for having an active UEI number and all Terms and Conditions of a potential grant. \n\nFor S3 eXCHANGE “Lead Organization Percent Effort” provide the percent of effort based on the lead organization’s proposed cost leverage as a percentage of the proposed total project cost that an application is being submitted for."]
[118,"2023-05-25","Cost Sharing","May AFFECT funding be used with MILCON and other funding pools?","As provided in I.D.i, ii, and iii of the FAC, all Topic Areas include projects executed through procurement means other than energy savings performance contracts and utility energy service contracts. Alternate contracts could include those funded through MILCON.\n\nFurthermore, in evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds. The FAC does not limit the funding type. However, agencies may have limits on adding AFFECT grant funds to indirect funds. It is recommended that the applicant consult the contracting officer for the project and procurement team for agency specific advice."]
[119,"2023-05-25","Labs/FFRDCs","I am a DOE Contracting Officer working to complete several applications for funding under the subject FOA. I have a question on what responsible party to place as the primary party for the FOA application. \n\nIt is our intent to apply as a federal agency in accordance with the FOA eligibility requirements, however we will be requesting that the Federally Funded R&D Center (FFRDC) perform most of the efforts under the scope of projects. My question is how do we best communicate that on the FOA application? Do we select “federal government” for the type of agency? Or since we are asking the FFRDC to perform this work, will that show the applications as ineligible? ","Per section III.A. footnote 9: “In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT applicant must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility.”  Furthermore, as noted in section III.A. the FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY at facilities owned by the U.S. federal government.\n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nShould the project meet the above requirements, the FAC does not limit who performs the work. Therefore, an FFRDC may perform the work."]
[120,"2023-05-25","Application Content/Format","Are there standard escalation rates for electricity and water in the DC Metro Area (Pepco) that applicants can use in their ePB spreadsheets?","In general, energy prices are assumed to change at rates projected by DOE's Energy Information Administration and published by NIST, except that— \n(1) If the Federal agency is using component prices that agency may use corresponding component escalation rates provided by the energy supplier. \n(2) For Federal buildings in foreign countries, the Federal agency may use a “reasonable” escalation rate. \n\nThe NIST Energy Escalation Rate Calculator, is available at:  https://pages.nist.gov/eerc/\n\nWe are not aware of a similar tool for water. If the Federal agency is using component prices that agency may use corresponding component escalation rates provided by the water supplier. Additionally, the 2017 Water and Wastewater Annual Escalation Rates for Selected Cities across the United States (available at: https://www.energy.gov/femp/articles/water-and-wastewater-annual-price-escalation-rates-selected-cities-across-united) provides helpful insight on estimating annual price escalation of water. However, your best resource will be your utility for this information."]
[121,"2023-07-26","Award Information","If a project was approved to receive AFFECT funds, how long (in years) will these funds be available to spend after approval?","As noted in section I.A., BIL Section 40554 provide authorization for the funds to remain available until expended. Applicants selected for award will have the opportunity to discuss and negotiate project specific deliverable and timeline for funding distribution as noted in section II.D. Once the funds have been distributed to the applicant, how they are further distributed and managed, will be subject to the recipient agency policies and procedures. It is recommended you consult with the cognizant contracting officer and project team."]
[122,"2023-06-06","Cost Sharing","For the new round of AFFECT Funding, is it possible for AFFECT to fully fund a project? For criteria 3 for topic areas 2 and 3, it says that cost leveraging is considered in project selection, but I have not been able to determine if zero cost leveraging is possible.","Per section I.D.ii and section I.D.iii, “In evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds.” \n\nPer section II.B, “Projects with greater cost leverage will be scored higher during the comprehensive merit review of the Technical Review Criteria.” This is calculated through the cost leverage ratio (CLR) where committed funds by the applicant (from both federal and non-federal sources) are divided by the amount of the grant requested under the FAC. Based on the information provided, if AFFECT fully funded a project, then the application’s CLR would be 0. Per section V.B, cost leverage constitutes 15% of the evaluation of the Technical Review Criteria for Topic Areas 2 and 3."]
[123,"2023-06-01","Award Information","Is this free money to the agency or does it come with strings attached? I take this to mean will the agency have to repay these funds in the future, or will this affect any future submittals for the agency through the AFFECT BIL or any other grant opportunities?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information:\n\nAFFECT is a grant program, meaning that recipients do not need to repay awarded funds used for eligible costs. Applicants may submit multiple applications under AFFECT BIL, where FEMP will evaluate each application independently."]
[124,"2023-08-10","Application Content/Format","We wish to receive an AFFECT grant contribution to the future CDC Milcon that is being developed at Little Creek. However, we think that a specific technology that is up and coming needs to be applied to be included. Can we get a generic grant and have the designers incorporate a new technology?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nAs noted in Section I.E, Applications Specifically Not of Interest: “Applications that include research and development activities.”  Additionally, for Topic Areas 2 and 3, an application must include eProject Builder templates, which require identification of each energy conservation measures contemplated for a project. (See Section IV.B.vi.) \n\nInterested applicants are strongly encouraged to review the full AFFECT BIL FAC in detail, ensuring that are submitting an application of interest that is in alignment with topic area, eligibility, programmatic priorities, policy considerations, and technical review criteria."]
[125,"2023-08-23","Application Content/Format","A) We are interested in advice from DOE on resources for estimating inputs for eProjectBuilder. Do you know who we could approach? Would that need to be via the FEMP Assistance Request portal, and if so, would that be one general one or multiple ones, each specific to a project?\n\nB) Second, could you share if there is a contact, we could approach regarding adjusting the AFFECT program to allow flexibility in the requirements to use eProjectBuilder and certain versions?","A) The FEMP AFFECT team is in the process of developing resources and training for applicants on how to complete eProjectBuilder templates for AFFECT BIL. We expect guidance on estimating various inputs to be included as part of that guidance. Once the training is ready, we will post the information on eXCHANGE. \n\nB) We are currently evaluating our options for the different versions of eProjectBuilder for the FAC. Depending on our findings, as need be the FAC will be modified and posted to eXCHANGE."]
[126,"2023-08-30","Eligibility","For the purpose of the AFFECT grant program, is U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) considered an eligible federal ‘agency?’","AFFECT is to provide grants to agencies, which as defined by statute, do not include authorities under Congress, such as GAO (See 5 U.S.C. 551(1) as cited by 42 U.S.C. 8259(1))."]
[127,"2023-09-21","Technical Topics","I had a question regarding the feasibility of applying for TA3 grant in a design-build delivery project while the team is still in the planning phase developing the design-build RFP. We would be interested in going for the net zero and grant opportunity, but it appears that the application requires detailed analysis and calculations analyzing baseline and net zero case energy, gas, and water calculations. Since this is design-build and no contractor or concept has been awarded yet, there is no chosen equipment, materials, site plan, or building design at this time. The team could work to develop a hypothetical calculation based on some baseline type building and typical systems, but any actual numbers or data are not known until the design-builder has been selected and they have developed their design. \n\nCan we proceed with submitting an application on hypothetical assumptions at this time prior to awarding a design-build contract or does the process require real analysis of the actual proposed and selected equipment and materials?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nThe applicant must determine the scope and subject of the project submitted in an application. When determining the scope and subject of a proposed project, keep in mind, that the statutory purpose of the AFFECT program is to assist agencies in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. § 8253. The requirements of 42 U.S.C. § 8253 generally apply to existing buildings. In the context of energy savings performance contracts, FEMP has addressed new construction, including the appropriate baselining of energy and water use, in Guidance on New Construction under an Energy Savings Performance Contracts available at: https://www.energy.gov/femp/articles/guidance-new-construction-under-energy-savings-performance-contract and in question 17 of the Federal Energy Savings Contracts FAQ available at: https://www.energy.gov/node/2206881."]
[128,"2023-09-21","Cost Sharing","I had a question about the feasibility of submitting a project for the grant and how this factor will impact the chances of being successful. This factor states: The extent to which the applicant leverages its agency funding commitment and non-federal financing (cost leverage) as defined in Section II.B and as requested in questions 3.1 – 3.2 in Section 3 of the AFFECT BIL Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3 Application Form.\n\nIf a project has no non-federal financing and is going to proceed at 100% agency funded, does that mean it would receive a zero for this factor? If so, would that make it impossible to successfully compete for and receive a grant in that situation?","Per Section II.B. Cost Leverage, “in accordance with the factors established in 42 U.S.C. § 8256(b)(3)(C) and (D), consideration of cost leverage evaluates the amount requested by the applicant federal agency as compared to the total investment cost of the subject project. Specifically, cost leverage refers to the amount of funding committed to the project by the agency requesting financial assistance and the extent that a proposal leverages financing from other non-federal sources (e.g., private financing used in a performance contract, incentives from utilities and/or state/local government, etc.).”\n\nAlso, for Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3, as outlined in Sections I.D.ii. and D.iii. respectively: “In evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds. Non-federal funds applied to projects proposed under Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3 may include (a) funding under an energy savings performance contract (i.e., ESPCs, ENABLE) and/or UESCs (collectively, energy performance contracts); (b) rebates and other financial incentives from utilities and state or local government agencies, and (c) other non-Federal funding sources as may be authorized for applicant agency. FEMP will also consider the amount of funding committed to the project by the applicant agency’s appropriations.”\n\nAs provided in V.B, under Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3 the Leverage Criterion accounts for 15% of the technical review. "]
[129,"2023-09-18","Eligibility","In reading the FAC, and in particular III. A. Eligible Applicants, and the QA, we are not sure whether our project would be eligible, so we are writing to ask.\n\nIII. Eligibility Information, A. Eligible Applicants: This FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies) are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC. Only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.\n\nThe project is at a leased complex. The electric and gas utilities for this complex are paid by NOAA. Recently, NOAA received delegated authority from GSA to enter into a 20-year succeeding building lease to allow it to continue to occupy this complex and is currently negotiating over the terms of the lease. Lease negotiations are anticipated to conclude soon, and the new lease is expected to be signed shortly thereafter. \n\nIn the document AFFECT_BIL_FOA-0003026_QA, there are two relevant questions related to eligibility for leased federal buildings and the answers seem to conflict: Question 39 and Question 77.\n\nQuestion 77 seems most similar to the NOAA complex in that it relates to government-leased, privately owned buildings, however, given the answer to Question 39 and NOAA’s complex meeting the definition of “federal building” at 42 U.S.C. § 8259(6), we are left unsure of whether a project at the NOAA complex is eligible for consideration under AFFECT and would welcome guidance.","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”\n\nSection III.A. Eligible Applicants states that “only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC.”"]
[130,"2023-10-18","Award Information","Do the DOE AFFECT program projects require data analytics FDD to confirm the projects are meeting the program requirements?","Per Section IV.C. Post Selection Information Request: “If selected for award, FEMP reserves the right to request additional or clarifying information for any reason deemed necessary, including but not limited to: \n• Additional budget information; \n• Additional Commitment Letters from third parties contributing to cost leverage, if applicable; \n• Cybersecurity plan; or \n• Information addressing potential project impacts to the human or natural environment, including but not limited to an Environmental Questionnaire.”\n\nFurthermore, per Section VI.B.x. Reporting: “FEMP will conduct project monitoring during the lifetime of the project with specific reporting requirements and reporting to be discussed during project award negotiations.” "]
[131,"2023-10-23","Technical Topics","What type(s) of resilience projects may apply to AFFECT funding? I know that certain solar PV and microgrid systems can, but curious about other resilience projects. For example, one that might not result in direct energy savings but would improve critical electrical infrastructure and would therefore be a prerequisite to using 100% CFE.","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”\n\nAs provided in section I.A:  “The Energy Policy Act of 1992 authorized the Secretary of Energy to establish a fund with the stated purpose of providing competitive grants to federal agencies to assist them in meeting the energy and water conservation requirements in Section 543 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. § 8253). Through this authority, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Federal Energy \nManagement Program (FEMP) created the Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) program to provide funding to federal agencies for the development of energy and water saving technologies and to meet federal mandates.” \n\nIt is at the discretion of the applicant to apply or not and the project scope of an application. "]
[132,"2023-10-23","Technical Topics","The Smithsonian Environmental Research Institute is interested to build a >2MW ground mounted solar array. Are large solar arrays eligible for funding under DE-FOA-0003026? Is it necessary to apply for an Area 1 grant to develop a plan before we could apply for an Area 3 grant to actually build the project?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs provided in section I.A: “The Energy Policy Act of 1992 authorized the Secretary of Energy to establish a fund with the stated purpose of providing competitive grants to federal agencies to assist them in meeting the energy and water conservation requirements in Section 543 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. § 8253).”  As further provided in section I.C “the AFFECT BIL FAC aims to drive the federal government to lead by example and support the administration goals laid out above by promoting agencies’ efforts in achieving a net-zero emissions building portfolio as described in Section 205 of E.O. 14057, as well as achieving net-zero water and/or net-zero waste buildings per OMB M-22-06.”  \n\nAgencies that are awarded funds for assistance with net-zero buildings opportunity development under Topic Area 1 may submit a Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3 application under future AFFECT BIL FAC submission opportunities to seek funding for project execution. Submission under Topic 1 is not a prerequisite for submission under Topic Ares 2 or Topic Area 3. "]
[133,"2023-11-29","Eligibility","Is there any reason why the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) would not be eligible for AFFECT grants? TVA is a federally owned electric utility serving seven states. TVA facilities are wholly owned by the federal government.","For the purpose of the AFFECT grant program, TVA is a federal ‘agency.’\n\nThe purpose of the AFFECT grant program is to assist agencies in meeting the statutorily established energy and water requirements at 42 U.S.C. § 8253. For the purpose of 42 U.S.C. § 8253, ‘agency’ has the meaning as defined in 5 USC § 551(1). "]
[134,"2024-01-03","Technical Topics","Are nature-based solutions (bioswales, green roofs, native plants, etc.) an eligible expense under the AFFECT grant program?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:  \n\nAs provided in section I.A: “The Energy Policy Act of 1992 authorized the Secretary of Energy to establish a fund with the stated purpose of providing competitive grants to federal agencies to assist them in meeting the energy and water conservation requirements in Section 543 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. § 8253). Through this authority, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) created the Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) program to provide funding to federal agencies for the development of energy and water saving technologies and to meet federal mandates.”\n\nIt is at the discretion of the applicant to apply or not and the project scope of an application."]
[135,"2024-01-08","Technical Topics","The FOA states projects be proposed for this application. Would programs also be applicable to this FOA? For example, there is a program that works to fund multiple projects.","As provided in I.D. “This AFFECT BIL FAC seeks applications from federal agencies for projects that will create individual showcase facilities and/or multi-site deployment projects that contribute to a net-zero building portfolio.”"]
[136,"2024-01-09","Eligibility","I am writing to confirm Smithsonian Institution eligibility for the AFFECT program. We have a number of exciting projects in design and planning phase and would like to apply for support.","For the purpose of the AFFECT grant program, Smithsonian is a federal ‘agency.’\n\nThe purpose of the AFFECT grant program is to assist agencies in meeting the statutorily established energy and water requirements at 42 U.S.C. § 8253. For the purpose of 42 U.S.C. § 8253, ‘agency’ has the meaning as defined in 5 USC § 551(1)."]
[137,"2023-10-12","Technical Topics","Topic 1 of the AFFECT grant can be used for a planning report? For example, a plan that gives us which net-zero technology is most efficient for the installation. Contractor will have to perform a site survey to understand current infrastructure condition and loads, market research to understand RE technology being used close to the installation, etc. Plus, give recommendations of which projects are needed to achieve net-zero (short- and long-term goals), summary of construction cost, and summary of future O&M. Similar to a District Development Plan (DDP) or an Area Development Plan (ADP).","As provided in section I.A.i: “Applications submitted under Topic Area 1 are for proposed assistance requests for the initiation and development of an opportunity that will lead to a replicable process or program for future net-zero buildings projects.\n\nFor purposes of this AFFECT BIL FAC, “assistance” includes but may not be limited to review of identified ECMs to determine life-cycle cost effectiveness, analysis of ECMs to determine the feasibility of a performance contract, and development of documentation and analysis to pursue a project. \n\nThe applicable final deliverable required under Topic Area 1 for funding to be released is dependent on the type of opportunity development proposed as a result of the assistance received:\n• For Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) or ENABLE projects: Notice of Opportunity (NOO);\n• For Utility Energy Service Contract (UESC) projects: Letter of Interest (LOI) or Sources Sought Request for Proposal (RFP); or\n• For projects executed through other procurement mechanisms: RFP or Request for Quote (RFQ).”"]
[138,"2024-01-11","Technical Topics","Net-zero emission building means a building that is designed and operated so that, when connected to a regional electrical grid fully serviced by carbon pollution-free electricity, the scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from all operational end uses are zero on an annual basis.\n\nThe only way to not connect to a non-carbon grid is by not connecting to the national electric grid. Does this mean that this potential net-zero building cannot connect to the national electrical grid? The facility will need to essentially operate as a microgrid off its own renewables or is simply offsetting the facility energy through renewables acceptable?\n\nA potential thought is for a net-zero hanger for aircraft. Would this not be allowable due to scope 1 emissions from the aircraft themselves?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”\nBased on the information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you in determining whether you wish to submit an application: \n\nAs provided in section I.A: “The Energy Policy Act of 1992 authorized the Secretary of Energy to establish a fund with the stated purpose of providing competitive grants to federal agencies to assist them in meeting the energy and water conservation requirements in Section 543 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. § 8253). Through this authority, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) created the Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) program to provide funding to federal agencies for the development of energy and water saving technologies and to meet federal mandates.”\nIn section I.C, the FAC leverages OMB Memo M-22-06 and Implementing Instructions for E.O. 14057 for the definitions of net-zero. Furthermore, the FAC notes: “AFFECT BIL FAC support of a federal path toward net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings will contribute to multiple agency goals through efficiency and conservation improvements, electrification, operational and management enhancements, increased use of on-site clean and renewable energy sources, sustainable facility design, and reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while simultaneously creating and sustaining well-paying U.S. jobs.” Furthermore, the section defines net-zero emission building as “a building that is designed and operated so that, when connected to a regional electrical grid fully serviced by carbon pollution-free electricity, the scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from all operational end uses are zero on an annual basis.”\n\nAs provided under that definition, it is the design of the building and the operation at such time as it would be connected to a regional electric grid that fully serviced by carbon pollution-free electricity that is considered. \n\nFurther as provided by the definition of net zero emission building, the building emissions are the relevant emissions, not the emissions of transportation equipment that may be housed in the building. \n\nIt is at the discretion of the applicant to apply or not and the project scope of an application. "]
[139,"2024-01-11","Application Content/Format","The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is looking into developing a solar panel farm to enhance resilience of the electrical grid. The project will be sized to enable reduced demand, load-shifting, and surplus power sales to the grid. Its replicability will showcase the benefits of combined resilience ECMs in future Department of Defense projects. The project aims to enhance electricity and energy cost savings and reduce greenhouse gas emission. What needs to be submitted to allow Norfolk Naval Shipyard to compete for the funding of the project?","Section IV. Application and Submission Information of the FAC provides the process, systems, and application content that need to be completed when submitting a project under this FAC."]
[140,"2024-01-11","Due Dates","Questions Regarding DE-FOA-0003026:\n1. is phase 2 opening after the phase 1 selection announcements (this month)?\n2. is there a day scheduled for phase 2 to open?\nJust getting worried b/c it seems the deadline is 19 APR 2024 for phase 2 applications, and I cannot begin my application (online) yet.","As stated on S3 eXCHANGE landing page for the FAC: Prior to phase 2 opening, FEMP will be modifying the FAC for applications based on lessons learned from phase 1, questions asked, and applicant feedback. \n\nAdditionally, the FAC states:  S3 eXCHANGE will open for submission 3 months prior to the submission deadline of each phase."]
[141,"2024-01-18","Other","Who can bid on these projects and be awarded the contracts? and How?","As provided in Section III.A. Eligible Applicants; “This FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies), as defined by 5 U.S.C § 551(1), are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.”"]
[142,"2024-01-18","Technical Topics","We are interested in applying for AFFECT grant and wanted to obtain some guidance whether or not data center related projects would be allowable and how likely it is for approval for AFFECT grant. We do feel it meets the NetZero Building goals as required for AFFECT application per your site, but we (I especially) didn’t want to request the investment in time and effort if it’s not a viable project under AFFECT. More specifically, we wanted to implement advanced metering in those data centers which needs advanced metering for energy and water utilization reporting and optimization, along with energy efficiency projects in data centers such as hot aisle/cool aisle air containment and renewable energy generation for data centers via solar/wind. Thank you for your assistance. \n\nWas any Information Technology and/or data center related projects approved for AFFECT last year? If so, would you be able to share?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:  \n\nAs provided in section I.A: “The Energy Policy Act of 1992 authorized the Secretary of Energy to establish a fund with the stated purpose of providing competitive grants to federal agencies to assist them in meeting the energy and water conservation requirements in Section 543 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. § 8253). Through this authority, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) created the Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) program to provide funding to federal agencies for the development of energy and water saving technologies and to meet federal mandates.”\n\nFor information on past selectees, see: \nhttps://www.energy.gov/femp/federal-energy-management-program-closed-funding-opportunities and \nhttps://www.energy.gov/femp/assisting-federal-facilities-energy-conservation-technologies-funding-recipients\n\nIt is at the discretion of the applicant to apply or not and the project scope of an application. "]
[143,"2024-02-21","Application Content/Format","Can Contracting Officers submit proposals?","As identified in Section III.A. Eligible Applicants of the FAC, if the proposed project is at a government-owned, contractor-operated facility, “the application must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer.”\n\nIf the proposed project is at federally owned facility with other types of operational arrangement, it is recommended that a Federal Contracting Officer or a federal employee with the authority to commit the government to a project submits the application."]
[144,"2024-03-28","Application Content/Format","We are assisting in the development of AFFECT applications and corresponding projects. Would it be possible to request the applications submitted or more information regarding for the following projects?\n\nAdditional questions for clarification:\n•\tTarget Carbon Reduction for Projects\n•\tTarget ROI or Cost Savings\n•\tIn Topic Area 2, is \"cost effectiveness\" described in Criterion 1 (The Viability and Cost Effectiveness of Net-Zero Buildings Project) focused carbon reduction per dollar spent? Is there another way to interpret the intent of this criterion?","Due to the competitive nature of the grant program, we are unable to share applications. \n\nSection V. Application Review Information of the FAC has been updated to provide some example benchmarks and more details on aspects that applications will be evaluated on.\n\nTo learn about the previous AFFECT awarded projects, please see: https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/federal-energy-management-program-closed-funding-opportunities. \n\nFor more information Life Cycle Cost Analyses for assessing “cost effectiveness” please see 10 CFR Part 436 Subpart A: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-10/chapter-II/subchapter-D/part-436/subpart-A?toc=1 "]
[145,"2024-04-02","Cost Sharing","Is an Enhanced Use Lease eligible for AFFECT funding?\n\nIn case additional context is helpful, we are working with Navy on an EUL at Joint Base Pearl Harbor. Navy has underutilized land and has selected Ameresco to build clean energy generation on the site. Rather than making lease payments to Navy for the land, Ameresco will make energy infrastructure upgrades. If this type of project is eligible for AFFECT, the way I see it, funding would flow to Navy, and the EUL in kind consideration projects would serve as the cost share.","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”   The statutory purpose of AFFECT is to provide grants to agencies to assist them in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. section 8253, which includes requirements for the implementation of energy and water conservation measures. In evaluating whether an EUL project would be eligible for an AFFECT grant, consideration should be given as to how such a project would support compliance with the requirements at 42 U.S.C. 8253."]
[146,"2024-03-18","Application Content/Format","We have the following question regarding the subject FAC: ePB question for power mixes other than eGRID. Unfortunately, eProjectBuilder does not allow entering a specific resource mix. \n\nWe’ve taken varying approaches to different grant applications, and we thought it was best to seek clarification and standardize our approach.","As provided in section IV.B.vi of the FAC, “To establish a consistent basis for evaluating applications, all agencies submitting\nan application under Topic Areas 2 and Topic Area 3 are required to provide all schedules within the ePB Calculating Template, with the exception of Schedule #5 Cancellation Ceilings. The completed ePB Calculating Template must include the completed GHG emissions worksheet Schedule #4g that calculates the extent to which a proposed project will reduce GHG emissions.”  \n\nFor U.S. based projects please use the eGRID factor associated with the location of your proposed project. For projects located outside of the U.S. please choose “U.S. Default.” For projects outside of the U.S., and other emission methodologies, leverage the notes section.\n\nFor additional guidance on use ePB, please see the posted training from April 18: https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/FileContent.aspx?FileID=cd71acde-2801-4d3f-8b81-c1b262aa752f  "]
[147,"2024-03-13","Application Content/Format","The narrative describing the AFFECT BIL uses language for the application categories as “efforts in achieving a net-zero emissions building portfolio as described in Section 205 of E.O. 14057, as well as achieving net-zero water” but the application (copy I have attached) does not seem to highlight “emissions” as a criterion, only Energy savings in, Natural Gas savings and Water savings seem to be available to get to “net-zero” benefits. \n\nAlthough we will achieve energy savings, our project will primarily a benefit through emissions reductions. We may not have the ability to off-set the energy to net-zero without adding PV or other source. Is using the approach of leaning heavily on emission reduction allowed?","Per section III.D, “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs provided in section I.B. of the FAC, “FEMP is seeking to make awards as described in Section 543 of NECPA, as amended through the Energy Act of 2020 (EA2020) and codified in 42 U.S.C. § 8253. In making such awards, FEMP also seeks to support the Administration’s goals for federal leadership under Executive Order (E.O.) 14057, Catalyzing America’s Clean Energy Economy Through Federal Sustainability and E.O. 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. \n\nAdditionally, as stated under section I.C., the FAC “AFFECT BIL FAC support of a federal path toward net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings will contribute to multiple agency goals through efficiency and conservation improvements, electrification, operational and management enhancements, increased use of on-site clean and renewable energy sources, sustainable facility design, and reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while simultaneously creating and sustaining well-paying U.S. jobs.”\n\nThe statutory purpose of AFFECT is to provide grants to agencies to assist them in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. section 8253, which includes requirements for the implementation of energy and water conservation measures. \n\nIt is recommended the applicant evaluate the full FAC, including the application review criteria under section V, before making a determination of whether to submit an application and which Topic Area."]
[148,"2024-03-06","Eligibility","We're working on a nomination for a combination wind turbine/PV system at a federally owned facility on leased land in American Samoa. Based on the AFFECT eligibility criteria, the building itself would be eligible, but we wanted to verify complete eligibility as the project would entail installing equipment on the ground. The bureau has had a land lease at this site for over 50 years - since 1972. Note there is a Use of Property clause in the land lease identifying any built fixtures or improvements as property of the federal government. Please let us know if this project meets the AFFECT eligibility requirements, and if you have any questions. We look forward to your response!","Per section III.D, “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs provided in section III.A, only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC. The applicant must demonstrate how the project will benefit a federally owned facility and how the project will support the agency’s net-zero efforts. \n\nIt is recommended that the applicant consult the contracting officer for the project and procurement team for agency specific advice."]
[149,"2024-03-05","Eligibility","Per section III.A. Eligible Applicants footnote 9, “In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operator facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT applicant must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility.” \n\nCan an AFFECT application for a project at a government-owned, government-operated facility be eligible if it is submitted by a cognizant Federal Energy Program Manager instead of a cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements are met: the federal agency pays the utility bills, receives the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pays the ESCO/utility.”? Simply: Must the application be made by a Federal Contracting Officer or can another Federal Employee submit the application? Do all applications need to be submitted by a cognizant Federal Contracting Officer?","As identified in section III.A. Eligible Applicants of the FAC, if the proposed project is at a government-owned, contractor-operated facility, “the application must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer.”\n\nIf the proposed project is at federally owned facility with other types of operational arrangement, it is recommended that a Federal Contracting Officer or a federal employee with the authority to commit the government to a project submits the application."]
[150,"2024-03-01","Application Content/Format","We are considering submitting a proposal under Topic Area 3, but we don’t yet have an ESCO with which we are working, because we don’t have a project going yet. Since we will have to put out an RFP for the installation, any ESCO working with us at this early stage would not be guaranteed of being awarded the project, so what would be their motivation for helping at this stage? We are about to get bids for initiating a solar system design for our facility, but do not have it yet, so we don’t have many hard numbers for ePB. How do other applicants deal with this? Is it okay for us to use very rough estimates for these values, or should we instead wait for the next round of submissions, after we have more of a concrete design?","Per section III.D, “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs provided in section I.D.iv of the FAC, “Topic Area 3 applications must include two scenarios modeled via the ePB Calculating Template. The first scenario must illustrate the current scope of work anticipated for the new project or project in development. The second scenario must illustrate a financeable project with the AFFECT BIL grant, which has an increased scope of work that includes additional and/or modified ECMs to support the applicant’s net-zero buildings efforts.”\n\nAdditionally, as noted in footnote 9 in section V.A of the FAC: “Eligible Applicants are permitted to coordinate the development of application content, information, and documentation as required for submission with ESCO, Utility, or Contractor Partners as per the Applicant’s preference. However, the application must be submitted by the Eligible Applicant federal agency.”\n\nThe submission deadlines for each application round along with expected date for selection notification are noted on the first page of the FAC.\n\nIt is recommended, the applicant evaluate the full FAC and make a determination whether to submit an application, the appropriate Topic Area, and the most suitable phase of the FAC."]
[151,"2024-01-29","Eligibility","We have a question concerning eligible sites for the AFFECT grant. The National Park Service owns and manages a golf course within National Capital Parks- East. The main building facility for the golf course is owned by the NPS. A private concessionaire manages the facility, and currently has a 50 year lease with NPS/federal government. The private concessionaire reimburses/ pays NPS for all utilities (energy & water), utilizing a 35B contract. Does this disqualify the facility for an AFFECT grant?","As provided in Section III.A of the FAC, “In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operated (GOCO) facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT application must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility. Furthermore, the application must demonstrate eligibility.”   It is recommended that the applicant consult the contracting officer for the project and procurement team for agency specific advice."]
[152,"2024-01-30","Application Content/Format","Asking if retro commissioning an existing solar PV with depleted performance qualifies as there is plan and scope of work to repair and upgrade back to full capacity/production? please advise. Thank you.","Per section III.D, “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs noted in Appendix B of the FAC, an energy conservation measure (ECM) is “a measure that is applied to an existing Federal building that improves energy efficiency and is life cycle cost effective and that involves energy conservation, cogeneration facilities, renewable energy sources, improvements in operation and maintenance efficiencies, or retrofit activities.”"]
[153,"2024-01-31","Eligibility","If a non-federal organization (i.e. non-profit 501c3 organization) that is the lease-holder/operator/manager of a federal facility jointly pays the utility bills with the federal agency (i.e. National Park Service), are we eligible to apply for the grant or must the federal agency be responsible for paying 100% of all utilities at the federal facility?","Per Section III.A. Eligible Applicants; “This FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies), as defined by 5 U.S.C § 551(1), are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC. In order for a project at a government-owned, contractor-operated (GOCO) facility to be eligible for AFFECT, the AFFECT application must be submitted by the cognizant Federal Contracting Officer and the following requirements must be met: the federal agency must pay the utility bills, receive the benefits of the reduced utility bills and, in the case of a performance contract, pay the ESCO/utility. Furthermore, the application must demonstrate eligibility.”"]
[154,"2024-02-08","Eligibility","Are companies that did not apply for Phase 1 eligible to apply for Phase 2? Does the application constitute software that enables net zero projects and buildings?","Per Section III.A. Eligible Applicants; “This FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies), as defined by 5 U.S.C § 551(1), are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.”\n\nPer section III.D, “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs noted in Appendix B of the FAC, an energy conservation measure (ECM) is “a measure that is applied to an existing Federal building that improves energy efficiency and is life cycle cost effective and that involves energy conservation, cogeneration facilities, renewable energy sources, improvements in operation and maintenance efficiencies, or retrofit activities.”\n\nIt is recommended, the applicant evaluate the full FAC and make a determination whether to submit an application, the appropriate Topic Area, and the most suitable phase of the FAC."]
[155,"2024-01-23","Award Information","1. How soon after an applicant has been notified that their AFFECT grant has been approved for award will they actually receive funds?\n2. How long do awardees have to expend all of the AFFECT funds that they’ve been awarded?\n3. Is there a minimum dollar amount for projects? Are small projects (less than $100,000) eligible?\n4. Is there a maximum number of AFFECT proposals that an agency can submit?","1. The submission deadlines for each application round along with expected date for selection notification are noted on the first page of the FAC. The timeline for funding distribution and final deliverables that trigger funding release will vary based on the Topic Area for which the application was selected and the award negotiation process. Absent delays in recipient of the required information, the award negotiation process will take approximately 60 to 90 days, as noted in section VI.A.iii of the FAC.\n2. As noted in section I.A., BIL Section 40554 provide authorization for the funds to remain available until expended. As provided in section II.D, FEMP reserves the right to terminate the selected AFFECT BIL grant if the recipient agency has not submitted the applicable deliverable within specified period following grant selection. \n3. There is no minimum dollar amount for projects. Section II.A provides the estimated funding levels under each topic area and the associated cost leveraging consideration. \n4. As stated in section III.A, “An applicant may submit more than one application to this FAC, provided that each application describes a separate, distinct project.”"]
[156,"2024-02-02","Application Content/Format","I’m writing to get some clarification about which Topic Area to pursue. We are working on a nomination for a batch of sites that previously implemented ECMs under an existing IDIQ. The nomination we’re developing is for new (but similar) projects, and the applicant would be implementing these projects under the same IDIQ. Would this nomination fall under Topic Area 2 (since it will utilize an existing contract) or Topic Area 3 (since these are new projects)?\n• Given this is a batch nomination to implement the same project (geothermal) at multiple sites, do you recommend entering each site as a separate ECM within ePB, or is there another way you would prefer to review the nomination data? Note we also have savings figures from other sites where the project was already implemented and can provide those savings figures in the nomination narrative or elsewhere depending on your preference.\n• The nomination we’re developing is for new (but similar) projects, and the applicant would be implementing these projects under the same IDIQ. Would this nomination fall under Topic Area 2 (since it will utilize an existing contract) or Topic Area 3 (since these are new projects)?","Per section III.D, “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nIt is recommended the applicant evaluate the full FAC, before making a determination of whether to submit an application and which Topic Area. As provided in section I.D.iii. and iv., Topic Area 2 is for proposed projects that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts and Topic Area 3 is for new projects or projects in development that have not been awarded yet. \n\nIt is recommended that the applicant consult the contracting officer for the project and procurement team for agency specific advice on modifying the existing IDIQ. \n\nIn regard to data entry into ePB, the ePB workbook allows for flexibility of entering information for multiple or single location. If the locations are in different eGRID regions, reporting of ECMs separately by location would provide more representative emission calculations."]
[157,"2024-04-03","Application Content/Format","If we are to apply under Topic Area 3, is there a requirement that we are funding some of it with external funding? For example, we have a great project that converts from fuel oil heating to electric (hyrdo grid). However, we do not have any funding available to supplement the potential AFFECT funding. As I understand the guidance, we would score poorly on Criteria 3 Leverage, but could still compete for project funding.\n\nIn that same scenario, when making two different ePB entries – would one just represent the status quo and the other represent the AFFECT funding, since we do not have other funds to execute the project?","Per section III.D, “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nCost leverage is part of the evaluation criteria per section V.C. Criterion 3. Furthermore, per section II.B. Cost Leverage, “in accordance with the factors established in 42 U.S.C. § 8256(b)(3)(C) and (D), consideration of cost leverage evaluates the amount requested by the applicant federal agency as compared to the total investment cost of the subject project.” \n\nAs provided in section IV.B.vi., “agencies are required to submit two scenarios for their proposed project that use the latest version of the ePB Calculating Template, submitted electronically in native MS Excel format as follows: Scenario 1 Project Without AFFECT BIL Grant. Submit the completed ePB Calculating Template showing a financeable project that does not include an AFFECT BIL grant. This scenario represents a project that is financeable and that an applicant can implement with an ESPC, UESC, and/or other funding sources that does not receive an AFFECT BIL grant. Scenario 2 Project With AFFECT BIL Grant. Submit the completed ePB Calculating Template showing the same project in Scenario 1 with increased scope that can be included, and is financeable, when applying an AFFECT BIL grant in the amount the applicant is requesting. The AFFECT BIL grant can be entered into ePB Calculating template as an “Applied Incentive” on the MS Excel worksheet “Sch2-Imp Price by ECM”.” "]
[158,"2024-04-04","Eligibility","I would like to talk to someone to see if we would be disqualified from submitting an AFFECT grant application on 6/27/24. We operate a test facility using federal funds to certify airport runway visual aid equipment prior to deploying at airports. This is in support of the FAA. Instead of constructing a new facility to house the processing equipment, we lease a 1940’s vintage building from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for $1 at a former Air Force Base called Joint Base Cape Cod in Sandwich, MA. This helped our carbon footprint by not construction a new building. The USDOT is responsible for funding all capital improvements. Can we apply for AFFECT funds to this State-owned property?\n\nTo date:\nFederal funds have been invested for the following Net-Zero efforts that I hope to cite as in-kind contributions to getting to Net-Zero and building electrification. We’ve invested $310K in federal funds to replace the 1940’s roof with a fully insulated EDPM roof. We invested to upgrade all the 1940’s vintage power panels so as to position us to convert from natural gas heat to electric heat\nWe’re planning to invest in electric min-splits heat pumps to replace our natural gas HVAC unit.\n\nThe AFFECT grant (approx. $200K) would continue Federal investment by installing to install insulated interior walls, replace 1940’s vintage windows/doors, install insulated exterior vinyl siding, install solar array.","Per section III.A of the FAC, “only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC, consistent with 42 U.S.C. § 8253, which prioritize owned facilities.”"]
[159,"2024-04-04","Eligibility","Are privatized military housing sites eligible to apply for AFFECT?","Per section III.A of the FAC, “only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC, consistent with 42 U.S.C. § 8253, which prioritize owned facilities.”"]
[160,"2024-04-09","Award Information","What should be the setting for Purpose of Registration in SAM.gov?","For the purpose of the AFFECT grant, ensure the Purpose of Registration in SAM.gov is “Federal Assistance Awards” or “All Awards.”"]
[161,"2024-04-22","Cost Sharing","Can BIL AFFECT awards be used for performance contracts, including energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs)?","The authority for AFFECT awards, 42 U.S.C. § 8256(b), expressly provides that funding will be provided in the form of competitive “grants” to assist agencies in meeting their requirements under 42 U.S.C. § 8253. Among those requirements, agencies are directed to implement certain energy- or water-saving measures using performance contracting. 42 U.S.C. § 8253(f)(4). ESPCs are one mechanism to that can be used to achieve this objective and consistent with the AFFECT authority, AFFECT grant funding may be awarded to assist an agency in meeting that objective."]
[162,"2024-04-09","Application Content/Format","ePB question for power mixes other than eGRID:\n\nOur power is directly transmitted from nuclear and hydroelectric sources, across our site and to our substations before it is available to the grid or mixed with other sources. This unique power infrastructure configuration and purchase agreement means that the power used at our site is 96% 24/7 CFE.\n\nUnfortunately, eProjectBuilder does not allow entering a specific resource mix. We have the following options:\n1) Use WECC NW and apply a correction factor in columns M and N of the ePB as “Other Savings” with no cost but reflecting the delta in emissions between WECC NW and BPA attested power.\n2) Use WECC NW for ePB and present the corrected numbers, with an explanatory end note, on the application forms, justifying the deltas between ePB and presented numbers.\n3) Choose Upstate NY as the closest to Hanford emissions, with corrected numbers and an end note in the application forms.\n\nWe’ve taken varying approaches to different grant applications, and we thought it was best to seek clarification and standardize our approach. We recommend option 1, as it most closely approximates our calculated numbers in the ePB and maintains consistency with our power mix, and between ePB outputs and application form numbers.","Section IV.B.vi of the FAC states, “The completed ePB Calculating Template must include the completed GHG emissions worksheet Schedule #4g that calculates the extent to which a proposed project will reduce GHG emissions.”  FEMP will evaluate the current GHG emissions of a subject facility as compared to the projected GHG emissions following the proposed project. To provide a consistent approach, and as presented at the 4/18/2024 ePB training ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyqtJXVoHck), please use the appropriate eGRID factor. "]
[163,"2024-04-23","Eligibility","Is a recent grant selectee still eligible to apply for another AFFECT grant if expanding the scope of the project under the first grant?","Section III.A. Eligibility of the FAC states, “An applicant may submit more than one application to this FAC, provided that each application describes a separate, distinct project.”  Similarly, if the applicant has other active awards of federal funds, the applicant must determine whether the activities of those awards potentially overlap with the activities set forth in its application to this FAC. Applications under this FAC must be for distinct activities."]
[164,"2024-04-30","Application Content/Format","1) If a site has a Letter of Endorsement (LOE) that was signed off on the site project for Phase 1 FOA Submittal (the project was not considered)- Can we use the same LOE for the Phase 2 project submittal?\n2) It looks like If site submits the same project from phase 1 submittal for phase 2 submittal, that the project gets a new control number for the Phase 2 submittal? Is that correct, Or can the previous control number assigned under the phase 1 submittal be used?","1) Per Section IV.B.iv, “Applicants must submit a separate Letter of Endorsement from the federal site’s leadership or the applicant’s headquarter official responsible for sustainability, energy management, or procurement, stating that the application has: the support of central agency officials; the project would be allowed to be implemented if an AFFECT BIL grant is awarded; and the project is a high priority relative to other projects in the agency, sub-agency, or site’s project pipeline.\n\nApplicants are strongly advised to coordinate with their Agency Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). If the agency’s CSO is not the signatory of the letter, it is strongly encouraged that the letter demonstrates coordination with the CSO or delegated sustainability staff.”\n\nBeyond the above parameters, the decision on approach to the Letter of Endorsement lies solely with the applicant.\n\n2) The preferred method is to start a new application and generate a new control number; however, you may use the existing control number.  "]
[165,"2024-04-05","Application Content/Format","Would an AFFECT teaming partner list be beneficial to the program/process, or should Federal applicants continue to provide partnerships in the existing application format?","Per Section IV.B.i, Full Application Content Requirements, “FEMP will not review or consider ineligible applications (see Section III of the FAC). Reviewers will not review any information beyond the required documents specified in the table below and described in the following sections.” Furthermore, as part of the Full Application Content Requirement an application form, a summary slide, two versions of the ePB Calculating Templates, a letter of endorsement, and a SF-424 form are required. "]
[166,"2024-04-18","Cost Sharing","Is there an opportunity for reimbursement associated with this grant? Is there an opportunity to recoup costs when money has already been budgeted? Is a project with funds budgeted for this year eligible to apply with cost sharing? ","Per Section I.D., there are four Topic Areas for which an application may be submitted:\n• Topic Area 1A: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Project Development\n• Topic Area 1B: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Program/Procedures Development\n• Topic Area 2: Modify Existing Projects for Net-Zero Buildings\n• Topic Area 3: New/In Development Net-Zero Buildings Projects\n\nBased on the limited information provided in your questions, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nProjects for which funds have already been budgeted and cost incurred, would appear to fall under Topic Area 2 or Topic Area 3, depending on the project scope and stage. It is recommended, that you evaluate the full FAC and determine the most appropriate Topic Area to submit an application under. Additionally, keep in mind that for both Topic Areas there is a base project and a project with an expanded scope with the grant.\n\nFurthermore, we recommend reviewing Section II.C., Eligible, Project Costs, which states “AFFECT BIL grant funding may be spent on any of the equipment and/or technical assistance and other services related to the planning, development, or implementation of an eligible project.”  "]
[167,"2024-04-18","Technical Topics","How do you incorporate water projects into an AFFECT application?","As defined in Appendix B, an Energy Conservation Measure for this FAC includes “water conservation measure, which is defined as a measure that improves the efficiency of water use, is life-cycle cost-effective, and involves water conservation, water recycling or reuse, more efficient treatment of wastewater or stormwater, improvements in operation or maintenance efficiencies, \nretrofit activities, or other related activities, not at a Federal hydroelectric facility.”\n\nThe decision on approach for incorporating water projects into the AFFECT application lies solely with the applicant."]
[168,"2024-04-16","Technical Topics","The DOJ is considering applying for the AFFECT Grant since GSA will be decommissioning of the GSA Heating Operation and Transmission Division (HOTD) plant. We have one building, RFK, which utilizes the steam provided by the plant. We are aware a survey will be supplied sometime this month, but we also know, in order to comply with EO 14057, additional infrastructure work will need to be completed. Other than the steam the building is all electric. There has never been an ESPC conducted at this location therefore Topic Area 2 would not apply. In addition, the building currently exists so Topic Area 3 will most likely not apply. We are asking assistance on which Topic Area would be the best for us to apply. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.”  \n\nAs described in Section I.D. there are four Topic Areas: \n• Topic Area 1A: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Project Development\n• Topic Area 1B: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Program/Procedures Development\n• Topic Area 2: Modify Existing Projects for Net-Zero Buildings\n• Topic Area 3: New/In Development Net-Zero Buildings Projects\n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you: \n\nFor projects for which there is no existing project contract , as such either Topic Area 1A assistance with starting a project or Topic Area 3 a new/in development project may be the appropriate topic areas.  It is recommended, DOJ evaluate the full FAC and determine the most appropriate Topic Area to submit an application under."]
[169,"2024-04-22","Technical Topics","I watched the webinar last week on the AFFECT grant application process, but wanted to know how to submit an application for Topics 1A/B. My understanding is that for Topics 2 and 3, the grant application should be filled out twice, one with the grant and one without, but for Topics 1A/B, if those are just requesting funding to implement a study or organizational program, how can the savings be known already?","Per Section IV.B.i, Full Application Content Requirement: \n\nFor Topic Area 1A and Topic Area 1B: An application, a SF-424 application, a letter of endorsement, and a summary slide are required. \n\nFor Topic Area 2 and Topic Area 3: An application, a SF-424 application, a letter of endorsement, a summary slide, and two ePB Calculating template one with the based project information and another with the increased scope project are required. \n\nFor Topic Area 1A and Topic Area 1B, it is possible to provide engineering estimates, or another methodology as used to report on annual energy management reporting (https://www.energy.gov/femp/federal-comprehensive-annual-energy-reporting-requirements)."]
[170,"2024-04-23","Technical Topics","I was advised about your program and have some questions. I have a project at the Pirnie Federal Building in Utica, New York under the CARES Act  that is adding fresh air to all areas that do not meet air change requirements, and as terminal units I am using heat pumps. This is going to effectively take a load off the natural gas steam heating system. I was wondering if I could take advantage of your program to incorporate the rest of the building that is not covered by my current project?","Per section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs provided in section I.B of the FAC, the goals of the FAC include assisting agencies in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. § 8253 and the goals of Executive Order (E.O.) 14057, Catalyzing America’s Clean Energy Economy Through Federal Sustainability and E.O. 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. As described in Section I.D. there are four Topic Areas: \n• Topic Area 1A: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Project Development\n• Topic Area 1B: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Program/Procedures Development\n• Topic Area 2: Modify Existing Projects for Net-Zero Buildings\n• Topic Area 3: New/In Development Net-Zero Buildings Projects\n\nIt is recommended, that you consult your contracting officer and evaluate the full FAC to determine whether the listed Topic Areas would be applicable.  "]
[171,"2024-04-23","Cost Sharing","Can we apply for Direct-Funded AFFECT grant for a project to repair an existing solar PV system that is currently nonoperational due to broken components?","Per Section I.D.iii and I.D.iv., “In evaluating applications, FEMP will consider the extent to which an application leverages non-federal and federal funds. Non-federal funds applied to projects proposed under Topic Area 2 may include (a) funding under an energy savings performance contract (i.e., ESPCs, ENABLE) and/or UESCs (collectively, energy performance contracts); (b) rebates and other financial incentives from utilities and state or local government agencies, or (c) other non-Federal funding sources as may be authorized for applicant agency. FEMP will also consider the amount of funding committed to the project by the applicant agency’s appropriations.”"]
[172,"2024-04-30","Eligibility","One of the DOE PMAs has a question on buildings that are not metered or are provided electricity at no cost: Are facilities which are not metered for electricity, or receive free electricity, eligible to apply for topic areas 2 and 3 of the AFFECT grant. Is there a certain way we should craft or fill energy and cost savings sections     of the application if we are still eligible? This would be helpful information for PMAs who are interested in applying for the grant as many facilities receive free power from owned transmission infrastructure. ","Per Section III.A., “only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC, consistent with 42 U.S.C. § 8253, which prioritize owned facilities.”\n\nThe FAC does not limit the eligible buildings based being metered or not. \n\nPer the authorizing statute for AFFECT, 42 U.S.C. § 8256 (b)(3), cost savings is an evaluation requirement. Cost savings may be derived from utility (energy and/or water), operation and maintenance, and/or other non-utility cost savings. "]
[173,"2024-05-07","Technical Topics","We installed many advanced metering systems (electrical, nat gas, water, steam) about 10-12 years ago. They have not necessarily been maintained and I do not know how reliable some of the data is that we can access on a browser-based interface. I was curious if we could apply for an AFFECT grant to inspect, assess, repair, and/or replace advanced metering equipment. Ultimately, we want to make sure we are meeting the requirements of the Energy Act of 2020 and Executive Order 14057, and we know we cannot analyze what we cannot measure. Can an effort to inspect, assess, repair, and/or replace advanced metering be considered within the lines for an AFFECT grant? Any information you can share would be great.","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs described in Section I.D. this FAC has the following four Topic Areas: \n• Topic Area 1A: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Project Development\n• Topic Area 1B: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Program/Procedures Development\n• Topic Area 2: Modify Existing Projects for Net-Zero Buildings\n• Topic Area 3: New/In Development Net-Zero Buildings Projects\n\nFurthermore, as provided in section I.D.i., “This assistance must provide support beyond typical preliminary energy efficiency assessments, investment grade energy audits, or other support typically carried out by an energy service company, utility, or third party, or by internal agency staff for routine energy management. The application must demonstrate that this assistance is not typically provided by other entities at no-cost to the agency, such as FEMP’s widely available technical assistance and feasibility assessment tools.”\n\nIt is recommended that you evaluate the full FAC to determine whether to submit an application and the most appropriate Topic Area to submit an application under."]
[174,"2024-05-08","Cost Sharing","Our project has an ESA within an ESPC to establish a large on-site solar PV system. Can funds from the AFFECT grant be deposited into the Escrow account, held by the ESCO, for the Government Agency to buy the solar system at the end of the contract, as required by ESA’s?","We recommend reviewing Section II.C., Eligible Project Costs, which states “AFFECT BIL grant funding may be spent on any of the equipment and/or technical assistance and other services related to the planning, development, or implementation of an eligible project.”"]
[175,"2024-05-09","Award Information","Will DOE ever award a grant application for less than the requested amount? Or will the decision strictly be yes or no on the requested amount?","Per Section VI.A.iii. “Receipt of a notification letter selecting an application for award negotiations does not authorize the applicant to commence performance of the project. If an application is selected for award negotiations, it is not a commitment by FEMP to issue an award nor is it a guarantee of grant funding. Agencies do not receive an award until award negotiations are complete and the Contracting Officer executes the funding agreement…The applicant must be responsive during award negotiations (i.e., provide requested documentation, etc.) and meet the negotiation deadlines. If the applicant fails to do so or if award negotiations are otherwise unsuccessful, FEMP will cancel the award negotiations and rescind the selection. FEMP reserves the right to terminate award negotiations at any time for any reason.”\n\nPer the quoted section, FEMP reserves the right to adjust and/or cancel the award."]
[176,"2024-05-13","Technical Topics","What would be the definition of net-zero (energy, emissions)? What would be considered net-zero? Exporting renewable energy to the grid?  If so, does this renewable energy need to go toward disadvantaged communities or some other entity? Feeding renewable energy directly to the building?","Per Appendix B, “Net-zero emissions building means a building that is designed and operated so that, when connected to a regional electrical grid fully serviced by carbon pollution-free electricity, the scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from all operational end uses are zero on an annual basis.”\n\nPer Section V.E., Other Selection Factors, the Selection Official may consider Program Policy Factors in determining which agencies to select for award negotiations such as “The extent to which the project results in positive or negative cumulative environmental impacts and/or delivers any other benefits to disadvantaged communities.” \n\nHow a project impacts a disadvantage community will vary and it is at the discretion of the applicant to ensure the impact of a project on disadvantage communities is described in the application."]
[177,"2024-05-15","Application Content/Format","If we are to apply for the AFFECT to help with 4 buildings improvement towards net zero. So we are treating the 4 buildings as a bundle. What happens if after receiving the grant the plan changes and we have to drop one of the buildings from the project. How will this affect the funds appropriation? Do we still receive the fund in total or do we have to deduct a portion for the dropped building? ","Per Section VI.A.iii. “Receipt of a notification letter selecting an application for award negotiations does not authorize the applicant to commence performance of the project. If an application is selected for award negotiations, it is not a commitment by FEMP to issue an award nor is it a guarantee of grant funding. Agencies do not receive an award until award negotiations are complete and the Contracting Officer executes the funding agreement…The applicant must be responsive during award negotiations (i.e., provide requested documentation, etc.) and meet the negotiation deadlines. If the applicant fails to do so or if award negotiations are otherwise unsuccessful, FEMP will cancel the award negotiations and rescind the selection. FEMP reserves the right to terminate award negotiations at any time for any reason.”\n\nPer the quoted section, FEMP reserves the right to adjust and/or cancel the award for any reason. FEMP understands that there may be changes to a project, including changes to the project stage/progress. FEMP supports rigorous project management and allows for flexibility to support project success. However, consistent with the competitive and equitable award selection process, substantive or significant changes to the project could result in adjustment of the grant amount and/or cancellation of the grant."]
[178,"2024-05-16","Technical Topics","Can the funding of Topic 1B be used to obtain an ASHRAE level 2 energy audit? The deliverables listed for Topic Area 1B show \"framework, master plan, report,\" and I am inquiring if this can relate to an audit report.","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs described in Section I.D. this FAC has the following four Topic Areas: \n• Topic Area 1A: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Project Development\n• Topic Area 1B: Assistance with Net-Zero Buildings Program/Procedures Development\n• Topic Area 2: Modify Existing Projects for Net-Zero Buildings\n• Topic Area 3: New/In Development Net-Zero Buildings Projects\n\nFurthermore, as provided in section I.D.i., “This assistance must provide support beyond typical preliminary energy efficiency assessments, investment grade energy audits, or other support typically carried out by an energy service company, utility, or third party, or by internal agency staff for routine energy management. The application must demonstrate that this assistance is not typically provided by other entities at no-cost to the agency, such as FEMP’s widely available technical assistance and feasibility assessment tools.”"]
[179,"2024-05-21","Application Content/Format","The GSA is in the process of preparing our AFFECT grant application and we have a question regarding the scope of the Covered Programs as detailed in OMB Memo M-21-28. Specifically, is there proximity guidance for footnote #8 - \"For example, program expenditures to reduce air pollution generated by one state or locality that benefit “down wind” disadvantaged communities or in, such as, installing a control device on an incinerator that reduces exposure to harmful pollutants in a disadvantaged community in a neighboring state.\"?\n\nAn ECM proposed as part of the associated ESPC project will reduce emissions from the GSA's Heating Operation and Transmission Division steam plant which will generate significant air quality benefits for a nearby and downwind disadvantaged community located less than a mile away. The ESCO and the GSA feel this positive impact could merit a qualified \"Y\" in response to the Disadvantaged Community Status field on the grant application, but we would like clarification on our interpretation before we proceed formally.","As identified in all the applications forms, “using the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST) determine whether the potential project is in a location that has been categorized as geographically defined disadvantaged community as defined by the Office of Management and Budget’s Interim Justice40 Implementation Guidance M-21-28 and addendum M-23-09. If the project would benefit a Federally Recognized Tribe or Tribal entity, whether or not they have land, all are recognized as disadvantaged communities for the purposes of the Justice40 Initiative.” Note, the CEJST is located here:  screeningtool.geoplatform.gov."]
[180,"2024-05-22","Technical Topics","We have an ESPC Enable project currently in development and are targeting task order award around the end of this calendar year. The Topic Area 2 description on p.5 of the FOA refers to adding net zero building ECMs to “previously awarded contracts”. Should this be interpreted to pertain to the contract award status at time of the AFFECT application submission (meaning we would submit under Topic Area 2), or the award status at the anticipated time of AFFECT grant funding availability (meaning submit under Topic Area 3)?","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nPer Section I.D.iii. “Applications submitted under Topic Area 2 are for proposed projects that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts in order to support an agency’s efforts to achieve goals outlined in E.O. 14057 and E.O. 14008, consistent with 42 U.S.C. § 8253.”\n\nFurthermore, per Section II.D.iii., “Each recipient agency’s Topic Area 2 AFFECT BIL grant funding will be released upon submission of the applicable deliverable as follows: \n• Issued Amendment of Solicitation/Modification of Contract SF-30 (or equivalent form); or \n• Project proposal provided by the energy service company (ESCO) (for an ESPC or ENABLE project) or by the utility (for UESC projects) to the applicant.”\n\nTherefore, the contract should be awarded at the time of the AFFECT application to meet the deliverable requirements of Topic Area 2.\n\nIt is recommended that you evaluate the full FAC to determine whether to submit an application and the most appropriate Topic Area to submit an application under."]
[181,"2024-05-24","Technical Topics","We are supporting an agency applying for a DOE AFFECT grant for an ESPC project that has an accepted PA and is awaiting NOITA for an IGA (and may be in IGA by the submission deadline). Would that be considered a “proposed projects that would add net-zero buildings ECMs to previously awarded contracts” (Topic Area 2) or a “new project or project in development” (Topic Area 3)?","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nAs provided in section I.B. of the FAC, “FEMP is seeking to make awards as described in Section 543 of NECPA, as amended through the Energy Act of 2020 (EA2020) and codified in 42 U.S.C. § 8253. In making such awards, FEMP also seeks to support the Administration’s goals for federal leadership under Executive Order (E.O.) 14057, Catalyzing America’s Clean Energy Economy Through Federal Sustainability and E.O. 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. \n\nAdditionally, as stated under section I.C., the FAC “AFFECT BIL FAC support of a federal path toward net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings will contribute to multiple agency goals through efficiency and conservation improvements, electrification, operational and management enhancements, increased use of on-site clean and renewable energy sources, sustainable facility design, and reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while simultaneously creating and sustaining well-paying U.S. jobs.”\n\nThe statutory purpose of AFFECT is to provide grants to agencies to assist them in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. section 8253, which includes requirements for the implementation of energy and water conservation measures. \n\nPer Section II.D.iii., “Each recipient agency’s Topic Area 2 AFFECT BIL grant funding will be released upon submission of the applicable deliverable as follows: \n• Issued Amendment of Solicitation/Modification of Contract SF-30 (or equivalent form); or \n• Project proposal provided by the energy service company (ESCO) (for an ESPC or ENABLE project) or by the utility (for UESC projects) to the applicant.”\n\nWhile per Section II.D.iv., “Each recipient agency’s Topic Area 3 AFFECT BIL grant funding will be released upon submission one or more of the applicable deliverables as follows:\n• For ESPC or ENABLE projects: Issued NOO, Notice of Intent to Award (NOITA), and project Proposal provided by the ESCO to the applicant; or\n• For UESC projects: Issued LOI or Sources Sought RFP, Notice to Proceed (NTP) to investment grade audit (IGA), and project Proposal provided by the utility to the applicant; or\n• For projects executed through other procurement mechanisms: Issued RFP/RFQ and awarded contract for the acquisition of one or more eligible ECMs.”\n\nIt is recommended that you evaluate the full FAC to determine whether to submit an application and the most appropriate Topic Area to submit an application under."]
[182,"2024-06-05","Eligibility","LEED includes transit to a building as part of the criteria for a building rating. Is that in scope here?","As provided in section I.B. of the FAC, “FEMP is seeking to make awards as described in Section 543 of NECPA, as amended through the Energy Act of 2020 (EA2020) and codified in 42 U.S.C. § 8253. In making such awards, FEMP also seeks to support the Administration’s goals for federal leadership under Executive Order (E.O.) 14057, Catalyzing America’s Clean Energy Economy Through Federal Sustainability and E.O. 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. \n\nAdditionally, as stated under section I.C., the FAC “AFFECT BIL FAC support of a federal path toward net-zero emissions, water and/or waste buildings will contribute to multiple agency goals through efficiency and conservation improvements, electrification, operational and management enhancements, increased use of on-site clean and renewable energy sources, sustainable facility design, and reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while simultaneously creating and sustaining well-paying U.S. jobs.”\n\nThe statutory purpose of AFFECT is to provide grants to agencies to assist them in meeting the requirements of 42 U.S.C. section 8253, which includes requirements for the implementation of energy and water conservation measures. \n\nThe grant relies on 42 U.S.C. 8259(6) for a definition of a federal building, which defines federal buildings as “any building, structure, or facility, or part thereof, including the associated energy consuming support systems, which is constructed, renovated, leased, or purchased in whole or in part for use by the Federal Government and which consumes energy; such term also means a collection of such buildings, structures, or facilities and the energy consuming support systems for such collection.”"]
[183,"2024-06-05","Eligibility","Can bridges and piers count?","The grant relies on 42 U.S.C. 8259(6) for a definition of a federal building, which defines federal buildings as “any building, structure, or facility, or part thereof, including the associated energy consuming support systems, which is constructed, renovated, leased, or purchased in whole or in part for use by the Federal Government and which consumes energy; such term also means a collection of such buildings, structures, or facilities and the energy consuming support systems for such collection.” "]
[184,"2024-05-31","Eligibility","Is a minimum size in the building metering and high-performance sustainable building guidelines (25,000sqft and larger), is there a size requirement for net-zero emission buildings?","Per Section III.A., “only facilities that are owned by the U.S. federal government are eligible for funding under this FAC, consistent with 42 U.S.C. § 8253, which prioritize owned facilities.”\n\nThe FAC does not limit the eligible buildings based being size. "]
[185,"2024-06-04","Award Information","Please provide the CFDA# (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance) for this grant application. The state of Missouri requests this information as part of the Intergovernmental Review required when completing the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance form.","As noted on the first page of the FAC, the Assistance Listing Number is 81.117."]
[186,"2024-06-04","Other","• Submission involves an ESCO who functions as a contractor for the proposed work. Should this ESCO be identified in the “Other Organization” field?\n• Submission leverages upon other Federal funds in addition to the AFFECT request. Should the sum of AFFECT and the other Federal contributions be entered under “Federal Share (DOE)” input field?\n• What is the “period of performance” representing? The proposed AFFECT funds spending timeline, or the contract duration of the ESPC which this submission will leverage?","• The FAC does not prescribe who should be identified in the “Other Organization” field. However, the “Lead Organization” must be a federal agency per Section III.A.  Eligible Applicants, which states: “This FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies), as defined by 5 U.S.C § 551(1), are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.”\n• It is recommended that the AFFECT grant request is reported separately by entering the requested grant value in the “Federal Share (DOE)\" field and all other costs, both federal and non-federal in the “Non-Federal Share” such that the Total Project Cost is as accurate as possible.\n• The “Period of Performance” represents the proposed period of performance for the proposed project. "]
[187,"2024-06-05","Other","I have two questions regarding the Key Project Parameters on the “AFFECT_BIL_FAC_Slide_Template_Mod_001_-_TA2_and_TA3”:\n1) For the “Utility Use and Cost Savings” and “GHG Reductions,” are these values annual or the sum over the lifetime of the proposed project.\n2) For the “Simple Payback Period”, “Net Present Value”, and “Savings to Investment Ratio”, are these values calculated with or without the AFFECT grant money. For example, let’s say I have a project that has a total project cost of $2 million and I am requesting $500,000 for AFFECT grant funds.  Would I compute these metrics using the total project cost of $2 million, or $1.5 million assuming we receive the grant funds which helped pay it down.","1) The values reported in the Summary Slide template should be consistent with the Application Form and ePB Template, which ask for annual information.\n2) For the Summary Slide, just provide the information with the grant."]
[188,"2024-06-06","Application Content/Format","Can we re-apply/re-submit if we were not selected in previous selection rounds?","Section III.A. Eligibility of the FAC states, “An applicant may submit more than one application to this FAC, provided that each application describes a separate, distinct project.”  If an application was submitted during an earlier phase of the FAC and was not successful, the applicant may re-apply/re-submit."]
[189,"2024-06-06","Application Content/Format","For the question: 2.3 What is the level of rigor of this assistance and have other assistance or solutions been explored? How will this assistance mitigate risk and increase the likelihood of a viable project pipeline in support to a net-zero buildings portfolio? (250 words or less), please provide some clarification on what “the level of rigor of this assistance” means and calls for in the response to the question.","Section V.A. and V.B. provide the Technical Review Criteria for Topic Area 1A and Topic Area 1B, respectively. Question 2.2 in the Application Form for both Topic Area 1A and Topic Area 1B which asks: “What is the level of rigor of this assistance and have other assistance or solutions been explored?” This aspect of the question, along with others and questions 2.1 and 2.3, would be evaluated under Criterion 1: Value and Funding Impact (30%).\n\nOne of Criterion 1 factors is: “The extent to which the activities funded by the assistance for which funding is being requested for in support of the prospective project development demonstrates a high level of rigor, effectively addresses identified barriers, and mitigates risks to enhance the likelihood of project viability.” In this context, “level of rigor,” is related to project and/or program management to manage and mitigate risk."]
[190,"2024-06-07","Technical Topics","I am seeking clarification on the AFFECT 2 BIL for a potential proposal under Topic 1B.\nI have a question about the sequencing of distribution of funds relative to timing of deliverables. The following description on p.9. (excerpt below) of the federal agency call reads as if both the scope of work component and the final results (report) must be submitted before funds are released. Is this true?\nI don’t believe my agency would permit work to proceed and a final report delivered before receipt of funds. Can you please clarify the funding and deliverables sequencing?\n-------------------begin quoted text---------------\nII. Award Information\nD. Deliverables and Timeline for Funding Distribution\nii. Topic Area 1B Deliverables\nEach recipient agency’s Topic Area 1B AFFECT BIL grant funding will be released upon submission of the applicable deliverable as follows:\n• Either:\no RFP or RFQ for third-party consultant; or\no Scope of work for an in-house consultant; and\n• The resulting outcome (e.g., framework, master plan, report)\n---------------end quoted text------------------","During the negotiation period for selected projects, the applicant will be provided the opportunity to negotiate the timing of funding distribution and resulting outcome deliverable. \n\nNote, should a selectee received funding prior to the resulting outcome deliverable and not provide the resulting outcome deliverable once ready, future AFFECT grant applications may be impacted. "]
[191,"2024-06-07","Cost Sharing","How is funding leveraging being considered for Topic Area 1B? Topic Areas 2 and 3 have a specific criterion for leveraging. If your existing funding level gives you almost nothing to leverage for a 1B application, what are we to do?","Section V.A. and V.B. provide the Technical Review Criteria for Topic Area 1A and Topic Area 1B, respectively. Question 2.1 in the Application Form for both Topic Area 1A and Topic Area 1B which asks: “How much funding is being requested and what other, if any, funding sources are being leveraged (e.g., agency funding, incentives)?” This aspect of the question, along with others and questions 2.2 and 2.3, would be evaluated under Criterion 1: Value and Funding Impact (30%).\n\nThe decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant."]
[192,"2024-06-07","Technical Topics","Questions for Topic 3 project application. \nI have been trying to track down the utility data for the existing buildings involved in my grant application for months. There are existing buildings that will be completely replaced by a 100% new Net Zero Energy and Waste building. \nThere will be no more natural gas usage as is the existing state and all systems will be 100% high efficiency electric equipment. In my proposal, I will include sub-metering for the future new building.\nI just found out that the area in which the buildings are located have one utility meter for the entire housing area. The buildings that I’m interested are not sub-metered for utilities. \nI’ve asked for any assistance possible from the accounting office of the company that pays the bills. \nHow can I enter the data and provide the comparison between existing building usage that is not metered and the future new building usage that will satisfy the AFFECT criteria and package?","The FAC does not prescribe an estimation methodology, however, applicants should strive to provide the best available estimates at the time of application that assist the project meeting the goals of the BIL FAC, as described in section I.C. \n\nThere are many methodology options for estimating usage and cost savings for unmetered buildings, such as using billing information and building square footage for a rough building energy use intensity.  It is recommended, that the applicant identify the appropriate methodology and note this in either Application Form and/or ePB Templates."]
[193,"2024-06-10","Technical Topics","We are preparing an application for Topic Area 3 which includes electrification of a building that is currently undergoing design for a major renovation in a disadvantaged community. The design is expected to be finalized in July 2024 and the RFP/RFQ for construction would be issued November 2024 with construction anticipated to begin March 2025. Since this is a DOE Science Laboratory Infrastructure (SLI) funded project and tied to Congressional Appropriations, there is a clearly defined schedule for these activities that cannot be negatively impacted by an AFFECT submission. Based on FEMP's anticipated timeline for award selection and negotiations, we have concerns that we would have already surpassed the deliverable milestones for funding disbursement for Topic Area 3, which include issuing a RFP/RFQ for purchase of ECM(s). Are we correct or would we still be eligible to receive AFFECT funding even though we have surpassed the RFP/RFQ milestone?","Per Section III.D. “FEMP will not make eligibility determinations for potential applications prior to the date on which applications to this FAC must be submitted. The decision whether to submit an application in response to this FAC lies solely with the applicant.” \n\nBased on the limited information provided in your question, we provide the following information that may assist you:\n\nPer Section II.D.iv., “For projects executed through other procurement mechanisms: Issued RFP/RFQ and awarded contract for the acquisition of one or more eligible ECMs.” In this scenario, there are two deliverables, a RFP/RFQ and awarded contract. \n\nIt is recommended that you evaluate the full FAC to determine whether to submit an application and the most appropriate Topic Area to submit an application under."]
[194,"2024-06-11","Application Content/Format","We are working on a ePB project scenario which has multiple Mods associated with an original TO that was funded in 2019.  We then had an added project funded in 2022, another mod in Dec 2023, and currently working on the funding of Mod 21. Then there were mods 14 and 15 that were Agency funded, not financed, in Years 1-3.  We are having difficulty getting the current ePB to cash flow and need assistance on how to start the funding at different intervals.  Right now we have everything funded in 2024, but the 25-year term starts in 2019.  Do you believe there is an exception to using the non-calculating template? This project might never work in the calculating template because the original TO was funded in 2019?","Per Section IV.B.vi., use the latest version of the ePB Calculating Template and submitted electronically in native MS Excel format as part of the application package. \n\nIt is recommended that the applicant utilizes the notes section of the ePB template to provide an explanation why the performance period is not accurately calculated due to the limitations provided in your question.  Additionally, provide the more accurate period of performance in both the ePB templates and Application form."]
[195,"2024-06-17","Application Content/Format","As part of the AFFECT project descriptions in the application are figures, graphs, or other graphics allowed to be submitted as part of the application? The instructions seem to indicate this is ok since it says: “applicants are instructed to use Calibri typeface, black font color, and a font size of 12 point or larger (except in figures or tables, which may be 10-point font).” However, I don't see this question in the FAQ and the instructions are all word based. Thank you!","Per Section IV.A.2., “Application Forms must use the provided formatting to fit on 8.5 x 11-inch paper with margins not less than one inch on every side. Use Calibri typeface, a black font color, and a font size of 12 point or larger (except in figures or tables, which may be 10-point font).”\n\nAs described in the quoted FAC section, yes figures, graphs, or other graphics may be included in the Application Form."]
[196,"2024-06-18","Application Content/Format","My question, specifically, is about how to incorporate University involvement in the Grant Application. I am submitting an AFFECT Grant for Topic Area 3 for implementation of technologies to achieve zero building energy codes and have the opportunity to include University involvement.  How do I correctly include funding request on the SF-424/other for their involvement?","Since the FAC does not prescribe who should be identified in the “Other Organization” field, this field may be utilized to incorporate University involvement. However, the “Lead Organization” must be a federal agency per Section III.A.  Eligible Applicants, which states: “This FAC is available to federal agencies ONLY. Only U.S. federal agencies (including sub-agencies), as defined by 5 U.S.C § 551(1), are eligible to apply for funding under this FAC.”\n\nFurthermore, it is recommended that the AFFECT grant request is reported separately by entering the requested grant value in the “Federal Share (DOE)\" field and all other costs, both federal and non-federal in the “Non-Federal Share” such that the Total Project Cost is as accurate as possible. Funding from other sources, such as the University may be included in the “Non-Federal Share.”"]

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[]
["Registration Requirements"]
["Webinar"]
["Eligibility"]
["Labs/FFRDCs"]
["Foreign Entities/Work"]
["Cost Sharing"]
["Due Dates"]
["Application Content/Format"]
["Intellectual Property"]
["Data Management"]
["Other"]
["U.S. Manufacturing Plan"]
["Application Reviews"]
["Technical Topics"]
["Award Information"]