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Questions & AnswersDeveloping non-Lithium Ion Energy Storage Technologies to Support California’s Clean Energy GoalsGFO-19-305February 19, 2020These answers are based on the Energy Commission’s interpretation of the questions received. It is the applicant’s responsibility to determine whether or not their particular proposed project is eligible for funding, by reviewing the Eligibility Requirements within the solicitation. The Energy Commission cannot give advice as to whether or not a particular project is eligible for funding, because all proposal details are not known.Q.1The cost share lists preferred points for up to and above minimum, since the minimum is 0, what does this mean? Can you please clarify the intent? (page 44).A.1This is an administrative error and was discussed in the pre-application workshop. The minimum Match funding amount is zero and hence Table 9b (Page 42) is not applicable. Addendum #1 removes Table 9b from the solicitation manual. Addendum #2 clarifies how the Match preference points will be assessed in Table 9a.Q.2Do I have to have money equal to the grant before I can even apply?A.2No. Match funding is not required for this solicitation. However; preference points may be assessed for Match contributions under scoring criteria 9 of the solicitation manual.Q.3Can I use EPIC funding to build a system and then sell the system to a customer and count this sale as Match?A.3No. The system may not be sold during the term of the grant. EPIC funds cannot be counted as Match. Also refer to answer A.4.Q.4Could the system be sold afterward? What would be the fate of it?A.4The system is owned by the Prime recipient. Recipient may not sell, lease, or encumber the property during the Agreement term without the Commission Agreement Manager’s prior written approval. Refer to the EPIC standard terms and conditions, Equipment, section 14.EPIC Standard Terms and ConditionsQ.5Do the award minimum and maximum amounts exclude match funds?A.5Yes. The amount awarded only pertains to EPIC funds. Section 1.F.1 of the solicitation manual summarizes the minimum and maximum amounts of EPIC funding that may be awarded to a grant applicant under the respective Groups for this solicitation. Project GroupAvailable fundingMinimum award amountMaximum award amountMinimum match funding amount (% of EPIC Funds Requested)Group 1: Develop and validate non-Lithium energy storage technologies for customer side of the meter applications. $9,000,000$300,000$2,000,000Not Required. Extra credit score for Match share up to 100 percent.Group 2: Develop and validate green electrolytic hydrogen systems for customer side of the meter applications.$2,000,000$500,000$2,000,000Not Required. Extra credit score for Match share up to 100 percent.There is no Match funding requirement for this solicitation. Any Match funding would be in addition to the EPIC grant award. Preference points may be assessed for Match contributions under scoring criteria 9 of the solicitation manual. Match contributions must meet the criteria in section 1.F.3 of the solicitation manual.Q.6We would like clarification on how CEC defines “energy storage technology provider” in the Application Manual as referenced on pg. 20 of the GFO, Point #3: “No energy storage technology provider may submit more than one proposal for this solicitation. The energy storage technology provider may submit as either: (1) the prime applicant, or (2) as a key subcontractor, but not both.” Specifically, does this definition and constraint apply to subcontractors acting as site hosts and/or providing M&V services, etc.? Would it also apply to a subcontractor who is not the primary energy storage technology provider but is providing some R&D contribution to the energy storage technology, such as a University lab that is contributing R&D scope to a private technology provider? In other words, can an organization like a University act as a subcontractor on multiple applications, even if they provide some contribution to the technology development?A.6The “energy storage technology provider” is the company that produces the technology and is normally the one with the intellectual property. A technology provider can only submit one proposal to this solicitation, no matter if they are the Prime or a subcontractor. For this solicitation, any eligible entity can only submit one proposal as the Prime awardee (the entity submitting the proposal and receiving the EPIC funding that is selected for an award). Any eligible entity can be a subcontractor or Match funding provider on any proposal, no limit.Q.7Can a single applicant submit two separate and independent projects, one for Group 1 and one for Group 2? Or is the single applicant allowed to only submit for 1 project regardless of Group 1 or 2.A.7For this solicitation, any entity that meets the eligibility criteria in section II.A.1 of the solicitation manual may only submit one proposal as the Prime applicant (the entity submitting the proposal and receiving the EPIC funding that is selected for an award). An entity may NOT submit as the Prime applicant to both group 1 and group 2. Any eligible entity can be a subcontractor or Match funding provider on any proposal, no limit. Q.8Can a single entity submit multiple proposals for the same GFO?A.8For this solicitation, any entity that meets the eligibility criteria in section II.A.1 the solicitation manual may only submit one proposal as the Prime applicant (the entity submitting the proposal and receiving the EPIC funding that is selected for an award). An entity may NOT submit as the Prime applicant to both group 1 and group 2. Any eligible entity can be a subcontractor or Match funding provider on multiple proposals, no limit. Q.9Looking at the CalEnviroScreen map, I notice that facilities such as state prisons do not have any percentile associated with them, even if the surrounding community is in the 95-100% percentile. Should I assume that siting our project at one of these locations disqualifies us from the bonus point available for supporting disadvantaged communities? solicitation manual, section II.A.4 (page 17) details the eligibility requirements, and section IV.F.10 (page 43) summarizes the scoring criteria. CEC reviewers will use the CalEnviroScreen 3.0 tool to verify that the proposed site is within a DAC area. Proposals must demonstrate how the Disadvantaged Community will benefit from the project (we are looking for more than a zip code when evaluating the preference points).Q.10Disadvantaged communities’ criteria – It’s a challenge to get anything put into place by the February 4 deadline - it will be difficult to get support letters in place by then.A.10We understand. This solicitation schedule is tight due to the funding source’s June 30th 2020 encumbrance deadline. Addendum #3 extends the deadline to submit proposals to 5pm, February 18, 2020. All applicants to this solicitation face the same time constraint.Q.11What exactly are you looking for in terms of benefits to disadvantaged communities?A.11In addition to locating a project inside a disadvantaged community, we are looking for descriptions of how that community will benefit, directly and/or indirectly, from the project. Section IV.F.10 (Page 43) in the solicitation manual lists the scoring criteria. Examples of applications that could demonstrate benefits to the residents of a DAC include providing resiliency to a community center, load leveling, and electricity bill savings for residents. Commercialization strategies may be strengthened if the DAC based project is a replicable solution with plans for roll out in other DACs. We encourage DAC community organizations interested in hosting project sites to use the resource to find project partners. Also refer to answer A.9.Q.12For the evaluation of the Disadvantage and Low-Income Communities: Our Company is located in San Diego and we work with a number of communities in our area regarding outreach, education, and small business, related to energy projects. If awarded we will be able to provide additional support to our local community, but the project we are proposing is located in SCE territory. Does our outreach have to be directly related to the project or can it be indirectly related to support disadvantage and low income communities?A.12Projects field testing at customer sites must be in a California IOU service territory (refer to answer A.14). The project site does not have to be within a low income / disadvantaged community (DAC). However applications that include sites in a DAC or benefiting disadvantaged and/or low-income communities will be assessed for additional preference points. Applicants must demonstrate how the proposed project would directly and/or indirectly benefit the DAC (refer to answer A.11).Q.13Is any type of extra credit given for projects located in rural or agricultural zoned areas?A.13Not under this solicitation. Q.14I would like to confirm that the beneficiary for the CEC grant funding opportunity for non-lithium technology MUST be one of the three major IOUs? So the energy storage system has to be interconnected to a meter served by either SCE, PG&E, or SDG&E?A.14For EPIC Applied Research projects, the research facilities, such as research labs, do not have to be specifically located in an IOU territory as long as the IOU Ratepayers will benefit from the research. No POU can be a primary beneficiary. Projects field testing, demonstrating, or deploying at customer sites must be in a California IOU service territory and connected to the customer’s side of a meter serviced by one of the three IOUs (SCE, PG&E, or SDG&E).Q.15Does this energy storage have to be Grid Connected – what about Grid-Less Electricity via Compressed Hydrogen Trucked to EV Stations and SOFC fuel cells to convert Hydrogen to DC Electricity?A.15EPIC funding requires that the proposed research must benefit the California IOU rate payers. Applicants must demonstrate how the energy storage system would support the California electricity grid. Systems field testing at a customer site must be connected to the customer’s side of an IOU serviced electricity meter. Standalone systems that are not interconnected to the California electrical grid would not be eligible under this solicitation. Also refer to answer A14.Q.16Non-Lithium Ion Energy Storage Technologies to Support California’s Clean Energy Goals; does this include charging EVs?A.16An energy storage system that meets the solicitation criteria could be used to provide load management for a grid connected EV charging station.Q.17Does the location have to be inside IOU?A.17For EPIC Applied Research projects, the research facilities, such as research labs, do not have to be specifically located in an IOU territory as long as the IOU Ratepayers will benefit from the research. No POU can be a primary beneficiary. Projects field testing, demonstrating, or deploying at customer sites must be in a California IOU service territory and connected to the customer’s side of a meter serviced by one of the three IOUs (SCE, PG&E, or SDG&E). Q.18Should the Demo site be in the State of California?A.18Yes. Also refer to answer A.14Q.19Please provide a definition of “customer side of the meter”A.19Customer side of the meter systems may also be referred to as behind-the-meter or BTM. Customers in IOU service territories pay a bill for their electricity usage. That bill is calculated on the basis of their electricity usage as measured by a Utility electricity meter installed at the customer's site. For the purposes of this solicitation energy storage systems field testing at a customer site must be installed on the customer's side of a meter serviced by one of the three IOUs (SCE, PG&E, or SDG&E).Additional information may be found on the California Public Utilities Commission website:California Public Utilities Commission WebsiteCPUC Rule 21 Interconnection WebsiteQ.20Can the proposed system be a large single user solution in the prototype phase?A.20Yes, as long as the proposed system meets the solicitation criteria.Q.21What is a 'technology type'? (page 21)A.21Candidate technology types for Group 1 include advanced chemistry batteries, flow batteries, flywheels, thermal storage systems, compressed air systems, and other non-lithium energy storage technologies. Candidate technology types for Group 2 must accept electricity-in, produce and store electrolytic hydrogen and then regenerate electricity-out from the stored hydrogen. Candidate technology types for Group 2 include electrolyzers and hydrogen fuel cells (hydrogen produced by other pathways such as from reformed Biogas or natural gas are specifically excluded).Q.22Can the proposed system be returned to supplier after period of performance ends?A.22Yes, as long as the solicitation requirements are met and the proposed statement of work is completed. Also refer to answer A.4Q.23Can vendor retain ownership of the equipment throughout the project period of performance?A.23Yes, also refer to answers A.4 and A.22.Q.24What is the minimum length of time we must demonstrate the unit?A.24There is no minimum field testing time requirement for this solicitation. EPIC funding for this solicitation falls under the “applied research and development” program area and hence for the purposes of this solicitation we will refer to “field testing” rather than “demonstration”. (This is to avoid confusion with the requirements for a twelve month demonstration under the EPIC “technology demonstration and deployment” program area). Proposers for both Group 1 and 2 must provide a Measurement and Verification Plan (M&V plan) that includes an assessment of expected benefits, ratepayer benefits, technical advancements, and breakthroughs. Proposers for both Group 1 and 2 must also provide a technology transfer plan. The field testing period should align with the applicant’s M&V plan, technology transfer plan, and be long enough validate the project conclusions. Note that the field testing should be complete and final project reports are required to be submitted to the CEC six months before the end of the grant term. Applicants should detail key dates for deliverables in the Schedule, Attachment 6A. Refer to section II.B.4 and section II.B.3 in the solicitation manual, and also Attachment 4, technical approach, section f.Q.25Can we use the funds to support operations of the unit to include salaries and/or lease payments?A.25Labor costs and lease costs are a valid expense as long as they are reasonable and clearly associated with the research effort.Q.26If we submit for Group 1 and Group 2, do we need to have separate and distinct Letters of Support for each Group or can we have a common Letter of Support that addresses both Groups?A.26No entity can submit two proposals for this solicitation and each proposal is evaluated separately. Also refer to answer A6.Q.27The proposed project must meet all CEQA requirements in time for the encumbrance of the EPIC funds by June 2020. Applications with energy storage technologies that (1) fall under a statutory or categorical CEQA exemption, or (2) are already approved, or (3) can be easily approved, by any applicable lead agency are highly encouraged and will be scored accordingly. What does “easily approved” exactly mean?A.27For this solicitation, “easily approved” refers to proposals that have CEQA approvals documented at the time of submission or that can demonstrate the ability to obtain CEQA approval in advance of the Energy Commission Business Meeting on June 10, 2020. Also refer to section 1.D in the solicitation manual.Q.28Can funds be used solely for desktop studies or design buildup?A.28No, the proposal must include an actual working system.Q.29For companies like Black and Veatch that are national with offices and technical experts in many different states, what are the criteria for calculating the amount that qualifies as "Spent in California"?A.29The proposal costs must demonstrate how the EPIC funds will be spent in California and meet the requirements of a California Based Entity. Typically grant recipients will document their funds spent in California on the basis of transactions with businesses located in California and expenses that have paid California taxes. For example, a consultancy firm with an office based in California, with California based employees, will be registered with the California Secretary of State and will pay California taxes. Where the project requires a subject matter specialist employed by the same company but in an office outside of California, that employees’ direct labor, fringe and associated overhead and profit expenses are usually reported as funds spent outside of California. Some applicants optimize their budgets to use Match funds to pay for out-of-State expenses for goods and services. Refer to section 1.F.2 of the solicitation manual, and also refer to the California Secretary of State website:California Secretary of State websiteQ.30Can funds be spent on technical analysis and reports from specialist companies such as Black and Veatch, or Exponent (Menlo Park, CA)?A.30Grant applicants may propose to allocate a portion of the grant funding for technical analysis and reports. The applicant should provide justification of the value these inputs would bring to the project and why they are needed.Q.31Is any type of extra credit given to small companies that are minority owned or female owned?A.31Not under this solicitation.Q.32What is the purpose of submitting the list of subs?A.32The purpose of submitting the list of subcontractors is to enable the scoring team to evaluate proposals against the solicitation criteria, including assessment of the subcontractor budgets and proposed team members. Refer to section IV.F of the solicitation manual for details of the scoring criteria.Q.33What if we are not sure who a sub-contractor will be? How do we account for this in the Budgets? Must all subcontractors used under this grant be included in the submission? A.33Subcontractors do not necessarily need to be identified by name in the proposal stage: you may identify a subcontractor as “To Be Determined” (TBD). However the role that the TBD subcontractor would undertake should be clearly defined and budgeted. Applicants’ that have major TBD subcontractors, that is budgeted to over $100k of CEC funding, are still required to submit a separate budget spreadsheet with estimated costs for the TBD subcontractor. Refer to Attachment 7, and refer to answer A.32.Q.34Budget – Filling out the budget form, what if we’re not sure who that subcontractor is going to be?A.34Applicants may identify a subcontractor as “To Be Determined” (TBD). Also refer to answer A.33Q.35Will the webinar presentation deck be made available on the solicitation website?A.35The presentation has been published on the CEC website:CEC Website GFO-19-305_Pre-Application_Workshop_PresentationQ.36Will a recording of the audio portion of the webinar be made available?A.36The WebEx recording is available on YouTube:WebEx Recording Pre-Application Workshop - YouTube Q.37Is there a place to register to receive any announcements regarding this solicitation?A.37Applicants may sign-up to receive listserv emails from the CEC. CEC Website ListservAnnouncements related to this solicitation are usually included on the “epic - Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) Program” listserv. However; the announcements cover the entire program area and are not unique to this solicitation. We encourage applicants to check the solicitation website regularly for addendums.CEC Solicitations WebsiteQ.38Scoring Criteria 1 requires the applicant to have received funds from the Energy Commission (e.g. a contract, grant, or loan) and entered into agreements with the Commission. Does this mean that the applicant must have been the lead applicant for a previous CEC grant, or could it have participated as a sub-contractor or a match partner to a project lead?A.38Criteria #1 evaluates the past performance of the Prime/lead applicant only. If the lead applicant has not received CEC funding before, then the applicant will automatically be awarded the maximum number of points for criteria #1.Q.39Will the applicant be scored based on whether the individual identified as the principal investigator in GFO-19-305 was also the principal investigator or lead individual for a past CEC project, or whether they were a material member of a previous CEC project team (or an executive of an organization that received funds from the CEC?A.39Under Criteria #1, the past performance is assessed for the lead applicant. Q.40Eligibility. The Solicitation Manual in Section II.B.2.a.2. on page 18 states:“..Candidate technologies include advanced chemistry batteries, flow batteries, flywheels, thermal storage systems, compressed air systems, and other non-lithium energy storage technologies that can provide an electricity-in/electricity-out capability...” “The proposed energy storage system must provide a complete system that is considered an electricity-in and electricity-out solution.” Because energy storage is so critical in the integration of additional renewable energy (especially solar) on the grid, there is underway a great deal of innovation in the energy storage space. Several innovations are focused on energy storage generally or thermal energy storage, not just electricity storage (elec-in and elec-out). As we mentioned in the webcast comments, Johns Manville has developed and is seeking to pilot an innovative storage system that takes older, poor performing homes in disadvantaged communities and makes them more energy efficient. The homes can be networked via smart thermostats and pre-cooled en masse using the abundant solar resource during the afternoon so that their cooling load in the evening can be substantially reduced. This system is designed specifically to alleviate California’s “duck curve” problem and do so in a way that very directly benefits disadvantaged communities where making homes more energy efficient provides not only health and comfort benefits but also climate justice and climate resilience. This concept also meets the more general statutory definition of energy storage in CA PUC Code Section 2835. We believe that the CEC may have inadvertently included language that could be read as rendering ineligible not only our thermal storage system but also other innovative and effective energy storage systems and technologies simply because they were not known to the CEC. Innovation in energy storage should be encouraged by funding programs that are technology agnostic. This is especially true for technologies like ours that feature many important non-energy benefits that align well with California’s energy, environmental, and climate goals. Can the CEC please clarify whether such innovative thermal energy storage system proposals are eligible for funding consideration based on the current solicitation manual? If that is not the case, can the CEC make modifications or amendments to the manual to expand the eligibility of effective energy storage technology to include these systems?A.40Any energy storage technology proposed for this solicitation must meet the electricity-in and electricity-out criteria of this solicitation. The EPIC funding source for this solicitation requires that projects funded under this solicitation align with the EPIC program area, strategic objective, and funding initiative that the funds are targeted towards. Refer to section I.E of the solicitation manual. Note that the CEC holds multiple solicitations each year under different program areas. Future solicitations may include funding towards thermal energy storage and energy efficiency. The CEC also holds workshops, releases requests for information and invites public comment to help shape future funding solicitations.Q.41Our proposed project will involve integration of an innovative storage (backup power) system under Group 2 using some commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment (TRL 9) and a couple of newly developed custom equipment (currently TRL 3-4). We will integrate this novel system by advanced engineering analysis, design, prototype and laboratory testing (not site demonstration). The resulting system will be in at least TRL 6-7 at the end of the proposed project. Is this technical work plan summary acceptable?A.41The CEC cannot give guidance on the acceptability of your proposed technical work plan. Your application must demonstrate that your proposal meets the TRL criteria in section II.B.b.9 of the solicitation manual, which includes:“The goal of this funding is for the technology to advance to TRL 6 or 7 by the end of the grant. Energy storage technologies that have already exceeded TRL level 6 may apply to this solicitation if there is a substantial design improvement and a redesign of their technology that provides significant improvements in performance, reliability or costs. In this case, the proposer must clearly define how this new configuration lowers the TRL level to 4 or 5 and how they will reach TRL level 6 or 7 by the end of the grant performance period.”Attachment 4, project narrative, includes additional guidance on evaluating and documenting the system TRL.Q.42We understand that the scope of this opportunity is set at applied research level and not field demonstration. Our proposed system will be demonstrated in a low-income community customer’s site in future subsequent effort beyond this proposed project. Do we qualify for extra 5-point credit if we have a commitment letter from a low-income or disadvantaged community customer for this proposal?A.42The CEC cannot give guidance on the preparation of your specific proposal or pre-judge the scoring. However; please note that any value from a proposal for a DAC must occur under this agreement and during the terms of this agreement. The criteria for the assessment of the preference points for a DAC are summarized in section IV.F.10 of the solicitation manual. Also refer to answer A.9.Q.43To determine the TRL of our technology is there a standard TRL guideline table that you recommend?A.43Please refer to Attachment 4, project narrative, which includes additional guidance on evaluating and documenting the system TRL.Q.44Is it [] specific to this funding?A. is a new initiative of the California Energy Commission, developed in partnership with leading California technology accelerators, fellowship programs, nonprofits, and private partners. provides easy access to information about public and private sector funding opportunities, curated resources, and offers networking features to facilitate the establishment of partnerships. The networking feature is not limited to this solicitation.EmpowerInnovation WebsiteQ.45[Referring to slide 10 of the pre-application workshop] What is the longest duration that you [CEC] are interested in, so far, based on the weather pattern etc.?A.45There are no energy storage duration requirements for this solicitation. It is up to the applicant to demonstrate how their proposed energy storage technology provides value to their customer. The longest duration that the CEC has funded under previous solicitations is 6 hours. The GFO-19-306 long duration energy storage demonstration solicitation is targeting 10 hours or more, and the anticipated energy storage research solicitation is considering 25-100 hours. Q.46[Following up on question 45, referring to slide 10 of the pre-application workshop] Why will increased curtailment not require more than 100 hours?A.46The CEC is not considering 100 hours as a maximum limit, there may be applications that require longer durations. There are no energy storage duration requirements for this solicitation. It is up to the applicant to demonstrate how their proposed energy storage technology provides value to their customer.Q.47Only the timelineA.47Addendum #3 and Addendum #4 revised the key dates detailed in the solicitation manual, section 1.G. (page 13):ACTIVITYDATETIMESolicitation ReleaseDecember 19, 2019Pre-Application WorkshopJanuary 07, 20201:30 p.m.Deadline for Written QuestionsJanuary 09, 20205:00 p.m.Anticipated Distribution of Questions and Answers Week of February 10th, 2020Week of February 3rd, 2020Deadline to Submit ApplicationsFebruary 24, 2020February 18, 20205:00 p.m.Anticipated Notice of Proposed Award Posting DateWeek of March 23, 2020Week of March 16, 2020Anticipated Energy Commission Business Meeting DateJune 10, 2020Anticipated Agreement Start DateJune 30, 2020Anticipated Agreement End Date December 31, 2023Q.48Are gravity-based systems eligible (ARES, Energy Vault, etc.)?A.48Yes, gravity based systems eligible to apply under Group 1 of this solicitation.Q.49Do storage technologies with round trip efficiencies (RTE) lower than 80% qualify under this solicitation?A.49Yes, for this solicitation, technologies with RTEs lower than 80% are eligible to apply.Q.50Threshold question. The solicitation purports to limit funding to only electricity-to-electricity tech. But there are other very promising technologies that store energy, not just electricity. We have developed a thermal energy storage system that uses the conditioned air in newly energy efficient homes in disadvantaged communities. The homes are networked with smart thermostats and controlled en masse. We also are developing systems that use high-temp PCM for thermal storage. CA PUC Code Section 2835 defines energy storage systems more generically and does not limit to just electric storage. Could these other developing/innovative technologies have been inadvertently overlooked? Non-electric energy storage is potentially safer. As a follow-up, our thermal energy storage system directly benefits disadvantaged communities by reducing their cooling bills and making their homes safer and more comfortableA.50For this solicitation, applicants must demonstrate an electricity-in/electricity-out solution. Also refer to answer to A.40.Q.51Does CEC have any interest in grid connected storage for this solicitation in Group 1? What exactly does "that focus on customer side of the meter" [mean]?A.51For this solicitation, the CEC is interested in funding energy storage applications that are interconnected to the California grid on the customer’s side of the utility meter. Proposals based on an energy storage system that would be connected to the grid on the utility side of the meter are not eligible. Also refer to answer A.19.Q.52Are there a number of demonstrations that the CEC would like to have from this solicitation, or is that entirely dependent on the funding requested from bidders?A.52The number of demonstrations depends entirely on the number of proposals awarded once they are all reviewed and scored.Q.53Is there a capacity limit for Group 1, i.e., what is the customer load range you envision?A.53There are no specified limits for this solicitation.Q.54When preparing our application, if we include business models, price projects from partners and vendors that demonstrate future viability can that information be kept confidential?A.54No. Confidential information must not be submitted. Applications will be rejected if they mark any part of their proposal confidential (or proprietary, or copyright). Q.55If we have a customer that sells wholesale merchant electricity (such as wind or solar) can we place a project behind their meter?A.55Applicants need to demonstrate that their proposal meets the solicitation requirement for an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in customer side of the meter application. Also refer to answer A.19.Q.56Does a previously funded storage project that couldn't demonstrate the outcome due to permitting problem qualified to apply? We were funded but couldn’t show it because the site didn’t allow us on time.A.56The new proposal must be independent of any previous proposal that has received EPIC funding. The new proposal must demonstrate how it meets the requirements of this solicitation.Q.57Can non-US based companies submit an application, as long as they meet the 60% funding spent in California requirement?A.57Yes, as long as the lead/Prime applicant is registered with the California Secretary of State, and in good standing, then they are eligible to enter into an agreement with the Energy Commission. For further information about registering with the California Secretary of State, refer to: California Secretary of State WebsiteQ.58We are interested in a possible application to use energy storage to buffer EV charging. We have a potential site and CCA project partner. We have options for connecting the energy storage to either side of the meter. Our commercial proposition is stronger with a CCA owned utility side of the meter application. Can you clarify whether the energy storage has to be deployed on the customer side of the meter?A.58Applicants need to demonstrate that their proposal meets the solicitation requirement for an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. Also refer to answer A.19.Q.59If projects don't need to be physically located at a customer site, why would it matter to the CEC whether the project is located (for convenience) on the utility side of the meter at a utility facility, so long as it is operated in a manner that can demonstrate customer value?A.59Applicants need to demonstrate that their proposal meets this solicitation’s requirement for an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. Systems proposed to be tested in a laboratory setting will still be required to demonstrate in their proposal the customer side of the meter application that the energy storage system is anticipated to address. The proposal must also show the benefit of receiving EPIC funds. Refer to section II.B of the solicitation manual, and also refer to answer A.19.Q.60What about lithium projects that are not lithium-ion?A.60Applicants that propose an energy storage technology that utilizes the element Lithium as part of its solution, must demonstrate in their proposal why the CEC should consider the technology distinctly different to conventional and advanced Lithium Ion battery technologies. Q.61Are thermal storage systems that store electrical input energy for cooling/heating load shifting and provide electrical output indirectly applicable for this solicitation?A.61For this solicitation, the energy storage technology system must demonstrate an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. A thermal energy storage system that satisfies these solicitation requirements would be eligible to apply. Also refer to answer A.40.Q.62To be considered for funding, can the technology be developed outside of California as long as the technology is deployed within the state of California, benefiting California customers?A.62Yes, as long as all the solicitation requirements are met. Also refer to answer A.29.Q.63How does the recyclability of a battery project enter into consideration?A.63If the proposed energy storage technology has competitive recyclability advantages over a competing technology, such as the recyclability of Lithium Ion batteries, then these advantages should be highlighted in the completion matrix for attachment 4.Q.64Is there are page limit on the project narrative?A.6420 pages, please refer to the page limit recommendations in section III.A of the solicitation manual.Q.65The scoring guide (Section 3.f) and Attachment 4 (tech approach) question (f) talk about a technology transfer plan, but the manual doesn't elaborate on what this plan should address. Could you clarify what you envision the technology transfer plan should address?A.65The CEC places a lot of emphasis on the importance of the technology transfer plan as this is conceived to articulate how you will share the knowledge you have gained through this grant with other stakeholders and the general public. Common examples include delivering presentations at conferences, publishing research papers, and hosting public workshops. However; applicants may propose alternative and innovative approaches to facilitate greater knowledge transfer to the wider public audience, or specific target audiences for example disadvantaged and low income communities.Q.66If you are the customer, and want to allow access to your site for this research project, how do you apply?A.66You may develop your own proposal and submit an application as a Prime applicant, or you may wish to partner with another entity to be the Prime applicant. The CEC established to assist prospective applicants to find project partners and host sites. We strongly encourage you to sign up and identify yourself as a potential host site. Also refer to answers A.7 and A.44.Q.67Did you say that CEQA doesn't apply if the demo site is at a laboratory?A.67CEQA applies everywhere in California. However; there are certain exemptions under CEQA that applicants may choose to investigate. For example, exiting laboratories are often exempt. Applicants should refer to the CEQA requirements defined in section 1.D of the solicitation manual, and in addition applicants should refer to Attachment 8.Q.68When would the project need to be operation? Is it June 30, 2022? (1.5 years from end of term?)A.68The system needs to be in operation during the term of the grant. There is no minimum operational field testing time requirement for this solicitation. EPIC funding for this solicitation falls under the “applied research and development” program area and hence for the purposes of this solicitation we will refer to “field testing” rather than “demonstration”. (This is to avoid confusion with the requirements for a twelve month demonstration under the EPIC “technology demonstration and deployment” program area). Proposers for both Group 1 and 2 must provide a Measurement and Verification Plan (M&V plan) that includes an assessment of expected benefits, ratepayer benefits, technical advancements, and breakthroughs. Proposers for both Group 1 and 2 must also provide a technology transfer plan. The field testing period should align with the applicant’s M&V plan, technology transfer plan, and be long enough validate the project conclusions. Note that the field testing should be complete and final project reports are required to be submitted to the CEC six months before the end of the grant term. Applicants should detail key dates for deliverables in the Schedule, Attachment 6A. Refer to section II.B.4 and section II.B.3 in the solicitation manual, and also Attachment 4, technical approach, section f.Q.69Is there any preferences given to project installed in military bases to show the resiliency benefits?A.69There is no preference on location, with the exception of the preference points that may be assessed under Criteria 10, Disadvantaged & Low-Income Communities. See section IV.F.10 of the solicitation manual.Q.70When you say Prime, is that "Prime Contractor" or "Prime Applicant"?A.70We refer to the Prime applicant, the entity expected to sign the agreement with the CEC. The Prime applicant, if awarded, will be the Prime agreement manager and responsible for grant oversite. Also refer to answer A.7.Q.71So for Prime, does that mean if you are an out of country technology developer, you need to find a California base company to lead your application?A.71The lead/Prime applicant must be registered with the California Secretary of State, and in good standing, to be eligible to enter into an agreement with the California Energy Commission. Out of State / out of country prospective applicants may refer to the California Secretary of State website for more information on the requirements for registration and doing business in the State of California:California Secretary of State is a new initiative of the California Energy Commission that includes a networking feature to facilitate finding project partners. Also refer to answer A.44.Q.72Question for last slide: If you don't have 60% of funds paid in CA, are we disqualified or just lose all 10 points of that one scoring category?A.72If you do not propose 60% or more EPIC funds spent in California you are automatically disqualified. Scoring criteria 7 evaluates points for greater than 60% funds spent in California.Q.73For group 1 does the storage have to be electricity in/out or can we propose a non-carbon emitting fuel Such as AmmoniaA.73Under both Group 1 and Group 2 the primary application of the energy storage system must be an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. Applicants may submit proposal for the electricity in to be stored in the form of a fuel such as ammonia, provided that the ammonia would be generated from the electricity-in, and that the primary application for the ammonia would be the regeneration of electricity to meet the electricity-out requirement of this solicitation. Applicants should describe in Attachment 4 their proposed energy storage technology and system configuration to show how their proposal meets the solicitation requirements. Refer to section II.B.2 of the solicitation manual and Attachment 4 for details of the requirements. Also refer to answer A.40.Q.74Will the review committee contact us for clarifications to ensure fair evaluation of all the applicants?A.74The solicitation team will NOT contact applicants during the review process. Clarifying questions requiring a yes or no answer may be required. Clarifying questions would only come from the Contracts, Grants and Loans officer identified on the solicitation’s website:CEC Solicitation WebsiteQ.75Group 1 - can you define more precisely the size for the customer site, how big should the storage unit be?A.75There is no specified scale of customer site. Similarly, for the energy storage technology, there is no specified kW power rating, no specified kWh storage capacity, no specified hours duration, no specified round trip efficiency. The proposal should identify a system size and customer site that aligns with the applicant’s M&V plan, technology transfer plan, and be large enough to validate the project conclusions.Q.76Group 2 – How much of the customer side of it is emphasized? Customers in residential, or large customers?A.76The emphasis is commercialization of new and emerging energy storage technologies. Applicants should identify a system size and customer site that aligns with the applicant’s M&V plan, technology transfer plan, and be large enough to validate the project conclusions.Q.77There’s something on the CEC website on customer sites. Is that something that you could help with?A.77The CEC cannot assist prospective applicants directly. The CEC has established a website: , which includes functionality to assist prospective applicants find project partners such an energy storage technology provider or customer host sites. Also refer to answers A.11 and A.44.EmpowerInnovation WebsiteQ.78Matching funding - what about IP such as patents for processes and equipment? Do those count?A.78Match contributions must meet the criteria in section 1.F.3. The EPIC standard terms and conditions, section 20, discusses Intellectual Property.EPIC Standard Terms and ConditionsQ.79Matching Funding. Johns Manville applied for and was issued two US patents for the energy storage system described above. (US Patents 9951967 and 10302328.) For purposes of a pilot project Johns Manville is prepared to issue a royalty-free license of this patented technology. Would such an in-kind contribution qualify as “matching funding” for purposes of scoring our proposal?A.79Match funding must support the project as defined in the proposal. Any cash received from other relevant sources and spent on the proposed project must meet the Match criteria in section 1.F.3 of the solicitation manual. The EPIC standard terms and conditions, section 20, discusses Intellectual Property.EPIC Standard Terms and ConditionsQ.80Intellectual property - are there standard Terms and Conditions?A.80The EPIC standard terms and conditions, section 20, discusses Intellectual Property. EPIC Standard Terms and ConditionsQ.81With the exception of POUs, would a prime be able to have a subcontractor who was an employee of a utility, but was a subcontractor for this project on their own time?A.81Subcontractors for the agreement must meet the flow down provisions defined in the EPIC terms and conditions.EPIC Standard Terms and ConditionsQ.82Are there any advantages if the project could tie-up multiple GFOs at the same time?A.82Each proposal must be independent and meet all the requirements of the respective solicitation. Applicants may not submit proposals to separate GFOs that would amount in any way to double counting of reimbursable expenses. Q.83Competitive benefits - Are we looking at life cycle cost or [other attributes]?A.83The proposal must define the competitive benefits of the energy storage technology for the proposed customer side of the meter application. Refer to Attachment 4 for examples of competitive technology attributes.Q.84What does the CEC consider for life cycle benefits?A.84There are no specific life cycle benefits criteria. Also refer to answer A.83.Q.85What are the CEC requirements for including citations and references?A.85It is up to the proposer what citations or references are used.Q.86Font size requirement – if you have a comment or reference in the footer it can be smaller, correct?A.86The proposal must meet the application organization and submission requirements defined in section III.A of the solicitation manual, which includes:Font: 11-point, Arial (excluding Excel spreadsheets, original template headers and footers, and commitment or support letters)Q.87Regarding the 60% funds spent in CA – if the equipment is made in China and sold online for $60K, and we’re buying this equipment through ebay which is registered in CA, does it count?A.87If the funds to buy the equipment went to China, the funds would not be considered as spent in California. Ultimately the eligibility of individual expense claims are determined after grant award when they are invoiced to the CEC. Refer to sections I.F.2 and IV.F.7 of the solicitation manual for guidance on funds spent in California. Also refer to answer A.29.Q.88We have an employee from Australia we are paying – is this considered in California?A.88Funds going to Australia would not be considered as spent in California. Refer to sections I.F.2 and IV.F.7 of the solicitation manual for guidance on funds spent in California. Also refer to answer A.29.Q.89Is there any flexibility for increasing total funding allocated for Group 2, to enable multiple awards under Group 2?A.89Section 1.F.1 of the solicitation manual summarizes the minimum and maximum amounts of EPIC funding that may be awarded to a grant applicant under the respective Groups for this solicitation. Depending on the number of applications received under this solicitation, the CEC may adjust the available funding allocated to each Group.Project GroupAvailable fundingMinimum award amountMaximum award amountMinimum match funding amount (% of EPIC Funds Requested)Group 1: Develop and validate non-Lithium energy storage technologies for customer side of the meter applications. $9,000,000$300,000$2,000,000Not Required. Extra credit score for Match share up to 100 percent.Group 2: Develop and validate green electrolytic hydrogen systems for customer side of the meter applications.$2,000,000$500,000$2,000,000Not Required. Extra credit score for Match share up to 100 percent.Q.90Are there any preference points awarded for using a DVBE business? For example we are considering using a DVBE to install our solar panels.A.90Under this solicitation there are no preference points assessed for using a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE).Q.91Aside from the funds spent in CA, there is no disadvantage to using a foreign vendor or subcontractor compared to using a vendor or subcontractor located in the U.S., is that correct?A.91There are no specific scoring criteria that would differentiate between out of state vs out of country vendors or subcontractors. Refer to sections I.F.2 and IV.F.7 of the solicitation manual for guidance on funds spent in California. Also refer to answer A.29Q.92Are there battery prices lower than the figures indicated on slide 15 of the pre-application workshop presentation? A.92There are no defined battery prices for this solicitation. The chart on slide 15 of the pre-application workshop presentation is sourced from Bloomberg New Energy Finance. GFO-19-305 Pre-Application Workshop PresentationQ.93Is hydrogen considered both Group 1 and 2?A.93Electrolytic hydrogen technology projects should apply to Group 2 as this group was specifically created for evaluating electrolytic hydrogen based proposals. No electrolytic hydrogen projects are expected to be awarded in Group 1. Hydrogen technologies that are not electrolytic hydrogen as defined in Group 2 are not eligible for this solicitation. Refer to section II.B.b in the solicitation manual and also refer to answer A.6.Q.94If we show electricity in-out for hydrogen, can we also demonstrate other applications such as hydrogen as a transportation fuel?A.94For this solicitation, the hydrogen system’s primary application must be an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. Also refer to answer A.101Q.95If we are planning on installing a hydrogen fueling station independent of the grant, can we use that as cost share?A.95Match contributions must meet the criteria in section 1.F.3 of the solicitation manual. You would need to demonstrate how the elements of the second project would be incorporated into, and add benefit to, this proposal. The Match expenditure must be incurred within the term of the CEC grant, existing facilities and future expansion beyond the grant term do not count. Also refer to answer A.94.Q.96Can we include the installation of solar as part of the funding or a least a portion of solar. This is important for hydrogen as we can demonstrate cost savings for a direct tied system. A.96Solar PV expenses are NOT eligible for EPIC funding under this solicitation. Systems that incorporate Solar PV as part of their solution can count the solar expenses as Match if they meet the Match funding requirements in section 1.F.3 of the solicitation manual. Also refer to answer A.94.Q.97We plan a hydrogen production plant with funding under a previous GFO. Can we include this project in our application? The inclusion will be from the technical point of view (to reduce the cost of the P2P plant, using an existing hydrogen production facility), but the cost of the previous plant will not be included in any way in the budget of the new GFO, as stated in the call.A.97Applicants may leverage existing facilities to enhance their proposal. If the referenced hydrogen production plant is part of a project being actively funded under a current CEC grant, the applicant would need to ensure that their proposed inclusion of that facility in a proposal to this solicitation is also compatible with the terms of the other grant. Also refer to answers A.82 and A.95. Q.98Our Energy Storage Plant is conceived to produce hydrogen and/or power, being able to supply grid services, as well as short/medium/long term energy storage. Is this within the scope of the GFO?A.98For this solicitation, the hydrogen system’s primary application must be an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. Also refer to answer A.101.Q.99Does this funding opportunity include chemical energy storage (like hydrogen storage)? Or only electrical storage?A.99For this solicitation, the hydrogen system’s primary application must be an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. Also refer to answer A.101.Q.100Does it have to be electrolytic? What about hydrogen extraction from waste?A.100Non-electrolytic hydrogen such as hydrogen extracted from waste and hydrogen generated from biogas is NOT eligible under this solicitation. Applicants to Group 2 may only propose solutions that accept electricity in and generate green electrolytic hydrogen. For the purposes of this solicitation applicants may refer to the green electrolytic hydrogen definition adopted in the text of SB-1369 (Skinner, Chapter 567, Statutes of 2018) Section 2, 400.2. Senate Bill 1369Q.101Our technology benefits both energy storage and transportation applications, will the review committee take that into consideration as we demonstrate viability across multiple markets for the same tech?A.101For this solicitation, the hydrogen system’s primary application must be an electricity-in and electricity-out solution in a customer side of the meter application. The proposal must define the benefits of the technology and the benefits of the proposed application. Multiple applications are acceptable when measuring the overall value of the technology.Q.102Can I use Hydrogen derived from BioMAT Biomass Program to store energy to charge EVs? A.102You may NOT use the hydrogen directly from the BioMAT program (hydrogen derived from a waste or biogas) as this does not meet the Green Electrolytic Hydrogen solicitation criteria. Also refer to answers A.94 and A.100. ................
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