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GFO-20-310Mobile Renewable Backup Generation - MORBUGsQuestions and AnswersPosted April 2021General Administrative QuestionsNumberQuestion/AnswerQ.1Could you please provide the GFO manual in Word form as well? It's a bit easier for note taking than a pdf. Thank you!A.1Contact the CGL Contract Manager listed in the GFO.Q.2Is there a rough timeline available for the milestones of this application? Aka how far after submission can applicants expect the award to take, and also how long after getting the award is the demonstration planned for?A.2The current plan is to award the grants by the end of June 2021. The demonstration period is defined by the applicant in their proposal.Q.3Ratio of Direct Labor? Can you please clarify how the points are awarded?A.3The question appears to refer to the Ratio of Direct Labor to Indirect Costs. Please see item #7 on p. 42 of the Solicitation Manual.Q.4How will recording of this meeting be distributed? When?A.4It will be posted on the website where the GFO materials are available. It is already posted. the agreement start date, what is the expected time frame leading up to the commencement of demonstrations?A.5That element is defined by the applicant in their proposal.Q.6Are sample proposals available?A.6Copies of proposals from EPIC GFOs can be obtained by contacting the grant manager listed on the Notice of Proposed Awards.Q.7Efficiency, durability and capital cost: are these evaluation criteria?A.7Yes, they are part of what will be evaluated as part of the proposal scoring. See scoring items 1, 2 and 3 in the GFO Manual.Q.8Is in-kind match allowable associated with the testing/use of an already built smaller prototype during the design, engineering, and modeling phase? If so, what type of backup should be provided to show the value of the existing system for in-kind contribution?A.8The definition of what qualifies as match is in the Solicitation Manual and the EPIC terms and conditions. (See, e.g., Exhibit C, section 8(e), Payment of Funds, p. 10. “All Recipient expenditures, reimbursable and match, must occur within the approved term of this Agreement.”) The use of pre-existing equipment might be allowable if the Recipient can establish the fair market value of renting or leasing the equipment. Sometimes, that can be done with the depreciation amounts the Recipient is posting to financial statements. But this is a prototype, which implies there are no easy or good ways to establish a fair market value of renting or leasing the equipment, since it is probably one of a kind. Also, because it is a prototype, it may not be subject to depreciation, or not yet, as it may more likely be, had the Recipient brought a commercial piece of equipment.In sum, one could use the prototype as match, if one could establish a fair market value of renting or leasing similar equipment. But because of the above, it appears unlikely that one would be able to establish a fair market value for a prototype.Q.9Will the deadline be extended?A.9Please see for updates to the solicitation.Q.10Are there requirements for time for running/project period other than simply ending by 2025-03-31?A.10These requirements are defined by the applicant in their proposal.Q.11Where in the budget would you like us to include the new requirement for "5% for Tech Transfer?A.11That information is defined in the GFO. You can include in your budget forms under labor, subcontractor or other appropriate categories. See Attachment 7.Q.12We have a budget for completing our development currently based on quotations from suppliers in SPAIN. We know reimbursable funds have to be spent with suppliers in California. Do we have to present our proposal based on quotations from suppliers in California? Would it be possible to present our current budget as it is with the condition that if accepted, we’ll request new quotations from suppliers and companies in California once we establish our company there?A.12 No. The proposal cannot be based on speculative, future conditions. Estimate a budget that will become a binding cap if awarded the grant.Q.13Would it be possible to apply as a foreign company based in SPAIN but with the condition that if accepted, we'll move our company (and ourselves) to California to go on with its development there with a long-term perspective?A.13No. The applicant must be registered to do business in California and meet the funds spent in California requirement in the GFO. These are the two areas where entities located outside California normally have challenges.Q.14For all project deliverables, the only deadline to complete is March 2025, right?A.14Project deliverables are defined in the applicant’s proposal and must meet the timelines defined in the proposal.Q.15When will solicitation be released and then closed?A.15That information is on page 11 in the solicitation manual. Please see for updates to the solicitation.General Technical QuestionsNumberQuestion/AnswerQ.16Hi, my company’s microgrid units are mobile and source renewable power from CCAs. Our units store power for backup, but do not generate on-site or on the unit itself. Would we still be eligible if we do not generate power?A.16If you can provide sufficient energy duration to meet the requirements defined in the GFO for Group 3. For Group 1 and 2, “the proposed use case(s) for this system when applied during an outage and when applied during normal grid operations”. The proposal must define the value of the proposed systems to LI/DAC and Tribal community customers.Q.17In case the prior question is not able to be answered, is the MORBUG unit required to generate power for groups 1, 2, and 3?A.17The system must meet the requirements in the GFO and if your system can meet the requirements without a generation system, you should still meet the requirements in the GFO. See response to Question 16.Q.18Has this been solicited before? If so, what has changed? If not, what motivated this new solicitation?A.18No. This solicitation represents a desire to replace fossil fuel backup systems with clean alternatives that can meet the same requirements.Q.19If we are developing different sizes of generators. Can we apply to the less than 9 kW size systems and for larger sized system?A.19The same entity can submit proposals to multiple groups.Q.20We would like clarification for the requirement that the system should not "rely on generating hydrogen in another geographic location and transporting it to the mobile system." since elsewhere in the GFO it appears to allow for hydrogen fueling elsewhere and transporting to the site as long as the mobile system meets the operational (power and energy) requirements at the site. Can a self-contained mobile hydrogen solution be fueled from another source or must it generate hydrogen at the demonstration site?A.20The proposed hydrogen system can obtain hydrogen from another source as long as the proposed system is self-contained, transportable and easy to install and remove. The proposed use case(s) for this system should be defined in the proposal and how the system will be applied during an outage and when applied during normal grid operations. The proposal must define the value of the proposed systems to LI/DAC and Tribal community customers.Q.21Is V2G considered MORBUG or a component of a MORBUG? Is there are clear definition or exclusions for what a MORBUG is?A.21Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) is not considered a technology of interest for MORBUGs GFO. The proposed system must meet the use case(s) defined in the proposal and how the system will be applied during an outage and when applied during normal grid operations”. The proposal must define the value of the proposed systems to LI/DAC and Tribal community customers. V2G applications are not considered eligible for this GFO as they do not represent a system being requested in the GFO. The proposed system is not expected to be grid connected.Q.22How did CEC come up with the minimum system sizing requirement in each of these three categories?A.22CEC Staff developed the system size requirements based on market research and information from the recent wildfires and PSPS events.Q.23Is there a requirement on duration of load supply by the MORBUG? What is the minimum duration?A.23The minimum duration is not defined for Groups 1 and 2 but is defined for Group 3. In Groups 1 and 2, the proposal should define why a specific duration was selected and the value of that duration.Q.24Would a mobile turbo-generator using a liquid fuel generated from forestry or agricultural biomass be eligible?A.24It is unclear how that system would work so the proposal would have to address how the proposed system meets all the requirements of the GFO.Q.25Is the kW of the MORBUG defined by the installed capacity or the actual production? For instance, a 10kW installed capacity PV system has a capacity factor of 20%, so It would be expected to actually produce 2 kW on average.A.25The delivered capacity must meet the GFO requirements. Group 1 is for systems 9kW or less. If your system falls between 9kW and 10kW, it is in Group 1. Group 2 is for 10kW or higher. As for nominal or rated power, that will be defined in the proposal.Q.26How many 2-week on-site demos are required?A.26That information is defined in the GFO. Please see page 7 of the Solicitation Manual. For Groups 1 and 2, a fourth system will be demonstrated 3 times for no longer than 2 weeks at a time. Group 3 does not require any 2-week demonstrations.Q.27Is there a time of hours per day necessary for the units to run? This will help calculate the kwh necessary.A.27The system test will be defined by the applicant in the GFO except for the test directed by the CEC. The proposed use case(s) for this system should be defined in the proposal and how the system will be applied during an outage and when applied during normal grid operations. The proposal must define the value of the proposed systems to LI/DAC and Tribal community customers.Q.28Does the MOREBUGs system need to fit on a single truck or would a small number (say 2 or 3) separate vehicle system be considered responsive?A.28The number of transport vehicles is not defined and up to the applicant.Q.29Can the kW rating be comprised of an aggregation of smaller devices?A.29Yes, as long as the kW rating meets the requirements in the GFO for the group.Q.30How about the system cost projections?A.30The system costs must meet the budget provided in the proposal.Q.31What manufacture/model is being used today by municipalities?A.31Question is not clear and cannot be answered.Q.32Or another way to state is, is there a minimum hours-of-operation a day?A.32That information will be defined and scored as submitted in the proposal. The proposed use case(s) for this system should be defined in the proposal and how the system will be applied during an outage and when applied during normal grid operations. The proposal must define the value of the proposed systems to LI/DAC and Tribal community customers.Q.33Is CEQA/permitting required as these are technically classified as backup generation (a la a diesel genset)?A.33CEQA assessment is required and if the system is exempt, the proposal must state why.Q.34Are there any connection requirements for either group? 120V vs 208?A.34The operating voltage must be defined in the proposal based on what services the system will provide.Q.35Is UL listing required?A.35Not at this time.Q.36Is there any requirement or preference given to plugging into buildings or do you anticipate them powering in depending on loads not normally connected to the grid?A.36 No preferences are defined.Q.37Are generators that take multiple fuels, such as biofuels possible.A.37Yes, if the proposed system meets the requirements of the GFO. Simply replacing diesel fuel with another fuel source is not considered responsive to this solicitation as there is no research required.Q.38To confirm, a generator can use fossil fuels?A.38No.Q.39Is it possible to apply to both Group 2 and Group 3 if you can demonstrate modularity and can scale a Group 2 solution to category 3?A.39An applicant can submit a proposal to multiple groups if they meet the requirements of the GFO and each proposal is separate, distinct and to different groups. Only one proposal is permitted by one entity per group.Q.40Three different climate zones means three different locations?A.40The climate zones are defined in State’s Title 24 documentation. Please see the 48 hours be supported wholly by battery, with no on-board generation?A.41The proposed solution is up to the applicant as long as it meets all the requirements of the GFO and is easy to transport, install and remove.Q.42Is there a maximum power limit 100, 200 kW? is there a maximum vehicle size - trailer or truck Class 5,6,7 or 8?A.42There is no maximum power limit. Any vehicle used must meet the requirements of the proposal and not require any DOT waivers. There is no limit on the number of vehicles that can be used.Q.43What voltage do you require: 208V, 480V?A.43See the response to question 34.Q.44I second the question on if requirements can be entirely provided via charged battery. Is 35kW rating nominal or rated Power?A.44The system and its performance must be defined in your proposal and be rated at 35KW or higher, where nominal or max rated power is defined in the proposal.Q.45Since deployment is going to be a major hurdle, is distributed deployment preferred?A.45The information is expected to be defined in the applicant’s proposal.Q.46Are projects that utilize renewable fuels, such as renewable propane, eligible under the solicitation?A.46The system must meet the intent of the GFO and not simply be a fuel switching system. If no research is needed, the project does not meet the requirements of the GFO. If the system is generating the renewable fuel on site, it would qualify if the system is considered easy to transport, install and remove.Q.47Is there a maximum vehicle size - trailer or truck Class 5,6,7 or 8?A.47The proposed system must be easy to install and easy to remove. The transportation vehicle must not require a DOT waiver and should be considered part of an easy transport, install and remove system.Q.48Is third party M&V required? Or potentially desirable?A.48M&V is required but does not have to be through a third party.Q.49What level of operator involvement is acceptable for the technology demonstration? Also, I'd like to confirm that you are assuming that sites are off-grid application.A.49The system must meet the requirements in the GFO, and the amount of operator involvement is to be defined in the proposal. The systems are expected to operate when the grid is down.Q.50Would a mobile generation system designed for Other uses that could be redeployed on demand in a grid shutdown be acceptable?A.50The question is too broad to be answered. Any system proposed would need to meet the power ratings defined in the different groups and be easy to install and remove.Q.51Could the accepted product require some simple assembly on site or does it have to be fully operable from the get go?A.51That element must be defined in the proposal and will be scored on value provided to the proposed end user.Q.52Where is the service area of IOUs mapped?A.52 we need to pass UL and other relevant standards before demonstration?A.53UL is not required at this time. The system must meet all relevant safety standards.Q.54Are the Disadvantaged + Low Income Community requirement based on (or satisfied by) Where the work (development of the prototype system) is done, or by the 3+ demonstration locations?A.54The systems should be demonstrated in locations prone to PSPS or Tier 2 or 3 High Fire Threat Districts, as defined by the CPUC at . The systems should be located in low-income (LI)/disadvantaged communities (DAC) or California Native American tribal (Tribe) communities. Proposals can also receive credit if the company is located in a disadvantaged or low-income community.Q.55Does the electricity used to charge batteries need to come from 100% renewable sources, or show how they will transition to 100% renewable if charged from the grid?A.55No.Q.56Do you mean carbon-free or carbon neutral?A.56That should be addressed in the proposal.Q.57There seems to be a continued misunderstanding at the CEC that hydrogen is an energy source, whereas it is in fact an energy carrier. Devices that generate power from hydrogen are as independent from the source energy creating the hydrogen as batteries are from the source energy creating their electricity.A.57Your comments are noted.Q.58Would a propane fuel cell ... as a hydrogen carrier qualify?A.58Simply switching fuel is not considered research and therefore would not qualify for this GFO.Q.59Can we have a placeholder site and specify county?A.59Proposals must include letter of support for the proposed sites except for the CEC defined site.Q.60Page 8 states: requires a “mobile system that can leverage existing transportation mediums without compromising durability. Systems need to meet the applicable California DoT weight limit without a waiver based on the transport vehicle selected…”. The question is “Does the system have to be shipped on one truck as a single load, or can components of the system be shipped on multiple trucks in multiple loads?”A.60How the system is transported and assembled is up to the applicant as long as the system is considered as easy to install and easy to remove. There is no limit on the number of transport vehicles.Q.61Is biodiesel an eligible renewable fuel so long as it meets the requirements of an integrated system that can be locally self-sufficient?A.61The biofuel system must be easily transported, installed and removed. Also, the system must be self-contained and not require feedstock be continually resupplied.Q.62Is renewable diesel an eligible renewable fuel so long as it meets the requirements of an integrated system that can be locally self-sufficient?A.62See answer to question 61.Q.63Is there a definition for “mobile equipment” being used?A.63No.Q.64As a biomass processing technology company, could we be deployed to a location that doesn’t have biomass?A.64 See response to question 61.Q.65How many hours do you need to run it? Over what period?A.65See response to question 10.Q.66Is CEQA/permitting required as these are technically classified as backup generation (a la a diesel genset)?A.66See response to question 33.Q.67We would like clarification for the requirement that the system should not "rely on generating hydrogen in another geographic location and transporting it to the mobile system" since elsewhere in the GFO it appears to allow for hydrogen fueling elsewhere and transporting to the site as long as the mobile system meets the operational (power and energy) requirements at the site. Can a self-contained mobile hydrogen solution be fueled from another source or must it generate hydrogen at the demonstration site?A.67 See response to question 20.Q.68Technology requirement is “pre-commercial” per solicitation. What is the TRL level requirement?A.68For Groups 1 and 2 the TRL should be in the 6-8 range and for Group 3 the TRL should be 4 or higher.Q.69What level of operator involvement is acceptable for the technology demonstration?A.69See response in question 49.Q.70Is the continuous load for the entire 48 hours or are load fluctuations and peaks permitted?A.70That will be defined by the load selected in the demonstration sites.Q.71Is there any requirement that the proposed solution should fit in one vehicle? Can it fit in two or more vehicles? Must the proposed solution coordinate with the DERs in multiple trailers or one to meet the critical load during an outage event?A.71See response in question 60.Q.72If pilot tests are conducted in a laboratory, does the CEC require three different climate zones to be simulated by a load bank and other lab equipment?A.72If the plan is to do a test in the laboratory, the proposal would have to explain why that is equal to a field test.Q.73Is there guidance on distance between sites for the durability test?A.73That is up to the applicant and to be defined in their proposal.Q.74Not sure we understand requirement c in Section I.C -> The 4 locations have to be selected now? As you can imagine we are not familiar with them so in our situation it’ll be difficult to select them.A.74The proposal must identify all site locations (i.e., three sites) and have a letter of commitment for those sites with the exception of the site the CEC directs (i.e., fourth site).Q.75Would the use of a biodiesel & renewable hydrocarbon diesel blend such as B20/R80 meet the renewable fuel requirement for the proposed project?A.75See response to Question 58.Q.76What requirement or standard for "criteria pollutant emissions" during operation should the proposed MORBUGs system be designed to?A.76Those design criteria must be defined by the applicant in their proposal. Applicable air quality regulations at the test sites must be met. Contact the applicable air quality management district.Q.77Can you clarify connection requirements for 35 kW systems? Would it be 480V 3 phase or other connections welcome or required?A.77That detail is to be provided by the applicant in their proposal based on their proposed uses of the system and the value their system provides.Q.78Can you provide a reference to climate testing conditions required to CEC. 3 climate zones were mentioned. Explicit ranges for temperatures and test conditions (wind, insolation, etc.) expected would be appreciated.A.78That information is provided by California Code of Regulations, Title 24, in its climate zone information. Please see for more information.Q.79Who would own the generators?A.79See the EPIC terms and conditions regarding ownership of equipment built using EPIC funding after the grant.Q.80Is this solicitation to rent or buy generators? A.80Neither.Q.81Is this solicitation for in front of or behind the meter generation?A.81These systems are expected to operate without being grid connected.Q.82If these generators need to be paired with a more conventional technology to safely and effectively serve load, how would that be procured (e.g., address cold load pickup and load blocking challenges)?A.82The system needs to operate independently of other generation sources. These systems are being proposed as clean alternatives to conventional generators. Additionally, these systems are not expected to be connected to the grid. The individual proposals will define how the system supports the load that is being protected.Q.83Are these generators targeted for use in a particular area?A.83See the response in question 82. These systems will be demonstrated in IOU territories and in three different climate zones.Q.84Does this solicitation include ancillary equipment needed to interconnect generation to the grid? If not, how would that be reserved/purchased and by whom?A.84These systems are expected to operate without being grid connected.Q.85Who would be responsible for transporting, fueling/refueling, interconnecting the generation?A.85The proposed systems are the responsibility of the grantee.Q.86How do individuals get certified to work safely at PG&E facilities if generation is to be connected at the substation?A.86These systems are not expected to be grid connected or connected to a substation.Q.87Who would be responsible for supervising the generators for 24/7 to ensure they are operating safely/are secure?A.87The proposed systems are the responsibility of the grantee.Q.88Who would be responsible for maintenance/repairs to generators?A.88The grant recipient. However, there are no generators being delivered.Q.89Where would this generation be stored? Who would be responsible for ensuring the security of these stored units?A.89The grant recipient is responsible for their equipment.Q.90What size/sizes of generation are you looking for? Primary or secondary voltage?A.90No generators are needed.Q.91Thoughts on how this solicitation would interact with any solicitation the utilities might issue for their own needs.A.91CEC is not aware of any issues.Q.92Who decides where and how these generators are/aren’t used?A.92The grantee.Q.93Who acquires land to stage generators if needed?A.93The grantee.Q.94Who gets the generators certified with CARB and registered with PERP if they are not already?A.94There are not expected to be any generators to certify with CARB.Q.95Regarding duration, do we have any duration requirements?A.95The duration requirement for Groups 1 and 2 are based on your proposal and the value you’re providing so we did not specify that because we did not know. You have to look at the application you are applying and provide enough duration to show the value. The Group 3 duration is 48 hours or more.Q.96If there is any requirement for the time, how I can unplug from the grid and then make the system become mobile -- is there any criteria for the timing, the readiness and how they need to be mobile?A.96There is no requirement for timing on how quickly the system can be mobilized for field deployment. It will not connect to the grid during this demonstration, it may connect to the grid at your factory, while you are charging it. The fielded system is not expected to be grid connected.Q.97What is the primary motivation in this solicitation?A.97Wildfires and PSPS events. During many of these events, medical tents and emergency set ups used diesel generators to provide power. This GFO focuses on smaller scale things, such as charging cell phones, laptops and computers. The goal is to operate in an environment where there is no grid and to provide services for that community.Q.98Regarding the specification of the device, do we need any spec for the size or are there no requirements?A.98There are no specific requirements and that is entirely up to the applicant. The proposal must show how the device will meet the safety requirements. The size has to do with your transport ability.Q.99Question about the UL listing?A.99The proposed system must meet applicable safety regulations. The proposed systems do not need to be UL certified at the time the proposal is submitted.Q.100Going back to the specs, beside the sizes, there is a question about operating timeframes - that 24 hours operation of the device or a certain time or the day, let's say in the morning at night, I think that we're going back to the photovoltaic PV stuff you know don't have the sun, the charges on. This that's a requirement, the device that needs to be operated you know standby whatever 24 hours a day?A.100That is not defined because we wanted to see what solutions are proposed. There are multi-day exercises planned and the system should support them and that support should be defined in the proposal.Q.101Question about the biomass and then also the multiple sources of fuel that you can generate power from?A.101Simply demonstrating fuel switching is not considered research and therefore would not meet the requirements of the solicitation. The biofuel system must be easily transported, installed and removed. Also, the system must be self-contained and not require feedstock be continually resupplied.Q.102Do we have any test standard that the proposer can follow?A.102No.Q.103What kind of fuel sources do they have to use?A.103The fuel source must not be considered fossil fuel. A project that is simply switching fuel is not considered research and therefore would not qualify for this solicitation.Q.104Question about electrical rating about voltage – 110, 120, 240, 208, 480 watts - Do we have any specific requirement what kind of output voltage rating is going to be?A.104It is not defined.Q.105With 3 different climate zones does that mean there are 3 different physical, geographic different locations or 3 different seasons?A.105Three different locations in three different climate zones. See definitions of climate zones (not seasons).Q.106Question also related to the scheduled timeline because this was going to be because was going to start September this year and then end in 2025. What milestone do they have to meet and things like that?A.106The project milestones must be defined in the proposal and meet the timelines defined in the GFO.Q.107Can they build a module for group number two and then scale them up to meet the group 3 requirement?A.107An individual can apply for more than one Group and each proposal must meet the requirements in the GFO for the group they apply.Q.108Do they need do provide onsite power generation, do they have to provide the fuel (wood chips, biomass, solar, wind, whatever)?A.108For biomass, see response to question 101. Whether the proposed project includes solar, wind or a whatever, is up to the proposer.Q.109Does the system have to be ready from the get-go? Is it allowed to do some simple assembly on site, or it needs to be ready?A.109See answer to question 51.Q.110How about transportation - how do they deliver the system?A.110It must be a transportable system that is considered easy to install and easy to remove. It does not have to arrive on one transportation vehicle. Q.111If you meet the minimum requirement for 48 hours and you want to increase the number of hours are you allowed to transfer fuels from one from one tank to another and are you allowed to add a locally available nonfuel, like water for example?A.111It must be a transportable system that is considered easy to install and easy to remove with everything self-contained. It does not have to arrive on one transportation vehicle. Any special on-site location requirements must be considered available in any location in the state and defined in the proposal,Q.112Are all of the native American groups disadvantaged communities or are they separately defined depending on location?A.112They are separately defined depending on location.Q.113If you have a native American tribe and you have a casino placement of the generator, does the generator have to be in the disadvantaged community? Let's say you have a casino, and you have the rest of the tribe, would you get extra points if you had an extra generator that was in the tribe itself?A.113The proposed system is expected to be transportable, easy to install and remove. Existing equipment would not contain any research and therefore is not eligible for the solicitation. Also, the proposed system cannot expect every possible demonstration site to have this same existing equipment.Q.114When you're not using it for deployment for emergency backup or line support or whatever, if you have another use for that, can you hook in during the non-demonstration period or not?A.114That information should be defined in the proposal and the value of these actions provided in the proposal.Q.115So, it's much more important that you donate the unit to the disadvantaged community than that it provides benefits while it’s in use?A.115The proposal must define the benefits and value of the proposed system.Q.116What is the test period, a couple months or is the test period, a year?A.116The time period the demonstration testing will occur is expected to last at least two years so there is time to learn from the research.Q.117So, you have 2 weeks to go through the test, everything's okay. Then you donate it to wherever you're donating it, so it optimizes low income community benefits, right? Is that basically what we have?A.117The system is expected to be tested as defined in the GFO and then also demonstrate value to the LI/DAC or Tribe community during the periods of time between the field tests. Donation is not specified in the GFO.Q.118Yeah, you're going to be doing 4. Can you do more than 4 if you get points for that?A.118You must meet the testing requirements in the GFO and is acceptable to propose additional test as long as the costs are included in the proposal’s budgets.Q.119What level of operator involvement is acceptable for technology demonstration projects?A.119That must be defined in the proposal and must meet the use cases defined in the proposal.Q.120I also had a really narrow question about native aboriginal indigenous peoples. Is there a definition based on either the feds or the California definition and the reason I ask is I happen to know of an Indigenous group or understood as an indigenous group by California, but they aren't a federally recognized tribe? So, is there any kind of distinction there for like defining exactly what constitutes a tribe, and if so, what's the legal definition?A.120See the CEC link for more detail, Q.121But if I make a liquid fuel from fast food waste through a gasification process, and then I just transfer the fuel and my little turbine generator to the location will that work?A.121The proposal must meet the requirements defined in the GFO.Q.122How important are the system performance - particularly efficiency, durability and capital cost?A.122These elements are reviewed and scored during the proposal scoring process. The different use cases proposed by the applicant will help define how important these elements are for the use cases defined. There are no specific scoring criteria for these elements.Q.123If you have a project and the fixed site where the equipment is stored and the energy is generated or the fuel is generated, if that's not in a disadvantaged or low income community or a higher threat area, but the backup generation is the services are delivered in those areas, is that compliant or would that be considered valid?A.123The required equipment can be constructed or assembled where needed and not have to be in a LI/DAC or Tribe area. Any required fuel does not have to be provided in one of these areas. The testing sites must be in one of these three areas that also meet the wildfire zone requirements defined in the GFO.Q.124For the requirement that the system should not rely on generating hydrogen in another geographic location and transporting it to the mobile system, but elsewhere in the GFO it appears to allow for hydrogen feeling elsewhere and then transporting to the site long as the system meets the operational power and energy requirements of the site. So, can a self-contained mobile hydrogen solution Be fueled from another source or must it generate hydrogen at the demonstration site?A.124The system must be self-contained, and either must bring all the required fuel needed or generate on site. The proposed solution must be defined in the proposal and the system must meet all requirements defined in the GFO.Q.125What defines the system - is there a maximum footprint?A.125No.Group 1 and Group 2 QuestionsNumberQuestion/AnswerQ.126I'm very confused by the site selection process for Groups 2 and 3 (which are distinct). Does the applicant choose actual, specific sites for Group 2 and then have partners, letters of support/commitment, etc. that are relevant to that specific site or does the applicant choose vague climate zones and generic use cases and the CEC actually chooses the specific site somehow? My company is a biomass company and our project will only be successful if there is a biomass waste stream, so the site has to be specific.A.126The proposal must include the proposed sites and a letter of support from the site.Q.127Group 1 specifies "can address loads up to 9kW". Does this mean that an individual MORBUG must be able to provide 9kW continuous power? Or does this mean any MORBUG providing power up to 9kW (e.g. 3kW, 4kW, 5kW) is applicable?A.127The system must provide the rating it is designed from and Group 1 is for systems 9kW or less. If your system falls between 9kW and 10kW it is in Group 1. Group 2 is for 10kW or higher. As for nominal or rated power, that will be defined in the proposal.Q.128Groups 1 and 2 note that "should have an integrated design and be locally self-sufficient." If a MORBUG is powered by PV, I assume it is OK that the PV can be connected and disconnected from the MORBUG, is that correct? I.e. the PV doesn't have to be permanently "fixed" to the MORBUG, correct?A.128Correct.Q.129Minor: There's a gap between Group 1 and Group 2 at 9-10kW, with Group 1 being <=9kW and Group 2 being >10kW.A.129Group 1 is for systems 9kW or less. If your system falls between 9kW and 10kW, it is in Group 1. Group 2 is for 10kW or higher. As for nominal or rated power, that will be defined in the proposal.Q.130Are there time requirements for Groups 1 and 2? You have load requirements, but not storage requirements that I could see.A.130That is defined in the proposal by the applicant when explaining how their proposed system will be used.Q.131What Group is a system between 9-10 kW?A.131See response to question 129 above.Q.132We have a 10kW portable wind turbine with up to 200kWh/4000Ah battery storage onboard. Continuous output is <9kW, however, battery storage is significant and can supply well above 10kW. Should we be Group 1 or 2?A.132You must define the rating of the system and that will determine what group you apply for. Your system must meet the requirements in the GFO.Q.133Would an EV with a 10kW inverter qualify for Group 1?A.133See response to question 21.Q.134What is the timeline for group 1 and 2 deliverables?A.134The deliverable timeline is defined by the applicant in their proposal.Q.135For Groups 1 and 2:a. Can the building, storage and use of the system in non-demonstration periods be located in a DAC, and the demonstrations be in a PSPS prone area or a Tier 2 or 3 HFTD, but in a non-DAC?b. Are the 4 systems to be demonstrated simultaneously only once, or is every demonstration supposed to be conducted simultaneously with all 4 systems?c. Is there a map or other reference available for locations that are “prone to PSPS”?d. The “fourth system” is supposed to be demonstrated 3 times for no longer than 2 weeks at a time. What is the duration of the demonstrations for the other 3 systems?A.135a. The proposed demonstration site must be in a LI/DAC or Tribe area.b. Those details should be defined in the proposal.c. . The minimum duration is not defined for the other three systems in Groups 1 and 2. For these three systems, the proposal should define why a specific duration was selected and the value of that duration.Q.136How will sites be selected in Group 2?A.136Proposals must include letter of support for the proposed sites except for the CEC defined site.Q.137Are applicants in Group 2 expected to have sites identified?A.137See response to question 136.Q.138Does Group 1 or 2 assume that technology is at market?A.138The system is expected to be in TRL 6-8.Q.139What is disposition of equipment for Group 2 upon completion of demonstration?A.139That decision will be made at the end of the agreement between the CEC and the awardee.Q.140For Groups 1 and 2, the solicitation states, “…nor should the system rely on generating hydrogen in another geographic location and transporting it to the mobile system.” It is understood the design must be self-sufficient for the duration of the design. Can the hydrogen fuel be transported by a separate trailer to the site at the start of the outage? Almost all fuels except for natural gas may be transported to a site, so is the solicitation requirement for transporting hydrogen in tanks different than transporting diesel, HVO or other fuels? Or is the solicitation only referring to fuels than can be supplied for the entirety of an outage specification, (i.e. 48 hours)?A.140The applicant should explain this in their proposal, but the assumption is the grid is down for the entire test period.Q.141Group 2: Are specific test site addresses required at the time of application submission, or will it be sufficient to provide commitment letters indicating, for example, the type of facilities, scenarios/use cases, communities, or cities that will be used for test sites?A.141The proposal must include letter of commitment for the proposed test sites with the proposal. The CEC will define the areas that it directs for a future test for the fourth system.Q.142Question regarding group one and two about sizes.A.142The criteria are a combination of size and duration. We’re breaking up strictly by kilowatts. Group 1 is for systems 9kW or less. If your system falls between 9kW and 10kW, it is in Group 1. Group 2 is for 10kW or higher and there's no upper limit. As for nominal or rated power, that will be defined in the proposal.Q.143What group are you falling into if you’re in between nine and ten?A.143Group 1 is for systems 9kW or less. If your system falls between 9kW and 10kW, it is in Group 1. Group 2 is for 10kW or higher. As for nominal or rated power, that will be defined in the proposal.Q.144On group one and group two, if you have a portable generator it can use fossil fuels?A.144No.Group 3 QuestionsNumberQuestion/AnswerQ.145In the context of Group 3 (independent MORBUGs), what defines a system? Is there a maximum footprint?A.145There is no defined footprint. The value and appropriateness of the proposed system will be evaluated during proposal scoring.Q.146For the Group 3 demonstration, can the mobile system be fueled from an existing hydrogen fueling station and transported to the demonstration sites as long as it meets the operational (power and energy) requirements and incorporates a feasibility study for self-contained, distributed generation of electrolytic green hydrogen.A.146The proposed solution must be a complete system and self-contained and not need resources from the site.Q.147Can CEC confirm that two full systems need to be provided for testing under Group 3?A.147Yes, this is correct.Q.148How does CEC expect CEQA to be addressed within applications under Group 3 that include activities that are not considered a project under CEQA?A.148The proposal must define the CEQA requirements. If the proposed system is exempt from CEQA, the proposal must explain why. If the applicant considers the system is not a project under CEQA, the proposal must explain why.Q.149Is there a reason why group 3 solicits a 35kW system? what is the anticipated (or example) application for a MORBUGs Group 3 system?A.149All applicants’ proposed systems must meet or exceed that power rating.Q.150In the context of Group 3, would you consider other (storage) technologies that have similar or less Carbon intensity to green hydrogen?A.150Question is unclear. Green hydrogen is not the only possible proposed technology. The proposed system must meet the hydrogen requirements defined in the GFO if hydrogen is the proposed technology solution.Q.151What would non-emergency loads for group 3 look like?A.151Not defined in GFO; the proposal is expected to address which non-emergency loads are considered supported.Q.152For group 3, how fast the units need to become mobile? If we are directly connected to a substation, or a net-metered low voltage connection- do the units can keep moving, or just power infrastructure through a transfer switch alone?A.152Set up and break down times are to be defined in the proposal. The systems are not expected to connect to the grid, as the assumption is the grid is down.Q.153Group 3 - requirement "c" (page 8) says 2 systems to complete eight 2 day tests, requirement "d" says six 48hr tests in each climate zone. Can you clarify?A.153The system must meet both requirements. A minimum of 14 tests must be demonstrated. One system will be tested in 8 two-day tests in a specific location for four separate seasons (two 2-day tests per season). A second system will be tested for 6 two-day tests in three different climate zones (two 2-day tests per climate zone).Q.154Group 3 - what level of electrical and structural tests are required? Should 3rd party standards be used? What lifetime and duty cycle should be assumed?A.154That information must be defined by the applicant in its proposal and the system must meet all applicable safety standards.Q.155Why is the kW minimum capacity so much larger for the third group?A.155The purpose of the solicitation is to demonstrate clean alternatives to diesel generation. This requirement was based on information gained from the last two years of wildfire and PSPS events in California. The CEC is looking at different end use applications.Q.156Is group 3 just hydrogen based? What about bio-ethanol, methanol etc.A.156Group 3 requirements are broader than hydrogen. Technologies that can meet the field performance criteria in the solicitation could be considered. Simply using fuel switching is not considered research and therefore not considered eligible for this solicitation.Q.157For Group 3: You mentioned no interconnection requirements needed during blue sky days. But these systems still will need interconnection requirements to be connected at multiple locations during an outage. What do they do when there is no grid. Isn't that part of an innovation to justify business case?A.157The answer to the question should be addressed by the applicant in their proposal.Q.158Do we have to have commitment from the demonstration sites for Group 3 if CEC will provide us with demonstration sites?A.158The applicant must provide commitments for their proposed demonstration sites. The CEC will obtain commitment for the demonstration site it defines.Q.159For Group 3, it is noted that 6 x 48h testing periods are required in each of the 3 climate zones. Is this 6 x 3 = 18 total tests, or say 2 tests each in one of the 3 climate zones.A.159Two tests in each one of the three climate zones. The applicant can propose more tests as long as all costs are included in the proposal budget.Q.160Is Group 3 for system ownership, or a readily accessible operational model for on-demand power provision?A.160The overall requirement is to provide deployable technology that can replace diesel systems. During the grant, the system will be owned by the grantee. It is not expected that the test sites will own any of the equipment.Q.161For group 3, do applicants need to identify the test sites / locations, or does CEC have specific test sites of interest?A.161The applicant must define the test sites and have commitment letters for each. The CEC may define one test site.Q.162For Group 3 are you saying we need to build 2 35kW+ systems or just 1A.162Two systems.Q.163On group 3 our mobile gasifier system takes wood chips. This is a fuel source that is generally available locally. Can we source them locally or do we have to bring the wood chips?A.163The applicant will describe, in the proposal, how the system will operate. The proposed system must be self-contained and will not need to be resupplied during the demonstration period.Q.164For Group 3. What is the project implementation period? 1 year? When do you want the systems to be operational?A.164The proposed project, including the performance period, must be defined in the proposal submitted.Q.165For group 3 will CEC have demonstration site recommendations?A.165Only for the one the CEC will direct.Q.166Is community based organization (CBO) engagement required for Group 3? If not required, would engagement be taken into consideration for bonus points available under Group 3?A.166It is part of the bonus points for Group 3.Q.167For Group 3, if the mobile systems are modular, does the Applicant need to demonstrate two independent systems capable of a minimum of 35 kW of continuous output for 48 hrs? Or can a single configuration be broken into parts (two systems, each capable of a minimum of 35 kW of continuous output for 24 hrs that if combined can provide 48hrs of generation) be deployed?A.167 Each system must be capable of 35KW and 48 hours of duration.Q.168What is the specific deliverable in the Group 3?A.168The deliverables will be defined in the individual proposal but each proposal must include a minimum of two systems that can meet the testing requirements in the GFO. Other deliverables such as monthly reports, final reports, M&V reports are defined in the GFO.Q.169Is there a maximum limit (kW) on the power for the pilot study in Group 3?A.169No.Q.170For Group 3, is it required to demonstrate use cases for the proposed system during normal grid operation?A.170The value of that is up to the applicant in their proposal.Q.171For Group 3: The Solicitation mentions no interconnection requirements are needed during blue sky days. But most systems still will need interconnection requirements to be connected at multiple locations during an outage. What should the bidder assume if there is no grid available? Should we assume there is no grid as part of the innovation proposed?A.171The system is expected to be self-contained and be able to operate for the entire performance period with the utility grid being down.Q.172For the Group 3 demonstration, can the mobile system be fueled from an existing hydrogen fueling station and transported to the demonstration sites as long as it meets the operational (power and energy) requirements and incorporates a feasibility study for self-contained, distributed generation of electrolytic green hydrogen.A.172It would depend on the full details in the proposal but that system would seem to be able to meet the requirements of the GFO.Q.173Group 3: Can you please provide clarification for Project 3 on self-generation in location? If you bring 48 hours’ worth of hydrogen on board will be sufficient? We would have a stationary solar electrolyzer sourcing to fill up the system, would it meet the solicitation expectation?A.173See answer to question 172.Q.174Bullet c) says “The recipient will also be expected to produce two systems to complete eight two-day tests over the course of the award.” Is CEC requesting two identical systems and a test in two different scenarios? Do both systems that are intended to be tested need to be piloted, or just one of them?A.174Two separate systems need to be delivered and demonstrated/tested as defined in the GFO.Q.175Eight two-day tests mentioned in bullet (c) need clarification. Is the CEC asking for - a) two days in a specific location during four separate seasons? b) two days in three different climate zones in California?A.175Yes to both a) and b). See answer to question 153.Q.176How are the 'electrical and structural tests' mentioned in page 8 bullet (c) different from the pilot test in page 9 bullet (d)? Is former a factory testing? If so, can each DER be tested separately? Or do the electrical and structural tests have to be tested together? Should pilot testing only follow after successful factory testing?A.176This information should be defined by the applicant in their proposal.Q.177Question/clarification on what the requirement of the 2 Day test and also different climates shown? How to test the 2 systems?A.177The two days is based on history of what we think we need in the field and the size is based on a reasonable increase above what we're doing in group one and group two and also a load capability to support the facilities in the field. The two systems will be tested independently and must be able to operate for the 48 hours in a) four different seasons, and b) three different climate zones. See answer to question 153.Q.178How many systems do they have to build? We’re asking about (2) 35 kilowatt systems, so they have to demonstrate two systems or just one system?A.178Two identical systems.Q.179If the requirement is a 35-kilowatt system, can anybody provide more than that?A.179Yes.Q.180For group three, do we have any preference for site or location demonstration or is up to the recipients to select those locations?A.180The Recipient selects the sites except for the one the CEC will select.Q.181Question for number three because that's a 48 hour duration system - can they just provide those with power with a backup battery just strictly everything from battery?A.181There is no requirement for on-site generation. However, the system must be considered transportable and easy to install and remove.Q.182In the context of group three do you have any details on what a non-emergency load would look like, as it relates to you know proving financial and business cases for systems.A.182That information must be defined in the proposal.Q.183Are there any assumptions there on load profile that we could make to prove you know, to make it a revenue generating asset while it's not deployed?A.183There are no revenue generation requirements in the GFO.Q.184Is DAC CBO engagement required for group three, and if not will engagement be taken into consideration for bonus points?A.184For Group 3, the DAC engagement is scored as bonus points and defined in the GFO. The requirements are different for Groups 1 and 2 than for Group 3.Q.185Does the CEQA need to be addressed within applications on group three?A.185Yes, CEQA must be addressed as defined in the GFO.Q.186In the context of group three, why 35 kilowatts? Was there a particular load that you are looking at?A.186No, there is no particular load. 35 kilowatts is the requirement in the GFO and the proposed system must meet all requirements in the GFO.Q.187Category three requires three sites needed for demonstrations. Should we have the commitment letter for each of those individual sites? I assume we should. A.187Yes.Q.188I was wondering if there was a preference for daisy chaining systems for group three. Is there a preference for daisy chaining systems or for the 35 kilowatts for 48 hours to be provided by a single system since it might be easier to manage a single system but having them daisy chain might make them more stable if one of them was to fail?A.188It's entirely up to the proposer and there's no preference; it’s entirely how the proposer wants to meet that requirement. ................
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