Pilot-scale Rapid Operational Validation of key Energy Infrastructure Technologies (PROVE IT) - Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
ID: 89243625QCD000019Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFOFFICE OF CLEAN ENERGY DEMONSTRATIONS (OCED)Washington, DC, 20585, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

GENERAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY R&D SERVICES; GENERAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; BASIC RESEARCH (AJ11)

Set Aside

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) (SBA)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Energy's Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) is issuing a solicitation for the "Pilot-scale Rapid Operational Validation of key Energy Infrastructure Technologies (PROVE IT)" under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This initiative aims to validate and enhance the readiness of pilot-scale energy technologies for integration into larger clean energy projects, focusing on Point Source Carbon Capture and Long-Duration Energy Storage. Approximately $31 million is available for this program, with a maximum award of $4.3 million per contract, and it emphasizes participation from small U.S. businesses, particularly those that are socially and economically disadvantaged. Interested applicants must submit their initial technology readiness by April 7, 2025, and can contact Raquel McCrae at raquel.mccrae@hq.doe.gov or Michelle Elliott at michelle.elliott@hq.doe.gov for further information.

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    The document outlines the required disclosures of foreign affiliations or relationships for individuals and entities applying for federal research awards. It defines key terms, such as "covered individual," "foreign affiliation," and "foreign country of concern," which includes nations like China, North Korea, and Russia. Applicants are prompted to answer specific questions about potential foreign ties, including involvement in malign foreign talent recruitment programs, financial relationships with foreign entities, ownership by foreign countries, venture capital affiliations, and any technology transfers to countries of concern. The certification section emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in disclosures, noting potential penalties for false information and the obligation to update disclosures if circumstances change. Overall, the document is part of the Department of Energy's due diligence to assess national security risks associated with federal funding, ensuring transparency in foreign relationships. The structured approach with specific questions and certifications allows for thorough evaluation and risk management in federal grants and RFP processes.
    The “Pilot-scale Rapid Operational Validation of key Energy Infrastructure Technologies (PROVE IT)” is a solicitation by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The initiative seeks to validate and enhance the readiness of pilot-scale energy technologies for integration into larger clean energy projects. Approximately $31 million is available, with a maximum of $4.3 million awarded per contract, targeting small U.S. businesses. The program focuses on two main topics: Point Source Carbon Capture and Long-Duration Energy Storage, each with specific requirements and expected outcomes. Participants will follow a three-phase structure (Plan, Integrate, Validate) to operationalize their technologies, aiming for a significant demonstration of performance in real-world conditions. Key deadlines include submissions for initial technology readiness by April 7, 2025, and subsequent steps by June 2, 2025. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their projects' readiness and engage in partnerships to address adoption challenges. The program emphasizes participation from socially and economically disadvantaged entities, aiming to reduce barriers for technology commercialization. Overall, the solicitation reflects the government's commitment to advancing innovative clean energy solutions while supporting small business engagement in federal R&D initiatives.
    The document is a solicitation for government procurement, issued by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations within the U.S. Department of Energy. It outlines the request for quotes (RFQ) for commercial items with an effective date and due date established for April 7, 2025. The solicitation indicates that the acquisition is unrestricted, aiming to foster participation from various business categories, including small businesses and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. The scope includes multiple phases: a base period for planning lasting three to six months, followed by two optional period phases for integration and validation. Key aspects include contact details for the contracting officer, Raquel McCrae, and specified clauses from the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) that govern the procurement process. The document underscores the structured process for contractor performance assessment and billing procedures. It includes detailed requirements for inspections, acceptance criteria, and responsibilities of the contracting officer, further emphasizing the importance of compliance with legal and regulatory standards throughout the contract lifecycle. Overall, this solicitation illustrates the government's effort to engage the private sector in advancing clean energy initiatives while ensuring adherence to established procurement protocols.
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