Community Microgrid Development Partnership Awards
ID: RFX-2024-10032Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFALLIANCE SUSTAINABLE ENRGY-DOECONTRGolden, CO, 80402, USA

NAICS

All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (541990)

PSC

COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT R&D SERVICES; COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT; BASIC RESEARCH (AB11)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/dff92df29e7c45849fb853c4bfbd14ad/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Energy, through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is soliciting proposals for the Community Microgrid Development Partnership Awards (C-MAP), aimed at enhancing energy systems in underserved and Indigenous communities. This initiative seeks to provide funding and technical assistance to support the development and improvement of microgrid systems, focusing on integrating locally available renewable energy sources and innovative technologies. The program is crucial for addressing energy resilience and efficiency in communities that often rely on imported fossil fuels, thereby promoting sustainable energy solutions. Interested applicants, including non-profits, local governments, and Tribal organizations, must submit their proposals by December 20, 2024, with an estimated total funding of $7.2 million available for approximately 15 projects. For further inquiries, contact Kyndall Jackson at Kyndall.Jackson@nrel.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Kyndall Jackson
    Kyndall.Jackson@nrel.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Amendment No. 1 to RFX-2024-10032 - Community Microgrid Development Partnership Awards.pdf
    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has issued Amendment No. 1 for Request for Proposals (RFP) Number RFX-2024-10032, focused on the "Community Microgrid Development Partnership Awards." This pilot program aims to fund approximately 15 communities or clusters, with an estimated total funding of $7.2 million. Eligible applicants include non-profits, energy cooperatives, local governments, and Tribal organizations, while tribes are ensured participation. The RFP outlines a proposal limit of 15 pages, excluding the budget, with submissions due by December 20, 2024. Successful proposals will demonstrate collaboration, especially involving underserved communities, and include community representation within project teams. The program is part of the Department of Energy's ongoing efforts to develop community capacity for microgrid solutions. Funding originates from the U.S. DOE Office of Electricity's annual budget appropriations, rather than specific legislation. An informational webinar is scheduled for November 11, 2024, to assist potential applicants. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions and enhancing local energy resilience through community involvement.
    Attachment No. 1 - Statement of Work.pdf
    The "Community Microgrid Development Partnership Awards" initiative by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) aims to support energy systems in rural and underserved communities, particularly Indigenous populations. This initiative addresses escalating energy costs in areas largely dependent on imported fossil fuels by promoting advanced microgrid technologies, which incorporate local renewable resources and energy storage solutions. The program emphasizes building community partnerships and enabling technical assistance to improve the resilience and reliability of local energy systems. Under the Community Microgrid Assistance Partnership (C-MAP), funding is allocated to various project pathways, including operational assistance, community development, and transformation of existing microgrid systems. The solicitation outlines four key topic areas: Regional Microgrid Community Operations Assistance, Regional Microgrid Community Development Assistance, Microgrid Development, and Microgrid Transformation. Each area involves specific tasks and deliverables focused on enhancing microgrid efficiency, collaboration among communities, and facilitating long-term sustainability. The ultimate goal is to empower these communities to develop their energy systems independently and effectively pursue additional funding for future energy projects while sharing learnings that benefit broader regional efforts.
    Attachment No. 2 - Sample Subcontract.pdf
    This document outlines the terms of a subcontract between the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC and a yet-to-be-named subcontractor for work related to the management and operation of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) under a prime contract with the Department of Energy (DOE). It details the scope of work, payment structure, and compliance standards necessary for the subcontractor’s performance. Deliverables, payment amounts, and reporting requirements are specified in attached appendices. Key roles include a Subcontract Administrator responsible for administration and modifications, and a Technical Monitor overseeing technical compliance. The subcontract also emphasizes provisions for export control and compliance with DOE orders regarding foreign government activities. Special attention is given to scientific integrity and the handling of publicity related to subcontract work. Additionally, submission requirements for invoices and small business subcontracting plans are highlighted, ensuring adherence to federal regulations. Overall, the subcontract aims to formalize expectations between the Alliance and the subcontractor while supporting the DOE's strategic goals in renewable energy research and development.
    Attachment No. 3 - Community and Microgrid Specification 2024.pdf
    The document outlines specifications required for proposals related to community and microgrid systems as part of federal and state RFPs. It mandates detailed information on each community included in the proposal, encompassing community demographics, utility operators, and current energy system components. Crucial data to be provided includes maximum and average loads, contact details for community representatives, and specifications of various energy generation units (solar, wind, biomass, hydro, and generator sets). Information on energy storage systems and inverters is also required, as well as a description of the distribution system's characteristics. The format permits multiple sheets to accommodate comprehensive details, ensuring a thorough evaluation for federal grants and support programs aimed at enhancing energy infrastructure for local communities. This request for information is fundamental for assessing the readiness and viability of proposed projects to advance community energy solutions and infrastructure resilience.
    Attachment No. 4 - Sample Deliverable Schedule - Clean.xlsx
    The document outlines deliverables for various phases of regional microgrid operations, development, transformation, and community assistance, as detailed in a series of tables. Each table specifies tasks associated with these projects, including summary reports, quarterly reports, development plans, design specifications, assessments, and impact reports, with all entries scheduled across a defined time frame, typically spanning 24 months. Each phase includes distinct reports, with quarterly reports mandated to cost between $2,000 and $5,000, subject to approval by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Notably, additional deliverables may be introduced by subcontractors, but all must receive NREL endorsement. The overarching goal of the document is to provide a structured framework for managing and evaluating microgrid initiatives, ultimately aimed at improving community resilience and energy efficiency through targeted support and thorough documentation. The zero dollar pricing indicates this is primarily a planning and reporting structure rather than a proposal for funding. Overall, this framework serves to guide contractors in executing their responsibilities concerning microgrid projects while ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints and quality expectations.
    Request for Proposal No. RFX-2024-10032 - CMAP.pdf
    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Community Microgrid Development Partnership Awards (C-MAP), focusing on fostering microgrid energy systems for underserved and Indigenous communities. The RFP encompasses four key topic areas: Regional Microgrid Community Operations and Development Assistance, Microgrid Development, and Microgrid Transformation. Eligible participants include non-profit organizations, state and local governments, and federally recognized tribes, emphasizing community impact in populations not exceeding 10,000, and the use of commercially available technology. NREL intends to award three to five firm fixed price subcontracts per topic area, with specific maximum awards and performance periods. Evaluation criteria will include technical merit, project implementation plans, community impact potential, and the team's expertise. Qualitative assessments will influence the selection process, while price evaluations will balance against qualitative criteria. Proposal submissions are due by December 20, 2024, and must adhere to formatting and content guidelines detailed in the RFP. This solicitation reinforces the federal commitment to advancing renewable energy initiatives in disadvantaged communities, aligning with broader state and national goals for sustainable energy equity.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Community Microgrid Development Partnership Awards
    Currently viewing
    Solicitation
    Similar Opportunities
    Distributed Wind Competitiveness Improvement Project
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The U.S. Department of Energy, through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is preparing to release a request for proposal (RFP) in early 2025 for the Distributed Wind Competitiveness Improvement Project (CIP). This initiative aims to foster innovation in small- to mid-scale distributed wind energy systems by awarding fixed-price subcontracts that focus on optimizing designs, advancing manufacturing processes, and enhancing the certification and commercialization of wind technology. The project is particularly significant as it seeks to improve the cost competitiveness of wind energy and its interoperability with other energy resources, aligning with national energy goals. Interested parties can contact Kyndall Jackson at Kyndall.Jackson@nrel.gov for more information and are encouraged to attend an introductory workshop to stay informed about the RFP's release.
    Grid Research Integration and Deployment Center Technology Collaborations for US Power Electronics Industries
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking U.S. industry partners for collaborative projects at its Grid Research Integration and Deployment Center (GRID-C) to advance power electronics technologies for grid modernization. ORNL invites cost-shared proposals from industries aligned with its facilities and expertise in areas such as Materials & Components, Embedded Controllers, and Subsystems Devices. Selected partners will work closely with ORNL staff, leveraging its unique capabilities to demonstrate innovative grid integration solutions. The focus is on accelerating the development of resilient and energy-efficient power electronics, with projects conducted in short timeframes. Industry participants are required to contribute at least 20% of the project cost, which can include in-kind contributions, and must align with ORNL's facilities and capabilities. GRID-C collaborations aim to strengthen the U.S. power electronics industry and clean energy landscape. Proposals are evaluated based on technical feasibility, commercialization potential, and their impact on grid improvement. This initiative supports the DOE Transformer Resilience and Advanced Components (TRAC) Program's mission. For more details, eligible industries should refer to the proposal guidelines and contact Dr. Madhu Chinthavali for inquiries. The announcement remains open, with funding available through the DOE contract.
    NATIONAL OCEANOGRAPHIC PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM (NOPP)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Office of Naval Research, is soliciting proposals for the National Oceanographic Partnership Program (NOPP) to advance research on internal wave energy and its implications for global ocean models and forecasts. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among academia, industry, and government entities, emphasizing the importance of oceanographic science for national security and environmental protection. The total funding available for this program is up to $23 million over three years, with proposals due by November 22, 2024, at 3 PM EST, and selections expected by March 14, 2025. Interested parties can reach out to John Lewers at john.d.lewers.civ@us.navy.mil for further information.
    High-Performance Computing for Energy Innovation Program: Collaboration for U.S. Manufacturers
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy (DOE) is seeking qualified industry partners to participate in the High-Performance Computing for Energy Innovation (HPC4EI) program, which aims to facilitate short-term collaborative projects with U.S. manufacturers to address energy efficiency and decarbonization challenges. The program encompasses two main areas: High-Performance Computing for Manufacturing (HPC4Mfg), focused on improving manufacturing processes and energy technologies, and High-Performance Computing for Materials (HPC4Mtls), aimed at developing materials for challenging environments. Selected projects may receive funding of up to $400,000, contingent upon a 20% contribution from non-federal sources, with an emphasis on partnerships that promote diversity and equitable access to HPC resources. Interested parties can contact Aaron Fisher at fisher47@llnl.gov or 925-422-3950 for more information, and are encouraged to submit concept papers and full proposals as part of the solicitation process.
    DLA Energy - Carbon-Pollution Free Electricity/Retail Electricity 2024
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Energy is seeking proposals for a 20-year contract to supply Carbon Pollution-Free Electricity (CFE) and retail electricity to various federal installations within the PJM Interconnection region. The procurement aims to fulfill approximately 35% of the government's total electricity requirements through new-build CFE by 2030, with the remaining 65% sourced from conventional retail electricity. This initiative is part of the U.S. government's commitment to achieving 100% CFE by 2030, as mandated by Executive Order 14057, which emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility in federal operations. Interested contractors must submit their proposals by December 20, 2024, and can direct inquiries to Charlene Woods at charlene.woods@dla.mil or Felicia Hightower at felicia.hightower@dla.mil.
    REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION AT THE FORMER NAVAL ACADEMY DAIRY FARM
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington, is soliciting proposals for the development of renewable energy generation at the former Naval Academy Dairy Farm, located in Annapolis, Maryland. This initiative aims to lease approximately 857 acres of land for clean energy projects, integrating solar energy production with local agricultural practices while ensuring compliance with environmental and historical regulations. The project is part of the Navy's broader commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and enhancing climate resilience at the United States Naval Academy. Interested parties must submit their proposals by 5:00 p.m. (EST) on December 16, 2024, and can direct inquiries to Kara Lynn Noya at kara.l.noya.civ@us.navy.mil or Christine Hays at christine.a.hays.civ@us.navy.mil.
    US-ASEAN Climate Solutions Hub
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy is seeking qualified subcontractors for the U.S.-ASEAN Climate Solutions Hub (ACSH) initiative, aimed at enhancing climate and clean energy goals in ASEAN countries. The project focuses on supporting the deployment of renewable energy and the decarbonization of the agriculture, forestry, and other land use (AFOLU) sectors, facilitating the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and strategies for achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century. Interested companies are invited to submit their qualifications, experience, and rough cost estimates by December 6, 2024, to be considered for future Requests for Proposals (RFPs), with the project anticipated to last 21 months starting March 1, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Alex Joseph at alexander.joseph@nrel.gov.
    A Study on Future Fleet and Energy Options for The East Coast of the United States
    Active
    Transportation, Department Of
    The Department of Transportation, specifically the Maritime Administration (MARAD), is soliciting proposals for a study on future fleet and energy options for the East Coast of the United States under Solicitation No. 693JF725R000001. The objective of this study is to analyze the current U.S. commercial fleet and East Coast port activities, assess historical trends, and forecast future energy needs while exploring alternative energy solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions in the maritime sector. This initiative is crucial for supporting vessel operators and policymakers in navigating the transition to low-carbon energy sources amidst evolving economic conditions. Interested applicants can receive up to $350,000 in funding, with proposals due by 12:00 PM EST within 45 days of the RFP publication. For further inquiries, contact Christian Onwudiegwu at christian.onwudiegwu@dot.gov or Kelly Mitchell-Carroll at k.mitchell-carroll@dot.gov.
    RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF NAVAL POWER AND ENERGY SYSTEMS (N00024-19-R-4145 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA))
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF NAVAL POWER AND ENERGY SYSTEMS (Combined Synopsis/Solicitation DEPT OF DEFENSE DEPT OF THE NAVY) The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Navy, is seeking research and development proposals for naval power and energy systems. These systems are crucial for providing power and energy to Navy ships, both current and future, at various levels including major components, subsystems, and the overall system. The goal is to advance and improve shipboard electric power and energy systems. The Electric Ships Office, part of the Program Executive Office Ships, is leading this effort on behalf of the Navy. They are interested in long and short term research and development projects that have the potential to enhance ship power systems. The focus areas include shipboard power generation, electric propulsion, power conversion, energy storage, distribution and control, power quality, continuity, and system stability. The Navy is particularly interested in technologies that can improve energy efficiency, power density, and carbon footprint compared to existing propulsion and power system technologies. They are also looking for advancements in energy storage, power conversion, power distribution, prime movers (including power generation), rotating machines (including generators and propulsion motors), cooling and thermal management, power controls, and system interplay, interfacing, and integration. Proposals must be submitted in the form of White Papers, and awards may take the form of contracts, cooperative agreements, or other transaction agreements. The Navy reserves the right to select proposals and award contracts based on the evaluation criteria specified in the announcement. For more information and to submit White Papers, interested parties can contact Joseph Tannenbaum at joseph.tannenbaum@navy.mil or John Anderson at john.anderson6@navy.mil. This is a great opportunity for researchers and developers to contribute to the advancement of naval power and energy systems, ultimately enhancing the capabilities of Navy ships.
    OTA - Geothermal for Electricity and Green Hydrogen Production
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for geothermal energy production aimed at generating electricity and green hydrogen at its installations. This initiative, outlined in the Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) FA4427-24-S-C002, focuses on developing resilient, carbon-free energy sources to reduce reliance on off-site electricity and mitigate risks associated with outages and cyber threats. The successful proposals may lead to the construction of utility-scale facilities, which will be owned and operated by third parties, while the Air Force provides land and access. Interested vendors must submit their proposals, including a video pitch, via the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace by January 3, 2025, and can contact Mr. Michael Goetz at michael.goetz.7@us.af.mil or 707-424-7788 for further information.