The U.S. Department of Energy has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled "Advanced Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies to Drive National Goals" (DE-FOA-0003439), with applications due by January 31, 2025. This NOFO aims to promote research, development, demonstration, and deployment of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies to facilitate a sustainable, net-zero emissions economy. Key funding areas include four specific topics: scaling up photoelectrochemical water splitting devices, developing high-performance materials for hydrogen service, creating sustainable high-temperature proton exchange membranes for heavy-duty transportation, and facilitating domestic hydrogen fuel cell electric motorcoach bus development. Approximately $46 million is available, with varying funding limits and cost-sharing requirements across topics, emphasizing domestic entity participation. The program aligns with national strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy security, and foster economic growth through clean hydrogen technologies. Applicants should address specific project requirements, demonstrate innovative approaches, and adhere to compliance and eligibility criteria outlined in the document. This NOFO seeks to catalyze a transition towards affordable and scalable clean hydrogen solutions across various sectors.

The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Part 2 outlines the guidelines for applicants seeking federal funding from the Department of Energy (DOE). It complements NOFO Part 1 by detailing fixed requirements such as registration, eligibility, application content, and post-award obligations. Key sections include registration processes at SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and eXCHANGE, emphasizing the importance of early registration due to potential delays. Eligibility focuses on cost-sharing requirements, specifying legal responsibilities, allocation, types of allowable contributions, and restrictions on unallowable sources. It prohibits funding to "Entities of Concern," as defined under relevant legislation. The document also emphasizes the use of artificial intelligence in applications and mandates transparency regarding project impacts on Indian Tribes. Detailed application requirements cover multiple elements including letters of commitment, project objectives, and community benefit plans, particularly emphasizing job quality and equity. Applicants must engage with relevant communities and ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion in workforce planning. Overall, the NOFO serves as a comprehensive guide to navigating federal funding applications, ensuring compliance with set standards to promote quality projects that also benefit communities and prioritize equity. This structure promotes thorough documentation and engagement processes as essential for successful funding applications.