Solar Energy Evolution and Diffusion Studies 4 (SEEDS 4)
ID: 351506Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Golden Field Office (DOE-GFO)

Award Range

$1M - $3M

Eligible Applicants

Unrestricted

Funding Category

Science and Technology and other Research and Development

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Additional Information

https://eere-exchange.energy.gov
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Department of Energy's Golden Field Office is offering a funding opportunity titled "Solar Energy Evolution and Diffusion Studies 4 (SEEDS 4)" aimed at supporting innovative social science research to enhance community engagement in the siting processes of large-scale solar (LSS) facilities. The initiative focuses on understanding community acceptance, the influence of community input on permitting outcomes, and the impacts of LSS on host communities, particularly in underserved areas, to promote equitable clean energy solutions. With an estimated total program funding of $7 million, awards will range from $1 million to $2.5 million, and interested applicants must submit concept papers by January 30, 2024, with full applications due by March 15, 2024. For further inquiries, contact Stephanie Hodge at 240-562-1295 or via email at stephanie.hodge@ee.doe.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is issuing a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the Solar Energy Evolution and Diffusion Studies 4 (SEEDS 4) to support innovative social science research that enhances community engagement in the siting processes of large-scale solar (LSS) facilities. This initiative aims to improve siting outcomes, particularly for underserved communities, linking to broader goals of achieving equitable clean energy by 2035. The FOA defines three main areas of interest: 1) understanding community acceptance and opposition to LSS siting through specific practices, 2) examining how community input influences permitting and land use outcomes, and 3) evaluating the observable and perceived impacts of LSS on host communities. Proposed projects must engage diverse stakeholders and should focus on how siting practices affect equity and community perceptions. Estimated funding is approximately $7 million, with awards ranging from $1 million to $2.5 million for eligible domestic entities. Key deadlines include concept paper submissions by January 30, 2024, and full applications by March 15, 2024. The initiative underscores the DOE's commitment to fostering research that not only advances solar technology but also addresses critical social dimensions of energy equity and community involvement.
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