FY 2025 Energizing Insular Communities Program
ID: 358325Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Department of the Interior (DOI)

Award Range

$0 - $0

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Energy

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of the Interior is offering the FY 2025 Energizing Insular Communities Program, a federal grant aimed at funding sustainable energy strategies in U.S. territories. This program seeks proposals that will reduce electricity costs for consumers and enhance the performance and efficiency of energy infrastructure in Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The initiative is critical for promoting renewable energy solutions and improving energy access in these regions. Interested applicants, including local government entities, utilities, and educational institutions, should note that the estimated total program funding is $15,250,000, with applications due by May 16, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Krystina Alfano at krystina_alfano@ios.doi.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Merit Review Criteria document outlines the evaluation standards for federal and state projects in Power Generation and Energy Efficiency, focusing on key aspects of proposal assessment. It highlights five main criteria, each weighted differently: 1. **Goals and Objectives (25%)** requires alignment with strategic energy plans, clarity of project goals, consumer cost reduction, and broader economic and social benefits. 2. **Project Description and Implementation Plan (40%)** assesses clarity on project scope, expected energy output, site control, technology readiness, and compliance with local regulations. 3. **Environmental Considerations (15%)** evaluates the quality of land use descriptions, permitting processes, and plans for waste management. 4. **Roles, Responsibilities, Resources, and Capabilities (10%)** focuses on project management soundness, applicant capabilities, and financial commitment. 5. **Project Support (10%)** examines stakeholder support and documented endorsements. This structured approach ensures thorough vetting, aiming to promote effective energy solutions while addressing economic, environmental, and societal needs. The document serves as a guideline for applicants to align proposals with government objectives, ensuring compliance and fostering renewable energy projects across jurisdictions.
    The document outlines the technical rating standards utilized by the Merit Review Committee for evaluating applications related to federal grants and RFPs. Evaluations are based on a detailed comparison of applications against specified criteria, with each receiving a numerical score on a scale from 0 to 10. The scoring reflects various strengths and weaknesses of the application; significant strengths indicate high capability, while weaknesses may raise concerns about the applicant's performance ability. Ratings range from "Superior" (10) to "Deficient" (0), defining the adequacy of responses, comprehensiveness of criterion addressal, and overall applicant competency. This structured approach ensures a consistent and objective evaluation process, critical for the allocation of federal funds and resources, with the goal of supporting qualified entities capable of fulfilling program requirements effectively. The framework emphasizes clarity in assessment to foster informed decision-making in grant approvals.
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