Solication No. 693JF722R000004 Microgrid Questions and Answers 5.pdf

Solicitation No. 693JF722R000004 Questions and Answers for Microgrid Pilot/Hybrid Demonstration Project Amendment No. 5

24. Question: Are there operational definitions of “port” and “terminal” that would be applied to proposed projects?

Answer: For purposes of this RFP, port and terminals are being referred to in the context of commercial maritime transportation and operations.

25. Question: What would be examples of funds/resources/contributions that would be considered to be matchable by this funding? For example, would a technician’s time to install a microgrid be a partner expense that this funding could match? Would the value of property dedicated to the microgrid? Would energy savings achieved with the use of the microgrid during the project period be an expense that could be matched with this funding?

Answer: Based on Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title- 2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.306

26. Question: I have been unable to locate the RFP under Assistance Listings in SAM.gov today, although I did last week. Do you know if it has been moved or if there is a different way to access it?

Answer: It’s not advertised under Assistance Listings in Sam.gov. It’s listed under contracting opportunity. Here is the link for your awareness.

https://sam.gov/opp/e53db68d140b4f80b9f05ab915a564fb/view

27. Question: The Answer to Question 6 stated MARAD "would not be able to fund any elements that have already been started or completed before an award is made and contracting mechanisms are signed." Our client is currently implementing a grant-funded microgrid project that we are seeking to leverage and expand upon with additional innovation and greater integration with all aspects of terminal operations. We are seeking guidance on which aspects of these ongoing and/or forthcoming activities (partially funded by state and local discretionary grants) could be eligible for co-funding or as match share under this RFP.

What activities would constitute an element having "been started"? E.g., is executing a master services agreement allowable in advance of completing contracting mechanisms or would executing a procurement contract be allowable in advance of completing contracting mechanisms?

Answer: We realize that a significant amount of upfront planning and partnering will most likely be necessary as part of the proposal however, we are not allowed to fund any incurred costs https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.306 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.306 https://sam.gov/opp/e53db68d140b4f80b9f05ab915a564fb/view before a contract is awarded. Any reimbursable costs cannot start before the contract is awarded.

28. Question: What is the expected date for announcing proposed awards?

Answer: We do not have an expected date, however any proposal chosen will be awarded before September 30, 2022 (at the latest).

29. Question: What is the expected date for MARAD to complete all contracting activities?

Answer: We will work to get all contracting mechanisms in place as soon as possible. All awards will have to completed by September 30, 2022 at the latest.

30. Question: Will MARAD allow awardees to incur pre-award costs (2 CFR § 200.458) after the Awards are announced yet before contracting has been completed?

Answer: No.