Attachment 7 - Government Answers to Questions - 2026.09.11.docx

This is a Government Responses to Questions document posted on September 11, 2026, addressing four questions from prospective contractors regarding allowable costs and materials for the COOLERCHIPS Technology Showcase Facility RFQ (Solicitation Number 89703026PAR000041).

The government clarified that contractors may budget for electrical infrastructure support costs to distribute power from distribution panels to team equipment, including racks, Coolant Distribution Units (CDU), and dry coolers, up to the capacity of 250 kW per team (approximately 1.75 MW total). Additionally, contractors are permitted to include costs for procuring and installing approximately 1,800 feet of 480V three-phase wires for indoor distribution within the high bay facility. The government also approved budgeting for fixturing materials such as mechanical stands and struts needed to stage equipment indoors. Finally, contractors may account for materials to level dry coolers outdoors, though the government noted this should represent a minor expense. These clarifications indicate the government's expectations regarding site infrastructure preparation and material support necessary for hosting the ARPA-E COOLERCHIPS program teams.