BIL 40503 SCEP Energy Auditor Training FOA - Mod0002_07.08.2024.pdf

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” Problems with Infrastructure eXCHANGE? Email InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Office of State and Community Energy Programs

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) 40503: Energy Auditor Training

Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Number: DE-FOA-0003204 FOA Type: Modification No. 0002 Assistance Listing Number: 81.041

FOA Issue Date: 12/20/2023 Informational Webinar: 01/17/2024 Submission Deadline for Concept Papers: 04/12/2024

5:00 p.m. ET Submission Deadline for Full Applications: 07/12/2024

5:00 p.m. ET Expected Submission Deadline for Replies to Reviewer Comments: 08/01/2024

5:00 p.m. ET Expected Date for DOE Selection Notifications: 10/24/2024 Expected Timeframe for Award Negotiations: 01/31/2025

• Applicants must submit a Concept Paper by 5:00 p.m. ET on the due date listed above to be eligible to submit a Full Application.

• To apply to this FOA, applicants must register with, and submit application materials through, Infrastructure eXCHANGE at S3 eXCHANGE: Registration (energy.gov), SCEP’s online application portal.

• Applicants must designate primary and backup points-of-contact in Infrastructure eXCHANGE with whom DOE will communicate to conduct award negotiations. If an application is selected for award negotiations, it is not a commitment to issue an award.

It is imperative that the applicant/selectee be responsive during award negotiations and meet negotiation deadlines. Failure to do so may result in cancelation of further award negotiations and rescission of the selection.

Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management (SAM) - Each applicant (unless the applicant is excepted from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110) is required to: (1) register in the SAM at https://www.sam.gov before submitting an application; (2) provide a valid UEI number in the application; and (3) maintain an active SAM registration with current information when the applicant has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency. DOE may not make a federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable UEI and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully https://infrastructure-exchange.energy.gov/Registration.aspx?rid=new https://www.sam.gov/

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” complied with the requirements by the time DOE is ready to make a federal award, DOE will determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant.

NOTE: Due to the high number of UEI requests and SAM registrations, entity legal business name and address validations are taking longer than expected to process.

Entities should start the UEI and SAM registration process as soon as possible. If entities have technical difficulties with the UEI validation or SAM registration process, they should use the HELP feature on SAM.gov. SAM.gov will address service tickets in the order in which they are received and asks that entities not create multiple service tickets for the same request or technical issue. Additional entity validation resources can be found here: GSAFSD Tier 0 Knowledge Base - Validating your Entity.

Modifications New modifications to the FOA are HIGHLIGHTED (yellow) in the body of the FOA. Previous modifications to the FOA are HIGHLIGHTED (gray) in the body of the FOA.

Mod. No. Date Description of Modification 0001 03/27/2024 • Extend the submission deadline for concept papers to

04/12/2024.

• Extend the submission deadline for full applications to

07/12/2024.

• Extend the expected submission deadline for replies to reviewer comments to 09/11/2024.

• Extend the date for DOE selection notifications to

10/24/2024.

• Extend the date for DOE Timeframe for Award Negotiations to 01/31/2025.

0002 07/08/2024 • Update the expected submission deadline for replies to reviewer comments to 08/01/2024.

• Further define ineligible applicants.

• Added Energy Management Professional as a covered certification.

• Updated the term “student” to “trainee” to be consistent with the terminology throughout the FOA.

• Updated the word “will” to “may” to reflect accurate intention of DOE.

• Clarified that DOE expects to make up to $36,000,000 of federal funding available for new awards.

• Removed the term “Page Limit” in the header of the Energy

Auditor Training Program Plan Content Requirements table.

• Fixed an error so that the FOA properly reflects the language in 42 U.S.C. 18793(e)(1)(b), which states that “no more than https://sam.gov/content/help https://sam.gov/content/home https://www.fsd.gov/gsafsd_sp?id=kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0058422&sys_kb_id=1b5f22581b2115102fe5ed7ae54bcb4e&spa=1

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

10 percent of grant funds will be used to pay the wages of a trainee during the period in which the trainee receives training and certification.”

• Removed Davis Bacon Act reporting as a requirement.

Overview of Key Information

Agency: U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Program Overview: The Energy Auditor Training (EAT) Program will provide Grant funding to States for the purpose of training individuals to conduct energy audits, or surveys, of commercial and residential buildings.

This program was established by Section 40503 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), more commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) 1. The goals of the program are to offer auditor training certifications that include informed curriculum and program design that aligns with current and future standards; inform or empower States with current, standardized framing of the education and training requirements for energy auditors;

enlarge the pipeline of diverse talent by closing gaps in job access; address workforce inclusion deficiencies and improve disparities with underrepresented groups; connect auditor trainees to career opportunities that promote job quality and economic mobility; and inspire sustainability through intentional practices and partnerships that support infrastructure development and the long-term value of a clean energy workforce. DOE recognizes that energy auditors are instrumental for inspecting buildings, assessing current energy use, verifying whether buildings meet energy codes, zero energy codes and building performance standards, and providing recommendations that optimize efficiency and minimize costs in residential and commercial buildings.

Eligible Applicants: In accordance with the BIL Section 40503, funding is only available to States, the District of Columbia, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Guam and if they have a demonstrated need for assistance for training energy auditors2. These eligible entities are referred to throughout this FOA as “States”. No other entity types, including local governments, Tribes, consortiums, non-profits, educational institutions, etc., may be considered for this funding. In accordance with 2 CFR Section 910.126 and DOE Program Rule 10 CFR Part 420, eligibility for these awards is restricted to State Energy Offices.

Funding Overview: The BIL appropriated $40 million in funding to be issued through a competitive Grant program3. DOE expects to make up to $36,000,000 of federal funding

1 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (more commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL)), Public Law 117-58 (November 15, 2021), Section 40503(a), is codified at 42 U.S.C. 18793.

2 Under Section 40503(a)(2), an “eligible State” means a State that – “has a demonstrated need for assistance for training energy auditors; and [] meets any additional criteria determined necessary by the Secretary.” 42 U.S.C. 18793(a)(2).

3 42 U.S.C. 18793(b) and (g).

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” available for new awards. DOE may issue one, multiple, or no awards. Individual awards may vary between $200,000 and a maximum of $2,000,000. DOE anticipates making approximately twenty (20) to thirty (30) awards under this FOA. In accordance with the BIL Section 40503(d)(1) the amount of a Grant awarded to an eligible State shall be determined by the Secretary, taking into account the population of the eligible State 4. DOE reserves the right to determine the final award amount of selected eligible States.

Cost Matching: Cost match is not required for these awards. DOE encourages states to consider how they could leverage philanthropic and private sector funding to advance their goals and amplify the impact of the BIL funding. If cost match is proposed, it must be included in the budget and budget narrative. All sources of cost match are considered part of total project costs, and the cost match dollars will receive oversight under the same Federal regulations as Federal dollars.

Period of Performance: The expected period of performance is 36 months and includes all necessary implementation and start-up activities. DOE will consider applications that contain justification for a period of performance longer or shorter than 36 months.

Application Components: Eligible applicants seeking a Grant through this program must demonstrate a need for assistance for training energy auditors and, as required by BIL Section 40503, submit a proposed training curriculum for energy audit trainees; identify the covered certification(s) that those trainees will receive on completion of that training curriculum;

describe the expected per-individual cost of training; submit a plan for connecting trainees with employment opportunities; and include any additional information required by this FOA5.

The covered certifications6 include any of the following:

(1) The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Building Energy Assessment

(2) The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Certified Energy Auditor

(3) The Building Performance Institute (BPI) Home Energy Professional Energy Auditor

(4) The Residential Energy Services Network Home Energy Rater

(5) any other third-party certification recognized by the Department

(6) any third-party certification that the Secretary determines is equivalent to the aforementioned certifications.

As of the publication date of this FOA, DOE has determined that the following third-party certifications meet this standard:

• Building Performance Institute's Building Analyst Professional

4 42 U.S.C. 18793(d).

5 42 U.S.C. 18793(c)(2).

6 42 U.S.C. 18793(a)(1).

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

• Journey Card from an Energy Specialist or Energy Auditor and Analyst Registered Apprenticeship Program7

• Building Science Institute (BSI) Energy Code Compliance Specialist

• Building Science Institute (BSI) ENERGY STAR Verifier

• Building Science Institute (BSI) Zero Energy Ready Home Verifier

• California Home Energy Efficiency Rating Services (CHEERS) HERS Rater

• Energy Management Professional (EMP)

Note: DOE will continue to determine if additional third-party certifications are covered under this program. All third-party certifications that meet the standard will be published on the Energy Auditor Training Grant Program website: https://www.energy.gov/scep/energy-auditor-training-grant-program. In addition, the qualified certifications8 approved under the Efficient Home Improvement Credit9 (Section 25C10) are also approved as covered certifications under the EAT program. States may conduct energy auditor training for certifications and as a new or stackable credential to promote marketability of trainees and incumbent workers.

DOE intends for the EAT Program to support workforce development efforts that recruit and train residential and commercial energy auditors. As energy regulations and standards continue to evolve, the increase in energy auditors and professionals with energy auditing skills will allow for more audits to be completed so more buildings will be retrofitted to meet current and future energy requirements. As part of the required Community Benefits Plan, further described below in FOA Section IV.D.v., DOE encourages applicants to establish a plan that not only recruits and trains individuals from disadvantaged communities but that also provides energy audits for residents of disadvantaged communities.

The Application consists of the following required documents, as detailed in FOA section IV:

Application Requirements FOA Section Reference

Statement of Need section IV.D.ii.

Energy Auditor Training Program Plan

• Cover Page

• Overview

• Content

• Statement of Project Objectives, Activities, and Workplan

• Qualifications and Resources

• Sustainability Plan section IV.D.iii.

7 Occupation Finder: Energy Auditors | Apprenticeship.gov (https://www.apprenticeship.gov/apprenticeship-occupations/listings?occupationCode=47-4011.01) 8 U.S. Department of Energy Recognized Home Energy Auditor Qualified Certification Programs for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C) | Department of Energy (https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/us-department-energy-recognized-home-energy-auditor-qualified-certification-programs) 9 Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov) (https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit) 10 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Notice 2023-59 (https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-23-59.pdf) https://www.energy.gov/scep/energy-auditor-training-grant-program https://www.apprenticeship.gov/apprenticeship-occupations/listings?occupationCode=47-4011.01 https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/us-department-energy-recognized-home-energy-auditor-qualified-certification-programs https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/us-department-energy-recognized-home-energy-auditor-qualified-certification-programs https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-23-59.pdf

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

• Community Benefits Plan and Community Benefits Plan Budget Justification

Budget Forms

• Standard Form-424 (Application for Federal Assistance) section IV.D.ix-x.

• Budget Justification Workbook section IV.D.xi.

Summary Assets

• Summary/Abstract for Public Release section IV.D.xii.

• Summary Slide section IV.D.xiii.

Other Forms

• Certifications regarding Lobbying (SF-LLL Disclosure Form to report lobbying) section IV.D.xv.

• As applicable:

o Transparency of Foreign Connections o Potentially Duplicative Funding Notice o Current and Pending Support section IV.D.xvi-xviii.

Energy Auditor Training Program Plan Content Requirements:

• Identify Training Curriculum for the Present & Future:

o List residential and commercial training curriculum that align with industry, association, state, and Federal standards.

o Utilize high-quality trainings that leverage existing programs and established best practices and support programs that prepare workers for future trends in the clean energy industry11.

• Determine Certifications:

o Select certifications that clearly align with established program standards and industry needs.

o Justify the connection between the program requirement for standard certifications and the inclusion of any third-party certifications not enumerated in BIL Section 4050312.

• Outline Expected Cost & Benefits of Training:

o Calculate the expected per-individual cost of training13.

o Describe the benefits that the trainee receives through participating in the program.

o Indicate actual and projected/forecasted training needs.

11 42 U.S.C. 18793(c)(2)(A)(i).

12 42 U.S.C. 18793(c)(2)(A)(ii).

13 42 U.S.C. 18793(c)(2)(B).

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” o Include resource and staffing plans that to ensures effective program management, implementation, and sustainability14.

• Plan for Connecting Trainees to Employment Opportunities:

o Create plans for connecting trainees with employment opportunities.

o Showcase how individuals will transition from participant to new hire.

o Secure letters of support or memoranda of understanding with employers to hire participants, as permitted by the relevant state law.

o Connect trainees with pre-apprenticeships that prepare them for registered or other on-the-job paid experiences15.

• Strategize Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) Activities:

o Plan for creating or expanding a pipeline for diverse talent through program implementation.

o Leverage targeted marketing avenues, such as digital and social media advertising as well as translation services, to promote the program to participants in an inclusive and intentional manner.

o Offer training features, like wraparound or supportive services, to provide holistic support for workforce preparation16.

• Submit a Community Benefits Plan:

o Describe how the proposed training program(s) will benefit the community.

o Explore meaningful community and labor engagement.

o Explain how the program is investing in America’s workforce.

o Offer advancement of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility opportunities.

o Develop a plan that contributes to the President’s goal that 40% of the overall benefits from certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities.

(Justice40 Initiative).

Questions/Agency Contacts:

• Questions relating to the Infrastructure eXCHANGE website should be directed to:

InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov.

• Interested applicants should reach out to the SCEP Workforce Development Team with any FOA-specific questions: energyauditor@hq.doe.gov, subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question.”

14 42 U.S.C. 18793(c)(2)(B).

15 42 U.S.C. 18793(c)(2)(C).

16 42 U.S.C. 18793(c)(2)(D).

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ...................................................................................................................... viii I. Funding Opportunity Description

A. Background and Context

i. Program Purpose

ii. Program Overview and Strategic Goals

iii. Overall Strategic Goals for the EAT Program

iv. Teaming Partner List

B. Topic Areas

i. Topic Area One: Commercial Energy Auditors

ii. Topic Area Two: Residential Energy Auditors

C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest D. Community Benefits Plan: Job Quality and Equity E. Authorizing Statutes F. Notice of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law–Specific Requirements

II. Award Information A. Award Overview

i. Estimated Funding

ii. Period of Performance

iii. New Applications Only

B. DOE Funding Agreements

i. Grants

III. Eligibility Information A. Eligible Applicants B. Cost Sharing C. Optional Partners D. Compliance Criteria E. Responsiveness Criteria F. Other Eligibility Requirements

i. Requirements for DOE/NNSA FFRDCs Listed as the Applicant

ii. Requirements for DOE/NNSA and Non-DOE/NNSA FFRDCs Included as a Subrecipient

G. Limitation on Number of Concept Papers and Full Applications Eligible for Review H. Questions Regarding Eligibility

IV. Application and Submission Information A. Application Process B. Application Forms C. Content and Form of the Concept Paper D. Content and Form of the Full Application

i. Full Application Content Requirements

ii. Statement of Need

iii. Energy Auditor Training Program Plan

iv. Resumes

v. Community Benefits Plan: Job Quality and Equity

vi. Community Benefits Plan Budget Justification

vii. Letters of Commitment (if applicable)

viii. Optional Community Partnership Documentation

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

xii. Summary/Abstract for Public Release

xiii. Summary Slide

xiv. Subrecipient Budget Justification (if applicable)

xv. SF-LLL: Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

xvi. Transparency of Foreign Connections

xvii. Potentially Duplicative Funding Notice

xviii. Current and Pending Support

E. Content and Form of Replies to Reviewer Comments F. Post Selection Information Requests G. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management (SAM) H. Submission Dates and Times I. Intergovernmental Review J. Funding Restrictions

i. Allowable Costs

ii. Pre-Award Costs

iii. Performance of Work in the United States (Foreign Work Waiver)

iv. Foreign Travel

v. Equipment and Supplies

vi. Davis-Bacon Act Requirements

vii. Lobbying

viii. Risk Assessment

ix. Invoice Review and Approval

x. Prohibition Related to Foreign Government-Sponsored Talent Recruitment Programs

xi. Affirmative Action and Pay Transparency Requirements

xii. Foreign Collaboration Considerations

V. Application Review Information A. Technical Review Criteria

i. Concept Papers

ii. Full Applications

iii. Criteria for Replies to Reviewer Comments

B. Standards for Application Evaluation C. Other Selection Factors

i. Program Policy Factors D. Evaluation and Selection Process

i. Overview

ii. Recipient Responsibility and Qualifications

iii. Selection

E. Anticipated Notice of Selection and Award Negotiation Dates VI. Award Administration Information

A. Award Notices

i. Ineligible Submissions

ii. Concept Paper Notifications

iii. Full Application Notifications

iv. Applicants Selected for Award Negotiations

v. Alternate Selection Determinations

vi. Unsuccessful Applicants

B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

i. Registration Requirements

ii. Award Administrative Requirements

iii. Foreign National Participation

iv. Subaward and Executive Reporting

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

v. National Policy Requirements

vi. Environmental Review in Accordance with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

vii. Applicant Representations and Certifications

viii. Statement of Federal Stewardship

ix. Intellectual Property Management Plan (IPMP)

x. Intellectual Property Provisions

xi. Reporting

xii. Conference Spending

xiii. Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Financing Statements

xiv. Real Property and Equipment

xv. Implementation of Executive Order 13798, Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty

xvi. Participants and Collaborating Organizations

xvii. Current and Pending Support

xviii. Interim Conflict of Interest Policy for Financial Assistance

xix. Fraud, Waste, and Abuse

xx. Cybersecurity Plan

xxi. Questions/Agency Contacts

VII. Other Information A. FOA Modifications B. Government Right to Reject or Negotiate C. Commitment of Public Funds D. Treatment of Application Information E. Evaluation and Administration by Non-Federal Personnel F. Notice Regarding Eligible/Ineligible Activities G. Notice of Right to Conduct a Review of Financial Capability H. Requirement for Full and Complete Disclosure I. Retention of Submissions J. Government Rights in Subject Inventions K. Copyright L. Export Control M. Prohibition on Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment N. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) O. Annual Independent Audits P. Informational Webinar

Appendix A – Cost Share Information Appendix B – Sample Cost Share Calculation for Blended Cost Share Percentage Appendix C – List of Acronyms

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

I. Funding Opportunity Description

A. Background and Context

The Office of State and Community Energy Programs (SCEP) is issuing this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). Awards made under this FOA will be funded with appropriations by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act17, more commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). SCEP works with state and local organizations to significantly accelerate the deployment of clean energy technologies, catalyze local economic development and create jobs, reduce energy costs, and avoid pollution through place-based strategies involving a wide range of government, community, business, and other stakeholders. SCEP supports the mission of the U.S. Department of Energy.

BIL is a once-in-a-generation investment in modernizing and upgrading American infrastructure to enhance U.S. competitiveness, drive the creation of good-paying union jobs, tackle the climate crisis, and ensure strong access to economic, environmental, and other benefits for disadvantaged communities18. BIL appropriates more than $62 billion to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) 19 to invest in American manufacturing and workers; expand access to energy efficiency and clean energy; deliver reliable, clean, and affordable power to more Americans;

and demonstrate and deploy the technologies of tomorrow through clean energy demonstrations.

DOE’s BIL investments will support efforts to build a clean and equitable energy economy that achieves a zero-carbon electricity system by 2035, and to put the United States on a path to achieve net-zero emissions economy-wide by no later than 205020 to benefit all Americans.

Through this program, BIL may invest up to $36 million for the 36-month period encompassing Fiscal Years 2025 through 2028 for the purpose of training individuals to conduct energy audits, or surveys, of commercial and residential buildings21.

17 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Public Law 117-58 (November 15, 2021). (https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684.) This FOA uses the more common name Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

18 Pursuant to EO 14008, “Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad,” January 27, 2021, and the Office of Management and Budget’s Interim Justice40 Implementation Guidance M-21-28 and M-23-09, DOE recognizes disadvantaged communities as defined and identified by the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST), located at https://screeningtool.geoplatform.gov/. DOE’s Justice40 Implementation Guidance is located at:

https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-07/Final%20DOE%20Justice40%20General%20Guidance%20072522.pdf.

19 U.S. Department of Energy. November 2021. “DOE Fact Sheet: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal Will Deliver for American Workers, Families and Usher in the Clean Energy Future.” (https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-fact-sheet-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal-will-deliver-american-workers-families-and-0) 20 Executive Order (EO) 14008, “Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad,” January 27, 2021.

21 42 U.S.C. 18793(g), 18802(b).

mailto:InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684 https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684 https://screeningtool.geoplatform.gov/ https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-07/Final%20DOE%20Justice40%20General%20Guidance%20072522.pdf https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-fact-sheet-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal-will-deliver-american-workers-families-and-0 https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-fact-sheet-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal-will-deliver-american-workers-families-and-0 https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

The Federal Government has made significant investments to establish initiatives that support residential and commercial clean energy. These investments have primarily advanced two overarching goals: (1) to save customers money on energy bills, and (2) to reduce pollution from building energy use. To pursue these goals, and spur future demand for energy-saving technologies, the U.S. Department of Energy, state and local governments, and utilities are implementing energy efficiency policies and programs. The creation of initiatives such as residential Home Energy Rebate Programs22, which provide incentives to homeowners for weatherization improvements that improve energy use; energy efficient home improvements and residential clean energy property credits23, which provides a 30-percent credit for certain qualified expenditures made by a taxpayer for residential energy efficient property; and statutes such as the Energy Policy Act of 200524 (EPACT) and the Inflation Reduction Act25, which offers businesses tax deductions for the costs of improving the energy efficiency of commercial buildings – were instrumental in creating a foundation for the future need for continuous improvement in clean energy.

The energy auditor profession represents the future sustainability of energy efficiency and cost savings in both the residential and commercial spaces. DOE recognizes that energy auditors are instrumental for inspecting buildings, assessing current energy use, verifying whether buildings meet energy codes, zero energy codes and building performance standards, and providing recommendations that optimize efficiency and minimize costs in residential and commercial buildings. After the energy auditors conduct the energy audits, or surveys, the energy auditors can advise on how to reduce energy usage, promote energy efficiency, and offer energy savings to the customer.

The Energy Auditor Training (EAT) Program supports the administration’s broader efforts to:

(1) Build the clean energy workforce by training workers for placement into energy auditor jobs;

(2) Create or expand a diverse pipeline of workers for energy auditor jobs;

(3) Align existing or new training and curriculum with existing and relevant professional certifications; and

22 42 USC 18795. https://www.energy.gov/scep/home-energy-rebates-programs.

23 Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov) (https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit and https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/frequently-asked-questions-about-energy-efficient-home-improvements-and-residential-clean-energy-property-credits) 24 Energy Policy Act of 2005. 42 USC 1580 Subtitle C—Conservation and Energy Efficiency Provisions Sec. 1331. Energy efficient commercial buildings deduction. Sec. 1332. Credit for construction of new energy efficient homes. Sec. 1333. Credit for certain nonbusiness energy property. Sec. 1334. Credit for energy efficient appliances. Sec. 1335. Credit for residential energy efficient property. Sec. 1336. Credit for business installation of qualified fuel cells and stationary microturbine power plants. Sec. 1337.

Business solar investment tax credit.

25 Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, Sec. 13303, Pub. L. 117-169 (Aug. 16, 2022) (codified at 26 U.S.C. 179D.)

mailto:InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov https://www.energy.gov/articles/energy-policy-act-2005 https://www.energy.gov/scep/home-energy-rebates-programs https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

(4) Save commercial and residential customers money on energy bills by reducing building energy use.

i. Program Purpose

EAT’s purpose is to train individuals to conduct energy audits, or surveys, of commercial and residential buildings. Applicants must demonstrate a need for assistance in training energy auditors and submit a proposed training curriculum for energy auditor trainees that identifies the types of covered certification that those trainees will receive on upon program completion; the expected cost per-individual;

a plan for connecting trainees with employment opportunities; and any additional information as required by this FOA. Covered certifications under this FOA are: (1) The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Building Energy Assessment, (2) The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Certified Energy Auditor, (3) The Building Performance Institute (BPI) Home Energy Professional Energy Auditor, (4) The Residential Energy Services Network Home Energy Rater, (5) any other third-party certification recognized by the Department, and (6) any third-party certification that the Secretary determines is equivalent to the aforementioned certifications26. As of the publication of this FOA, DOE has determined that the following third-party certifications meet this standard:

• Building Performance Institute's Building Analyst Professional

• Journey Card from an Energy Specialist or Energy Auditor and Analyst

Registered Apprenticeship Program

• Building Science Institute (BSI) Energy Code Compliance Specialist

• Building Science Institute (BSI) ENERGY STAR Verifier

• Building Science Institute (BSI) Zero Energy Ready Home Verifier

• California Home Energy Efficiency Rating Services (CHEERS) HERS Rater

• Energy Management Professional (EMP)

ii. Program Overview and Strategic Goals

DOE intends for the EAT Program to support workforce development efforts that recruit and train residential and commercial energy auditors. As energy regulations and standards continue to evolve, energy codes, zero energy codes, and building performance standards become more widespread, and the Home Rebates Programs27 (Home Efficiency Rebates and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates) are delivered, the increase in energy auditors, and professionals with energy auditing skills will be necessary. After the energy auditors conduct the energy audits, or surveys, the energy auditors can advise on how to reduce energy usage, promote energy efficiency, and offer energy savings to the customer. This will allow

26 DOE will continue to determine if third-party certifications are equivalent to the aforementioned certifications. All third-party certifications that meet the standard will be published on the Energy Auditor Training Grant Program website:

(https://www.energy.gov/scep/energy-auditor-training-grant-program).

27 Home Energy Rebate Program | Department of Energy (https://www.energy.gov/scep/home-energy-rebate-program) mailto:InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov https://www.energy.gov/scep/energy-auditor-training-grant-program https://www.energy.gov/scep/home-energy-rebate-program

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” more building owners to have the information they need to meet current and future energy requirements.

The goals of the program are to offer auditor training certifications that include:

• informed curriculum and program design that aligns with current and future standards;

• supports States to establish standardized education and training requirements for energy auditors;

• enlarges the pipeline of diverse talent by closing gaps in job access, address workforce inclusion deficiencies, and improve disparities with underrepresented groups;

• connects auditor trainees to career opportunities that promote job quality and economic mobility; and

• prioritizes sustainability through practices and partnerships that support infrastructure development and the long-term value of a clean energy workforce.

This broader approach will produce sustainable, clean energy auditing efforts in commercial and residential spaces through the deepening of partnerships and collaborative initiatives across and among States, agencies, organizations, and the Department of Energy. This approach will maximize the benefits of the clean energy transition as the nation works to curb the climate crisis, empower workers, and advance environmental justice.

The EAT Program will serve as a national catalyst to strengthen the nation’s competitive advantage in clean energy by supporting workforce development efforts that recruit, support, and train residential and commercial energy auditors.

As energy regulations and standards continue to evolve, change, and improve, the increase in energy auditors will promote sustainability efforts on the local, state, and national levels, assuring industry alignment with current and future clean energy requirements. Successful applicants will design their Grant projects from both (1) a strategic level, such as describing their planned training activities and opportunities for collaboration to demonstrate a clear need for commercial and/or residential energy auditors; and (2) an operational level, such as incorporating in their plans how they would implement their comprehensive training and certification strategy, and including the activities that would be involved in such efforts.

mailto:InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question”

As part of the whole-of-government approach to advance equity and encourage worker organizing and collective bargaining28, 29, 30, and in alignment with BIL, any related activities under this FOA will seek to encourage meaningful engagement and participation of workforce organizations, including labor unions, as well as underserved communities and underrepresented groups, including Indian Tribes.31 Consistent with Executive Order 1400832, this FOA is designed to help meet the goal that 40% of the overall benefits of the Administration’s investments in clean energy and climate solutions be delivered to disadvantaged communities, as defined and identified by the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST) pursuant to the Executive Order, and to drive creation of accessible, good-paying jobs with the free and fair chance for workers to join a union.

iii. Overall Strategic Goals for the EAT Program

This FOA seeks applications to address the skills and labor shortage by focusing on:

(1) Offering energy auditor training for certifications and as a new or stackable credential to promote marketability of trainees and incumbent workers.

(2) Providing States with current, standardized framing of the education and training requirements for energy auditors.

(3) Enlarging the pipeline of diverse talent by closing gaps in job access, addressing workforce inclusion deficiencies, and improving disparities with underrepresented groups.

(4) Connecting energy auditor trainees to high quality jobs and career opportunities that promote economic mobility.

(5) Inspiring sustainability through intentional practices and partnerships that support long-term energy auditor training programs.

To support the overall strategic goal (1), offer energy auditor training for certifications, the program will fund States to implement training and development of energy auditors for commercial and residential buildings. This training would include instruction that leads to the attainment of covered certifications, which include the following certifications: (1) the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Building Energy Assessment,

(2) the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Certified Energy Auditor, (3) the Building Performance Institute (BPI) Home Energy Professional Energy Auditor, (4)

28 EO 13985, “Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government,” January 20, 2021. EOEO 14091, “Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government,” February 16, 2023.

29 EO 14025, “Worker Organizing and Empowerment,” April 26, 2021.

30 EO 14052, “Implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” November 18, 2021.

31 EO 13175, “Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments,” November 6, 2000, charges all executive departments and agencies with engaging in regular, meaningful, and robust consultation with Tribal officials in the development of federal policies that have Tribal implications. Memorandum on Tribal Consultation and Strengthening Nation-to-Nation Relationships The White House Memorandum on Tribal Consultation and Strengthening Nation-to-Nation Relationships The White House.

32 EO 14008, “Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad,” January 27, 2021.

mailto:InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” the Residential Energy Services Network Home Energy Rater, (5) any other third-party certification recognized by the Department of Energy, and (6) any third-party certification that the Energy Secretary determines is equivalent to the certifications previously described33. As of the publication of this FOA, DOE has determined that the following third-party certifications meet this standard: Building Performance Institute's Building Analyst Professional, Journey Card from a Relevant Registered Apprenticeship Program, Building Science Institute (BSI) Energy Code Compliance Specialist, BSI ENERGY STAR Verifier, BSI Zero Energy Ready Home Verifier, and the California Home Energy Efficiency Rating Services (CHEERS) HERS Rater.

States are encouraged to utilize curriculum, and promote certifications, that are flexible and relevant to the needs of the energy industry, including promoting curriculum improvements that enhance current certifications that align with future workforce needs. These efforts will strengthen efforts between industry associations, the States, and the Department by utilizing the covered certification(s) to train individuals to conduct energy audits, or surveys, of commercial and residential buildings and providing consistent audits on the local, state, and federal levels.

To support the overall strategic goal (2), provide States with current, standardized education and training requirements for energy auditors, applicants may consider the implementation of the latest curriculum standards in the development of training programs to ensure industry alignment with State energy auditor needs.

This alignment will promote cohesiveness between the commercial and residential energy auditor efforts taking place among the States, national organizations, and the Federal government. This alignment is critical for meeting national energy sustainability goals. Meeting this goal would involve initiatives that encourage worker mobility locally, regionally, and nationally while addressing the demand for auditors through uniform training standards. Similarly, as an output, achieving this goal will strengthen the national baseline of knowledge among energy auditors across the country, while ensuring all States meet the minimum standards for residential and commercial building energy audits.

To support the overall strategic goal (3), enlarge the pipeline of diverse talent by closing gaps in job access, addressing workforce inclusion deficiencies, and improving disparities with underrepresented groups, applicants may consider opportunities to coordinate program communication efforts among States, associations, and local workforce agencies to create a broader pool of diverse talent in the energy efficiency auditor occupation. States within similar regions of the country or that share similar challenges related to energy efficiency and diversity

33 DOE will continue to determine if third-party certifications are equivalent to the aforementioned certifications. All third-party certifications that meet the standard will be published on the Energy Auditor Training Grant Program website:

https://www.energy.gov/scep/energy-auditor-training-grant-program.

mailto:InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov https://usdoe-my.sharepoint.com/personal/angela_dayton_hq_doe_gov/Documents/Energy%20Auditor%20Training%20Grant%20Program%20website:

https://usdoe-my.sharepoint.com/personal/angela_dayton_hq_doe_gov/Documents/Energy%20Auditor%20Training%20Grant%20Program%20website:

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” may consider collaborative efforts that will address both the need to train and prepare more energy auditors, as well as shortfalls in the number of workers from underserved communities that are qualified and available to fill commercial and residential auditor roles34. These efforts may include creating or improving marketing information related to the program and available certifications and translating the energy auditor training opportunity and its value in the actual and contextual language of diverse populations to improve promotion efforts. To ensure flexibility and increase the opportunity to engage as many trainees as possible, applicants are encouraged to utilize various high-quality methods of training and education (online, in-person, on-the-job) to create access to consistent curriculum across the State. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to continue to utilize the local, state, and national partnerships with organizations that are already in place to build on current initiatives that address financial (capital, credit) and funding challenges for workers from disadvantaged communities in this occupation. Meeting this goal would include encouraging partnerships with the State’s workforce development agency, to support diverse participant and program needs. As part of the whole-of-government approach to advance equity and encourage worker organizing and collective bargaining35, 36, 37, and in alignment with BIL Section 40503, this FOA, and any related activities, will seek to encourage meaningful engagement and participation of workforce organizations, including labor unions, as well as underserved communities and underrepresented groups, including Indian Tribes38. Consistent with Executive Order 1400839, this FOA is designed to help meet the goal that 40% of the overall benefits of the Administration’s investments in clean energy and climate solutions be delivered to disadvantaged communities, as defined, and identified by the CEJST pursuant to the Executive Order, and to drive creation of accessible, good-paying jobs with the free and fair chance for workers to join a union.

To support the overall strategic goal (4), connect energy auditor trainees to high quality jobs and career opportunities that promote economic mobility, applicants may consider building upon national initiatives that have already proven impactful in

34 Underserved communities are populations sharing a particular characteristic, as well as geographic communities, that have been systematically denied a full opportunity to participate in aspects of economic, social, and civic life. EO 13985, “Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government,” January 20, 2021.

35 EO 13985, “Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government,” January 20, 2021. EOEO 14091, “Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government,” February 16, 2023.

36 EO 14025, “Worker Organizing and Empowerment,” April 26, 2021.

37 EO 14052, “Implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” November 18, 2021.

38 EO 13175, “Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments,” November 6, 2000, charges all executive departments and agencies with engaging in regular, meaningful, and robust consultation with Tribal officials in the development of federal policies that have Tribal implications. Memorandum on Tribal Consultation and Strengthening Nation-to-Nation Relationships, The White House Memorandum on Tribal Consultation and Strengthening Nation-to-Nation Relationships, The White House.

39 EO 14008, “Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad,” January 27, 2021.

mailto:InfrastructureExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/26/memorandum-on-tribal-consultation-and-strengthening-nation-to-nation-relationships/

Questions about this FOA? Email energyauditor@hq.doe.gov | Subject line “Energy Auditor Training FOA Question” placing energy auditors in the workforce 40. This may include developing or deepening partnerships with employers, labor organizations, the state and local workforce system, community-based organizations, etc. The applicants may also consider partnering with organizations to leverage resources that promote financial literacy and provide financial assistance for economic mobility, or partnering with local and state agencies and affinity groups to promote wraparound services designed to ensure trainees are comprehensively equipped to enter and excel in the industry and workforce. DOE encourages applicants to build or utilize a curriculum that promotes a diverse workforce of energy auditors and consider solutions for the financial challenges that may be present as barriers for trainees, particularly those trainees interested in pursuing entrepreneurship as a potential career track.