BioLogical Undersea Energy (BLUE)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency seeks proposals to develop power supplies that capture and convert microscopic marine biomass into electrical power for use in ocean-deployed sensor systems. The BioLogical Undersea Energy program's objective is to produce power supplies that can self-refuel while operating fully submerged and deliver battery-level power for sensor systems without servicing longer than comparable battery packs. Proposals are due by April 30, 2024 for Phase I and optional Phase II work, with Phase I awards funding up to 21 months of feasibility research to achieve continuous power output of 0.01 kW and Phase II scaling output to 0.1 kW over 9 months. Both phases require a 30-day field demonstration and proposals will be evaluated on technical approach, management capabilities, and budgets to achieve biomass conversion while avoiding ecological harm and ensuring regulatory compliance.

There is no set-aside designation for this opportunity. Main NAICS and PSC codes applicable are expected to include 541715 and R425. Phase I awards are expected to fund up to $750,000 over 21 months with optional Phase II awards of up to $1,000,000 for 9 months of additional research. No incumbent or current contractor is identified. Successful proposals must demonstrate the means to achieve the program's objectives of power supplies that can harvest marine biomass to power sensors for significantly longer durations than comparable battery packs.