Government Requirement for Advanced Power and Energy (GRAPE)

The Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate is soliciting white papers and technical proposals under the Government Requirement for Advanced Power and Energy (GRAPE) program to support the Advanced Power Technology Office (APTO). This open Advanced Research Announcement seeks innovative energy technologies across five technical areas: Operational Energy (Aviation), Expeditionary Energy, Installation Energy, Space Power and Energy, and Agile Combat Equipment. Key objectives include developing solutions that improve mission effectiveness, combat capabilities, energy resilience, and reduce resource vulnerabilities for the Department of Air Force, with specific focus on flightline electrification, charging infrastructure, and large capacity energy storage systems capable of operating in extreme conditions down to -60°F. Proposals will be evaluated on technical innovation, understanding of scope, soundness of approach, potential for technology transition, personnel qualifications, and cost realism. White papers are accepted on a rolling basis from May 3, 2018, through December 31, 2027, with full proposals due within 30 days of invitation following the two-step solicitation process.

This procurement opportunity has no set-aside designation and is open to businesses of all sizes under NAICS code 541715. The total estimated program value has evolved from $49 million in earlier amendments to $197.84 million across multiple awards, with individual contracts ranging from $100,000 to $5 million distributed across fiscal years 2024-2027. Recent specific calls include Call 002 with $22 million in funding for flightline charging infrastructure demonstrations at Holloman AFB and Robins AFB over 36 months, and Call 003 with $14-25 million for large capacity energy storage systems at Clear Space Force Station over 60 months. The program anticipates multiple awards through various contract vehicles including cost-plus-fixed-fee, firm-fixed-price contracts, and other transaction agreements. Funding allocations include $3 million each in FY24 and FY25 specifically for equipment and vehicle purchases under the flightline electrification demonstration efforts.