USDA Forest Service, Wood Education and Resource Center
Fiscal Year 2014 Hazardous Fuels Wood to Energy Grant Program
Request for Proposals
USDA-FS-WERC-2014_W2E
OVERVIEW INFORMATION
Catalog of Domestic Assistance Number is 10.674
Program name is Forest Products Lab: Technology Marketing Unit
Important Dates:
April 22, 2014
June 3, 2014
July 29, 2014
August 15, 2014
Issuance of Request for Proposals
Proposal submission deadline
Approximate date for the U.S. Forest Service to notify applicants of results
Approximate date of award
Synopsis of Funding Opportunity:
The U.S Forest Service Wood Education and Resource Center (WERC) requests proposals for wood
energy projects that require engineering services necessary for final design and cost analysis. The
Hazardous Fuels Wood to Energy (W2E) Grant Program will fund projects for which some or all of
the woody biomass is generated from National Forest Service System lands as a result of hazardous
fuel treatments, forest restoration activities, insect and disease mitigation, catastrophic weather
events, or thinning overstocked stands. Projects that use woody biomass from multiple land
ownerships (State, Tribal, or private lands) and multiple sources (wood products facilities, urban
wood waste, etc.) will be considered as long as some of the woody biomass is generated from
National Forest System lands. Projects that do not anticipate using any wood from National
Forest System lands will not be eligible.
The woody biomass must be used in commercially proven wood energy systems to produce thermal,
electrical, liquid, or gaseous energy. Examples of projects might include, but are not limited to,
engineering design of a woody biomass boiler that generates steam at a sawmill, hospital, or school;
a nonpressurized hot water system; a biomass power generation facility; or geographic or sectorbased clusters of wood energy systems. The lack of a professional engineering design often limits the
ability of an applicant to secure Federal, State, or private funding. This program is intended for
applicants seeking financial assistance to complete the necessary engineering design work,
including permitting or other preconstruction analyses, required to secure public or private
funding for construction of wood energy projects. An example of public funding is the USDA
Rural Development grants and loan programs that might help fund construction of such facilities.
This year, the W2E grant emphasizes geographic or sector-based clusters (e.g. hospitals, prisons,
inmate conservation camps, school campuses, poultry houses, etc.) that should leverage project
similarities to improve economies of scale and expand the use of woody biomass for energy.
Completed electronic applications are due to the Regional Biomass Coordinator designated for
your Forest Service region by 11:59 p.m. on June 3, 2014. Each submittal must consist of two
separate PDF (or Word) files, as follows:
1. Proposal narrative and appendices (W2E Application Part 1 & Part 2, and Appendices)
2. Financial forms (W2E Application Part 3)
For more details, visit http://www.na.fs.fed.us/werc/ and click on the link to 2014 Wood to Energy
Grant Program.
USDA Forest Service, Wood Education and Resource Center
Fiscal Year 2014 Wood To Energy Grant Program Request for Proposals
USDA-FS-WERC-2014_W2E
I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY
A. Description
To address the goals of Public Law 110-234, Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008,
Rural Revitalization Technologies (7 U.S.C. 6601) and the Consolidated Appropriations Act
of 2014, the Agency is requesting proposals to address the nationwide challenge of using
low-value woody biomass material to create renewable energy and protect communities and
critical infrastructure from wildfires.
The goals of the Wood to Energy (W2E) Grant Program are to:
 Promote projects that target and help remove economic and market barriers to using
woody biomass for renewable energy.
 Assist projects that produce renewable energy from woody biomass while protecting the
public interest.
 Reduce the public’s cost for forest restoration by increasing the value of biomass and
other forest products generated from hazardous fuels reduction and forest health
activities.
 Create incentives and/or encourage business investments that use woody biomass from
our Nation’s forest lands for renewable energy projects.
B. Award Information
Total funding anticipated for awards is approximately $2.8 million for the 2014 W2E
program. Individual grants will not exceed $250,000. No legal obligation on the part of the
Federal government will be incurred until appropriated funds are available and committed in
writing through a grant award letter issued by a Forest Service grant officer to a successful
applicant. Grants are typically 2 years from the date of award. Written annual financial
performance reports and annual project performance reports are required and must be
submitted to the appropriate grant officer. A grant awarded under this program to a for-profit
organization will generate an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 1099 Miscellaneous
Income that will be filed with the IRS and provided to the awardee. However, the U.S. Forest
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Service expresses no opinion on the taxability, if any, of the grant funds awarded. The
anticipated start date will be around August 15, 2014.
II. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION
A. Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants are for-profit organizations; State, local, and Tribal governments; school
districts; communities; nonprofit organizations; or special purpose districts (e.g., public
utilities districts, fire districts, conservation districts, or ports). Only one application per
business or organization will be accepted for this opportunity.
B. Cost Sharing/Matching
Applicants must demonstrate at least a 20 percent match of the total project cost. This match
must be from non-Federal sources, which can include cash or in-kind contributions. In-kind
salary contributions from Federal partners do not qualify as match.
The match must be met by eligible and allowable costs and is subject to match provisions in
Federal regulations. For information about Federal assistance regulations for State, local, and
Tribal governments as well as nonprofit organizations, go to
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars_default. State, local and Tribal government cost
principles are located in OMB Circular A-87 and non-profit cost principles are located in
OMB Circular A-122. Uniform Administrative Requirements are included in OMB Circulars
A-102 and A-110. For cost principle regulations and information for commercial
organizations, go to 48 FAR Part 31at
https://acquisition.gov/far/current/html/FARTOCP31.html (See Subpart 31.2—Contracts
with Commercial Organizations). In addition, applicants can use the budget detail worksheet
located at http://www.na.fs.fed.us/fap/budgetdetailtemplate.shtm as a guide to determine
project costs.
III. ADDRESS AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION
A. Address to Request Application Package
This announcement contains all narrative instructions to complete an application package and
includes Web links to required financial forms. In addition, this information and related Web
links can be viewed and downloaded by visiting http://www.na.fs.fed.us/werc/ and clicking
on the link to 2014 Wood to Energy Grant Program.
Hard copies are available upon request by contacting the appropriate Forest Service Regional
Biomass Coordinator listed in the AGENCY CONTACTS section on page 12 or by
contacting WERC:
U.S. Forest Service
Wood Education and Resource Center
301 Hardwood Lane
Princeton, WV 24740
3
Phone: (304) 487–1510; FAX: (304) 487–6661
E-mail address: werc@fs.fed.us
B. Content and Form of Application Submission
The proposal package must include all of the materials listed below (see W2E Grant
Application on pages 13-21:
1. W2E Project Application, Part 1: Cooperator Contact Information
2. W2E Project Application, Part 2: Narrative Proposal and Required Appendices
Requirements for the Narrative Proposal (Application Part 2) include the following:
a. Proposals should be formatted to print on 8½- by 11-inch plain paper with at least
½-inch margins.
b. A “page” is one side of a single-spaced, typed page.
c. Use an 11-point font or larger.
d. Submit all parts of the application at one time. Do not submit Letters of Commitment
or appendices separately.
e. No proposals will be accepted by facsimile machine.
f. A maximum of 15 pages per proposal for Application Part 2, Sections G thru K will
be accepted. A summary of this information includes:
1. Project Narrative (10 pages)
The project narrative must provide a clear description of the work to be
performed; impact from removing woody biomass and creating renewable
energy, especially how it benefits National Forest System lands (e.g. tons of
biomass removed that would have otherwise been burned, cost savings to
landowners, source of biomass removed from forested areas broken out by
ownership); how jobs will be created, retained, and sustained; and how
geographic or sector-based clusters will be incorporated into the project. The
application narrative should address the discussion areas listed in the W2E
Project Application, Part 2.
2. Qualifications and Summary Portfolio of Engineering Services (2 pages)
For the engineering systems, the project usually consists of a system designer,
project manager, equipment supplier, project engineer, construction contractor of
system installer, and a system operator and maintainer. One individual or entity
may serve more than one role. The project team must have demonstrated
expertise in similar wood energy systems development, engineering, installation,
and maintenance. The application must include authoritative evidence that project
team service providers have the necessary professional credentials or relevant
experience to perform the required services, and that vendors of proprietary
components can provide necessary equipment and spare parts for the system to
operate over its design life. A list of the same or similar projects designed,
installed, and currently operating must be provided along with appropriate
contacts.
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3. Community Benefit Statement (1 page)
Provide a one-page narrative on social, environmental, and economic impact and
importance of the project to the community. Examples include, but are not
limited to, fossil fuel offsets, jobs created, community support, fuel savings,
forest management benefits, or local businesses supported.
4. Budget Summary Justification in Support of SF-424A (2 pages)
Required Appendices must include:
a. Comprehensive Feasibility Assessment
b. Woody Biomass Resource Supply Assessment
c. Quotes for Professional Engineering Services (minimum of two quotes): Rationale
for selection of engineering firm, if already selected.
d. Letters of Support from Partners, Individuals, or Organizations: Letters of support are
intended to display the degree of collaboration occurring between the different
entities engaged in the project. These letters must include partner commitments of
cash or in-kind services from all those listed in the SF-424 and SF-424A.
e. Miscellaneous, such as schematics.
f. Federal Funds: List all other Federal funds received for this project within the last 3
years; include agency, program name, and dollar amount.
3. W2E Project Application, Part 3: Required Financial Forms must include:
a. SF-424: Application for Federal Assistance
b. SF-424A: Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs
b. SF-424B: Assurances for Non-Construction Programs
c. AD-1047: Certification Regarding Debarment and Suspension
d. AD-1049: Certification Regarding Drug-Free Workplace
e. AD-3030: Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax Delinquent Status
for Corporation Applicants
f. FS-1500-35: Certificate Regarding Lobbying Activities
Documentation exceeding the designated page limit requirements for any given section will
not be considered.
Frequently asked questions and their answers will be available online at
http://www.na.fs.fed.us/werc/ under the link to the 2014 Wood to Energy Grant Program.
C. Pre-Proposal/Application Assistance and Communications
Direct questions regarding this Request for Proposals to the appropriate Forest Service
Regional Biomass Coordinator listed in the AGENCY CONTACTS section on page 12. Your
Forest Service Region is generally determined by the State where the majority of the
proposed work will be conducted under the grant. In a few instances, two Forest Service
regions may exist in one State. Forest Service regions can be located at
http://www.fs.fed.us/maps/products/guide-national-forests09.pdf. Consult with the respective
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Forest Service Regional Biomass Coordinator if you are not certain which Region would
apply. Frequently asked questions and answers will be posted at
http://www.na.fs.fed.us/werc/ under the link to the 2014 Wood to Energy Grant Program.
D. Submission Dates and Times
Applications must be submitted electronically to the individual e-mail address for the
respective Forest Service Regional Biomass Coordinator listed in the AGENCY
CONTACTS section on page 12 of this announcement by 11:59 pm on June 3, 2014. NO
EXCEPTIONS. Paper submittals will not be accepted. If submitted through
www.grants.gov, the application must be submitted by 11:59 pm on June 3, 2014.
Each submittal must consist of two separate PDF (or Word) files, as follows:
1. Proposal narrative and appendices (W2E Application Part 1 & Part 2, and
Appendices)
2. Financial forms (W2E Application Part 3)
E. Intergovernmental Review
Not applicable.
F. Funding Restrictions
To develop an application and budget consistent with Forest Service grants and agreements
requirements, use the guidelines at http://www.na.fs.fed.us/fap/budgetdetailtemplate.shtm.
G. Other Submission Requirements (Application Requirements):
1. Proposal Details. This grant program requires that projects have had considerable
advance work completed prior to submitting a grant application. Only applicants that
have already completed and submit the following with their application will be
considered: 1) Comprehensive Feasibility Assessment of the project by qualified and
credible parties, and 2) Woody Biomass Resource Supply Assessment.
a. The Comprehensive Feasibility Assessment must address, at minimum, the
following items:
 Economic feasibility analysis of the entire project, including site assessment,
labor force wages and availability, utilities, access and transportation systems,
and raw material feedstock needs. The analysis must include the overall
economic impact, such as jobs created and retained on a full-time equivalent basis
displayed by employment associated with operating the facility itself and
supplying the facility. The analysis must also include a market feasibility study
that analyzes market(s) for power, heat, fuel, or other energy product produced;
market area; marketing plans for projected output, if needed; extent of
competition for the particular target market(s); extent of competition for supply;
delivered costs; and general characterization of supply availability (more detailed
information is provided in the Woody Biomass Resource Supply Assessment
section).
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


Technical feasibility analysis that includes assessment of the recommended
renewable energy technology, other technologies considered, why the
recommended renewable energy technology was chosen, site suitability given the
recommended renewable energy technology, actions and costs necessary to
mitigate environmental impacts sufficient to meet regulatory requirements,
developmental costs, capital investment costs, operational costs, projected
income, estimated accuracy of these costs and income projections, sensitivity
analysis with clear and explicit assumptions, and identification of project
constraints or limitations.
Financial feasibility analysis that includes projected income and cash flow for at
least 36 months, description of cost accounting system, availability of short-term
credit for the operational phase, and a pro forma financial statement with clear
and explicit assumptions.
List of personnel and teams undertaking project development, implementation,
and operations, including a clear description of how continuity between project
phases will be maintained. Describe the qualifications of each team member
including relevant education and management experience with the same or
similar projects and how recently this experience occurred.
b. The Woody Biomass Resource Supply Assessment must provide a description of
the potential woody biomass supply, including an estimate of the portion coming
from National Forest System lands. At a minimum, the assessment should address
each of the following items:
 Feedstock location and procurement area relative to the project site.
 Types of biomass fuel available and realistic pricing information based on fuel
specifications required by the technology chosen, including explicit breakout of
forest-sourced, agricultural-sourced, and urban-sourced biomass.
 Volume potentially available by ownership, fuel type, and source of biomass
supply, considering recovery rates and other factors, such as Federal, State, and
local policy and management practices. Specifically state the percentage of
estimated volumes coming from National Forest System lands.
 Risk assessment of future biomass fuel supply including, but not limited to,
impacts of potential Federal, State, and local policy changes; availability of
additional fuel types; increased competition for biomass resource supply; and
changes in transportation costs.
 Summary of estimated annual woody biomass that is available versus projected
annual fuel use (i.e. a ratio usually exceeding 2:1).
 Minimum 5-year biomass fuel pricing forecast for material or blend of material
meeting fuel specifications delivered to project site (required for the financial pro
forma statement).
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2. Creditworthiness Requirements: For-profit and nonprofit organization applicants must
have a Dun and Bradstreet rating that falls within the following categories:
a. Financial stress rating should be 1, 2, or 3 (1 being the best and 5 being the worst)
b. Credit score should be 1, 2, or 3 (1 being the best and 5 being the worst)
c. Paydex score should be between 60 and 100 (0 being the lowest and 100 the highest)
Corporate annual reports will not be accepted as evidence of due diligence for a business.
The Dun and Bradstreet ratings will be obtained as evidence of the financial capability of
the applicant. Applicants will not be charged for the Dun and Bradstreet or Moody’s
reports. All financial information is kept confidential.
Before successful proposals can be funded, the applicant must first obtain a DUNS
number from Dun & Bradstreet, and then register their organization at the System for
Award Management Web site: www.sam.gov (formerly Central Contracting
Registration). To verify that the organization has a DUNS number, or to take steps
needed to obtain one, the applicant may call the dedicated toll-free DUNS number
request line at (866) 705–5711 or go to http://www.dunandbradstreet.com. Applications
submitted through www.grants.gov will not be accepted without a DUNS number.
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IV. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
A. Evaluation Criteria
Reviewers will assign points to each proposal based on its ability to meet the criteria
listed below. Each proposal can earn a maximum of 100 total points. If a reviewer
determines that a proposal meets basic requirements for a criterion, half the number of
points will be awarded. More points can be earned if the reviewer determines that a
proposal exceeds the basic criteria and fewer if a proposal falls short of the basic criteria.
A maximum of 100 total points can be earned by a proposal, as illustrated below:
Evaluation Criteria
Maximum Points
1
1. Feasibility assessment shows economic viability for
the proposed projects.
20
2. Woody biomass resource supply assessment
demonstrates long-term wood supply and support for
hazardous fuel reduction/forest health needs on
National Forest System lands.
20
3. Demonstrates appropriate partnering, technical
expertise, and financial health of applicant.
20
4. Presents a realistic timeline, scope, and project
accomplishments.
20
5. Geographic or sector-based clusters (campuses,
hospitals, prisons, poultry houses).
20
Total points:
100
45
For detailed evaluation criteria descriptions, go to www.na.fs.fed.us/werc, 2014 Wood to
Energy Grant Program, Evaluation Criteria descriptions.
B. Review and Selection Process
All applications will be screened to ensure compliance with the administrative requirements
as set forth in this Request for Proposals. Applications not following the directions for
submission will be disqualified without appeal. The appropriate Forest Service Region will
provide a preliminary review based on grant administrative requirements and regional
priorities of environmental, social, and economic impacts. Each region may submit up to
seven proposals for the nationwide competition, which will consist of a technical review of
the proposed project by Federal experts or their designees from different Federal agencies
who are experienced in energy systems, financing projects, or forestry. Panel reviewers will
9
independently evaluate each proposed project for merit and assign a score using the criteria
listed above. Technical merits, along with the regional priorities, will be submitted to the
Forest Service national leadership for final selection and announcement.
C. Anticipated Announcement and Award Date
April 22, 2014
Issuance of Request for Proposals
June 3, 2014
Proposal submission deadline
July 29, 2014
Approximate date for U.S. Forest Service to notify applicants of results
August 15, 2014
Approximate date of award
V. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION
A. Award Notices
It is expected that applicants will be notified about funding decisions around July 29, 2014,
by e-mail or U.S. Postal Service. Successful applicants will receive notification from the
appropriate Forest Service Grants and Agreements Office.
B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Financial Checklist
This checklist will help in the smooth processing of your proposal, if it is selected for
funding.
1. Do you have a recently dated copy of your IRS nonprofit/for-profit tax status? If you
are a first-time applicant and your proposal is selected for funding, you will be required
to provide a copy.
2. Are you registered in the System for Award Management (formerly Central
Contracting Registration)? If you are not currently registered, or are unsure of your
current expiration date, please go to www.sam.gov.
3. Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) Number
a. Do you have a DUNS number that identifies your organization as listed on your
application, or do you "share" this number with other parts of a larger organization?
b. Do you have more than one DUNS number? If so, please use the DUNS number that
matches the Employer Identification Number (EIN) assigned by the IRS.
4. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
a. Do you have an EIN that is specifically assigned to your organization, or do you
"share" this number with other parts of a larger organization?
b. Do you have more than one EIN number? If so, please provide the one EIN number
that matches the IRS letter required in Part 1 of this section showing your current
nonprofit or for-profit tax status.
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5. Indirect Costs
a. Do you have a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) with your
cognizant agency if you intend to show indirect costs for reimbursement with Federal
funds or as a component of your match?
b. If not, you will have to obtain a NICRA from your cognizant agency no later than 3
months after the effective date of the award.
C. Reporting
Annual financial reports, annual progress reports, and a detailed final report will be required
as a condition of this award. This information will be outlined in the official award letter
provided to successful applicants.
1. Annual progress reports are required on a calendar basis. The reports will provide an
overview of progress and accomplishments by goals and objectives included in the
approved grant narrative.
2. A detailed final progress report is required and will include the following:
a. Final Summary Report: A brief overview of accomplishments by goals and objectives
included in the approved grant narrative.
b. Final Accomplishment Report: Includes various assessments, reports, case studies,
and related documents that resulted from the project’s activities.
D. Agency Contacts
For questions regarding this Request for Proposals or administrative regulations, contact the
appropriate U.S. Forest Service Regional Biomass Coordinator listed below.
Applications should be submitted to the appropriate Regional Coordinator or through
www.grants.gov. These coordinators will be the point of contact for application submittals
and final awards.
11
Forest Service Region 1
Forest Service Region 2
(MT, ND, Northern ID, & Northwestern SD)
ATTN: Angela Farr
USDA Forest Service
Northern Region (R1)
Federal Building
200 East Broadway
Missoula, MT 59807
afarr@fs.fed.us
(406) 329-3521
(CO, KS, NE, SD, & WY)
ATTN: Mike Eckhoff
USDA Forest Service
Rocky Mountain Region (R2)
740 Simms Street
Golden, CO 80401-4702
mike.eckhoff@colostate.edu
(970) 219-2140
Forest Service Region 3
Forest Service Region 4
(AZ & NM)
ATTN: Dennis Dwyer
USDA Forest Service
Southwestern Region (R3)
333 Broadway Boulevard, SE
Albuquerque, NM 87102
ddwyer@fs.fed.us
(505) 842-3480
(Southern ID, NV, UT, & Western WY)
ATTN: Scott Bell
USDA Forest Service
Intermountain Region (R4)
Federal Building
324 25th Street
Ogden, UT 84401
sbell@fs.fed.us
(801) 625-5259
Forest Service Region 5
Forest Service Region 6
(CA, HI, Guam, and Trust Territories of the
Pacific Islands)
ATTN: Larry Swan
USDA Forest Service
Pacific Southwest Region (R5)
1323 Club Drive
Vallejo, CA 95492-1110
lswan01@fs.fed.us
(707) 562-8917
(OR & WA)
ATTN: Ron Saranich
USDA Forest Service
Pacific Northwest Region (R6)
1220 SW 3rd Ave
Portland, OR 97204
rsaranich@fs.fed.us
(503) 808-2346
Forest Service Region 8
Forest Service Region 9/Northeastern Area
(AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC,
TN, TX, VA, Virgin Islands, & Puerto Rico)
ATTN: Dan Len
USDA Forest Service
Southern Region (R8)
1720 Peachtree Road NW
Atlanta, GA 30309
dlen@fs.fed.us
(404) 347-4034
(CT, DL, IL, IN, IA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO,
NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VT, WV, WI)
ATTN: Lew McCreery
USDA Forest Service
Northeastern Area State and Private Forestry
180 Canfield Street
Morgantown, WV 26505
lmccreery@fs.fed.us
(304) 285-1538
Forest Service Region 10
(Alaska)
ATTN: Daniel Parrent
USDA Forest Service
Alaska Region (R10)
161 East 1st Avenue, Door 8
Anchorage, AK 99501
djparrent@fs.fed.us
(907) 743-9467
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Wood to Energy (W2E) Grant Project Application
W2E Project Application, Part 1: Cooperator Contact Information
W2E Project Application, Part 2: Narrative Proposal and Appendices
W2E Project Application, Part 3: Required Financial Forms
13
Wood to Energy Grant
Project Application – Part 1:
Cooperator Contact Information (FY2014)
APPLICANT LOCATION State:
WERC USE ONLY
Proposal Number:
City:
County:
COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT AND PROJECT INFORMATION
Cooperative Agreement Applicant  Name of person officially responsible for cooperative agreement
and funding requirements
Name:
Phone:
Fax:
Title:
Organization/Company:
Bureau/Division:
Section/Program:
Street Address:
P.O. Box:
City:
State:
E-mail Address:
Zip:
Web Site:
Key Project Contact  Responsible for management/coordination of the project; if named above,
check here  ☐
Name:
Phone:
Fax:
State:
Zip:
Title:
Organization/Company:
Bureau/Division:
Section/Program:
Street Address:
P.O. Box:
City:
E-mail Address:
Web Site:
COOPERATIVE FUNDING AND PROJECT COST
Cooperator Funding: $
Requested U.S. Forest Service Funding: $
Funding Ratio (Cooperator: U.S. Forest Service): ( : )
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Total Cost: $
Wood to Energy Grant Project Application – Part 2:
Narrative Proposal and Appendices
Application Guidelines for Fiscal Year 2014
A. Project Title:
B. Length of Project: Up to 3 years
C. Costs: Estimated overall project costs – include both Forest Service funds requested and
cooperator match. Show costs for each year for the length of the project.
D. Forest Service Region:
E. Abstract: Provide a brief description of the project. Please be concise and clear. If funded, the
abstract will be posted on the WERC Web site.
F. List of Collaborative Partners: (Include letters of support in an appendix.)
List personnel and teams undertaking project development, implementation, and operations.
Briefly describe the qualifications of each team member, including relevant education,
management experiences, and role.
G. Project Goals and Objectives: (provide in bullet format)
H. Project Narrative (Maximum of 10 pages):
The project narrative must provide a clear description of the work to be performed; impact
from removing woody biomass and creating renewable energy, especially how it benefits
National Forest System lands (e.g. tons of biomass removed that would have otherwise been
burned, cost savings to landowners, source of biomass removed from forested areas broken
out by ownership); and how geographic or sector-based clusters will be incorporated into the
project. The project narrative should address the following:
1. Describe the proposed wood energy system(s) including goals and objectives of the
project and statement of need.
2. Briefly describe the following aspects of the completed Comprehensive Feasibility
Assessment (see pages 6 and 7 for additional details):
a. Summarize the economic feasibility of the proposed project. List key assumptions.
Include items such as site assessment, capitalization costs, operating and maintenance
costs, labor force wages and availability, utilities, access and transportation systems,
and raw material feedstock needs and costs. The synopsis should include the overall
15
economic impact, such as jobs created and retained on a full-time equivalent basis
displayed by employment associated with operating the facility itself and supplying
the facility. Include a brief synopsis of a market feasibility study that analyzed
market(s) for power, heat, fuel, or other energy product produced; market area;
marketing plans for projected output, if needed; extent of competition for particular
target market(s); extent of competition for supply; delivered costs; and general
characterization of supply availability.
b. Synopsis of the technical feasibility analysis that includes assessment of the
recommended renewable energy technology, other technologies considered, why the
recommended renewable energy technology was chosen, site suitability given the
recommended renewable energy technology, actions and costs necessary to mitigate
environmental impacts sufficient to meet regulatory requirements, developmental
costs, capital investment costs, operational costs, projected income, estimated
accuracy of these costs and income projections, sensitivity analysis with clear and
explicit assumptions, and identification of project constraints or limitations.
c. Synopsis of financial feasibility analysis that incorporates projected income and cash
flow for at least 36 months, description of cost accounting system, availability of
short-term credit for operational phase, and a pro forma financial statement with clear
and explicit assumptions.
d. Other items important to note regarding the success of the proposed project.
3. Briefly describe the Woody Biomass Resource Supply Assessment and address the
following items (see page 7 for additional details):
a. Feedstock location and procurement area relative to the project site.
b. Types of biomass fuel available and realistic pricing information based on fuel
specifications required by the technology chosen, including breakout of forestsourced, agricultural-sourced, and urban-sourced biomass. Specifically, describe the
fuel requirements (amount, moisture content, and other raw material characteristics,
such as particle geometry and size).
c. Volume potentially available by ownership, fuel type, and source of biomass supply,
considering recovery rates and other factors, such as Federal, State, and local policy
and management practices. Specifically, state the percentage of estimated volumes
coming from National Forest System lands.
d. Synopsis of risk assessment of future biomass fuel supply including, but not limited to,
impacts of potential Federal, State, and local policy changes; availability of additional
fuel types; increased competition for biomass resource supply; and changes in
transportation costs.
e. Summarize estimated annual woody biomass that is available versus projected annual
fuel use (i.e. a ratio usually exceeding 2:1).
f. Minimum 5-year biomass fuel pricing forecast for material or blend of material
meeting fuel specifications delivered to the project site.
g. Other items important to note regarding the success of the proposed project.
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4. List and describe the key issues associated with the condition of forests economically
accessible to the proposed project, such as insects, disease, hazardous fuels, and
catastrophic weather events, and the impact of not conducting forest management.
Describe how residue from forest management activities is currently being disposed of to
meet State, Federal, and/or local forest and fire priorities.
5. Briefly describe layout and configuration of the proposed system. Include capacity of all
processing equipment, such as boilers or steam turbines. Include a flowchart, naming steps
and processes, and associated equipment or machinery. Attach schematics in appendix.
6. List and describe required permits and all other regulatory obligations and costs that must
be met for the facility to be approved, including a timeline that shows retrofit or new
construction activities and commissioning date. Please be realistic and include discussion
about where challenges or obstacles may be expected and how this might affect the
projected timeline.
7. Outline the key categories for the proposed design, costing, and permitting analysis that
will be funded by the grant. Include outputs anticipated and a timeline for
accomplishment, including start and end dates and key tasks.
8. Describe how the proposed project will be financed. Include funds raised, sources, and
general terms and conditions. Include how much remains to be raised, sources being
accessed, potential terms and conditions, and any other pertinent information about the
status of funding committed for capitalization and initial operations.
9. Describe outreach efforts to maximize dissemination of project results and pass on lessons
learned.
10. Describe any geographic or sector-based clustering aspects of the proposed project.
Explain short-term and long-term potential of any planned clusters for the proposed
biomass energy system(s).
I. Qualifications and Summary Portfolio of Engineering Services (Maximum 2 pages):
For the engineering systems, the project usually consists of a system designer, project
manager, equipment supplier, project engineer, construction contractor of system installer, and
a system operator and maintainer. One individual or entity may serve more than one role. The
project team must have demonstrated expertise in similar wood energy systems development,
engineering, installation, and maintenance. The application must include authoritative
evidence that project team service providers have the necessary professional credentials or
relevant experience to perform the required services, and that vendors of proprietary
components can provide necessary equipment and spare parts for the system to operate over
its design life. A list of the same or similar projects designed, installed, and currently
operating must be provided along with appropriate contacts.
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J. Community Benefit Statement (Maximum 1 page):
Provide a one-page narrative on the social, environmental, and economic impact and
importance of the project. Examples include, but are not limited to, fossil fuel offsets, jobs
created and/or maintained during the design phase and when system is operational,
community support, fuel savings, forest management benefits, or local businesses supported.
Estimate effects on natural resources, such as projected reduction in greenhouse gases and
water pollution as well as improvements to forest conditions (emphasis on National Forest
System lands).
K. Budget Summary and Justification in Support of SF–424A (Maximum 2 pages):
Please complete the budget table. The budget should support the narrative statements and
reflect needed costs. A budget detail worksheet that can be used as a guide is located at
http://www.na.fs.fed.us/fap/budgetdetailtemplate.shtm. All U.S. Forest Service funds received
must be matched with non-Federal dollars on an 80:20 basis. The match needs to be within the
proposed project timeframe. Proposals selected for funding should begin around August 15,
2014. Forest Service funds cannot be used for construction.
1. Budget Table:
Categories
I
Forest Service Share
II
Cooperator’s Share
III
Total
1. Personnel
2. Fringe benefits
3. Travel
4. Equipment
5. Supplies/Materials
6. Contractual (identify below)
7. Construction
8. Other (identify below)
Not Applicable
9. Direct charges
10. Indirect charges
11. Total
12. Percentage of Total
Instructions for the Budget Table:
1. Lines 1-8: Enter the dollar amount for each item.
2. Lines 6 and 8: Provide details below.
3. Line 9: Sum of 1 – 8.
4. Line 10: Enter charges not directly attributable to accomplishing the project, such as overhead.
You are encouraged to keep the Forest Service share of indirect charges to a minimum.
5. Line 12: Use the total in Line 11, Column III to determine the percentage of each share.
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Explanation and details for Category 6 (Contractual):
Explanation and details for Category 8 (Other):
Additional explanation and details:
2. Cooperator Contributions (not including U.S. Forest Service contributions)
Cooperator
Cash
Materials
In-Kind
Services
Total
Totals
Instructions for the Cooperator Contributions Table:
Excluding U.S. Forest Service contributions, identify the value of all other cooperator
contributions. Please value in-kind contributions and materials at reasonable and acceptable rates.
L. Required Appendices:
1. Comprehensive Feasibility Assessment
2. Woody Biomass Resource Supply Assessment
3. Quotes for Professional Engineering Services: Minimum of two quotes or rationale for
selection of engineering firm, if already selected
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4. Letters of Support from Partners: Letters of support are intended to display the degree of
collaboration occurring between the different entities engaged in the project. These letters
must include partner commitments of cash or in-kind services from all those listed in the
SF–424 and SF–424A.
5. Miscellaneous, such as schematics
6. Federal Funds: List all other Federal funds received for this project within the last 3 years.
(List agency, program name, and dollar amount)
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Wood to Energy Grant Application – Part 3:
Required Financial Forms
Guidelines for Fiscal Year 2014
Application for Federal Assistance
The following forms need to be completed and submitted with your proposal:
1. SF–424: Application for Federal Assistance
2. SF–424A: Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs
3. SF–424B: Assurances for Non-Construction Programs
4. AD–1047: Certification Regarding Debarment and Suspension
5. AD–1049: Certification Regarding Drug-Free Workplace (or AD-1052 for States and State
agencies)
6. AD-3030: Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax Delinquent Status for
Corporation Applicants
7. FS-1500-35 (Certificate regarding lobby activities)
These forms can be viewed at and downloaded from the following Web site:
http://www.na.fs.fed.us/fap/fap_forms.shtm.
Items to note when completing the SF–424 and SF–424A:
1. Catalog of Domestic Assistance number is 10.674
2. Program name is Forest Products Lab: Technology Marketing Unit
3. Anticipated project start date should be around August 15, 2014
Please Note: If your proposal is funded, you must obtain a DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet,
and then register your organization at the System for Award Management Web site: www.sam.gov
(formerly Central Contracting Registration). To verify that your organization has a DUNS number, or
to take steps needed to obtain one, you may call the dedicated toll-free DUNS number request line at
(866) 705–5711, or go to http://www.dunandbradstreet.com. If you submit your application through
www.grants.gov, these items need to be completed before your application can be successfully
submitted.
Each submittal must consist of two separate PDF (or Word) files, as follows:
1. Proposal narrative and appendices (W2E Application Part 1 & Part 2, and Appendices)
2. Financial forms (W2E Application Part 3)
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