REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL 000-00-000 · Web viewGFO-20-605 August 2020Page 61 of 61BESTFIT Innovative Charging Solutions Insert date herePage 8 of 20PON # xxx-xx-xxx As of 09/10/09 (of

GRANT FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

Clean Transportation Program

BESTFIT Innovative Charging Solutions

GFO-20-605www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/index.html

State of CaliforniaCalifornia Energy Commission

August 2020

http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/index.html

Table of ContentsI. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................5

A. PURPOSE OF SOLICITATION..............................................................................................5B. BACKGROUND..................................................................................................................5C. COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY............................................................................................6D. KEY ACTIVITIES AND DATES.............................................................................................6E. HOW AWARD IS DETERMINED..........................................................................................6F. AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS...................................................................................................7G. MAXIMUM AWARD AMOUNTS...........................................................................................7H. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS..............................................................................8I. PRE-APPLICATION WORKSHOP.........................................................................................8J. PARTICIPATION THROUGH ZOOM......................................................................................9K. QUESTIONS......................................................................................................................9L. CONTACT INFORMATION.................................................................................................10M. REFERENCE DOCUMENTS...............................................................................................10

II. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS....................................................................................12A. APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS............................................................................................12B. PROJECT REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................13C. ELIGIBLE PROJECT COSTS..............................................................................................18D. MATCH FUNDING REQUIREMENTS..................................................................................18E. UNALLOWABLE COSTS (REIMBURSABLE OR MATCH SHARE)...........................................22

III. TWO-PHASE EVALUATION PROCESS.....................................................................24IV. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT FORMAT, REQUIRED DOCUMENTS, AND DELIVERY.................................................................................................................................25

A. REQUIRED FORMAT FOR A PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT.................................................25B. METHODS FOR DELIVERY...............................................................................................25C. PAGE LIMITATIONS.........................................................................................................27D. PRE-APPLICATION ORGANIZATION / REQUIRED DOCUMENTS...........................................27

V. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT EVALUATION PROCESS AND CRITERIA.....31A. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT EVALUATION.....................................................................31B. NOTICE OF PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT RESULTS.........................................................33C. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT DEBRIEFINGS....................................................................34D. SCORING SCALE............................................................................................................34E. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT EVALUATION CRITERIA......................................................35

VI. FULL APPLICATION FORMAT, REQUIRED DOCUMENTS, AND DELIVERY. 37A. REQUIRED FORMAT FOR A FULL APPLICATION................................................................37B. METHODS FOR DELIVERY...............................................................................................37C. PAGE LIMITATIONS.........................................................................................................38D. FULL APPLICATION ORGANIZATION.................................................................................39

VII. FULL APPLICATION EVALUATION PROCESS AND CRITERIA......................50A. FULL APPLICATION EVALUATION.....................................................................................50B. NOTICE OF PROPOSED AWARDS.....................................................................................53C. DEBRIEFINGS.................................................................................................................53D. SCORING SCALE............................................................................................................53E. FULL APPLICATION EVALUATION CRITERIA......................................................................55F. TIE BREAKERS...............................................................................................................58

GFO-20-605August 2020 Page 2 of 65 BESTFIT Innovative Charging Solutions

VIII. ADMINISTRATION.................................................................................................59A. DEFINITION OF KEY WORDS...........................................................................................59B. COST OF DEVELOPING APPLICATION...............................................................................59C. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.........................................................................................59D. SOLICITATION CANCELLATION AND AMENDMENTS...........................................................59E. ERRORS.........................................................................................................................60F. MODIFYING OR WITHDRAWAL OF APPLICATION...............................................................60G. IMMATERIAL DEFECT......................................................................................................60H. DISPOSITION OF APPLICANT’S DOCUMENTS....................................................................60I. APPLICANTS’ ADMONISHMENT........................................................................................60J. AGREEMENT REQUIREMENTS..........................................................................................61K. NO AGREEMENT UNTIL SIGNED AND APPROVED.............................................................61


Attachments1A Pre-Application Abstract Form1B Full Application Form2 Scope of Work Template3 Scope of Work Instructions4 Schedule of Products and Due Dates5 Budget Forms6 Contact List7 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Worksheet8 Local Health Impacts Information Form9 Clean Transportation Program Terms and Conditions10 Past Performance Reference Form


I. IntroductionA. PURPOSE OF SOLICITATION

This is a competitive grant solicitation. The California Energy Commission’s (CEC’s) Clean Transportation Program (formerly known as the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program) announces the availability of up to $7,500,000 in grant funds for projects that demonstrate transformative technology solutions and work to accelerate the successful commercial deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging for both light-duty and medium- and heavy-duty (MD/HD) applications.

Previous work at the CEC, such as the EV Ready Communities Challenge grants and analysis for Assembly Bill 2127, have highlighted the need for unique charging solutions that are suited to the local built environment. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to EV charging, and there is instead a need to have a portfolio of charging solutions that complement and compete with one another. The purpose of this solicitation is to demonstrate novel technologies and/or business models that highlight these types of innovative charging solutions and form factors that are the “best fit” for the local built environment, use case, and vehicle type.

B. BACKGROUNDAssembly Bill (AB) 118 (Nùñez, Chapter 750, Statutes of 2007), created the Clean Transportation Program. The statute authorizes the CEC to develop and deploy alternative and renewable fuels and advanced transportation technologies to help attain the state’s climate change policies. AB 8 (Perea, Chapter 401, Statues of 2013) re-authorized the Clean Transportation Program through January 1, 2024, and specified that CEC allocate up to $20 million per year (or up to 20 percent of each fiscal year’s funds) in funding for hydrogen station development until at least 100 stations are operational.

The Clean Transportation Program has an annual budget of approximately $100 million and provides financial support for projects that:

Reduce California’s use and dependence on petroleum transportation fuels and increase the use of alternative and renewable fuels and advanced vehicle technologies.

Produce sustainable alternative and renewable low-carbon fuels in California.

Expand alternative fueling infrastructure and fueling stations. Improve the efficiency, performance and market viability of

alternative light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicle technologies.


Retrofit medium- and heavy-duty on-road and non-road vehicle fleets to alternative technologies or fuel use.

Expand the alternative fueling infrastructure available to existing fleets, public transit, and transportation corridors.

Establish workforce training programs and conduct public outreach on the benefits of alternative transportation fuels and vehicle technologies.

C. COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITYThe CEC is committed to ensuring that participation in its Clean Transportation Program reflects the rich and diverse characteristics of California and its people. To meet this commitment, CEC staff conducts outreach efforts and activities to:

Ensure potential new Applicants throughout the state are aware of the CEC’s Clean Transportation Program and the funding opportunities the program provides.

Encourage greater participation by underrepresented groups including disabled veteran-, women-, minority-, and LGBT-owned businesses.

Assist Applicants in understanding how to apply for funding from the CEC’s Clean Transportation Program.

D. KEY ACTIVITIES AND DATESKey activities including dates and times for this solicitation are presented below. An addendum will be released if the dates change for the asterisked (*) activities.

ACTIVITY ACTION DATESolicitation Release August 7, 2020Pre-Application Workshop* August 18, 2020Deadline for Written Questions* August 21, 2020Anticipated Distribution of Questions/Answers September 10,

2020Deadline to Submit Pre-Application Abstracts by 5:00 p.m.*

September 25 , 2020

Anticipated Notice of Pre-Application Abstracts October 16, 2020Deadline to Submit Full Applications by 5:00 November 20, Anticipated Notice of Proposed Awards Posting December 2020Anticipated CEC Business Meeting February 2021

E. HOW AWARD IS DETERMINEDApplicants passing administrative and technical screening will compete based on evaluation criteria and will be scored and ranked based on those criteria. Unless the CEC exercises any of its other rights regarding this solicitation (e.g., to cancel the solicitation or reduce


funding), applications obtaining at least the minimum passing score will be eligible for funding.

Applicants will be required to designate which Vehicle Sector and Area of Focus category (provided in Section I.G) their proposed project principally addresses. Based on this categorization, the CEC will recommend awards to the highest ranked project within each Area of Focus based on Vehicle Sector selected. If funding remains available, the CEC will recommend awards to the next highest-ranked projects within a Vehicle Sector, across all Area of Focus categories, until all funds available under this solicitation are exhausted. The CEC reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to increase or decrease the amount of funding allocated to a Vehicle Sector.

If the funds available under this solicitation are insufficient to fully fund a grant proposal, the CEC reserves the right to recommend partially funding that proposal. In this event, the proposed Applicant/Awardee and Commission Agreement Manager (CAM) shall meet and attempt to reach agreement on a reduced scope of work commensurate with the level of available funding.

F. AVAILABILITY OF FUNDSA total of $7,500,000 is available for awards under this solicitation. The CEC, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to increase or decrease the amount of funds available under this solicitation.

G. MAXIMUM AWARD AMOUNTSThe maximum award will be based on the Vehicle Sector, as outlined in the table below

Vehicle Sector Area of Focus Maximum

Award AmountTotal

Funding Available

Light-Duty

Increase Utilization

Up to $1 million per Applicant $3.5 million

Minimize Operation, Purchase, and/or Installation

CostsDemonstrate Advancements

in Customer or Charging Interface

MD/HD

Minimize Operation, Purchase, and/or Installation

Costs Up to $2 million per Applicant $4 millionDemonstrate Advancements

in Customer or Charging Interface


Applicants must identify whether their proposed project will serve light-duty or MD/HD vehicles. Applicants whose proposed projects serve light-duty vehicles are eligible for up to $1 million, while Applicants whose proposed projects serve MD/HD vehicles are eligible for up to $2 million. If an Applicant plans to submit an application for a project that serves light-duty vehicles, and another separate and distinct application for a project that serves MD/HD vehicles, the Applicant can be eligible for the maximum award amount in both categories, totaling $3 million.Please note the maximum award amount applies to the Applicant, not the project. Please also note that Applicants are not required to submit an application that requests the maximum award amount. Applicants may submit one or more applications that request less funding if that is all that is required.

If a single proposed project will serve a combination of light-duty and MD/HD vehicles, the Applicant must designate which Vehicle Sector will be principally served to determine the appropriate maximum award amount. However, the additional scope of the proposed project serving the other Vehicle Sector will be factored in the Pre-Application Abstract Evaluation Criteria found in Section V.E and the Full Application Evaluation Criteria found in VII.E.

Based on their Vehicle Sector designation, Applicants must identify which Area of Focus their proposed project will principally address. The CEC expects to award at least one project in each Area of Focus. Once the highest ranked projects achieving at least the minimum passing score in each Area of Focus are recommended for funding, if funding remains available, the CEC will award the next highest-ranking project achieving at least the minimum passing score within the Vehicle Sector that has available funding. Please note that applications are not required to request the full award amount, and Applicants are eligible to receive multiple awards up to the maximum award amount per Applicant.

For example, in the light-duty sector, CEC expects to recommend three awards: one to “Increase Utilization,” one to “Minimize Operation, Purchase, and/or Installation Costs,” and one to “Demonstrate Advancements in Customer or Charging Interface.” If each of these awards receives the maximum award per Applicant amount of $1 million, then the light-duty sector will have $500,000 of funding remaining. This remaining funding will go towards the highest ranked application(s) achieving at least the minimum passing score in that Vehicle Sector that has not already received an award, regardless of its Area of Focus designation.


H. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF APPLICATIONSApplicants may submit any number of applications under this solicitation. Note the maximum award amount in each Vehicle Sector applies to each Applicant, not each proposed project.

Applicants must identify only one Area of Focus per the table in Section I.G that the proposed project in their application principally addresses. Each proposed project must be separate and distinct and adhere to all requirements contained in this solicitation.

I. PRE-APPLICATION WORKSHOPThere will be one Pre-Application Workshop; participation in this meeting is optional but encouraged. The Pre-Application Workshop will be held remotely through Zoom, which is the CEC’s online meeting service, at the date and time listed below. Please call (916) 654-4381 or refer to the CEC's website at www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/index.html to confirm the date and time.

August 18, 202010:00 AM

Remote Access Only

Remote access is available by computer or phone via Zoom.

J. PARTICIPATION THROUGH ZOOMZoom is the CEC’s online meeting service. When attending remotely, presentations will appear on your computer/laptop/mobile device screen, and audio may be heard via the device or telephone. Please be aware that the Zoom meeting will be recorded.

Zoom Instructions:To join this workshop, go to Zoom at https://energy.zoom.us/j/95797746229?pwd=YkVzZnR0QXhOT01rQ0hvREkwUVFwdz09. You may also access the workshop by going to the Zoom webpage at https://zoom.us/join and enter the unique meeting ID and password below:

Meeting Number: 957 9774 6229Meeting Password: 250509Topic: GFO-20-605 Pre-Application Workshop - BESTFIT

Innovative Charging Solutions

Telephone Access Only:Call (888) 853-5257 or (888) 475-4499 (toll free). When prompted, enter the unique meeting ID number above. To


https://zoom.us/join

https://energy.zoom.us/j/95797746229?pwd=YkVzZnR0QXhOT01rQ0hvREkwUVFwdz09


comment over the telephone, dial *9 to “raise your hand” and *6 to mute/unmute your phone line.

Technical Support:For assistance with problems or questions about joining or attending the meeting, please call Zoom Technical Support at (888) 799-9666 ext. 2, or you may contact the CEC’s Public Advisor’s Office at [email protected], or (800) 822-6228.

K. QUESTIONSDuring the solicitation process, questions of clarification about this solicitation must be directed to the Commission Agreement Officer (CAO) listed in the following section. You may ask questions at the Pre-Application Workshop, and you may submit written questions via mail, electronic mail, and by FAX. However, all questions must be received by 5:00 pm on the date listed in the Key Activities and Dates table earlier in this solicitation.

Question and answer sets will be e-mailed to all parties who attended the Pre-Application Workshop and provided their contact information. The questions and answers will also be posted on the CEC’s website at: www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/index.html.

Any verbal communication with a CEC employee concerning this solicitation is not binding on the State and shall in no way alter a specification, term, or condition of the solicitation. All communication must be directed in writing to the CAO assigned to the solicitation.

L. CONTACT INFORMATION

Marissa Sutton, Commission Agreement OfficerCalifornia Energy Commission

1516 Ninth Street, MS-18Sacramento, California 95814Telephone: (916) 654-9409

FAX: (916) 654-4423E-mail: [email protected]

M. REFERENCE DOCUMENTSApplicants responding to this solicitation may want to familiarize themselves with the following documents:

2019-2020 Investment Plan Update for the Clean Transportation Program (CEC-600-2018-005-SD-LCF-REV2). https://efiling.energy.ca.gov/getdocument.aspx?tn=231247


https://efiling.energy.ca.gov/getdocument.aspx?tn=231247



mailto:[email protected]

2020-2021 Investment Plan Update for the Clean Transportation Program (CEC-600-2018-SD-LCF).https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/clean-transportation-program/2020-2021-investment-plan-update

2020-2023 Investment Plan Update for the Clean Transportation Program(CEC-600-2020-001-SD). https://efiling.energy.ca.gov/getdocument.aspx?tn=232280

SAE J1772 Standard: Electric Vehicle and Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Conductive Charge Couplerhttps://www.sae.org/standards/content/j1772_201710/

National Electric Code 2020 Editionhttps://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=70

Underwriters Laboratory 916: Standard for Energy Management Equipmenthttps://standardscatalog.ul.com/standards/en/standard_916_5

Open Charge Alliance: Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP)https://www.openchargealliance.org/

OpenADR Alliance: Open Automated Demand Response (OpenADR) Protocolhttps://www.openadr.org/


https://www.openadr.org/

https://www.openadr.org/

https://www.openchargealliance.org/

https://standardscatalog.ul.com/standards/en/standard_916_5

https://standardscatalog.ul.com/standards/en/standard_916_5

https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=70

https://www.sae.org/standards/content/j1772_201710/

https://www.sae.org/standards/content/j1772_201710/



https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/clean-transportation-program/2020-2021-investment-plan-update




II. Eligibility RequirementsA. APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS

1. EligibilityThis solicitation is open to all private entities with a business presence in California. To be eligible, Applicants must be involved in the EV or charging equipment business, such as the following:

Automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) – Entities that manufacture and produce vehicles.

EV charging product manufacturers – Entities that manufacture and develop charging equipment and products.

Electric vehicle service providers (EVSPs) – Entities that manage connectivity across a network of chargers and/or offer software solutions using EV charging equipment.

Applicants are encouraged to partner with local city or county government authorities, nonprofit entities, community-based organizations, environmental organizations, local workforce development agencies, building developers, technology vendors, utilities, researchers, local community colleges, and financiers throughout the application process.

2. Terms and ConditionsEach grant agreement resulting from this solicitation will include terms and conditions that set forth the Recipient’s rights and responsibilities. By providing the required authorizations and certifications, each Applicant agrees to enter into an agreement, if awarded, with the CEC to conduct the proposed project according to the standard terms and conditions (Attachment 9) without negotiation.

Failure to agree to the terms and conditions by taking actions such as failing to provide the required authorizations and certifications or indicating that acceptance is based on modification of the terms will result in rejection of the application. Applicants must read the terms and conditions carefully. The CEC reserves the right to modify the terms and conditions prior to executing grant agreements.

3. California Secretary of State RegistrationAll corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships (LPs) and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) that


conduct intrastate business in California are required to be registered and in good standing with the California Secretary of State prior to its project being recommended for approval at a CEC Business Meeting. If not currently registered with the California Secretary of State, Applicants are encouraged to contact the Secretary of State’s Office as soon as possible to avoid potential delays in beginning the proposed project(s) (should the application be successful). For more information, contact the Secretary of State's Office via its website at www.sos.ca.gov. Sole proprietors using a fictitious business name must be registered with the appropriate county and provide evidence of registration to the CEC prior to their project being recommended for approval at a CEC Business Meeting.

B. PROJECT REQUIREMENTS1. Eligible Projects

All projects must demonstrate novel technologies and/or business models that highlight innovative charging solutions and form factors that are the “best fit” for the local built environment, use case, and vehicle type.

All demonstrations must be installed in California for public or private use, real-world operating conditions at least at the bench scale, and must demonstrate how the novel technology and/or business model could be deployed at scale in the future and become commercially viable.

Applicants must identify only one Area of Focus, defined in Section 2, that their proposed project principally addresses. This Area of Focus designation will be used to categorize and rank applications for funding. The CEC recognizes that designating only one Area of Focus could limit Applicants’ ability to fully capture the scope of their proposed projects. Applicants will be able to provide support and evidence for other Areas of Focus their proposed projects may address secondarily, which will be factored in the Pre-Application Abstract Evaluation Criteria in Section V.E and the Full Application Evaluation Criteria in Section VII.E. The Areas of Focus are expanded upon below:

A. Increase Utilization This category addresses projects designed to increase or maximize efficient utilization of charging infrastructure. The goal of increasing utilization is to increase the throughput of electric miles serviced to EVs by each charger through the creation of new business models and/or technologies that leverage innovative placement


http://www.sos.ca.gov/

and locations, user sharing, queueing, vehicle management, and/or other strategies.

B. Minimize Operating, Purchase, and/or Installation CostsThis category addresses efforts to maximize the benefits of charging installations by avoiding high operating, purchase, and installation costs as well as costly grid impacts. The goal for innovative charging solutions like smart charging and discharging, energy management systems, and distributed energy resources (DERs) is to minimize peak energy use and demand charges as well as defer or outright avoid grid capacity upgrades and associated costs otherwise incurred with traditional approaches. In addition, innovative charging approaches improve site flexibility, such as avoiding trenching in constrained spaces, and mitigate high installation costs. MD/HD projects in this category may not incorporate DERs, defined as technologies that provide power to electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) independent of the electric system. These may include, but are not limited to, standalone battery systems, renewable energy systems, and fuel cell systems operating with low-carbon renewable fuels.

C. Demonstrate Advancements in Customer or Charging Interface This category addresses technological advances to facilitate the adoption of EVs by making the charging experience seamless for drivers and users through standardized interfaces and streamlined customer services. The goal for these advanced interfaces is to simplify charging today, but also lay the foundation for emerging electric transportation applications including autonomous, shared, and connected vehicles. MD/HD projects in this category may not incorporate DERs, defined as technologies that provide power to EVSE independent of the electric system. These may include, but are not limited to, standalone battery systems, renewable energy systems, and fuel cell systems operating with low-carbon renewable fuels.

Examples of project types across the three categories include, but are not limited to:

Fast Charging Plazas – High-powered (> 150 kW), urban-sited direct current (DC) fast charger plazas allow a faster


turnover of vehicles and provide a viable option for drivers that may not have home charging. Proposed projects in this category should identify innovative solutions to barriers regarding the use of DC fast chargers in lieu of home charging.

Novel Sharing Business Models – Examples include private workplace chargers that become publicly available after work hours and software solutions to match charging demand to available chargers in real time.

High-level Communication Adapter – Modification for an SAE J1772 EVSE connector to enable smart charging or metering.

Energy Management System – Management of power loading between an EVSE and other appliances, using plug-based controllers and optimization systems to avoid necessitating electrical upgrades associated with coincident loading consistent with National Electric Code Article 625 for Load Management Systems or Underwriters Laboratory 916 for Energy Management Equipment.

Lamp or Utility Pole – Curbside or parking lot-based charging leveraging existing lighting, electrical, or communications infrastructure fixtures to minimize ground excavation and resurfacing. Furthermore, these fixtures could be targeted to minimize electrical grid upgrades if installation is coordinated with a local energy management effort (e.g. simultaneous light-emitting diode (LED) lamp or building efficiency retrofits).

Distributed Energy Resources – A DER system provides power to EVSE independent of the electric system to support rapid installation of charging in remote locations without reliable or available electrical capacity or other areas constrained by available electrical capacity. This may include fuel cell systems operating with low-carbon renewable fuels. DERs are only allowed in light-duty projects, not in MD/HD projects.

Intra-site Storage – Mobile storage-based charging systems that can move about an individual site challenged by conditions that prevent the construction of stationary EVSE (e.g. expansive and un-assigned parking facilities, constrained electrical grid, or facility operational requirements) to provide on-demand services to drivers.


Inter-site Storage – Mobile storage-based charging systems that can move about multiple sites (e.g. workplaces, public locations, or street-side in urban neighborhoods) to provide on-demand services to drivers.

Vehicle-to-Vehicle Charging – Grid upgrade avoidance through a service where one vehicle discharges energy for the purpose of sharing charge power with another vehicle. This may use a direct vehicle-to-vehicle charging interface or may optionally use an intermediate off-grid storage system.

Pantograph Connection – Automated charging for MD/HD vehicles via overhead connections that mitigate ground egress requirements and enable space-efficient use of parking facilities. Pantograph systems may resolve driver handling of couplers or connections to autonomous vehicles.

Wireless Charging – Automated charging using ground-based systems while the vehicle is parked and stationary or dynamically while it is driving. Wireless systems mitigate potential user burdens or physical reliability (e.g. tampering, equipment management) by automating user interactions necessary for payment and load controls.

Robotic Connection – Automated charging using devices that articulate a conductive connection between the vehicle and electricity supply. The articulation of the connector may be EVSE-based (with the inlet on the vehicle) or vehicle-based (with the inlet on the EVSE). EVSE-based robotic connections could be operated as part of a larger system or apparatus used to facilitate the connection with the vehicle.

Automated Parking Garage – Parking garages designed to accept and convey vehicles into a densely organized structure to store vehicles should also be prepared for transportation electrification. Existing automated garages can be retrofitted with electrical wiring and EVSE or a new garage design could be optimized for various charging and energy management. Further, automated parking garages could help resolve real estate constraints as cities increase density to support broader sustainable transportation goals.


Interoperability for MD/HD Vehicles – Standardized and interoperable charging interfaces are needed for MD/HD vehicles, which currently lack a widely-adopted conductive charging option useful for both private and public charging.

Projects must include deployment of chargers. Light-duty projects may include deployment of renewable DERs or energy storage systems for supplying power to EVs or EV chargers provided the Applicant demonstrates that the DER is a component of the system necessary to address their designated Area of Focus. MD/HD projects may not include DERs.

The CEC recognizes that the examples listed above are diverse, and represent markets that could be either robust, newly forming, or somewhere in the middle. As a result, different technologies and business models will be at various stages of development. To reflect this, eligible projects must fall within at least one of the categories below:

Bench Testing and Validation: Validation of concept in a test setup under real operational conditions.

Demonstration: Demonstration and testing of a complete system prototype under real operating conditions.

Prototype: Proof of functionality and operation of a complete system prototype under real operating conditions.

Complete Operational System: Proof of functionality of complete system under real operating conditions.

Commercial Availability: Qualification of system based on successful operation.

2. Data CollectionEach project must provide a minimum of 12 months of data collection on deployed charging equipment, submitted electronically in a monthly progress report, rather than in a summary report at the conclusion of the 12 months. Applicants shall describe in detail plans to ensure EVs will utilize their infrastructure and enable them to collect 12 months of data on charging events for deployed infrastructure, including, but not limited to:

Charge and session duration Energy delivered in kilowatt-hours (kWh) Peak power delivered in kilowatts (kW)


Applicable price for charging, including but not limited to: electric utility tariff, EVSP service contract, or public charger price

Payment method Types of vehicles using the charging equipment Number of unique vehicles and frequency of “repeat

vehicles” Energy delivered back to grid or facility if a bidirectional

charging use case (kWh)

In addition, the Applicant should identify and develop a plan for providing other relevant data and information to the CEC throughout the duration of the funding agreement including, but not limited to:

Lessons learned Best practices (e.g., permitting and installation processes) Potential job creation Economic development Increased state revenue

3. Ineligible ProjectsThe following project types are NOT eligible for funding under

this solicitation:

Market, literature, or technology surveys, or meta-analysis studies

Basic research and development Projects which include DER for purposes other than

supplying power to EV chargers for light-duty vehicle charging

Tests for regulatory compliance Marketing and promotional activities Software development with no research or validation

component Lab-scale research and validation Research and development that is not EV-related and has

no clear market connection Proof of functions

C. ELIGIBLE PROJECT COSTSCosts incurred for the following activities are eligible for CEC reimbursement or as the Applicant’s match share:

EVSE Transformers Electric panels


Conduit Wiring Meters Energy storage equipment Photovoltaic solar panels separately metered for electric

charging Installation costs Planning and engineering design costs Stub-outs Demand management equipment Charging equipment and software for vehicle retrofits Replacement warranty coverage for retrofitted vehicles Vehicle powertrain and battery packs used for vehicle-to-vehicle

charging

Utility incentives for behind-the-meter infrastructure and rebates for charging equipment may be counted towards match share. See Match Funding Requirements below.

NOTE: Costs incurred prior to executing an agreement will not be reimbursed by the CEC.

D. MATCH FUNDING REQUIREMENTS1. Total Match Share Requirement

Applications must include at least 25 percent of the total allowable project costs as match share (i.e., the sum of the CEC’s reimbursable share and Recipient’s match share).

“Match funding” or “match share” means cash or in-kind (non-cash) contributions provided by the Applicant/Recipient, subcontractors, or other parties that will be used in performance of the proposed project. Match share percentage is calculated by dividing the total match share contributions by the total allowable project cost. “Total allowable project cost” is the sum of the CEC’s reimbursable share and Recipient’s match share of the project costs. Match share expenditures have the following requirements:

a. At a minimum, total match share must conform to the “Cash Match Share Requirement” contained in this solicitation.

b. All match share expenditures must conform to the terms and conditions of this solicitation and the resulting agreement (see Attachment 9).


c. Applicants must disclose the source and provide verification and documentation for the match share funding committed to the project. (For any match share committed by a third party (i.e., other than match share committed by the Applicant), Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter from each match share partner identifying the source(s) and availability of match funding.)

d. During the term of the agreement, Recipients will be required to document and verify all match share expenditures through invoices submitted to the CEC.

e. Match share funding may be in the form of cash or in-kind contributions such as donated labor hours, equipment, facilities, and other property.

f. Equipment, facilities, and property may count as match funds as long as the value of the contribution is based on documented market values or book values, prorated for its use in the project, and depreciated or amortized over the term of the project using generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

g. Match share expenditures (cash and/or in-kind) must be documented, reasonable, allowable, and allocable to the project as determined by the CEC.

h. Match share expenditures are allowable under an agreement only if they are incurred after the CEC notifies the Applicant that its project has been proposed for an award through the release of a Notice of Proposed Awards (NOPA). Match expenditures incurred prior to the approval and execution of an agreement are made at the Applicant’s own risk. The CEC is not liable for Applicant’s match share costs if the grant is not approved, if approval is delayed, or if the match share expenditure is not allowable under the terms and conditions of the grant or this solicitation. Please note that non-match expenditures incurred prior to agreement execution are not reimbursable from CEC funds.

2. Cash Match Share RequirementApplications must include a minimum cash contribution equal to at least 50 percent of the minimum match requirement.

For example, Project A, requesting $750,000 in CEC funding and contributing $250,000 in match funding, must dedicate at least


$125,000 in cash contributions. On the other hand, Project B, requesting $750,000 in CEC funding and contributing $500,000 in match funding, still need only dedicate at least $125,00 in cash contributions.

Cash match means the net of any funds actually expended by the Applicant for the project. Net means after any sort of discount or rebate is applied. Expenditures for Applicant’s compensated labor hours, including allowable fringe benefit and overhead rates, travel, materials, supplies, equipment, subcontractor costs, and other miscellaneous expenditures may be claimed as cash match if the expenditures are included in the approved agreement budget, paid in full with funding sources other than grant funds, and supported with appropriate documentation, including proof of payment. For indirect overhead, backup documentation, such as a cost allocation plan based on actual expenditures incurred and paid, is required. Cost allocations must be reasonable and allocable to the proposed project.

3. In-Kind Match ShareThe balance of the total match share requirement beyond the cash match share requirement (if any) may be met through in-kind match share contributions.

In-kind match share contributions are: 1) non-cash contributions provided by the Applicant; 2) cash or non-cash contributions provided by a subcontractor; and 3) cash or non-cash contributions provided by other third parties. Applicant in-kind match share can be in the form of volunteer labor, real property, existing equipment, existing supplies, services provided by a third-party or subcontract, and other expendable property. The value of in-kind match is based on the fair market value of the goods and services provided at the time it is claimed as match. In-kind match share must be included in the approved agreement budget and supported with appropriate documentation. Cost allocations must be reasonable and allocable to the proposed project.

4. Match Share Restrictions

a. Other Sources of CEC Funding – Other sources of CEC funding may not be used as match share.

b. Property Not Owned by the Applicant – Donated property may be claimed as match based on the fair market value of renting or leasing the property. Fair


market value is based on rental costs of comparable property (if any), market conditions in the area, alternatives available and the type, life expectancy, condition, and value of the property.

c. Existing Property Owned by the Recipient – Applicants may use the property’s depreciation expense as a method to allocate the value of the property to the project. Valuation will need to be documented to support the initial acquisition costs as well as the method of depreciation.

d. Valuation of Land – Land cannot be depreciated. If the value of land is claimed as match, the Applicant must provide documentation to support a fair market value for the use of the land (i.e., rent or lease cost) for the time period it is used. Appraised value of land cannot be used since this represents the full value of the land if it is sold which includes value beyond the term of the proposed project.

e. Property Owned by a Related Party – Related parties are individuals or other entities that are able to control or substantially influence the actions of the Applicant and includes spouses, board members, family members of principals or employees of the Applicant as well as property owned by principals/employees of the Applicant. Because agreements between related parties are “less than arms-length” transactions, Applicants must disclose to the CEC the relationship and be able to support the fair market value of property that is claimed as match.

If CEC funds are used to reimburse lease/rental payments for property owned by a related party, the Applicant can only claim the lessor of fair market value or actual lease payments, regardless of lease agreement terms.

f. Prorated Value of Property – The allowable claimed value of property must be prorated based on the percentage the property is used for the proposed project. For example, if only half of a building is being used for the proposed project, then only 50 percent of the monthly fair market value of the entire building can be claimed as match while the building is being used for the project.

g. Documentation – If selected for an award under this agreement, all claimed match share expenditures must be adequately documented to the CEC during the agreement


invoicing process which may include, but is not limited to: the fair market value of existing property, methodology to allocate existing property on a prorated basis, lease agreements, and other appropriate documentation.

E. UNALLOWABLE COSTS (REIMBURSABLE OR MATCH SHARE)For an item of cost to be allowable, it must be included in the approved agreement budget and allowable per the terms and conditions of the resulting agreement. The following are examples of unallowable costs under an agreement resulting from this solicitation. This list is not comprehensive and additional items of cost may be unallowable in accordance with the terms and conditions.

1. Forgone Profit – For example, if a company usually charges 10 percent profit but only charges 4 percent to the CEC. The unclaimed difference is not an allowable item of cost.

2. Forgone Rent – For example, rents that are not paid is not an allowable item of reimbursable cost.

3. Discounted or Refunded Equipment Costs – For example, a claim that equipment costs $10,000 but Recipient only pays $6,000 due to some “special” discount. The difference of $4,000 is not an allowable match share expense. Another example is if the Recipient actually pays $10,000 but the vendor refunds $4,000 – only the net $6,000 is an allowable item of cost.

4. Foregone Salary, Fringe, Indirect or Other Types of Cost – For example, a person normally charges or is paid $100 per hour, but will only charge $50 per hour towards the CEC award. Only actual costs incurred and paid to the employee are allowable. Therefore, if an employee is actually paid $100 per hour and the CEC only reimburses at $40 per hour, then the unreimbursed $60 per hour is an allowable match share cost because this is an actual payment as opposed to a foregone salary amount. Volunteer labor (i.e., labor from a person who does not receive any compensation for their labor) may be an allowable in-kind match share expense if the value of the labor is reasonable and justified.

5. Vehicles – Only the vehicle costs explicitly listed in Section II.C are allowable items of cost and match share. All other vehicle costs, including vehicle depreciation, are unallowable Costs, incentives, rebates, etc. used to procure vehicles are not allowable items of cost and may not be used as match share.


III. Two-Phase Evaluation ProcessThis solicitation will follow a two-phase process.

A. Pre-Application Abstract Screening and Technical Scoring: This phase consists of a Pre-Application Abstract Form (Attachment 1A) and a Project Abstract (limited to 5 pages) that will be screened using the Pre-Application Abstract Screening Criteria listed in Section V.A. Pre-application abstracts that pass the Pre-Application Abstract Screening Criteria will be scored using the Pre-Application Abstract Evaluation Criteria in Section V.E of this solicitation. Please see Section IV for information on Pre-Application Abstract format, required documents, and delivery methods.

B. Full Application Screening and Scoring: Pre-application abstracts receiving a passing score will be eligible to submit a full application. Full applications will be screened using the Full Application Screening Criteria listed in Section VII.A. Applications that pass screening will be scored using the Full Application Evaluation Criteria in Section VII.E. Full applications must be consistent with previously submitted and passing pre-application abstracts. Applicants may not change the designated Vehicle Sector or Area of Focus between the pre-application abstract and the full application.


IV. Pre-Application Abstract Format, Required Documents, and DeliveryAn Applicant must submit a pre-application abstract to the CEC before being approved to submit a Full Application. Submission of a pre-application abstract is mandatory. Pre-application abstracts will be screened and scored based on the Pre-Application Abstract Screening and Evaluation Criteria in Section V.A and V.E. Pre-application abstracts receiving a passing score will be eligible to submit a full application. The results of the pre-application abstract review will be provided to all Applicants in the Notice of Pre-Application Abstract Results (NOPAR).

Applicants must submit a Pre-Application Abstract Form (Attachment 1A) and a separate Project Abstract for each project by the date specified in the Key Activities and Dates table in Section I.D. of this solicitation.

A. REQUIRED FORMAT FOR A PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACTThis section contains the format requirements and instructions on how to submit a pre-application abstract. The format is prescribed to assist the Applicant in meeting State requirements and to enable the CEC to evaluate each application uniformly and fairly. Applicants must follow all application format instructions, answer all questions, and supply all requested data.

All pre-application abstracts submitted under this solicitation must use a standard 11-point font, single-spaced and a blank line between paragraphs. Pages must be numbered, sections titled, and printed back-to-back.

B. METHODS FOR DELIVERY

1. Electronic Submission through the Grant Solicitation SystemThe preferred method of delivery for the pre-application abstract is the CEC’s Grant Solicitation System, available at: https://gss.energy.ca.gov/. This online tool allows Applicants to submit their electronic documents to the CEC prior to the date and time specified in this solicitation. Electronic files must be in Microsoft Word (.doc format) and Excel Office Suite formats unless originally provided in the solicitation in another format. The system will not allow applications to be submitted after the due date and time.

First time users must register as a new user to access the system. Applicants will receive a confirmation email after all required documents have been successfully uploaded. A tutorial


https://gss.energy.ca.gov/

of the system will be provided at the Pre-Application Workshop and you may contact the CAO identified in the Questions section of Section I of the solicitation for more assistance.

2. Hard Copy Submittals

a. Delivery: Due to COVID-19, application hard copies will only be accepted via U.S. Mail, FedEx, or UPS.

Applications submitted in hard copy must be delivered via U.S. Mail, FedEx, or UPS to the CEC’s Contracts, Grants and Loans Office during normal business hours and prior to the date and time specified in this solicitation. In-Person application drop-offs will not be accepted. Applications received after the specified date and time are considered late and will not be accepted. There are no exceptions. Postmark dates of mailing, E-mail and facsimile (FAX) transmissions are not acceptable in whole or in part, under any circumstances.

There is no need to submit a hard copy of an application that is submitted through the Grant Solicitation System.

b. Number of Copies for Hard Copy Submittals: Applicants may submit only an original application. No additional hard copies of the application are needed.

c. Electronic Copies: Applicants must also submit electronic files of the application a USB memory stick along with the hard copy submittal. Only one USB memory stick is needed and it will not be returned to the Applicant. Electronic files must be in Microsoft Word (.doc format) and Excel Office Suite formats. Completed Budget Forms, Attachment 5, must be in Excel format.

d. Packaging and Labeling for Hard Copy Submittals: The original application must be labeled "Grant Funding Opportunity GFO-20-605," and include the title of the application. The application should be bound only with a binder clip.

Deliver your application in a sealed package and label as follows:

Applicant’s NameStreet Address


City, State, Zip Code

California Energy CommissionContracts, Grants & Loans Office

Attn: GFO-20-6051516 Ninth Street, MS-18

Sacramento, California 95814C. PAGE LIMITATIONS

Each pre-application project abstract is limited to 5 pages. The Pre-Application Abstract Form and the Past Performance Reference Form do not count towards this page limitation. Information provided beyond the specified page limitations may not be reviewed and evaluated.

D. PRE-APPLICATION ORGANIZATION / REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Item Attachment Number(if applicable)

Pre-Application Abstract Form Attachment 1APre-Application Project Abstract N/APast Performance Reference Form Attachment 10

1. Pre-Application Abstract FormApplicants must include a completed Pre-Application Abstract Form shown in Attachment 1A.

The Pre-Application Abstract Form provides space for Applicants to describe project eligibility and Applicant eligibility, and provides the declaration, statements of commitment, and certification to which an authorized representative of the Applicant must agree.

All Applicants must authorize the CEC to make any inquiries necessary to verify the information presented in the Pre-Application Abstract Form. Further, all Applicants must authorize the CEC to obtain a credit report on the Applicant’s organization.

All Applicants must certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that:

This application does not contain confidential or proprietary information.

All information in the Pre-Application Abstract Form is correct and complete to the best of the Applicant’s knowledge.


The Applicant has read and understands the terms and conditions and will accept them without negotiation if awarded.

The Applicant has received any required licenses (such as copyrights or trademarks) applicable to the submitted Pre-Application Abstract Form.

For Applicants using the electronic submission through the Grant Solicitation System, checking the “I Agree” box and clicking the “I Agree & Submit” button provides the required authorizations and certifications.

For Applicants submitting hard copy applications, Attachment 1A must be submitted and signed by an authorized representative of the Applicant.

The CEC may have waived the requirement for a signature on application materials for this solicitation. If a notice regarding the CEC’s waiver of the signature requirement appears here: https://www.energy.ca.gov/funding-opportunities/solicitations, the waiver applies to this solicitation. In the event of a conflict between the notice and any language in this solicitation regarding signatures, the notice will govern.

2. Pre-Application Project AbstractThe pre-application project abstract is limited to 5 pages. Applicants must address each of the Pre-Application Abstract Screening and Scoring Criteria and provide sufficient, unambiguous detail so that the Evaluation Committee will be able to evaluate the project abstract against each scoring criterion.

Additionally, pre-application project abstracts must respond directly to each criterion with the headings as titled below, and must include the following information:

a. Applicant’s Past PerformanceInformation provided to address past performance will not count towards the page limitations and should be addressed in Attachment 10, Past Performance Reference Form.

The Applicant should address performance under current or prior funding agreements using public funding (e.g., contract, grant, or loan), including agreements with the CEC, and other public agencies, and those that used


https://www.energy.ca.gov/funding-opportunities/solicitations

Settlement Funds administered by a public agency. This must include all CEC agreements (e.g., contract, grant, or loan) within the last 10 years (if any) and the 5 most recent agreements with other public agencies within the past 10 years (if any). Applicants should indicate whether the projects were successfully completed in a timely manner. Applicants should:

1. Provide a list of all agreements (e.g., contract, grant, or loan) grant agreements with the CEC and other public agencies received by the Applicant or team in the last 10 years (if applicable).

2. Provide a list of the 5 most recent agreements (e.g. contract, grant, or loan) with other public agencies received by the Applicant within the past 10 years (if applicable).

3. Provide references for the agreements grants received by the Applicant and identified above or team in the last 10 years, or for similar or related types of projects completed in the last 10 years, to verify the Applicant’s or team’s past performance. Each reference must include a contact person name and phone number (or email address). If contacted by CEC staff, references should be able to speak to the Applicant’s ability to successfully complete projects in a timely manner and their performance.

4. (For projects that did not complete (or timely complete), project objectives) Describe the challenges faced, and what led to those challenges and indicate whether those challenges were within the Applicant’s control.

5. Describe any severe audit findings and how they were ultimately addressed and resolved.

6. Describe the final outcome of the project.

b. Project Summary1. Describe the proposed project, including which

Vehicle Sector it will serve and the designated Area of Focus, and how the project will accelerate the successful commercial deployment of the proposed innovative technology and/or business model.

2. If the proposed project will secondarily serve another Vehicle Sector and/or Area of Focus, describe the additional benefits and provide evidence to justify the inclusion of this secondary designation.


3. Describe how the proposed project is innovative and provides competitive advantages over conventional charging solutions for an identified local built environment, use case, and vehicle type.

4. Describe the proposed project’s target market and economic viability.

c. Project Readiness and Implementation1. If the technology and/or business model within the

proposed project has been successfully demonstrated before, describe how, with details including size or capacity, number of previous installations, location and duration, results, etc. Identify critical barriers to commercial deployment and explain how the proposed project will address and work towards overcoming these barriers.

2. If the technology and/or business model within the proposed project has never been demonstrated before, describe how the proposed project will meaningfully move the technology and/or business model forward and towards successful commercial deployment.

3. Described the qualifications, experience, capabilities, and credentials of the key team members.

4. Describe the team’s approach for executing the proposed project in a successful and timely manner.

d. Funding Request and Cost Effectiveness1. Describe and quantify the costs associated with the

proposed project, using observed data and/or reasonable assumptions. The cost of charging should be calculated as dollars of investment requested from the CEC per kWh of charging capability. The kWh term shall be calculated as the product of 1) the power capacity of the charging capability enabled and 2) the time in hours that the charger could be utilized, per documentation of previously-measured use or projected use.

Cost of Charging= Investment requested ($)Power capacity (kW )∗Timeutilized (hr )


2. Describe and quantify the benefit-cost score, defined as the ratio of grams of CO2 equivalent reduction per dollar of CEC investment. Explain underlying assumptions.

3. Describe any committed in-kind or cash support from the team or other organizations at this stage.


V. Pre-Application Abstract Evaluation Process and Criteria

A. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT EVALUATIONThis section explains how pre-application abstracts will be evaluated.

Pre-application abstracts will be evaluated and scored based on the responses to the information requested in this solicitation. Pre-application abstracts will first be screened for compliance with the Pre-Application Abstract Administrative and Technical Screening Criteria listed below. Each pre-application abstract will then be evaluated and scored. The scores will be published as a NOPAR. Pre-application abstract submitted materials and results are publicly available after publication of the NOPA, but otherwise the application evaluation process from receipt of applications to posting of the NOPA is confidential. All submitted pre-application abstract documents will become publicly available records after the NOPA is posted or if the solicitation is cancelled.

To evaluate all pre-application abstracts, the CEC will organize an Evaluation Committee. The Evaluation Committee may consist of CEC staff or staff of other California state entities. Only passing pre-application abstracts will be eligible to submit a full application.

1. Screening CriteriaThe Contracts, Grants and Loans Office will screen pre-application abstracts for compliance with the Pre-Application Abstract Administrative Screening Criteria. The Evaluation Committee will screen pre-application abstracts for compliance with the Pre-Application Abstract Technical Screening criteria. Pre-application abstracts that fail any of the Administrative or Technical Screening Criteria shall be disqualified and eliminated from further evaluation.

2. Pre-Application Administrative Screening Criteria

PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT ADMINISTRATIVE SCREENING CRITERIA

The pre-application abstract must pass ALL administrative screening criteria.

Pass/Fail

1. The pre-application abstract is received by the CEC’s Contracts, Grants, and Loans Office by the due date and time specified in the “Key Activities Schedule” in Section I of this solicitation.

Pass Fail

2. The Applicant provides the required authorizations and certifications. Pass Fail


PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT ADMINISTRATIVE SCREENING CRITERIA

The pre-application abstract must pass ALL administrative screening criteria.

Pass/Fail

3. The Applicant has not included a statement that is contrary to the required authorizations and certifications.

Pass Fail

3. Pre-Application Abstract Technical Screening Criteriaa. The Applicant is an eligible Applicant.b. The project is an eligible project.c. The Applicant passes the past performance screening

criterion.

4. Applicant’s Past Performance Screening Criterion (Pass/Fail)The Applicant—defined as at least one of the following: the business, principal investigator, or lead individual acting on behalf of themselves—received funds from the CEC and/or other public agencies (e.g., contract, grant, or loan) and entered into an agreement(s) with the CEC and/or other public agencies. An Applicant must pass this screening criterion to be eligible to be scored under the evaluation criteria.

The Applicant may be disqualified under this solicitation due to severe performance issues under one or more prior or active CEC and/or other public agencies agreement(s) within the last 10 years. Severe performance issues are characterized by significant negative outcomes under an agreement and may include: Agreement was terminated with cause. The CEC and/or other public agencies filed litigation

against the Applicant. Severe audit findings are were not resolved to the CEC’s

and/or other public agencies’ satisfaction. Severe audit findings may include but not limited to: funds were used inappropriately (i.e., other than as represented and approved); questioned costs remain unresolved; significant internal control weaknesses identified by an audit have not been adequately addressed by the Applicant.

If an agreement has ended, project objectives were not met, and the non-performance was caused by factors that were, or should have been, within the Recipient’s control.

Significant delays in project completion resulting in delayed benefits for California. Project completion delays of two years or more from the originally executed CAM-


approved project schedule and caused by factors within the Recipient’s control may be considered significant. Additionally, project completion delays of one year or more past the project’s liquidation deadline and caused by factors within the Recipient’s control may be considered significant.

Deliverables were not submitted to the CEC and/or other public agencies or were of poor quality or consistently late. For example, Recipient delivered poorly written reports that required significant rework by staff prior to acceptance or publication.

Demonstrated and documented poor or delayed communication when significant issues or setbacks were experienced that materially and negatively impacted the project. For example, delays in informing the CEC and/or other public agencies when the Recipient experiences loss of a key project partner or site control may be considered significant.

5. Grounds to Reject an ApplicationIn addition to the Screening Criteria identified within this solicitation, the CEC reserves the right to reject a pre-application abstract, full application, and/or cancel an award if at any time during the application or agreement process the following circumstances are discovered:

a. The application contains false or intentionally misleading statements or references which do not support an attribute or condition contended by the Applicant.

b. The application is intended to erroneously and fallaciously mislead the State in its evaluation of the application and the attribute, condition, or capability is a requirement of this solicitation.

c. The application does not literally comply or contains caveats that conflict with the solicitation and the variation or deviation is material or it is otherwise non-responsive.

6. Technical EvaluationPre-application abstracts that pass all Pre-Application Abstract Screening Criteria will be submitted to the Evaluation Committee to review and score based on the Pre-Application Abstract Evaluation Criteria in this solicitation.


The Evaluation Committee reserves the right to schedule a clarification interview with an Applicant that will either be held by telephone for the purpose of clarification and verification of information provided in the pre-application abstract. However, these interviews may not be used to change or add to the contents of the original pre-application abstract. Applicants will not be reimbursed for time spent answering clarifying questions.

The total score for each pre-application abstract will be the average of the combined scores of all Evaluation Committee members. A minimum score of 70 percent is required for each scoring criterion in the pre-application abstract for the Applicant to be eligible to submit a full application.

B. NOTICE OF PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT RESULTSUpon completion of pre-application abstract scoring, the results will be posted in a NOPAR and will include the rank order of Applicants. The CEC will publish the NOPAR on the CEC’s website, and mail the NOPAR to all parties that submitted a pre-application abstract.

C. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT DEBRIEFINGSAfter posting the NOPAR, pre-applications abstracts failing the pre-application abstract screening or failing to achieve a passing score may request a debriefing from the Evaluation Committee. Pre-application abstract debriefings must be requested within 15 days after posting of the NOPAR.

D. SCORING SCALEUsing this Scoring Scale, the Evaluation Committee will give a score for each criterion described in the Evaluation Criteria.

Percent of

Possible Points

Interpretation Explanation for Percentage Points

0 percent Not Responsive

Response does not include or fails to address the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.

10-30 percent

Minimally Responsive

Response minimally addresses the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.

40-60 percent

Inadequate Response addresses the requirements being scored, but there are one or more omissions, flaws, or defects or the requirements are


addressed in such a limited way that it results in a low degree of confidence in the proposed solution.

70 percent AdequateResponse adequately addresses the requirements being scored. Any omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are inconsequential and acceptable.

75 percentBetween

Adequate and Good

Response better than adequately addresses the requirements being scored. Any omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are inconsequential and acceptable.

80 percent Good

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a good degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s). Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.

85 percent Between Good and Excellent

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a better than good degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s). Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.

90 percent Excellent

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a high degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. Applicant offers one or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.

95 percentBetween

Excellent and Exceptional

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a better than excellent degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. Applicant offers one or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.

100 percent Exceptional

All requirements are addressed with the highest degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. The response exceeds the requirements in providing multiple enhancing features, a creative approach, or an exceptional solution.

E. PRE-APPLICATION ABSTRACT EVALUATION CRITERIA


Pre-application abstracts that pass administrative and technical screening will be scored based on the following Evaluation Criteria. Pre-applications should include adequate information in the Pre-Application Abstract Form and in the Project Abstract to address all Evaluation Criteria.

The total score for each pre-application abstract will be the average of the combined score of all Evaluation Committee members. Only pre-application abstracts with a score of 70 percent or higher in each Pre-Application Abstract Evaluation Criterion will be eligible to submit a full application.

Pre-Application Abstract Evaluation Criteria Maximum

Possible

Points1. Project SummaryPre-application abstracts will be evaluated on the degree to which:

The proposed project accelerates successful commercial deployment of innovative technologies and/or business models in the one Vehicle Sector and Area of Focus principally designated by the Applicant.

The proposed project accelerates successful commercial deployment of innovative technologies and/or business models in an additional Vehicle Sector and/or Area(s) of Focus.

The proposed project is innovative and provides competitive advantages over conventional charging solutions for an identified built environment, use case, and vehicle type.

The proposed project will lead to a successful and economically viable charging solution that addresses a key market(s). Evidence and underlying assumptions are explained.

NOTE: Pre-application abstracts must obtain a minimum passing score of 17.5 points within this evaluation criterion to be eligible to submit a full application.

25

2. Project Readiness and ImplementationPre-application abstracts will be evaluated on the degree to which:

The proposed project will address and overcome critical barriers to successful demonstration and/or commercialization.

15


The qualifications, experience, capabilities, and credentials of the key team members are suitable to the tasks described in the Project Summary and will lead to the successful completion of the project.

The proposed project has an aggressive but achievable schedule for completing all tasks necessary. 

NOTE: Pre-application abstracts must obtain a minimum passing score of 10.5 points within this evaluation criterion to be eligible to submit a full application.

3. Funding Request and Cost EffectivenessPre-application abstracts will be evaluated on the degree to which:

The proposed project results in a low cost of charging (in $/kWh) and the assumptions utilized are documented and reasonable.

The proposed project results in a high benefit-cost score defined as the ratio of grams of CO2 equivalent reduction per dollar of CEC investment.

The proposed project’s match funding commitments, if included, are documented, verifiable, and will support the successful completion of the project.

NOTE: Pre-application abstracts must obtain a minimum passing score of 7 points within this evaluation criterion to be eligible to submit a full application.

10

Total Possible Points 50


VI. Full Application Format, Required Documents, and DeliveryA. REQUIRED FORMAT FOR A FULL APPLICATION

This section contains the format requirements and instructions on how to submit a full application. The format is prescribed to assist the Applicant in meeting State requirements and to enable the CEC to evaluate each full application uniformly and fairly. Applicants must follow all full application format instructions, answer all questions, and supply all requested data. Only those projects that received a pre-application abstract passing score are eligible to submit a full application. Full applications must be consistent with previously submitted and passing pre-application abstracts.

All full applications submitted under this solicitation must be typed using a standard 11-point font, single-spaced and a blank line between paragraphs. Pages must be numbered, sections titled, and printed back-to-back.

B. METHODS FOR DELIVERY

1. Electronic Submission through the Grant Solicitation System

The preferred method of delivery for this solicitation is the CEC’s Grant Solicitation System, available at: https://gss.energy.ca.gov/. This online tool allows Applicants to submit their electronic documents to the CEC prior to the date and time specified in this solicitation. Electronic files must be in Microsoft Word (.doc format) and Excel Office Suite formats unless originally provided in the solicitation in another format. Completed Budget Forms, Attachment 5, must be in Excel format. The system will not allow full applications to be submitted after the due date and time.

First time users must register as a new user to access the system. Applicants will receive a confirmation email after all required documents have been successfully uploaded. A tutorial of the system will be provided at the Pre-Application Workshop and you may contact the CAO identified in the Questions section of the solicitation for more assistance.

2. Hard Copy Submittals

e. Delivery: Due to COVID-19, application hard copies will only be accepted via U.S. Mail, FedEx, or UPS.


https://gss.energy.ca.gov/

Applications submitted in hard copy must be delivered via U.S. Mail, FedEx, or UPS to the CEC’s Contracts, Grants and Loans Office during normal business hours and prior to the date and time specified in this solicitation. In-Person application drop-offs will not be accepted. Applications received after the specified date and time are considered late and will not be accepted. There are no exceptions. Postmark dates of mailing, E-mail and FAX transmissions are not acceptable in whole or in part, under any circumstances.

There is no need to submit a hard copy of an application that is submitted through the Grant Solicitation System.

f. Number of Copies for Hard Copy Submittals: Applicants may submit only an original application. No additional hard copies of the application are needed.

g. Electronic Copies: Applicants must also submit electronic files of the application a USB memory stick along with the hard copy submittal. Only one USB memory stick is needed and it will not be returned to the Applicant. Electronic files must be in Microsoft Word (.doc format) and Excel Office Suite formats. Completed Budget Forms, Attachment 5, must be in Excel format.

h. Packaging and Labeling for Hard Copy Submittals: The original application must be labeled "Grant Funding Opportunity GFO-20-605," and include the title of the application. The application should be bound only with a binder clip.

Deliver your application in a sealed package and label as follows:

Applicant’s NameStreet AddressCity, State, Zip Code

California Energy CommissionContracts, Grants & Loans Office

Attn: GFO-20-6051516 Ninth Street, MS-18

Sacramento, California 95814GFO-20-605

August 2020 Page 40 of 65 BESTFIT Innovative Charging Solutions

C. PAGE LIMITATIONSThe number of pages for the full application Project Narrative is limited to 20 pages. The Applicant’s Full Application Form, table of contents, resumes, scope of work, schedule of products and due dates, budget forms, contact list, letters of support/commitment, CEQA worksheet, Local Health Impacts Information Form and Past Performance Reference Forms do not count towards this page limitation. Information provided beyond the specified page limitations may not be reviewed and evaluated.

D. FULL APPLICATION ORGANIZATION

Item Attachment Number(if applicable)

Full Application Form Attachment 1BProject Narrative N/AScope of Work Attachment 2Schedule of Products and Due Dates Attachment 4Budget Forms Attachment 5Resumes N/AContact List Attachment 6Letters of Support/Commitment N/ACEQA Worksheet Attachment 7Local Health Impacts Information Form Attachment 8Past Performance Reference Form Attachment 10

1. Full Application FormApplicants must include a completed Full Application Form shown in Attachment 1B.

The Full Application Form provides space for Applicants to describe project eligibility and Applicant eligibility, and provides the declaration, statements of commitment, and certifications to which an authorized representative of the Applicant must agree.

All Applicants must authorize the CEC to make any inquiries necessary to verify the information presented in the full application. Further, all Applicants must authorize the CEC to obtain a credit report on the Applicant’s organization.

All Applicants must certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that:

This application does not contain confidential or proprietary information.


All information in the full application is correct and complete to the best of the Applicant’s knowledge.

The Applicant has read and understands the terms and conditions and will accept them without negotiation if awarded.

The Applicant has received any required licenses (such as copyrights or trademarks) applicable to the submitted full application.

For Applicants using the electronic submission through the Grant Solicitation System, checking the “I Agree” box and clicking the “I Agree & Submit” button provides the required authorizations and certifications.

For Applicants submitting hard copy applications, Attachment 1B must be submitted and signed by an authorized representative of the Applicant.

The CEC may have waived the requirement for a signature on application materials for this solicitation. If a notice regarding the CEC’s waiver of the signature requirement appears here: https://www.energy.ca.gov/funding-opportunities/solicitations, the waiver applies to this solicitation. In the event of a conflict between the notice and any language in this solicitation regarding signatures, the notice will govern.

2. Project NarrativeThe Project Narrative is limited to 20 pages and must include a table of contents (which will not count towards the page limitation) and a detailed description of the proposed project, its operational goals and objectives, and an explanation of how these will be implemented through the tasks described in the Scope of Work.

Applicants must address each of the Full Application Evaluation Criteria described in Section VII.E by providing sufficient, unambiguous detail so that the Evaluation Committee will be able to evaluate the full application against each evaluation criterion.

Project Narratives must respond directly to each criterion, with the headings as titled below, and include the following information:


https://www.energy.ca.gov/funding-opportunities/solicitations

a. Applicant’s Past Performance: Information provided to address past performance will not count towards the page limitations and should be addressed in Attachment 10, Past Performance Reference Form.

The Applicant should address performance under current or prior funding agreements using public funding (e.g., contract, grant, or loan), including agreements with the CEC, and other public agencies, and those that used Settlement Funds administered by a public agency. This must include all CEC agreements (e.g., contract, grant, or loan) within the last 10 years (if any) and the 5 most recent agreements with other public agencies within the past 10 years (if any). Applicants should indicate whether the projects were successfully completed in a timely manner. Applicants should:

1. Provide a list of all agreements (e.g. contract, grant, or loan) grant agreements with the CEC and other public agencies received by the Applicant or team in the last 10 years (if applicable).

2. Provide a list of the 5 most recent agreements (e.g., contract, grant, or loan) with other public agencies received by the Applicant within the past 10 years (if applicable).

3. Provide references for the agreements grants received by the Applicant and identified above or team in the last 10 years, or for similar or related types of projects completed in the last 10 years, to verify the Applicant’s or team’s past performance. Each reference must include a contact person name and phone number (or email address). If contacted by CEC staff, references should be able to speak to the Applicant’s ability to successfully complete projects in a timely manner and their performance.

4. (For projects that did not complete (or timely complete) project objectives) Describe the challenges faced, what led to those challenges and indicate whether those challenges were within the Applicant’s control.

5. Describe any severe audit findings and how they were ultimately addressed and resolved.

6. Describe the final outcome of the project.

b. Innovation


1. Describe the proposed project, including which Vehicle Sector it will serve and the designated Area of Focus, and how the project will accelerate the successful commercial deployment of the proposed innovative technology and/or business model.

2. If the proposed project will secondarily serve another Vehicle Sector and/or Area(s) of Focus, describe the additional benefits and provide evidence to justify the inclusion of this secondary designation.

3. Describe how the proposed project is innovative and provides competitive advantages over conventional charging solutions for an identified built environment, use case, and vehicle type.

4. Describe the key indicators that demonstrate the market opportunity for the project to provide a successful, scalable solution that fills a niche for charging solutions in California. Indicators could include but are not limited to: cost of purchase and installation conventional solutions, demand from customers for EV charging and/or the specific technology or business model, availability of charging, interoperability of conventional solutions, availability of parking, permitting processes, etc.

5. Describe any innovative network communication standards that will be utilized to promote interoperable solutions, such as Open Charge Point Protocol, Open Automated Demand Response, etc.

6. Describe the team’s plan for data collection, including what will be collected and how it will be collected.

c. Project Readiness and Implementation

1. If the technology and/or business model within the proposed project has been successfully demonstrated before, describe how, with details including size or capacity, number of previous installations, location and duration, results, etc. Identify critical barriers to commercial deployment and explain how the proposed project will address and work towards overcoming these.

2. If the technology and/or business model within the proposed project has never been successfully demonstrated before, describe how the proposed project will meaningfully move the technology and/or


business model forward and incrementally toward commercial deployment.

3. Describe the team’s approach for executing the proposed project in a successful and timely manner.

4. Describe the team’s plan for disseminating the data, results, and lessons learned from the project for knowledge advancement.

5. Describe the team’s approach and plans to work with local utilities, permitting agencies, or other stakeholders.

6. Describe the support or commitment from outside stakeholders (such as site hosts, project partners, match funding, or others) for the proposed project.

7. Describe the team’s progress on, or plan for, completing the required permitting. If permitting has not been completed, full applications must include a permitting schedule that ensures successful project completion within the timeframes specified in this solicitation.

8. Describe the proposed project site and document site and equipment control. Site and equipment control includes, but is not limited to: leases, ownership, or access rights. Applicants must also demonstrate thorough safety, maintenance, and training procedures will be in place.

9. Describe the team’s approach to address risks, barriers, and limitations that are critical for the success of the project (e.g., loss of demonstration site).

10. Describe the ability for the project and equipment to operate beyond the term of the funding agreement.

11. Include information documenting progress towards achieving compliance under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). If CEQA compliance has not been obtained, applications must include a schedule to complete CEQA activities for the proposed project, as well as discuss the results of communications or in-person meetings with the Lead Agency. See item 9 below for the requirements for CEQA.

d. Economic, Social, and Environmental Benefits


1. Describe and identify the market segments in California that would be beneficially impacted by the proposed project and the technology and/or business model used, including size and penetration or deployment rates. Include any underlying assumptions with documentation.

2. Describe and quantify the costs associated with the proposed project, using observed data and/or reasonable assumptions. The cost of charging should be calculated as dollars of investment requested from the CEC per kWh of charging capability. The kWh term shall be calculated as the product of 1) the power capacity of the charging capability enabled and 2) the time in hours that the charger could be utilized, per documentation of previously-measured use or projected use.

Cost of Charging= Investment requested ($)Power capacity (kW )∗Timeutilized (hr )

3. Describe how the proposed project makes charging more accessible, particularly to those in multi-unit dwellings, rural areas, and disadvantaged communities (as described by CalEnviroScreen 3.0, available at https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-30).

4. Describe how the proposed project will contribute to improving resiliency in the State’s grid and response to extreme weather events and other emergencies.

5. Describe how the proposed project will educate and engage end users to ensure they understand the technology and/or business model and maximize the effectiveness of the project.

6. Describe how the proposed project will accelerate the adoption of EVs needed to achieve the State’s transportation goals, particularly in DACs, low-income communities, and regions with high concentrations of multi-unit dwellings.

7. Describe how the proposed project will provide cost savings to a variety of stakeholders, including drivers, site hosts, and utilities.


https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-30

8. Describe and quantify the benefit-cost score of the proposed project, defined as the ratio of grams of CO2 equivalent reduction per dollar of CEC investment.

e. Team Experience, Qualifications, and Resources

1. Describe the team’s experience with transportation-related projects.

2. Describe the team’s qualifications, capabilities, and credentials, and how these are suitable to the tasks described in the proposed Scope of Work.

3. Describe the facilities, infrastructure, and resources available to the team that will aid in the successful completion of the project.

4. Describe the team’s history of successfully completing projects and commercializing and/or deploying results/products. If the description of the team’s history includes a specific project(s) under current or prior agreements with public agreements with public funding (e.g., contract, grant, or loan), the Applicant must submit a Past Performance Reference Form (Attachment 10) for the project(s), even if the team member is not the primary Applicant.

5. Describe any collaborations with utilities, industries, site hosts, or others, and explain the nature of the collaboration and what each collaborator will contribute.

6. If Applicant and/or team have has received an award(s) from a prior CEC solicitation(s), the Applicant must describe how the requirements of the agreement(s) have been successfully fulfilled or are being successfully fulfilled.

f. Budget

1. Describe the need for CEC funding, including an explanation of why the proposed work is not adequately supported by the private sector.

2. Describe the types and amounts of administrative costs to be incurred.


3. Describe the team’s approach and ability to control and minimize administrative costs while ensuring effective and successful project implementation.

4. Describe any committed in-kind or cash support from the team or other organizations.

5. Describe and discuss known or expected risks or budget contingencies and how they will be addressed.

3. Scope of WorkApplicants must include a completed Scope of Work utilizing the template contained in Attachment 2. Instructions for completing the Scope of Work as well as a sample are included in Attachment 3. The description of activities proposed in the Project Narrative must conform to the Tasks described in the Scope of Work. Electronic files for the Scope of Work must be in MS Word.

Applicants must present a comprehensive and credible scope of work which includes (presented in a logical manner) comprehensive and sequential tasks, products resulting from the individual tasks, and how the tasks are related to or are dependent on each other.

4. Schedule of Products and Due DatesApplicants must include a completed Schedule of Products and Due Dates (Attachment 4). All work, including data collection and the final report, must be scheduled for completion by no later than March 31, 2026, to allow timely processing of final invoices before the liquidation date of the funds. Instructions for the Schedule of Products and Due Dates are included in Attachment 4. Electronic files for the Schedule of Products and Due Dates must be in MS Excel.

5. Budget Forms

a. The Applicant must submit information on all budget forms contained in Attachment 5. All budget forms are required because they will be used for the agreement prepared with the winning Applicant(s). A separate set of complete budget forms, including the full set of worksheets, is required for the Applicant and for each subcontract containing: 1) $100,000 or more of CEC funds; or 2) 25 percent or more of the total CEC funds requested, whichever is less.


b. Detailed instructions for completing these forms are included at the beginning of Attachment 5.

c. Rates and personnel shown must reflect rates and personnel charged under an agreement resulting from this solicitation. The salaries, rates, and other costs entered on these forms become a part of the final agreement. The entire term of the agreement and projected rate increases must be considered when preparing the budget. The rates proposed are considered capped and shall not change during the term of the agreement. The Recipient shall only be reimbursed for their actual rates up to these rate caps. The hourly or monthly rates provided shall be unloaded (before fringe benefits or indirect costs).

d. The information provided in these forms will not be kept confidential.

e. All reimbursable expenditures must be expended within the approved term of the funding agreement. Expenditures may be counted as match share only after the CEC notifies the Applicant that its project has been proposed for an award through the release of a Notice of Proposed Awards (NOPA). However, match expenditures incurred prior to the full execution of a funding agreement are made at the Applicant’s own risk.

f. Applicants must budget for permits, insurance, etc. CEC will not reimburse expenditures for permitting or insurance. However, these expenditures can be included as match share expenditure.

g. The Budget must allow for the preparation and submission of monthly progress reports (1-2 pages each) during the approved term of the agreement, and a Final Report. Instructions for preparing the Final Report will be provided to successful Applicants.

h. The purchase of equipment (defined as items with a unit cost greater than $5,000 and a useful life of greater than one year) with CEC funds will require disposition of purchased equipment at the end of the project. Typically, Grant Recipients may continue to utilize equipment purchased with CEC funds as long as the use is consistent with the intent of the original agreement. There are no disposition requirements for equipment purchased with match share funding.


i. The Budget must reflect estimates for actual costs to be incurred during the approved term of the project. The CEC can only approve and reimburse for actual costs that are properly documented in accordance with the Terms and Conditions (Attachment 9).

j. Applicants shall NOT budget for, and CANNOT be reimbursed for, more than their actual allowable expenses (i.e., the budget cannot include profit, fees, or markups) under the agreement. Subcontractors (all tiers) are allowed to include up to a maximum total of 10 percent profit, fees or mark-ups on their own actual allowable expenses less any expenses further subcontracted to other entities (i.e., profit, fees and markups are not allowed on subcontractor expenses). For example, if a subcontractor has $100,000 in actual allowable costs but has further subcontracted $20,000 to another entity, then the subcontractor can only include up to 10 percent profit on $80,000 ($100,000 minus $20,000). See terms and conditions for more information on allowable costs.

k. IMPORTANT – Payment of Prevailing Wage: Applicants must read and pay particular attention to the Terms and Conditions (Attachment 9) and the section related to Public Works and Payment of Prevailing Wages. Prevailing wage rates can be significantly higher than non-prevailing wage rates. Failure to pay legally-required prevailing wage rates can result in substantial damages and financial penalties, termination of the agreement, disruption of projects, and other complications.

6. ResumesApplicants must include resumes for key personnel identified in the proposal. Resumes are limited to a maximum of 2 pages each.

7. Contact ListApplicants must include a completed Contact List (Attachment 6) by including the appropriate points of contact for the Applicant. The CEC will complete the CEC points of contact during agreement development.

8. Letters of Support/CommitmentApplicants must include appropriate letters of support/commitment. Letters must include sufficient contact


information, so the CEC is able to efficiently contact the letter writer, as necessary. Letters must be limited to 2 pages each.

a. Key Project Partners (if applicable): Key project partners identified in the application must provide letters demonstrating their commitment to the proposed project and their ability to fulfill their identified roles.

b. Third-party Match Share Contributors (if applicable): Any third-party match share contributors must identify the intended amount of match, the funding source(s), and state that the match share contributor will provide the identified match funding. Letters of commitment from third party match share contributors must contain a telephone number to allow CEC to contact the match share partner or representative to confirm their authority to commit matching funds to the proposed project.

c. Letters of Support (optional): Applicants are encouraged to submit letter(s) of support that substantiate the estimated demand and/or the potential benefits of the proposed project. Third-party letters of support can be provided by, but are not limited to: air districts, state or federal agencies, local safety officials, potential users of the proposed project, and any other relevant organizations.

9. CEQA WorksheetApplicants must include a completed CEQA Worksheet (Attachment 7). The CEC requires this information to assist it in making its own determination under the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Section §§ 21000 et seq).

Applicants must complete the detailed CEQA Worksheet and submit it with their application. This worksheet will help Applicants and the CEC to determine CEQA compliance obligations by identifying which projects may require more extensive CEQA review. Failure to complete the worksheet may lead to disqualification of the proposal.

Applicants are encouraged to provide documentation of communication with the local lead agency, if one exists (e.g., a county or city). Documentation such as a completed notice of exemption, a letter from the local agency acknowledging their role in the CEQA process, or a permit application to the lead agency that is stamped as received. If no CEQA review would be required by the local lead agency, provide documentation (letter or e-mail) from the local agency explaining why not.


Prior to approval of a proposed award, the CEC must comply with CEQA. In most cases, the CEC will act as a responsible agency.

10. Local Health Impacts Information FormApplicants must complete and submit a Local Health Impacts Information Form (Attachment 8). The CEC requires this information to assist in developing and publishing a localized health impact report.


VII. Full Application Evaluation Process and CriteriaA. FULL APPLICATION EVALUATION

This section explains how the full applications will be evaluated.

Full applications will be evaluated and scored based on the responses to the information requested in this solicitation. The entire evaluation process from receipt of applications to posting of the NOPA is confidential.

To evaluate all applications, the CEC will organize an Evaluation Committee. The Evaluation Committee may consist of CEC staff or staff of other California state entities.

1. Full Application Screening CriteriaThe Contracts, Grants and Loans Office will screen applications for compliance with the Administrative Screening Criteria. The Evaluation Committee will screen applications for compliance with the Technical Screening Criteria. Applications that fail any of the Administrative or Technical Screening Criteria shall be disqualified and eliminated from further evaluation.

2. Full Application Administrative Screening Criteria

FULL APPLICATION ADMINISTRATIVE SCREENING CRITERIA

The full application must pass ALL full application administrative screening criteria.

Pass/Fail

1. The full application is received by the CEC’s Contracts, Grants, and Loans Office by the due date and time specified in the “Key Activities Schedule” in Section I of this solicitation.

Pass Fail

2. The Applicant provides the required authorizations and certifications. Pass Fail

3. The Applicant has not included a statement that is contrary to the required authorizations and certifications.

Pass Fail

4. The Applicant submitted a pre-application abstract, and the pre-application abstract received a passing score.

Pass Fail

3. Full Application Technical Screening Criteriaa. The Applicant is an eligible Applicant.b. The project is an eligible project.c. The project meets the minimum match share requirement.


d. The Applicant passes the past performance screening criteria.

e. The full application is based on and consistent with a pre-application abstract receiving a passing score under this solicitation.

4. Applicant’s Past Performance Screening Criterion (Pass/Fail)The Applicant—defined as at least one of the following: the business, principal investigator, or lead individual acting on behalf of themselves—received funds from the CEC and/or other public agencies (e.g., contract, grant, or loan) and entered into an agreement(s) with the CEC and/or other public agencies. An Applicant must pass this screening criterion to be eligible to be scored under the evaluation criteria.

The Applicant may be disqualified under this solicitation due to severe performance issues under one or more prior or active CEC and/or other public agencies agreement(s) within the last 10 years. Severe performance issues are characterized by significant negative outcomes under an agreement and may include: Agreement was terminated with cause. The CEC and/or other public agencies filed litigation

against the Applicant. Severe audit findings are were not resolved to the CEC’s

and/or other public agencies’ satisfaction. Severe audit findings may include but not limited to: funds were used inappropriately (i.e., other than as represented and approved); questioned costs remain unresolved; significant internal control weaknesses identified by an audit have not been adequately addressed by the Applicant.

If an agreement has ended, project objectives were not met, and the non-performance was caused by factors that were, or should have been, within the Recipient’s control.

Significant delays in project completion resulting in delayed benefits for California. Project completion delays of two years or more from the originally executed CAM-approved project schedule and caused by factors within the Recipient’s control may be considered significant. Additionally, project completion delays of one year or more past the project’s liquidation deadline and caused by factors within the Recipient’s control may be considered significant.

Deliverables were not submitted to the CEC and/or other public agencies or were of poor quality or consistently


late. For example, Recipient delivered poorly written reports that required significant rework by staff prior to acceptance or publication.

Demonstrated and documented poor or delayed communication when significant issues or setbacks were experienced that materially and negatively impacted the project. For example, delays in informing the CEC and/or other public agencies when the Recipient experiences loss of a key project partner or site control may be considered significant.

5. Grounds to Reject an ApplicationIn addition to the Screening Criteria identified within this solicitation, the CEC reserves the right to reject an application and/or cancel an award if at any time during the application or agreement process the following circumstances are discovered:

a. The application contains false or intentionally misleading statements or references which do not support an attribute or condition contended by the Applicant.

b. The application is intended to erroneously and fallaciously mislead the State in its evaluation of the application and the attribute, condition, or capability is a requirement of this solicitation.

c. The application does not literally comply or contains caveats that conflict with the solicitation and the variation or deviation is material or it is otherwise non-responsive.

6. Technical EvaluationFull applications passing all full application screening criteria will be submitted to the Evaluation Committee to review and score based on the Full Application Evaluation Criteria in this solicitation.

The Evaluation Committee reserves the right to schedule a clarification interview with an Applicant that will either be held by telephone or in person at the CEC for the purpose of clarification and verification of information provided in the application. However, these interviews may not be used to change or add to the contents of the original application. Applicants will not be reimbursed for time spent answering clarifying questions.

The total score for each application will be the average of the combined scores of all Evaluation Committee members.


A minimum score of 70 percent (31.5 points) is required for the Innovation scoring criterion and a minimum score of 70 percent (14 points) is required for the Project Readiness and Implementation scoring criterion to be eligible for funding.

A minimum overall score of 70 percent (70 points) is required for the full application to be eligible for funding.

The CEC will recommend awards to the highest ranked, passing project within each Vehicle Sector and Area of Focus category described in Section I.G, resulting in a minimum of 5 awards. If funding remains available in a Vehicle Sector, the CEC will recommend awards to the next highest-ranked projects across all Area of Focus categories in that Vehicle Sector, until all funds available under this solicitation are exhausted.

B. NOTICE OF PROPOSED AWARDSThe results of the evaluation will be posted in a NOPA and will include the recommended funding level and the rank order of Applicants. The CEC will publish the NOPA on the CEC’s website, and mail the NOPA to all parties that submitted an application.

C. DEBRIEFINGSUnsuccessful Applicants may request a debriefing after the release of the NOPA. A request for debriefing should be received no later than 15 days after the NOPA is released.

D. SCORING SCALEUsing this Scoring Scale, the Evaluation Committee will give a score for each criterion described in the Evaluation Criteria.

Percent of

Possible Points

Interpretation Explanation for Percentage Points

0 percent Not Responsive

Response does not include or fails to address the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.

10-30 percent

Minimally Responsive

Response minimally addresses the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.

40-60 percent

Inadequate Response addresses the requirements being scored, but there are one or more omissions, flaws, or defects or the requirements are


addressed in such a limited way that it results in a low degree of confidence in the proposed solution.

70 percent AdequateResponse adequately addresses the requirements being scored. Any omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are inconsequential and acceptable.

75 percentBetween

Adequate and Good

Response better than adequately addresses the requirements being scored. Any omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are inconsequential and acceptable.

80 percent Good

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a good degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s). Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.

85 percent Between Good and Excellent

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a better than good degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s). Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.

90 percent Excellent

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a high degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. Applicant offers one or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.

95 percentBetween

Excellent and Exceptional

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a better than excellent degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. Applicant offers one or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.

100 percent Exceptional

All requirements are addressed with the highest degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. The response exceeds the requirements in providing multiple enhancing features, a creative approach, or an exceptional solution.


E. FULL APPLICATION EVALUATION CRITERIAFull applications that pass screening will be scored based on the following scoring criteria.

The total score for each full application will be the average of the combined score of all Evaluation Committee members. Only full applications that receive a 70 percent or higher in both the Innovation and Project Readiness and Implementation criteria as well as a 70 percent or higher in total overall score will be eligible for funding.

CriterionMaximu

m Possible Points

1. InnovationApplications will be evaluated on the degree to which:

The proposed project accelerates successful commercial deployment of innovative technologies and/or business models in the one Vehicle Sector and Area of Focus principally designated by the Applicant.

The proposed project accelerates successful commercial deployment of innovative technologies and/or business models in an additional Vehicle Sector and/or Area(s) of Focus.

The proposed project is innovative and provides competitive advantages over conventional charging solutions for an identified built environment, use case, and vehicle type.

Key indicators demonstrate the market opportunity for the proposed project to provide a successful, scalable solution that fills a niche for charging solutions in California. Indicators could include but are not limited to: cost of purchase and installation conventional solutions, demand from customers for charging and/or the specific technology or business model, availability of charging, interoperability of conventional solutions, availability of parking, permitting processes, etc.

The proposed project produces high-quality data and analyzes it to evaluate the project and opportunities to improve or further deploy the technology and/or business model

45

Total Possible Points for Criteria (1) 45Minimum Passing Score for Criteria (1) 31.5

The proposed project will address and overcome critical barriers to successful demonstration and/or 20


commercialization. The proposed project maximizes the dissemination

of data, results and lessons learned from the project for knowledge advancement.

The proposed project has an aggressive but achievable schedule for completing all tasks. 

The proposed project will work with local utilities, permitting agencies, and/or other stakeholders to ensure the project progresses in a smooth and timely manner. 

Support or commitment letters (from site hosts, project partners, match funding, or others) indicate a strong level of support or commitment for the proposed project. 

The required permitting for the proposed project has been completed.

The proposed project is prepared to address risks, barriers, and limitations that are critical for project success (e.g., loss of demonstration site).

The proposed project and equipment are expected to operate beyond the term of the CEC’s funding agreement. 

The Scope of Work is complete and demonstrates a clear path to successful implementation of the proposed project.

Total Possible Points for Criteria (2) 20Minimum Passing Score for Criteria (2) 14

The proposed project positively impacts market segments in California.

The proposed project results in a low cost of charging (in $/kWh) and the assumptions utilized are documented and reasonable.

The proposed project makes charging more accessible to multi-unit dwellings, rural areas, and DACs.

The proposed project improves the resiliency of the State’s grid and response to extreme weather events and other emergencies.

The proposed project educates and engages end users to ensure the technology and/or business model is understood and maximized in its effectiveness.

The proposed project will accelerate the adoption of EVs needed to achieve the State’s transportation goals.

The proposed project will provide cost savings to a variety of stakeholders, including drivers, site hosts, and utilities.

The proposed project results in a high benefit-cost score defined as the ratio of grams of CO2 equivalent

15


reduction per dollar of CEC investment.4. Team Experience, Qualifications, and ResourcesApplications will be evaluated on the degree to which:

The qualifications, experience, capabilities, and credentials of the key team members are suitable to the tasks described in the proposed Scope of Work and will lead to the successful completion of the project.

The facilities, infrastructure, and resources available to the team will aid in the successful completion of the project. 

The proposed project incorporates collaborations with utilities, industries, site hosts, or others that will lead to the successful completion of the project.

The Applicant and team have demonstrated exceptional administrative and technical performance under existing or prior funding agreements (CEC and/or other public agencies), if the Applicant or team worked on such projects, including:

Adherence to schedule and due dates. Effective and timely issue resolution. Quality of deliverables. Objectives of past projects have been attained. Honest, timely, and professional communication

with staff from the funding entity. Effective coordination with project partners,

subcontractors, and other stakeholders. Timely and accurate invoicing.

10

5. BudgetApplications will be evaluated on the degree to which:

The proposed project demonstrates the need for CEC funding, and justifies why the proposed work is not adequately supported by the private sector.

The proposed project budget is justifiable and reasonable relative to the project goals, objectives, and tasks.

The proposed project minimizes administrative and overhead costs for reimbursement.

The proposed match funding commitments are documented, verifiable, and necessary to support the successful completion of the project.

10

Total Possible Points 100


Minimum Passing Score (70%) 70

F. TIE BREAKERSIf the score for two or more applications are tied, the application with a higher score in the Innovation criterion will be ranked higher. If still tied, the application with a higher score in the Project Readiness and Implementation criterion will be ranked higher. If still tied, an objective tie-breaker (such as a random drawing) will be utilized.


VIII. AdministrationA. DEFINITION OF KEY WORDS

Important definitions for this solicitation are presented below:

Word/Term DefinitionApplicant Respondent to this solicitationApplication Formal written response to this document from

ApplicantCAM Commission Agreement ManagerCAO Commission Agreement OfficerCEC California Energy CommissionCEQA California Environmental Quality ActClean Transportation Program

Formerly known as the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program

DAC Disadvantaged CommunityDER Distributed Energy ResourcesEV Electric VehicleEVSE Electric Vehicle Supply EquipmentEVSP Electric Vehicle Service ProviderGAAP Generally Accepted Accounting PrinciplesGFO Grant Funding Opportunity refers to this entire

solicitation document and all its attachments and exhibits

kW KilowattkWh Kilowatt-hourMD/HD Medium-duty and heavy-dutyNOPA Notice of Proposed AwardNOPAR Notice of Pre-Application Abstract ResultsSolicitation Grant Funding Opportunity, which refers to this entire

solicitation document and all its attachments and exhibits

State State of California

B. COST OF DEVELOPING APPLICATIONThe Applicant is responsible for the cost of developing an application, and this cost cannot be charged to the State.

C. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATIONThe CEC will not accept or retain any applications that have any portion marked confidential.

D. SOLICITATION CANCELLATION AND AMENDMENTS


It is CEC’s policy to not solicit applications unless there is a bona fide intention to award an agreement. However, if it is in the State’s best interest, CEC reserves the right to do any of the following:

Cancel this solicitation. Revise the amount of funds available under this solicitation. Amend this solicitation as needed. Reject any or all applications received in response to this

solicitation.

If the solicitation is amended, CEC will send an addendum to all parties who requested the solicitation and will also post it on CEC’s website at www.energy.ca.gov/contracts.

E. ERRORSIf an Applicant discovers any ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, omission, or other error in the solicitation, the Applicant shall immediately notify the CEC of such error in writing and request modification or clarification of the document. Modifications or clarifications will be given by written notice of all parties who requested the solicitation, without divulging the source of the request for clarification. The CEC shall not be responsible for failure to correct errors.

F. MODIFYING OR WITHDRAWAL OF APPLICATIONAn Applicant may, by letter to the Commission Agreement Officer at the CEC, withdraw or modify a submitted application before the deadline to submit applications. Applications cannot be changed after that date and time. An application cannot be “timed” to expire on a specific date. For example, a statement such as the following is non-responsive to the solicitation: “This application and the cost estimate are valid for 60 days.”

G. IMMATERIAL DEFECTCEC may waive any immaterial defect or deviation contained in an Applicant’s application. CEC’s waiver shall in no way modify the application or excuse the successful Applicant from full compliance.

H. DISPOSITION OF APPLICANT’S DOCUMENTSThe entire evaluation process from receipt of applications up to the posting of the Notice of Proposed Award is confidential. On the Notice of Proposed Award posting date, or date of solicitation cancellation, all applications and related material submitted in response to this solicitation become a part of the property of the State and public record. Applicants who want any work examples they submitted with their applications returned to them shall make this request and provide


http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts

either sufficient postage or a Courier Charge Code to fund the cost of returning the examples.

I. APPLICANTS’ ADMONISHMENTThis solicitation contains the instructions governing the requirements for a firm quotation to be submitted by interested Applicants, the format in which the technical information is to be submitted, the material to be included, the requirements which must be met to be eligible for consideration, and Applicant responsibilities. Applicants must take the responsibility to carefully read the entire solicitation, ask appropriate questions in a timely manner, submit all required responses in a complete manner by the required date and time, and make sure that all procedures and requirements of the solicitation are followed and appropriately addressed.

J. AGREEMENT REQUIREMENTSThe content of this solicitation shall be incorporated by reference into the final agreement. See the sample agreement terms and conditions included in this solicitation.

The CEC reserves the right to negotiate with Applicants to modify the project scope, the level of funding, or both. If CEC is unable to successfully negotiate and execute a funding agreement with an Applicant, the CEC, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to cancel the pending award and fund the next highest ranked eligible project.

The CEC must formally approve all proposed grant awards. Clean Transportation Program agreements for over $75,000 must be scheduled and considered at a CEC Business Meeting for approval by the CEC.

Public agencies that receive funding under this solicitation must provide an authorizing resolution approved by their governing authority to enter into an agreement with the CEC and designating an authorized representative to sign.

The CEC will send the approved agreement, including the general terms and conditions and any additional terms and conditions, to the grant Recipient for review, approval, and signature. Once the grant Recipient signs, the CEC will fully execute the agreement. Recipients are approved to begin the project only after full execution of the agreement.

K. NO AGREEMENT UNTIL SIGNED AND APPROVEDNo agreement between the CEC and the successful Applicant is in effect until the agreement is signed by the Recipient, approved at a CEC Business Meeting, and signed by the CEC representative.


The CEC reserves the right to modify the award documents prior to executing the agreement.
