Notice of Intent to Issue DE-FOA-0003390

Background
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), through the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled 'Mine of the Future – Proving Ground Initiative.' This initiative aims to de-risk the adoption of new mining technologies for commercialization and widespread industry adoption. It addresses the critical need for secure and resilient domestic critical minerals and materials supply chains. The initiative supports the Administration's priorities of Unleashing American Energy, Declaring a National Energy Emergency, and Securing America's Critical Supply Chains.

Grant Details
The grant will focus on three main areas:
1. Development of Mine Technology Proving Grounds, which will establish dedicated technology testing sites to support future R&D in mining technology, enabling large-scale deployment at domestic mine sites.
2. Accelerated R&D Projects, where applicants propose work for up to two signature mining technologies to be developed and proven at their proposed proving ground facility.
3. Collaborative Partnerships that leverage expertise from government, industry/private sector, and academia to foster technology development and demonstration. Projects will aim to enhance efficiencies, reduce environmental impact, minimize waste, and improve recovery through innovative mining technologies.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility requirements include collaboration between government entities, private sector companies, and academic institutions. Applicants must demonstrate capability in developing advanced mining technologies and provide detailed project proposals that align with the goals of the initiative.

Period of Performance
The anticipated period of performance for projects is expected to begin upon award with construction of proving ground test beds during the first two years. This will be followed by technology testing in subsequent years.

Grant Value
The total funding available for this initiative is $80 million, with individual awards for field-scale proving ground facilities capped at $20 million each. A cost share requirement of 20-50% is expected from recipients.

Place of Performance
The proving grounds will be established at domestic mine sites across the United States.