Request for Information (RFI) related to Blue Sky Training Program for Grid Scale Energy Storage Systems

Background
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Electricity (OE) is seeking public comment through a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the planned approach for Blue Sky Training Program (BSTP) for Grid Scale Energy Storage Systems (ESS). The goal of the BSTP is to educate and train first responders, law enforcement agencies, local communities, utilities, authorities having jurisdictions (AHJs), and others on how to respond to unanticipated ESS failures including those caused by cyber threats, physical threats, and other unanticipated operational failures. The OE provides leadership to ensure that the Nation’s energy delivery system provides reliable, resilient, secure, and affordable electricity.

Grant Details
The proposed Blue Sky Training Program (BSTP) aims to support programs to educate and train first responders, law enforcement agencies, local communities, utilities, authorities having jurisdictions (AHJs), and others on how to respond to unanticipated failures of ESS. The program's anticipated major objectives include providing resources to bring community stakeholders together, developing emergency response plans and trainings at ESS sites, and creating a safety validation report. The opportunity also considers a partnership structure involving prime applicants responsible for identifying specific threats to existing ESS, partner applicants participating in boots-on-the-ground exercises at ESS sites, and optional partners such as companies, industry groups, academic institutions or U.S National labs. The proposed areas of interest are divided into three different topics based on the type of threat an applicant is interested in preparing for: physical threats, cyber threats, and unanticipated operational failures.

Eligibility Requirements
The RFI is not accepting applications for financial assistance or financial incentives under this RFI. Respondents are advised not to include any information that might be considered business sensitive or confidential. Responses must be submitted electronically by June 03, 2024.

Grant Value
Not specified