RFI - DOE Infrastructure Work Scope Development

RFI Details

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
DE-SOL-0008318
University, National Laboratory, Industry and
International Input on Potential Office of
Nuclear Energy Infrastructure Investments
April 13, 2015
Office of Nuclear Energy
1

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Table of Contents
1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 3
2 Requested Information ................................................................................................................. 3
2.1 Cover Page ............................................................................................................................ 4
2.2 Capability Selection .............................................................................................................. 4
2.3 Research Areas ...................................................................................................................... 4
2.4 Capability Location ............................................................................................................... 7
2.5 Capability Funding Support .................................................................................................. 7
2.5 Other Information .................................................................................................................. 7
3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI..................................................................................... 8
4 Program Guidelines ..................................................................................................................... 8
5 Intellectual Property Rights ......................................................................................................... 8
6 Communications Protocol ............................................................................................................ 8
7 Schedule ....................................................................................................................................... 8
7.1 Submission Time and Date ................................................................................................... 8
8 Disclaimers .................................................................................................................................. 9
2

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1 Introduction
The mission of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Nuclear Energy (NE) is to
advance nuclear power as a resource capable of meeting the Nation’s energy, environmental and
national security needs by resolving technical, cost, safety, proliferation resistance, and security
barriers through research, development and demonstration (RD&D). NE’s RD&D activities help
resolve technical challenges thus enabling the deployment of new reactor and fuel cycle
technologies that will support the current fleet of reactors and facilitate the construction of new
plants.
Developing and maintaining a national RD&D framework to achieve NE’s mission requires an
integrated approach involving people, tools, facilities, and knowledge tied to strategic
partnerships. Experimental infrastructure (i.e. tools and facilities) is a critical piece of this
framework. However, these capabilities, especially radiological and nuclear facilities required to
handle nuclear material, are expensive to build and maintain. Therefore, thoughtful management
of new capability procurement is required, while also providing researchers an effective
mechanism to obtain access to unique nuclear energy research facilities.
DOE currently solicits and awards general scientific infrastructure enhancements to universities
and national laboratories, as well as university research reactor upgrades through an annual
Scientific Infrastructure Support for Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research Funding
Opportunity Announcement. The awards made through this mechanism primarily focus on
localized research and training needs; providing a single investment to procure the necessary
infrastructure. Complementary to these efforts, there remains a need to identify, develop and
maintain high priority national infrastructure supporting nuclear energy-related RD&D.
There is interest within the nuclear energy community in a number of potential national
infrastructure areas with varying funding models. Example capabilities that have been brought to
NE’s attention include, but are not limited to (in no priority order):
 Dedicated High Performance Computing Capability;
 Powder Metallurgy coupled with Hot Isostatic Processing Scale-up Demonstration
Facility;
 In-situ transmission electron microscopy with integrated ion beam irradiation;
 Low Power Critical Facility;
 Thermal Hydraulic Test Facility, and;
 Other high priority regional or national nuclear infrastructure capabilities.
2 Requested Information
DOE is seeking information, comments, feedback, and recommendations from interested
parties to determine what capabilities supporting research, training and technology
3

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demonstration are of highest interest to the nuclear energy research community. In addition
to receiving feedback on the aforementioned capabilities, DOE seeks input on other high priority
nuclear energy-related infrastructure needs including information on the potential benefit,
location, funding model, and feasibility of establishing, maintaining, and operating such
facilities. It is currently envisioned that, in general, supported facilities would become part of the
Nuclear Science User Facilities, which provides access to national nuclear energy infrastructure
through a competitive process or through full cost recovery mechanisms.
Replies to this request should follow the general organization of Section 2 of this RFI and
information should be as succinct as possible. Respondents are encouraged to provide
information on all parts of this RFI; however, not every part of the RFI need be answered in
order to submit a response to the RFI.
2.1 Cover Page
Responses shall include a cover page containing the following information:
 RFI title and reference number
 Names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for the principal points of contact
 Company or affiliate name and address
 Date of submittal
2.2 Capability Selection
Clearly define your proposed capability and specifically identify why it is a priority for the
nuclear energy community. Responses to this section of the RFI should address, but are not
limited to:
1. What is the necessary capability and its essential features? If applicable, include
manufacturer and model numbers.
2. Does a similar capability exist domestically (or internationally, if appropriate for
consideration) and if so, why is additional investment required?
3. If there is an existing capability but it is currently inadequate, could it be refurbished or
upgraded to meet the identified need?
4. What is the anticipated utilization of this capability by the host organization and as a user
facility? Please specify in hours per year.
5. Why should the proposed capability be a priority investment for DOE-NE?
2.3 Research Areas
6. The new capability could be a facility or a specific instrument. Please use the following
lists to determine the most appropriate category. If the capability does not fit with any of
the identified categories, please specify its benefit to nuclear energy research.
4

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Facility Categories Instrumentation Categories
1. Accelerator Facilities 12. Chemical Testing
2. Fuel Development Facilities 13. Containment (Glove Boxes)
3. Hot Cell Facilities 14. Dimensional Examination
4. Neutron Beam Facilities 15. Electromagnetic Testing
5. Ion/Gamma Beam Facilities 16. Fuel Fabrication
6. PIE/Materials 17. Ion Beam Instruments
Characterization
7. Radiochemistry 18. Mechanical Testing
Laboratories
8. Reactor Facilities 19. Microscopes and Detectors
9. Sample Preparation 20. Neutron Beam Instruments
Facilities
10. Special Laboratories 21. Photon Source Facility Instruments
11. Thermal-Hydraulic 22. Radiography/Imaging
Facilities
23. Sample Preparation Gear
24. Shipping Containers (Casks)
25. Spectrometry & Spectroscopy
26. Surface Techniques
27. Thermal Testing
28. X-ray Diffraction Instruments
Functional Area
Primary Secondary
7. In terms of relevance to NE’s mission, please identify which of the following objectives
the proposed capability would support.
Primary Secondary DOE-NE Mission
1. Improve the reliability and performance, sustain
the safety and security, and extend the life of
current reactors by developing advanced
technological solutions.
2. Meet the Administration’s energy security and
climate change goals by developing technologies
to support the deployment of affordable advanced
reactors.
5

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3. Optimize energy and waste generation, safety, and
nonproliferation attributes by developing
sustainable fuel cycles.
4. Enable future nuclear energy options by
developing and maintaining an integrated national
RD&D framework.
5. Maintain U.S. leadership at the international level
by engaging nations that pursue peaceful uses of
nuclear energy.
8. In terms of overall NE-related research, identify which of the following research areas the
proposed capability would support.
Priority Research Area
Structural Materials
Nuclear Fuels (including cladding)
Nuclear Systems Design Studies
Power Conversion Systems
Dry Heat Rejection Systems
Process Heat Transport Systems
Instrumentation and Controls
Material Recovery Processes
Waste Forms
Safeguards and Security Technologies
Used Fuel Disposition
Safety and Risk Assessment
Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
Systems Analysis
Space and Defense Power Systems
Other (please specify:
)
6

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2.4 Capability Location
Some capabilities are one-of-a-kind while others are common among multiple locations and
institutions. The following questions will help determine the extent of the need and the preferred
location for a new capability.
9. What type of institution should host this new capability and why?
10. Where should this capability be located and why? Please specify the preferred institution
or region(s) as appropriate. Preference should be given to regions with the most need or
best synergy with existing capabilities.
2.5 Capability Funding Support
DOE seeks input related to potential funding models for initial and continued support of the
proposed capability. While all options will be considered, those that do not result in an enduring
mortgage to DOE are preferred.
The following questions are specific to the initial investment:
11. What is an estimated cost and schedule for establishing the capability?
12. What costs should DOE bear?
13. What costs should the hosting institution bear?
The following is specific to continued maintenance and operation of the capability:
14. Rank the following options in order of preference.
Duration (e.g., 5 years,
Preference Annual Funding Support from DOE-NE
10 years, permanent)
Operations and Maintenance Costs to support
the capability
Pre-pay (or buy) some amount of the usage
schedule for DOE-NE programs, ensuring
continued operations.
Payroll support for operations and
maintenance staff for the capability
Provide no-cost or low-cost access to the new
capability for non-DOE users (similar to the
current NSUF model)
Other (please specify:
)
2.5 Other Information
Provide any other relevant information you feel is important and not otherwise already covered.
7

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3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI
Information is being sought from educational institutions, National Laboratories, private-sector
institutions, international research entities, and any other interested party.
4 Program Guidelines
This market research request is done under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Parts 10 –
Market Research and FAR subpart 15.201(e) – Requests for Information.
5 Intellectual Property Rights
Participants are advised that their RFI response package should be submitted without any
restrictive markings. However, if restrictions are required in order to fully explain a response, the
participant is responsible to mark the cover page and any and all submittal documents
appropriately. Respondents are strongly discouraged from placing any restrictive markings on
submissions as they may limit DOE’s ability to use the submitted information.
6 Communications Protocol
Responses must be submitted through www.NEUP.gov to be considered. You must create an
account to access the submission site. Submit electronic submissions through the “Applications”
function at www.NEUP.gov. If you have problems completing the registration process or
submitting your response, call 208-526-1507 or send an email to NEUP@inl.gov.
Participants are advised that any indication of interest, in the affirmative, is not meant to imply
nor in any way impart an obligation on the part of the Government that an award will be
forthcoming for the offered work or project.
7 Schedule
7.1 Submission Time and Date
The DOE will continually accept packages in response to this RFI No. DE-SOL-0008318.
However to be considered for the 2017 grant opportunities a response will be required no later
than 8:00 p.m. ET, May 13, 2016. To be considered for the 2018 grant opportunities a response
will be required no later than 8:00 p.m. ET, May 13, 2017. To be considered for the 2019 grant
opportunities a response will be required no later than 8:00 p.m. ET, May 13, 2018.
This announcement does not impose any obligation on the Government nor does it signify any
intent for a contract or other form of award.
8

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8 Disclaimers
a. DOE does not plan to send individual acknowledgements or replies to respondents to
the RFI. However, DOE may conduct one-on-one meetings with entities that respond
to this request if clarification or additional information is required to improve the
DOE’s understanding of the comments provided. If DOE decides to hold one-on-one
meetings, applicable interested parties will be contacted. The decision to meet with a
company one-on-one has no bearing on the worthiness of its RFI submittal or on any
future offerings.
b. This is a request for information only. It has no direct relation to other DOE Funding
Opportunity Announcements or solicitations. DOE does not presently intend to
solicit or award any kind of contract or financial assistance award; this RFI is issued
only with the intent of obtaining information.
c. Any response to this RFI is voluntary and does not commit to Government to any
expense or obligation. This request does not impose any obligation on the
Government or signify a firm intention to enter into a contract. No costs associated
with responding to this RFI or participating in any subsequent meetings will be borne
by the Government.
d. DOE does not intend to publish the results of the responses to this RFI.
9

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RFI Mod 0001

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI)
DE-SOL-0008318
Base: April 13, 2015
MOD 0001: July 19, 2018
University, National Laboratory, Industry and
International Input on Potential Office of
Nuclear Energy Infrastructure Investments
Office of Nuclear Energy
Office of Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear Energy
1

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Table of Contents
1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 3
2 Requested Information ................................................................................................................. 3
2.1 Cover Page ............................................................................................................................ 4
2.2 Capability Selection .............................................................................................................. 4
2.3 Research Areas ...................................................................................................................... 4
2.4 Capability Location ............................................................................................................... 6
2.5 Capability Funding Support .................................................................................................. 7
2.5 Other Information .................................................................................................................. 7
3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI..................................................................................... 7
4 Program Guidelines ..................................................................................................................... 8
5 Intellectual Property Rights ......................................................................................................... 8
6 Communications Protocol ............................................................................................................ 8
7 Schedule ....................................................................................................................................... 8
7.1 Submission Time and Date ................................................................................................... 8
8 Disclaimers .................................................................................................................................. 9
2

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1 Introduction
The mission of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Nuclear Energy (NE) is to
advance nuclear power as a resource capable of meeting the Nation’s energy, environmental and
national security needs by resolving technical, cost, safety, proliferation resistance, and security
barriers through research, development and demonstration (RD&D). NE’s RD&D activities help
resolve technical challenges thus enabling the deployment of new reactor and fuel cycle
technologies that will support the current fleet of reactors and facilitate the construction of new
plants.
Developing and maintaining a national RD&D framework to achieve NE’s mission requires an
integrated approach involving people, tools, facilities, and knowledge tied to strategic
partnerships. Experimental infrastructure (i.e. tools and facilities) is a critical piece of this
framework. However, these capabilities, especially radiological and nuclear facilities required to
handle nuclear material, are expensive to build and maintain. Therefore, thoughtful management
of new capability procurement is required, while also providing researchers an effective
mechanism to obtain access to unique nuclear energy research facilities.
DOE currently solicits and awards general scientific infrastructure enhancements to universities
and national laboratories, as well as university research reactor upgrades through an annual
Scientific Infrastructure Support for Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research Funding
Opportunity Announcement. The awards made through this mechanism primarily focus on
localized research and training needs; providing a single investment to procure the necessary
infrastructure. Complementary to these efforts, there remains a need to identify, develop and
maintain high priority national infrastructure supporting nuclear energy-related RD&D.
There is interest within the nuclear energy community in a number of potential national
infrastructure areas with varying funding models. Example capabilities that have been brought to
NE’s attention include, but are not limited to (in no priority order):
• Dedicated High Performance Computing Capability;
• Powder Metallurgy coupled with Hot Isostatic Processing Scale-up Demonstration
Facility;
• In-situ transmission electron microscopy with integrated ion beam irradiation;
• Low Power Critical Facility;
• Thermal Hydraulic Test Facility, and;
• Other high priority regional or national nuclear infrastructure capabilities.
2 Requested Information
DOE is seeking information, comments, feedback, and recommendations from interested
parties to determine what capabilities supporting research, training and technology
3

---

demonstration are of highest interest to the nuclear energy research community. In addition
to receiving feedback on the aforementioned capabilities, DOE seeks input on other high priority
nuclear energy-related infrastructure needs including information on the potential benefit,
location, funding model, and feasibility of establishing, maintaining, and operating such
facilities. It is currently envisioned that, in general, supported facilities would become part of the
Nuclear Science User Facilities, which provides access to national nuclear energy infrastructure
through a competitive process or through full cost recovery mechanisms.
Replies to this request should follow the general organization of Section 2 of this RFI and
information should be as succinct as possible. Respondents are encouraged to provide
information on all parts of this RFI; however, not every part of the RFI need be answered in
order to submit a response to the RFI.
2.1 Cover Page
Responses shall include a cover page containing the following information:
• RFI title and reference number
• Names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for the principal points of contact
• Company or affiliate name and address
• Date of submittal
2.2 Capability Selection
Clearly define your proposed capability and specifically identify why it is a priority for the
nuclear energy community. Responses to this section of the RFI should address, but are not
limited to:
1. What is the necessary capability and its essential features? If applicable, include
manufacturer and model numbers.
2. Does a similar capability exist domestically (or internationally, if appropriate for
consideration) and if so, why is additional investment required?
3. If there is an existing capability but it is currently inadequate, could it be refurbished or
upgraded to meet the identified need?
4. What is the anticipated utilization of this capability by the host organization and as a user
facility? Please specify in hours per year.
5. Why should the proposed capability be a priority investment for DOE-NE?
2.3 Research Areas
6. The new capability could be a facility or a specific instrument. Please use the following
lists to determine the most appropriate category. If the capability does not fit with any of
the identified categories, please specify its benefit to nuclear energy research.
4

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Facility Categories Instrumentation Categories
1. Accelerator Facilities 12. Chemical Testing
2. Fuel Development Facilities 13. Containment (Glove Boxes)
3. Hot Cell Facilities 14. Dimensional Examination
4. Neutron Beam Facilities 15. Electromagnetic Testing
5. Ion/Gamma Beam Facilities 16. Fuel Fabrication
6. PIE/Materials 17. Ion Beam Instruments
Characterization
7. Radiochemistry 18. Mechanical Testing
Laboratories
8. Reactor Facilities 19. Microscopes and Detectors
9. Sample Preparation 20. Neutron Beam Instruments
Facilities
10. Special Laboratories 21. Photon Source Facility Instruments
11. Thermal-Hydraulic 22. Radiography/Imaging
Facilities
23. Sample Preparation Gear
24. Shipping Containers (Casks)
25. Spectrometry & Spectroscopy
26. Surface Techniques
27. Thermal Testing
28. X-ray Diffraction Instruments
Functional Area
Primary Secondary
7. In terms of relevance to NE’s mission, please identify which of the following objectives
the proposed capability would support.
Primary Secondary DOE-NE Mission
1. Improve the reliability and performance, sustain the
safety and security, and extend the life of current
reactors by developing advanced technological
solutions.
2. Meet the Administration’s energy security and climate
change goals by developing technologies to support the
deployment of affordable advanced reactors.
5

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3. Optimize energy and waste generation, safety, and
nonproliferation attributes by developing sustainable
fuel cycles.
4. Enable future nuclear energy options by developing and
maintaining an integrated national RD&D framework.
5. Maintain U.S. leadership at the international level by
engaging nations that pursue peaceful uses of nuclear
energy.
8. In terms of overall NE-related research, identify which of the following research areas the
proposed capability would support.
Priority Research Area
Structural Materials
Nuclear Fuels (including cladding)
Nuclear Systems Design Studies
Power Conversion Systems
Dry Heat Rejection Systems
Process Heat Transport Systems
Instrumentation and Controls
Material Recovery Processes
Waste Forms
Safeguards and Security Technologies
Used Fuel Disposition
Safety and Risk Assessment
Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
Systems Analysis
Space and Defense Power Systems
Other (please specify: )
2.4 Capability Location
Some capabilities are one-of-a-kind while others are common among multiple locations and
institutions. The following questions will help determine the extent of the need and the preferred
location for a new capability.
6

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9. What type of institution should host this new capability and why?
10. Where should this capability be located and why? Please specify the preferred institution
or region(s) as appropriate. Preference should be given to regions with the most need or
best synergy with existing capabilities.
2.5 Capability Funding Support
DOE seeks input related to potential funding models for initial and continued support of the
proposed capability. While all options will be considered, those that do not result in an enduring
mortgage to DOE are preferred.
The following questions are specific to the initial investment:
11. What is an estimated cost and schedule for establishing the capability?
12. What costs should DOE bear?
13. What costs should the hosting institution bear?
The following is specific to continued maintenance and operation of the capability:
14. Rank the following options in order of preference.
Duration (e.g., 5 years, 10
Preference Annual Funding Support from DOE-NE
years, permanent)
Operations and Maintenance Costs to support the
capability
Pre-pay (or buy) some amount of the usage
schedule for DOE-NE programs, ensuring
continued operations.
Payroll support for operations and maintenance
staff for the capability
Provide no-cost or low-cost access to the new
capability for non-DOE users (similar to the
current NSUF model)
Other (please specify:
)
2.5 Other Information
Provide any other relevant information you feel is important and not otherwise already covered.
3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI
Information is being sought from educational institutions, National Laboratories, private-sector
institutions, international research entities, and any other interested party.
7

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4 Program Guidelines
This market research request is done under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Parts 10 –
Market Research and FAR subpart 15.201(e) – Requests for Information.
5 Intellectual Property Rights
Participants are advised that their RFI response package should be submitted without any
restrictive markings. However, if restrictions are required in order to fully explain a response, the
participant is responsible to mark the cover page and any and all submittal documents
appropriately. Respondents are strongly discouraged from placing any restrictive markings on
submissions as they may limit DOE’s ability to use the submitted information.
6 Communications Protocol
Responses must be submitted through www.NEUP.gov to be considered. You must create an
account to access the submission site. Submit electronic submissions through the “Applications”
function at www.NEUP.gov. If you have problems completing the registration process or
submitting your response, call 208-526-1602 or send an email to NEUP@inl.gov.
Participants are advised that any indication of interest, in the affirmative, is not meant to imply
nor in any way impart an obligation on the part of the Government that an award will be
forthcoming for the offered work or project.
7 Schedule
7.1 Submission Time and Date
The DOE will continually accept responses to this RFI, DE-SOL-0008318, as long as it remains
active. For submitted information to be considered for inclusion in the work scopes developed
for grant opportunities, a response is required no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time as follows:
RFI RESPONSE FOR WORKSCOPE
DUE DATE DEVELOPMENT
GRANT YEAR
May 3, 2019 2020
May 1, 2020 2021
May 7, 2021 2022
May 6, 2022 2023
May 5, 2023 2024
8

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This announcement does not impose any obligation on the Government nor does it signify any
intent for a contract or other form of award.
8 Disclaimers
a. DOE does not plan to send individual acknowledgements or replies to respondents to
the RFI. However, DOE may conduct one-on-one meetings with entities that respond
to this request if clarification or additional information is required to improve the
DOE’s understanding of the comments provided. If DOE decides to hold one-on-one
meetings, applicable interested parties will be contacted. The decision to meet with a
company one-on-one has no bearing on the worthiness of its RFI submittal or on any
future offerings.
b. This is a request for information only. It has no direct relation to other DOE Funding
Opportunity Announcements or solicitations. DOE does not presently intend to
solicit or award any kind of contract or financial assistance award; this RFI is issued
only with the intent of obtaining information.
c. Any response to this RFI is voluntary and does not commit to Government to any
expense or obligation. This request does not impose any obligation on the
Government or signify a firm intention to enter into a contract. No costs associated
with responding to this RFI or participating in any subsequent meetings will be borne
by the Government.
d. DOE does not intend to publish the results of the responses to this RFI.
9

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RFI Mod 0002

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI)
DE-SOL-0008318
Base: April 13, 2015
MOD 0001: July 19, 2018
MOD 0002: March 30, 2023
Input on Potential Office of Nuclear Energy
Infrastructure Areas for Competitive
Opportunities
Office of Nuclear Energy
Office of Nuclear Energy Technologies
1

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Table of Contents
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 3
2 Requested Information ............................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Cover Page ......................................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Infrastructure Recommendations ....................................................................................... 4
2.3 Other Information ............................................................................................................. 5
3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI .................................................................................. 5
4 Program Guidelines .................................................................................................................... 5
5 Intellectual Property Rights ....................................................................................................... 5
6 Communications Protocol ......................................................................................................... 6
7 Submission Time and Date ...................................................................................................... 6
8 Disclaimers ................................................................................................................................. 6
2

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1 Introduction
NE’s mission is to advance nuclear energy science and technology to meet United States (U.S.)
energy, environmental, and economic needs. NE has identified the following goals to address
challenges in the nuclear energy sector, to help realize the potential of advanced technology, and to
leverage the unique role of the Government in spurring innovation:
1. Enable continued operation of existing U.S. nuclear reactors.
2. Enable deployment of advanced nuclear reactors.
3. Develop advanced nuclear fuel cycles and spent nuclear fuel management options.
Developing and maintaining a national RD&D framework to achieve NE’s mission requires an
integrated approach involving people, tools, facilities, and knowledge tied to strategic partnerships.
The infrastructure (i.e., tools and facilities) for nuclear research is a critical part of this framework.
NE currently solicits and awards general scientific infrastructure enhancements to universities and
national laboratories, as well as university research reactor upgrades through an annual Scientific
Infrastructure Support for Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research (CINR) Funding Opportunity
Announcement. The awards made through this mechanism primarily focus on supporting
infrastructure for localized research and training needs.
NE is exploring options for expanding the infrastructure program to enhance the regional or
national impact of university research reactors and other nuclear energy research capabilities.
Options being considered include expanding the scope and breath of infrastructure projects and
expanding the reach of capabilities through consortia, partnerships and/or reactor sharing.
In FY 2023 and FY 2024 there is a specific focus on revitalizing existing nuclear research
infrastructure. Infrastructure projects that are tied to one of the following three focus areas will be
of particular interest:
• Nuclear cyber-physical security,
• New digital technologies in advanced nuclear reactors, and
• Development and safety assessments of small modular reactors.
For more information on NE’s programs, please visit the Office of Nuclear Energy | Department of
Energy website.
Please note that there is a separate RFI for Research and Development (R&D)
2 Requested Information
DOE is seeking information, comments, feedback, and recommendations from interested parties to
3

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determine what capabilities supporting research, training, and technology demonstrations are of
highest interest to the nuclear energy research community. In addition to receiving feedback on the
aforementioned capabilities, DOE seeks input on other high priority nuclear energy-related
infrastructure needs including information on the potential benefit, location, funding model, and
feasibility of establishing, maintaining, and operating such facilities. It is currently envisioned that,
in general, supported facilities could become part of the Nuclear Science User Facilities, which
provides access to national nuclear energy infrastructure through a competitive process or through
full cost recovery mechanisms.
Replies to this request should follow the general organization of Section 2 of this RFI and
information should be as succinct as possible. Respondents are encouraged to provide information
on all parts of this RFI; however, not every part of the RFI need be answered to submit a response
to the RFI.
2.1 Cover Page
Responses shall include a cover page containing the following information:
(1) RFI title and reference number,
(2) Names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for the principal points of contact,
(3) Company or affiliate name and address, and
(4) Date of submittal.
2.2 Infrastructure Recommendations
NE is requesting that respondents of this RFI consider providing input to the following questions:
1. What research capabilities or technologies do you believe are most critical to revitalizing
nuclear research infrastructure, and what challenges exist to their implementation or use?
NE is not assuming that “nuclear research infrastructure” is limited to reactors and is
interested in understanding all types of creative and cost-effective approaches to revitalizing
U.S. nuclear research capabilities.
2. Are the following areas a priority for the nuclear energy research community and why?
What other areas are a priority?
• Nuclear cyber-physical security,
• New digital technologies in advanced nuclear reactors, and
• Supportive technologies in the development of small modular reactors, including their
safety assessments.
4

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3. What award structure would best support universities trying to revitalize nuclear research
infrastructure? (e.g. consortia, or other types of partnerships, award phasing concepts,
infrastructure projects awarded independently or combined with each other and /or with
research, education, or outreach in support of a broad outcome, etc.)
4. If multiple infrastructure funding opportunities were available, is there a preference to
respond to all simultaneously or have separate opportunities spread throughout the year?
Additionally, is there a preference for specific timeframes for those funding opportunity
announcement, proposal deadline, and award cycles?
5. NE is exploring how to support expanded outreach through a reactor sharing program to
utilize research reactors as regional resources to increase interactions with underserved
communities such as MSIs and K-12 institutions. What components of a research reactor
sharing program would be most impactful to drive regional engagement with university
research reactors?
6. What gaps exist in current regional and/or national university nuclear research
infrastructure?
7. What additional information should NE consider in designing or implementing the above
opportunities to ensure that historically disadvantaged communities are actively engaged in
both the design and execution of projects and included in sharing the benefits of such
investments?
2.3 Other Information
Provide any other relevant information you feel is important and not otherwise already covered.
3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI
Information is being sought from educational institutions, National Laboratories, private-sector
institutions, international research entities, and any other interested party.
4 Program Guidelines
This market research request is done under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Parts 10 –
Market Research and FAR subpart 15.201(e) – Requests for Information.
5 Intellectual Property Rights
5

---

Participants are advised that their RFI response package should be submitted without any
restrictive markings. However, if restrictions are required to fully explain a response, the participant
is responsible to mark the cover page and any and all submittal documents appropriately.
Respondents are strongly discouraged from placing any restrictive markings on submissions as
they may limit DOE’s ability to use the submitted information.
6 Communications Protocol
Responses must be submitted through www.NEUP.gov to be considered. You must create an
account to access the submission site. Submit electronic submissions through the “Applications”
function at www.NEUP.gov. If you have problems completing the registration process or
submitting your response, send an email to NEUP@inl.gov.
Participants are advised that any indication of interest, in the affirmative, is not meant to imply nor
in any way impart an obligation on the part of the Government that an award will be forthcoming
for the offered work or project.
7 Submission Time and Date
The DOE will continually accept responses to this RFI, DE-SOL-0008318, as long as it remains
active. For submitted information to be considered for inclusion in the work scopes developed for
grant opportunities, a response is required no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time as follows:
RFI RESPONSE FOR WORKSCOPE
DUE DATE DEVELOPMENT
GRANT YEAR
May 15, 2023 2024
May 13, 2024 2025
May 12, 2025 2026
May 11, 2026 2027
This announcement does not impose any obligation on the Government, nor does it signify any
intent for a contract or other form of award.
8 Disclaimers
a. DOE does not plan to send individual acknowledgements or replies to respondents to the
RFI. However, DOE may conduct one-on-one meetings with entities that respond to this
request if clarification or additional information is required to improve the DOE’s
understanding of the comments provided. If DOE decides to hold one-on-one meetings,
applicable interested parties will be contacted. The decision to meet with a company one-
6

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on-one has no bearing on the worthiness of its RFI submittal or on any future offerings.
b. This is a request for information only. It has no direct relation to other DOE Funding
Opportunity Announcements or solicitations. DOE does not presently intend to solicit or
award any kind of contract or financial assistance award; this RFI is issued only with the
intent of obtaining information.
c. Any response to this RFI is voluntary and does not commit to Government to any
expense or obligation. This request does not impose any obligation on the Government
or signify a firm intention to enter into a contract. No costs associated with responding to
this RFI or participating in any subsequent meetings will be borne by the Government.
d. DOE does not intend to publish the results of the responses to this RFI.
7

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RFI Mod 0003

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI)
DE-SOL-0008318
Base: April 13, 2015
MOD 0001: July 19, 2018
MOD 0002: March 30, 2023
MOD 0003: April 3, 2024
Input on Potential Office of Nuclear Energy
Infrastructure Areas for Competitive
Opportunities
Office of Nuclear Energy
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Office of Nuclear Energy Technologies
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 3
2 Requested Information ............................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Cover Page ......................................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Infrastructure Recommendations ....................................................................................... 4
2.3 Other Information ............................................................................................................. 5
3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI .................................................................................. 5
4 Program Guidelines .................................................................................................................... 5
5 Intellectual Property Rights ....................................................................................................... 5
6 Communications Protocol ......................................................................................................... 5
7 Submission Time and Date ...................................................................................................... 5
8 Disclaimers ................................................................................................................................. 6
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1 Introduction
NE’s mission is to advance nuclear energy science and technology to meet United States (U.S.)
energy, environmental, and economic needs. NE has identified the following goals to address
challenges in the nuclear energy sector, to help realize the potential of advanced technology, and to
leverage the unique role of the Government in spurring innovation:
1. Enable continued operation of existing U.S. nuclear reactors.
2. Enable deployment of advanced nuclear reactors.
3. Develop advanced nuclear fuel cycles and spent nuclear fuel management options.
Developing and maintaining a national RD&D framework to achieve NE’s mission requires an
integrated approach involving people, tools, facilities, and knowledge tied to strategic partnerships.
The infrastructure (i.e., tools and facilities) for nuclear research is a critical part of this framework.
NE currently solicits and awards general scientific infrastructure enhancements to universities and
national laboratories, as well as university research reactor upgrades through an annual Scientific
Infrastructure Support for Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research (CINR) Funding Opportunity
Announcement. The awards made through this mechanism primarily focus on supporting
infrastructure for localized research and training needs.
NE has implemented an initiative to expand the infrastructure program to enhance the regional or
national impact of university research reactors and other nuclear energy research capabilities, and
to expand the scope and breath of infrastructure projects and expanding the reach of capabilities
through consortia, partnerships and/or reactor sharing.
For more information on NE’s programs, please visit the Office of Nuclear Energy | Department of
Energy website.
Please note that there is a separate RFI for Research and Development (R&D)
2 Requested Information
DOE is seeking information, comments, feedback, and recommendations from interested parties to
determine what capabilities supporting research, training, and technology demonstrations are of
highest interest to the nuclear energy research community. In addition to receiving feedback on the
aforementioned capabilities, DOE seeks input on other high priority nuclear energy-related
infrastructure needs including information on the potential benefit, location, funding model, and
feasibility of establishing, maintaining, and operating such facilities. It is currently envisioned that,
in general, supported facilities could become part of the Nuclear Science User Facilities, which
provides access to national nuclear energy infrastructure through a competitive process or through
full cost recovery mechanisms.
3

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Replies to this request should follow the general organization of Section 2 of this RFI and
information should be as succinct as possible. Respondents are encouraged to provide information
on all parts of this RFI; however, not every part of the RFI need be answered to submit a response
to the RFI.
2.1 Cover Page
Responses shall include a cover page containing the following information:
(1) RFI title and reference number,
(2) Names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for the principal points of contact,
(3) Company or affiliate name and address, and
(4) Date of submittal.
2.2 Infrastructure Recommendations
NE is requesting that respondents of this RFI consider providing input to the following questions:
1. What research capabilities or technologies do you believe are most critical to revitalizing
nuclear research infrastructure, and what challenges exist to their implementation or use?
NE is not assuming that “nuclear research infrastructure” is limited to reactors and is
interested in understanding all types of creative and cost-effective approaches to revitalizing
U.S. nuclear research capabilities.
2. What types of research or educations equipment are a priority for the nuclear energy
educational and research communities?
3. What award structure would best support universities trying to revitalize nuclear research
infrastructure? (e.g. consortia, or other types of partnerships, award phasing concepts,
infrastructure projects awarded independently or combined with each other and /or with
research, education, or outreach in support of a broad outcome, etc.)
4. If multiple infrastructure funding opportunities were available, is there a preference to
respond to all simultaneously or have separate opportunities spread throughout the year?
Additionally, is there a preference for specific timeframes for those funding opportunity
announcement, proposal deadline, and award cycles?
5. What gaps exist in current regional and/or national university nuclear research
infrastructure?
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6. What additional information should NE consider in designing or implementing the above
opportunities to ensure that historically disadvantaged communities are actively engaged in
both the design and execution of projects and included in sharing the benefits of such
investments?
2.3 Other Information
Provide any other relevant information you feel is important and not otherwise already covered.
3 Participant Eligibility to Respond to RFI
Information is being sought from educational institutions, National Laboratories, private-sector
institutions, international research entities, and any other interested party.
4 Program Guidelines
This market research request is done under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Parts 10 –
Market Research and FAR subpart 15.201(e) – Requests for Information.
5 Intellectual Property Rights
Participants are advised that their RFI response package should be submitted without any
restrictive markings. However, if restrictions are required to fully explain a response, the participant
is responsible to mark the cover page and any and all submittal documents appropriately.
Respondents are strongly discouraged from placing any restrictive markings on submissions as
they may limit DOE’s ability to use the submitted information.
6 Communications Protocol
Responses must be submitted through www.NEUP.gov to be considered. You must create an
account to access the submission site. Submit electronic submissions through the “Applications”
function at www.NEUP.gov. If you have problems completing the registration process or
submitting your response, send an email to NEUP@inl.gov.
Participants are advised that any indication of interest, in the affirmative, is not meant to imply nor
in any way impart an obligation on the part of the Government that an award will be forthcoming
for the offered work or project.
7 Submission Time and Date
The DOE will continually accept responses to this RFI, DE-SOL-0008318, as long as it remains
active. For submitted information to be considered for inclusion in the work scopes developed for
grant opportunities, a response is required no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time as follows:
5

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RFI RESPONSE FOR WORKSCOPE
DUE DATE DEVELOPMENT
GRANT YEAR
May 15, 2023 2024
April 9, 2024 2025
April 8, 2025 2026
April 7, 2026 2027
This announcement does not impose any obligation on the Government, nor does it signify any
intent for a contract or other form of award.
8 Disclaimers
a. DOE does not plan to send individual acknowledgements or replies to respondents to the
RFI. However, DOE may conduct one-on-one meetings with entities that respond to this
request if clarification or additional information is required to improve the DOE’s
understanding of the comments provided. If DOE decides to hold one-on-one meetings,
applicable interested parties will be contacted. The decision to meet with a company one-
on-one has no bearing on the worthiness of its RFI submittal or on any future offerings.
b. This is a request for information only. It has no direct relation to other DOE Funding
Opportunity Announcements or solicitations. DOE does not presently intend to solicit or
award any kind of contract or financial assistance award; this RFI is issued only with the
intent of obtaining information.
c. Any response to this RFI is voluntary and does not commit to Government to any
expense or obligation. This request does not impose any obligation on the Government
or signify a firm intention to enter into a contract. No costs associated with responding to
this RFI or participating in any subsequent meetings will be borne by the Government.
d. DOE does not intend to publish the results of the responses to this RFI.
6