Oxygen-conducting SOFC and SOEC Research and Development for Hydrogen Production

The Department of Energy (DOE) has released a funding opportunity through its Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) aimed at advancing the research and development of Reversible Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (R-SOFCs) and Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOECs) for hydrogen production. The FOA, titled "Oxygen-conducting SOFC and SOEC Research and Development for Hydrogen Production," seeks applications focused on developing thermodynamically stable, high-temperature R-SOFC systems that can operate both in fuel cell mode for power generation and in electrolysis mode for hydrogen production. The application deadline is December 2, 2024, with selections expected by March 24, 2025, and awards anticipated by May 15, 2025. Two primary Areas of Interest (AOI) are detailed in this FOA. **AOI 1** emphasizes R&D for reducing long-term degradation rates in oxygen-conducting SOFC and SOEC systems operating under high current density and high steam utilization, targeting a degradation rate of less than 0.2% per 1000 hours and supporting the DOE’s Hydrogen Shot goals. **AOI 2** seeks to develop a comprehensive thermodynamic database for SOFC and SOEC component materials to enhance device stability and performance at high operating temperatures, focusing on reducing the resistance and degradation across various chemical processes. Funding includes up to $3 million for AOI 1, supporting four awards of approximately $750,000 each, and $1 million for AOI 2, supporting two awards of $500,000 each. Cost-sharing is required, with applicants expected to cover 20% of the project’s total costs from non-federal sources. Applicants must be U.S.-based or foreign entities, with eligibility extending to private organizations, higher education institutions, nonprofit entities, and FFRDCs/National Labs as subrecipients. All work must be performed within the U.S. unless a foreign work waiver is granted, and projects must include detailed management plans, data sharing, and compliance with the "Build America, Buy America" requirements for infrastructure-related projects. This funding opportunity aligns with DOE’s commitment to building a clean energy economy and supporting equitable access to hydrogen technology innovation. Applicants are required to submit an R&D Community Benefits Plan that addresses Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA), with clearly defined milestones for tracking progress toward these goals. Applications are submitted through Grants.gov, and the DOE strongly advises applicants to register with all required systems (SAM, Grants.gov, FedConnect) well in advance due to potential processing delays. Submissions must include a project narrative, budget justifications, management plans, and other documentation as specified in the FOA guidelines to be deemed compliant.