Notice of Funds Availability for the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) for Fiscal Year 2020, 26656-26665 [2020-09685]
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26656
Notices
Federal Register
Vol. 85, No. 87
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains documents other than rules or
proposed rules that are applicable to the
public. Notices of hearings and investigations,
committee meetings, agency decisions and
rulings, delegations of authority, filing of
petitions and applications and agency
statements of organization and functions are
examples of documents appearing in this
section.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service
[Docket No. APHIS–2020–0009]
Notice of Availability of an
Environmental Assessment for
Release of Aphelinus hordei for
Biological Control of Russian Wheat
Aphid
Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service, USDA.
ACTION: Notice of availability.
AGENCY:
We are advising the public
that the Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service has prepared an
environmental assessment relative to
permitting the release of Aphelinus
hordei for the biological control of
Russian wheat aphids, a pest of cereal
crops, in the Western United States.
Based on the environmental assessment
and other relevant data, we have
reached a preliminary determination
that the release of this control agent will
not have a significant impact on the
quality of the human environment. We
are making the environmental
assessment available to the public for
review and comment.
DATES: We will consider all comments
that we receive on or before June 4,
2020.
SUMMARY:
You may submit comments
by either of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov/#!docket
Detail;D=APHIS-2020-0009.
• Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery:
Send your comment to Docket No.
APHIS–2020–0009, Regulatory Analysis
and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station
3A–03.8, 4700 River Road, Unit 118,
Riverdale, MD 20737–1238.
Supporting documents and any
comments we receive on this docket
may be viewed at https://
www.regulations.gov/
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ADDRESSES:
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#!docketDetail;D=APHIS-2020-0009 or
in our reading room, which is located in
Room 1141 of the USDA South
Building, 14th Street and Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC. Normal
reading room hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
holidays. To be sure someone is there to
help you, please call (202) 799–7039
before coming.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr.
Colin D. Stewart, Assistant Director,
Pests, Pathogens, and Biocontrol
Permits, Permitting and Compliance
Coordination, PPQ, APHIS, 4700 River
Road, Unit 133, Riverdale, MD 20737–
1231; (301) 851–2327, email:
Colin.Stewart@usda.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Russian
wheat aphid is native to Central Asia,
the Middle East, Southern Europe, and
North Africa, but has spread to various
areas such as Australia, South Africa,
and North and South America. It was
detected in the Western United States in
1986, Russian wheat aphid was
discovered in 18 States: Arizona,
California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas,
Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New
Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma,
Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah,
Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
This pest has not spread to the eastern
areas of the United States. The Russian
wheat aphid is wingless, pale yellowgreen or gray-green insect lightly dusted
with white wax powder that feeds and
develops on grass and cereal species; in
North America, it thrives best on wheat
and barley.
Aphelinus hordei, a tiny, stingless
wasp, was chosen as a potential
biological control agent due to its
narrow host range, and it was the only
parasitoid that specialized on Russian
wheat aphid.
The Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service’s (APHIS’) review
and analysis of the potential
environmental impacts associated with
the proposed release are documented in
detail in an environmental assessment
(EA) entitled ‘‘Field Release of
Aphelinus hordei (Hymenoptera:
Aphelinidae) for Biological Control of
the Russian Wheat Aphid, Diuraphis
noxia (Hemiptera: Aphididae), in the
Continental United States’’ (February
2018). We are making the EA available
to the public for review and comment.
We will consider all comments that we
receive on or before the date listed
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under the heading DATES at the
beginning of this notice.
The EA may be viewed on the
Regulations.gov website or in our
reading room (see ADDRESSES above for
a link to Regulations.gov and
information on the location and hours of
the reading room). You may also request
paper copies of the EA by calling or
writing to the person listed under FOR
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. Please
refer to the title of the EA when
requesting copies.
The EA has been prepared in
accordance with: (1) The National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(NEPA), as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321 et
seq.), (2) regulations of the Council on
Environmental Quality for
implementing the procedural provisions
of NEPA (40 CFR parts 1500–1508), (3)
USDA regulations implementing NEPA
(7 CFR part 1b), and (4) APHIS’ NEPA
Implementing Procedures (7 CFR part
372).
Done in Washington, DC, this 24th day of
April 2020.
Michael Watson,
Acting Administrator, Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–09539 Filed 5–4–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410–34–P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Commodity Credit Corporation
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Notice of Funds Availability for the
Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive
Program (HBIIP) for Fiscal Year 2020
Commodity Credit Corporation
and the Rural Business-Cooperative
Service, USDA.
ACTION: Notice.
AGENCY:
The Commodity Credit
Corporation (CCC) and the Rural
Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS), a
Rural Development agency of the United
States Department of Agriculture
(USDA), announce the availability of up
to $100 million in competitive grants to
eligible entities for activities designed to
expand the sales and use of renewable
fuels under the Higher Blends
Infrastructure Incentive Program
(HBIIP). Cost-share grants of up to 50
percent of total eligible project costs but
not more than $5 million will be made
SUMMARY:
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available to assist transportation fueling
and fuel distribution facilities with
converting to higher blend friendly
status for ethanol (i.e., greater than 10
percent ethanol) and biodiesel (greater
than 5 percent biodiesel) by sharing the
costs related to the installation, and/or
retrofitting, and/or otherwise upgrading
of dispenser/pumps, related equipment,
and infrastructure.
DATES: The Agency will finalize the
application window for enrollment in
the Higher Biofuels Infrastructure
Incentive Program by future notice in
the Federal Register and Grants.gov.
subject to the opening of the electronic
application system.
ADDRESSES:
Application Submission: The
application system for electronic
submissions will be available at https://
www.rd.usda.gov/HBIIP.
Electronic Submissions: Electronic
submissions of applications will allow
for the expeditious review of an
Applicant’s proposal. As a result, all
Applicants must file their application
electronically.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
Anthony Crooks: Telephone (202) 205–
9322, email: EnergyPrograms@usda.gov.
Persons with disabilities that require
alternative means for communication
should contact the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) Target Center at
(202) 720–2600 (voice).
SUPPLEMENATARY INFORMATION: Pursuant
to the Congressional Review Act (CRA;
5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), the Office of
Information and Regulatory Affairs in
the Office of Management and Budget
designated this action as a major rule, as
defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2), because it
will result in an annual effect on the
economy of $100,000,000 or more.
Accordingly, there is a 60-day delay in
the effective date of this action.
Application processing (reviews,
competition, selection, awards, etc.) will
not begin until after the application
deadline 90 days after the application
window date is announced by notice in
the Federal Register. Therefore, the 60day delay required by the CRA is not
expected to have a material impact upon
the administration and/or
implementation of the HBIIP.
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Overview
Federal Agency: The Commodity
Credit Corporation (CCC) and the Rural
Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS),
(USDA).
Funding Opportunity Title: Notice of
Funds Availability for the Higher
Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program
(HBIIP) for Fiscal Year 2020.
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Announcement Type: Notice of Funds
Availability.
Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.754.
Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance (CFDA) Title: The Higher
Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program
(HBIIP).
Due Date for Applications: The
Agency will finalize the application
window for enrollment in the Higher
Biofuels Infrastructure Incentive
Program by notice in the Federal
Register and Grants.gov. subject to
future opening of the electronic
application system.
Items in Supplementary Information
I. Program Overview
II. Federal Award Information
III. Eligibility Information
IV. Application and Submission Information
V. Application Review Information
VI. Federal Award Administration
Information
VII. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts
VIII. Other Information
I. Program Overview
A. Background
Prior to publishing this Notice, the
CCC and RBCS (the Agency) determined
it to be in the public interest to solicit
informal comments from the public and
interested stakeholders on a wide range
of issues on information and options for
fuel ethanol and biodiesel
infrastructure, innovation, products,
technology, and data derived from all
HBIIP processes that drive economic
growth, promote health, and increase
public benefit.
A Request for Information (RFI), was
published in the Federal Register (85
FR 2699) on January 16, 2020.
Information received from the public to
the RFI was intended to inform the CCC
and RBCS as well as private sector and
other stakeholders with interest in and
expertise relating to such a promotion.
Fifty-seven (57) comments were
submitted from the public which served
to inform the Agency on an array of
issues, including but not limited to: (a)
Fueling stations, convenience stores,
hypermarket fueling stations, fleet
facilities, and similar entities with
capital investments; (b) equipment
providers, equipment installers,
certification entities and other
stakeholder/manufacturers (both
upstream and down); (c) fuel
distribution centers, including terminals
and depots; and (d) those performing
innovative research, and/or developing
enabling platforms and applications in
manufacturing, energy production, and
agriculture. Additionally, on February 5,
2020, RBCS convened a Federal Inter-
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Agency Task Force of experts with
relevant knowledge, including technical
experts from the Environmental
Protection Agency and Department of
Energy/National Renewable Energy
Laboratory, to assist with the review of
the public comments and provide
recommendations for the guiding
principles of this Notice. And, on
February 28, 2020, an ‘‘Announcement
of Future Competitive Grant Funds
Availability for Higher Blends
Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP)
for Fiscal Year 2020,’’ was published in
the Federal Register (85 FR 2699) to
alert prospective participants and
stakeholders of Agency intentions to
publish this Notice.
B. Program Description
The purpose of the HBIIP is to
increase significantly the sales and use
of higher blends of ethanol and
biodiesel. HBIIP is intended to
encourage a more comprehensive
approach to marketing higher blends by
sharing the costs related to building out
biofuel-related infrastructure.
Under the HBIIP, funds will be
awarded to assist transportation fueling
and fuel distribution facilities to convert
their facilities through upgrade or
installation of equipment required to
ensure all equipment is fully compatible
with higher blends of ethanol (i.e.,
greater than 10 percent ethanol) and
biodiesel (greater than 5 percent
biodiesel) (HB fuel). The program will
share the costs related to the upgrading
of fuel dispensers (gas and diesel
pumps) and attached equipment,
underground storage tank system
components (which includes but is not
limited to tanks, pumps, ancillary
equipment, lines, gaskets, and sealants),
and other infrastructure required at a
location to ensure the environmentally
safe availability of fuel containing
ethanol blends greater than 10 percent
or fuel containing biodiesel blends
greater than 5 percent.
Storing and dispensing E15, E85, or
other high blends of ethanol at gas
stations with equipment that is not
compatible with higher blends of
ethanol fuel can result in leaks and
releases that contaminate land and
groundwater. Older and even some
recent existing UST systems (which
includes but is not limited to tanks,
pumps, ancillary equipment, lines,
gaskets, and sealants) are not fully
compatible with E15 or higher and
require modification before storing these
fuels. Biodiesel blends above B20 have
similar requirements; some
infrastructure changes may even be
necessary when storing blends greater
than B5. This program will expand the
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number of facilities fully compatible
with higher blends of ethanol and
biodiesel.
Grants for up to 50 percent of total
eligible project costs, but not more than
$5 million, are made available to vehicle
fueling facilities, including, but not
limited to, local fueling stations/
locations, convenience stores (CS),
hypermarket fueling stations (HFS), fleet
facilities, and fuel terminal operations,
midstream partners, and/or distribution
facilities.
CCC is an agency and instrumentality
of the United States within the
Department of Agriculture and operates
under the supervision of the Secretary
of Agriculture. Among the activities that
section 5 of the CCC Charter Act
authorizes CCC to undertake are actions
to:
• Make available materials and
facilities required in connection with
the production and marketing of
agricultural commodities (other than
tobacco) and
• Increase the domestic consumption
of agricultural commodities (other than
tobacco) by expanding or aiding in the
expansion of domestic markets or by
developing or aiding in the
development of new and additional
markets, marketing facilities, and uses
for such commodities.
Under this authority, CCC is making
available up to $100 million in the form
of cost-share grants to eligible entities to
assist with the implementation of
activities to expand the infrastructure
for renewable fuels derived from
agricultural products produced in the
United States. HBIIP will be
administered on behalf of CCC under
the general supervision of RBCS.
II. Federal Award Information
A. Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance (CFDA) Number 10.754
Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance (CFDA) Title: The Higher
Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program
(HBIIP).
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B. Funds Available
Under HBIIP up to $100 million is
made available to eligible participants.
Of the total amount of available funds,
approximately $86 million will be made
available to transportation fueling
facilities (including fueling stations,
convenience stores, hypermarket fueling
stations, fleet facilities, and similar
entities with capital investments) for
eligible implementation activities
related to higher blends of fuel ethanol
greater than 10 percent ethanol, such as
E15 or higher; and approximately $14
million will be made available to
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transportation fueling facilities and fuel
distribution facilities (including
terminal operations, depots, and
midstream partners), for eligible
implementation activities related to
higher blends of biodiesel greater than
5 percent biodiesel, such as B20 or
higher.
C. Targeted Assistance Goal
A Targeted Assistance Goal is also
established for applicants (owners)
owning the fewest number of
transportation fueling stations/locations
(and owning at least one).
Approximately 40 percent of funds will
be made available for activities/
investments related to upgrading or
installing equipment to make a
transportation fueling facilities fully
compatible to dispense/sell higher
blends of fuel ethanol and/or biodiesel.
The Agency expects this Targeted
Assistance to be exhausted by
applicants owning 10 fueling stations/
locations or fewer.
This policy goal is rooted in Agency
experience and borne out by several
comments submitted to the RFI (85 FR
2699). Approximately 80 percent of fuel
sales in the U.S. is sold by convenience
store owners. Moreover, about 58
percent of the stores selling fuel in the
U.S. are ‘‘single store owners.’’ A
significant majority of HB fuel is
currently sold/dispensed by large retail
convenience store chains located in the
Midwest and along the East Coast of the
U.S., due in part because these are the
types of businesses and locations with
the highest densities of HB fueling
infrastructure. The Agency established
this Targeted Assistance Goal as a
means to distribute a portion of program
funds among a greater number of
business owners and perhaps indirectly,
across a broader geographic region, that
may not otherwise participate. There is
an underlying expectation that owners/
participants located in underserved
areas today will be positioned as HB
fuel market leaders tomorrow.
D. Consideration for Geographical
Diversity
A Consideration for Geographical
Diversity and markets underserved by
higher blends is also afforded to
applicants/participants based on the
location of the proposed transportation
fueling stations/facilities. This
consideration is intended to work in
concert with the Targeted Assistance
Goal to distribute program funds more
broadly across a greater number of states
that may not otherwise participate.
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E. Approximate Number of Awards
The number of awards will depend on
the number of eligible participants and
the total amount of requested funds. In
the unlikely event that every successful
applicant is awarded the maximum
amount available of $5 million, 20
awards will be made. The Agency
intends/expects to make approximately
150 awards and provide assistance to
1,500 locations from this solicitation.
F. Type of Instrument
Grants. Awards to successful
applicants will be in the form of costshare grants for up to 50 percent of total
eligible project costs, but not to exceed
$5 million, whichever is less.
III. Eligibility Information
A. Eligible Applicants
Owners of transportation fueling and
fuel distribution facilities located in the
United States and its territories may
apply for this program. Eligible entities
would include—fueling stations,
convenience stores, hypermarket retailer
fueling stations, fleet facilities, and
similar entities with equivalent capital
investments, as well as fuel/biodiesel
terminal operations, midstream
partners, and heating oil distribution
facilities or equivalent entities.
Applicants must include all proposed
activity under a single application.
Application requirements and other
important information is available at
Grants.gov and on the HBIIP web page
https://www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip.
B. Eligible Project
The goal of HBIIP is to increase the
market availability of higher blends
biofuels. To be eligible for this program,
a project’s sole purpose must be for the
installation, and/or retrofitting, and/or
otherwise upgrading of fuel dispensers/
pumps, related/attached equipment,
underground storage tank system
components, and other infrastructure
required at a location to ensure the
environmentally safe availability of fuel
containing ethanol blends greater than
10 percent or fuel containing biodiesel
blends greater than 5 percent.
An eligible project must conform to
all applicable Federal, State, Tribal and
local regulatory requirements pertaining
to:
(1) Technical Standards and
Corrective Action Requirements for
Owners and Operators of Underground
Storage Tanks (UST), 40 CFR parts 280
and 281;
(2) Regulation of Fuels and Fuel
Additives, 40 CFR part 80;
(3) Occupational Safety and Health
Standards Subpart H—Hazardous
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Materials Section 106—Flammable
Liquids, 29 CFR 1910.106;
(4) Safety and Health Regulations for
Construction Subpart F—Fire Protection
and Prevention Section 152—
Flammable Liquids, 29 CFR 1926.152;
and
(5) Automotive Fuel Ratings,
Certification, and Posting, 16 CFR part
306.
HBIIP funds may be used for
equipment required at a location to
ensure the environmentally safe
availability of fuel containing ethanol
blends greater than 10 percent or fuel
containing biodiesel blends greater than
5 percent.
Since 1988, EPA’s UST regulations
require fuel to be stored in systems that
are compatible with the type of fuel
being stored. The environmentally-safe
growth in availability of fuels
containing higher blends of ethanol or
biodiesel depends on these fuels being
stored and dispensed from underground
storage tank (UST) systems that are
compatible with E15. Storing and
dispensing E15 at gas stations with
equipment that is not compatible with
higher blends of ethanol fuel can result
in leaks and releases that contaminate
land and groundwater. Section 280.32 of
40 CFR part 280 states that UST owners
and operators must use an UST system
made of or lined with materials that are
compatible with the substance stored in
the UST system.
Additionally, owners or operators
who store regulated substances that
contain more than 20 percent biodiesel
or more than 10 percent ethanol, such
as 15 percent ethanol or E15, must
notify their implementing agency 30
days before storing the fuel. Owners and
operators must also keep records
demonstrating that their UST system is
compatible with the substance stored.
Demonstrating compatibility of an
UST system means identifying what
equipment is installed as part of your
UST system. You must show that a
component is approved by either the
manufacturer of the component or by a
nationally recognized independent
testing laboratory, such as Underwriters
Laboratory (UL), for use with the fuel to
be stored. See details about these
requirements in regulations issued by
EPA at 40 CFR 280.32.
Please note that compatibility extends
beyond the fuel tank. Owners and
operators must demonstrate
compatibility for the components below
to store substances containing more
than 10 percent ethanol or more than 20
percent biodiesel.
1. Tank;
2. Piping carrying product from the
tank;
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3. Piping containment sumps entered
by the piping;
4. Pumping equipment, including the
submersible pump or suction pump,
depending on the type of system;
5. Release detection equipment,
including automatic tank gauging (ATG)
probes, sump sensors, and line leak
detectors;
6. Spill equipment, such as spill
buckets, for the tank; and
7. Overfill equipment, including ball
float valves or flapper valves.
The federal UST regulation from EPA
does not require owners and operators
to demonstrate the compatibility of
dispensers or associated aboveground
equipment. However, compatibility
requirements for these components may
exist in other local regulations, such as
the fire code. Owners and operators
should check for these requirements
with their implementing agency. HBIIP
grant funds may be used to upgrade or
replace fuel dispensers/pumps,
underground storage tank system
components, or other required
infrastructure, necessary to make their
facility fully compatible with higher
blends of ethanol or biodiesel. Fuel
dispensers/pumps, underground storage
tank system components, and other
required infrastructure and components
must meet the minimum requirements
of EPA’s UST regulations and other
Federal, State, and local regulations or
codes; and, must be approved by either
the manufacturer of the component or
by a nationally recognized independent
testing laboratory, such as Underwriters
Laboratory (UL), for use at a minimum
for blends containing 25 percent ethanol
or 100 percent biodiesel.
C. Cost Sharing or Matching
There is a matching fund (costsharing) requirement of at least $1 for
every $1 in grant funds provided by
CCC. Matching funds plus grant funds
must equal total eligible project cost.
Matching funds may be in the form of
cash or eligible in-kind contributions.
Matching funds/contributions and grant
funds may be used only for eligible
project purposes, including any
contributions exceeding the minimum
amount required. Applicants will certify
and demonstrate that any required
matching funds are available during the
grant period and provide appropriate
documentation with the application, as
referenced in Section IV.B of this
Notice.
Funds made available under HBIIP
may only be used for eligible
equipment, infrastructure and related
expenses to support the sales and use of
higher biofuel blends—fuel containing
ethanol greater than 10 percent by
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26659
volume and/or fuel containing biodiesel
blends greater than 5 percent by
volume.
Applicants may enter into
arrangements with private entities such
as, but not limited to, commercial
vendors of fuels, agricultural
commodity promotional organizations,
Tribes, and other entities interested in
the renewable fuels in order to secure
such non-Federal funds or in-kind
contributions.
There are several existing or prior and
ongoing State-led programs and private
sector efforts to help provide funding for
higher blend dispensers, related
equipment and infrastructure. These
programs may be included as part of any
matching contribution requirement.
However, the application must show
how the HBIIP grant will add to the
infrastructure that fosters biofuel sales
and use. HBIIP funds are intended to
provide additional incentives.
D. Eligible Funds
(1) Matching Funds. Those project
funds required to receive an HBIIP
grant. The applicant is responsible for
securing the remainder of the total
eligible project costs not covered by
grant funds. Matching funds are
comprised of eligible in-kind
contributions from third parties and/or
cash. In-kind contributions by the
applicant cannot be used to meet the
matching fund requirement. Written
commitments for matching funds (e.g.,
Letters of Commitment and bank
statements) must be submitted with the
Certification of Matching Funds when
the application is submitted. Funds
provided by the applicant in excess of
matching funds are not matching funds.
Unless authorized by statute, other
Federal grant funds cannot be used to
meet a matching funds requirement.
Passive third-party equity contributions
are acceptable for HBIIP projects,
including equity raised from the sale of
Federal tax credits. In the event of
ineligible, overstated, or otherwise
unsubstantiated claims in the
Certification of Matching Funds, the
Agency reserves the right to adjust an
application’s grant request such that it
is commensurate with eligible/actual
Matching Funds, or take otherwise
action as deemed appropriate.
Up to 10 percent of an applicant’s
Matching Funds requirement (up to five
percent of total project costs) may be
used to pay consumer education and/or
marketing and/or signage related
expenses. HBIIP grant funds awarded to
transportation fueling stations are
intended to assist with converting those
facilities to ensure full compatibility
with HB fuel through upgrade or
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installation of fuel dispensers, related
equipment, and infrastructure. And
while the contributions of consumer
education and/or marketing and/or
signage toward a fuel station’s fuel sales
are well recognized, a very tall sign to
display fuel prices does not in any way
assist a facility with higher blends
compatibility. Therefore, the Agency
determined that while HBIIP grant
funds may not be used for consumer
education and/or marketing and/or
signage, Matching Funds may.
(2) Eligible Project Costs. Eligible
Project Costs are only those costs
incurred during the grant period and
that are directly related to the use and
purposes of the HBIIP. Eligible Project
Costs may include:
(a) Retrofitting of existing, or purchase
and installation of new, fuel dispensers
(gas and/or diesel pumps) and attached
equipment, underground storage tank
system components, and other
infrastructure required at a location to
ensure the environmentally safe
availability of fuel containing ethanol
blends greater than 10 percent or fuel
containing biodiesel blends greater than
5 percent;
(b) Construction, retrofitting,
replacement, and improvements;
(c) Fees for construction permits and
licenses; and
(d) Professional service fees for
qualified consultants, contractors,
installers, and other third-party services.
(e) HBIIP grant funds may not be used
to pay for expenses related to consumer
education and/or marketing and/or
signage. However, up to 10 percent of an
applicant’s Matching Funds
requirement (up to five percent of total
project costs) may be used to pay for
consumer education and/or marketing
and/or signage related expenses.
E. Ineligible Project Costs
Ineligible project costs for HBIIP
projects include, but are not limited to:
(1) Used equipment and vehicles;
(2) Construction or equipment costs
that would be incurred regardless of the
installation of HB fuel infrastructure
shall not be included as eligible project
costs. For example, a fuel storage tank
for a fueling facility constructed during
the grant period that would have been
otherwise installed should not be
included in an application. USDA
believes all new tanks and piping
available in the market only come in
models compatible with higher blends
of ethanol and biodiesel, so grant funds
would not expand the market for higher
blends by funding such tank or
equipment installation. However, other
required equipment such as fuel
dispensers/pumps and other
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underground storage tank system
components that are still available in
traditional and higher blend compatible
models, the latter at a higher cost, may
be considered in this funding program.
(3) Business operations that derive
more than 10 percent of annual gross
revenue (including any lease income
from space or machines) from gambling
activity, excluding State or Tribal
authorized lottery proceeds, as
approved by the Agency, conducted for
the purpose of raising funds for the
approved project;
(4) Business operations deriving
income from activities of a sexual nature
or illegal activities;
(5) Real property/land;
(6) Lease payments;
(7) Any project that creates a Conflict
of Interest or an appearance of a Conflict
of Interest;
(8) Funding of political or lobbying
activities;
(9) To pay off any Federal direct or
guaranteed loan or any other form of
Federal debt. Any incurred expense,
equipment purchase, or paid service
prior to the grant period;
(10) Any expense associated with
applying for this program; and
(11) Any expense associated with
reporting results and/or outcomes
during the disbursement, performance,
and servicing portions of this program.
(12) Conflict of interest, for purposes
of this program includes, but is not
limited to:
(a) Distribution or payment of grant,
guaranteed loan funds, and matching
funds or award of project construction
contracts to an individual owner,
partner, or stockholder, or to a
beneficiary or immediate family of the
applicant when the recipient will retain
any portion of ownership in the
applicant’s or borrower’s project. Grant
and matching funds may not be used to
support costs for services or goods going
to, or coming from, a person or entity
with a real or apparent conflict of
interest.
(b) Assistance to employees, relatives,
and associates. The Agency will process
any requests for assistance under this
subpart in accordance with 7 CFR part
1900, subpart D.
(c) Member/delegate clause. No
member of or delegate to Congress shall
receive any share or part of this grant or
any benefit that may arise there from;
but this provision shall not be construed
to bar, as a contractor under the grant,
a publicly held corporation whose
ownership might include a member of
Congress.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture
Departmental Regulations and Laws that
contain other compliance requirements
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are referenced in paragraphs VI. and
VIII., of this Notice.
Applicants who are found to be/have
been in violation of applicable Federal
Law/statutes will be deemed ineligible.
IV. Application and Submission
Information
Applicants seeking to participate in
this program must submit applications
in accordance with this Notice.
A. Electronic Application and
Submission
Applications must be submitted
electronically using either the
Government-wide www.Grants.gov
website or by the secure-server portal
https://www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip. No other
form of application will be accepted.
Application and supporting materials
are available at Grants.gov and on the
HBIIP web page https://
www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip.
B. Content and Form of Application
Submission
Applicants must submit complete
applications by the date identified in
the DATES section of this Notice.
Applications must contain all parts
necessary for the RBCS to determine
applicant and project eligibility,
conduct the technical evaluation,
calculate a priority score, rank and
compete the application, as applicable,
in order to be considered. All
applications determined to be
insufficient to these purposes shall be
deemed as incomplete and will neither
be competed nor receive funding.
(1) For Higher Blend Implementation
Activities related to transportation
fueling stations/facilities, the HBIIP
Online Application is comprised of the
following elements:
(a) SF 424 Application for Federal
Assistance;
(b) HBIIP Project Worksheet with
Priority Scoring Criteria: Transportation
Fueling Stations/Facilities;
(c) SF 424C Budget Information—
Construction Programs;
(d) HBIIP Project Technical Report;
(e) Certification of Matching Funds;
(f) Request for Environmental
Information; and
(g) SF 424D Assurances—
Construction Programs.
(2) For Higher Blend Implementation
Activities related to fuel distribution
facilities, an HBIIP Online Application
is comprised of the following elements:
(a) SF 424 Application for Federal
Assistance;
(b) HBIIP Project Worksheet with
Priority Scoring Criteria: Fuel
Distribution Facilities;
(c) Supporting information from a
recent/recently updated (within 3 years)
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feasibility study and/or business plan,
or equivalent planning documentation;
(d) SF 424C Budget Information—
Construction Programs;
(e) HBIIP Project Technical Report;
(f) Certification of Matching Funds;
(g) Request for Environmental
Information; and
(h) SF 424D Assurances—
Construction Programs.
(3) System for Award Management
(SAM). Applicants must be registered in
the System for Award Management
(SAM) prior to applying; which can be
obtained at no cost via a toll-free request
line at (866) 705–5711 or online at
https://www.sam.gov/SAM/.
Registration of a new entity in SAM
requires an original, signed, and
notarized letter stating that the
applicant is the authorized Entity
Administrator, before the registration
will be activated. All recipients of
Federal financial grant assistance are
required to report information about
first-tier sub-awards and executive total
compensation in accordance with 2 CFR
part 170.
All applicants except those that are
individuals, in accordance with 2 CFR
part 25, must have a DUNS/Unique
Entity Identifier (UEI) number, which
can be obtained at no cost via a toll-free
request line at (866) 705–5711 or online
at https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform.
(4) Grants.gov. To use Grants.gov and
to use the HBIIP online application
system you must already have a DUNS/
Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number
and you must also be registered and
maintain registration in SAM. We
strongly recommend that you do not
wait until the application deadline date
to begin the application process.
(5) Instructions and resources for
completing the online application are
available on the HBIIP web page https://
www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip. Applicants and
their authorized/rightful users will be
required to obtain an E-Auth
Identification and obtain access to the
secure portal. The application process
requires the facility to both view and
generate PDFs (Portable Document
Files). The use of a Web browser such
as Chrome or its equivalent is highly
encouraged.
C. Submission Dates and Times
The deadline date for applications to
be received in order to be considered for
funding is specified in the DATES section
at the beginning of this notice.
After electronically submitting an
application through the HBIIP website,
the applicant will receive an automated
acknowledgement, specifying
submission date and time, from the
HBIIP online application system. In
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order to be considered for funds under
this Notice, applications must be
deemed complete and must be received
by the secure portal located on the
HBIIP web page at https://
www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip by the deadline.
D. Intergovernmental Review
Executive Order (E.O.) 12372,
Intergovernmental Review of Federal
Programs, applies to this program. This
E.O. requires that Federal agencies
provide opportunities for consultation
on proposed assistance with State and
local governments. Many states have
established a Single Point of Contact
(SPOC) to facilitate this consultation.
Instructions for completing this required
element and a list of States that
maintain a SPOC are available in the
HBIIP online application.
E. Funding Restrictions
The following funding limitations
apply to applications submitted under
this Notice.
(1) Only one HBIIP application may
be submitted per HBIIP applicant. An
application may request HBIIP
assistance for more than one location.
An HBIIP applicant/application may
receive one and only one award in this
competition.
(2) There is no minimum HBIIP grant
award.
(3) The maximum HBIIP grant award
is not to exceed $5,000,000.
(4) HBIIP grants are awarded on a cost
share basis for not more than 50 percent
of total eligible project costs.
(5) No HBIIP grant award may exceed
an amount calculated as 50 percent of
total eligible project costs or the
Maximum HBIIP grant award amount of
$5,000,000, whichever is the lesser.
(6) If it is determined that an
applicant is affiliated with another
entity that has also applied, then the
maximum grant award applies to all
affiliated entities as if they applied as
one applicant. An Affiliate is an entity
controlling or having the power to
control another entity, or a third party
or parties that control or have the power
to control both entities.
(7) Underground Storage Tanks and
Systems (USTs).
(a) New construction. Fueling
Stations/Locations/facilities constructed
during the grant period are restricted
from receiving HBIIP grant funds for
underground storage tanks. RBCS has
determined that tanks would be
required of any new fueling stations/
locations/facility regardless of any
commitment to market higher blends.
However, other required equipment
such as fuel dispensers/pumps and
other underground storage tank system
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26661
components that are still available in
traditional and higher blend compatible
models, the latter at a higher cost, may
be considered in this funding program.
(b) Existing fueling stations that
require upgraded, and/or retrofitted
and/or additional underground storage
tanks may request assistance of up to 25
percent of total eligible project costs or
up to $1,250,000, whichever is the
lesser. They are eligible for any required
equipment including, but not limited to,
the tank, piping, piping containment
sumps, underground pumping
equipment, including the submersible
pump or suction pump, release
detection equipment, spill equipment
(spill buckets), overfill equipment, fuel
dispensers/pumps, or other equipment.
(8) HBIIP grant funds may not be used
to pay for expenses related to consumer
education, marketing, and/or signage.
However, up to 10 percent of an
applicant’s Matching Funds (five
percent of total project costs) may be
used to pay for education/marketing/
signage related expenses.
(9) No HBIIP grant funds may be used
to pay for any incurred expense,
equipment purchase, or service paid
outside the grant period.
F. Multiple Facilities
While only one HBIIP application
may be submitted per applicant under
this Notice, an application may request
assistance for multiple facilities/
locations. Section ‘‘E. (6) Funding
Restrictions,’’ advises on instances
where more than one application is
submitted by one or more affiliates of an
entity.
G. Compliance With Other Federal
Statues and Other Submission
Requirements
(1) Environmental information. For
the RBCS to consider an application, the
application must include all
environmental review documents with
supporting documentation in
accordance with 7 CFR part 1970 and as
referenced in Section IV.B of this
Notice. Any required environmental
review must be completed prior to
obligation of funds. Applicants are
advised to contact RBCS to determine
environmental requirements as soon as
practicable to ensure adequate review
time.
Applicants should also submit to
RBCS the compatibility verification of
equipment to be funded. EPA
regulations found in 40 CFR 280.32
require demonstrating compatibility of
systems storing fuel containing greater
than 10 percent ethanol or greater than
20 percent biodiesel, so RBCS collecting
this information in advance is not an
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additional burden for applicants. It will
ensure that grant funds are used for
purposes that expand the
environmentally safe availability of fuel
containing higher blends of ethanol and
biodiesel. More information can be
found in this June 2019 compliance
advisory from the EPA Office of
Underground Storage Tanks: https://
www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/
2019-06/documents/complianceadvisory-ust-regs-06-2019.pdf.
(2) Original signatures. The RBCS
reserves the right to request/require that
the applicant provide original signatures
on forms submitted electronically.
(3) Transparency Act reporting. All
recipients of Federal financial assistance
are required to report information about
first-tier sub-awards and executive
compensation in accordance with 2 CFR
part 170. If an applicant does not have
an exception under 2 CFR 170.110(b),
the applicant must then ensure that they
have the necessary processes and
systems in place to comply with the
reporting requirements to receive
funding.
(4) Race, ethnicity, and gender. The
RBCS is requesting that each applicant
provide race, ethnicity, and gender
information about the applicant. The
information will allow the Agency to
evaluate its outreach efforts to underserved and under-represented
populations. Applicants are encouraged
to furnish this information with their
applications but are not required to do
so. An applicant’s eligibility or the
likelihood of receiving an award will
not be impacted by furnishing or not
furnishing this information.
(5) Other Federal statutes. The
applicant must certify to compliance
with other Federal statutes and
regulations by completing the Financial
Assistance General Certifications and
Representations in SAM, including, but
not limited to the following:
(a) 7 CFR part 15, subpart A—
Nondiscrimination in Federally
Assisted Programs of the Department of
Agriculture—Effectuation of Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Civil Rights
compliance includes, but is not limited
to the following:
(i) Collect and maintain data provided
by ultimate recipients on race, sex, and
national origin and ensure that ultimate
recipients collect and maintain this
data. Race and ethnicity data will be
collected in accordance with Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) Federal
Register Notice, ‘‘Revisions to the
Standards for the Classification of
Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity’’
(published October 30, 1997 at 62 FR
58782). Sex data will be collected in
accordance with Title IX of the
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19:16 May 04, 2020
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Education Amendments of 1972. These
items should not be submitted with the
application but should be available
upon request by RBCS.
(ii) The applicant and the ultimate
recipient must comply with Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of
the Education Amendments of 1972, the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA),
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973, the Age Discrimination Act of
1975, Executive Order 12250, and 7 CFR
part 1901, subpart E.
(b) 2 CFR part 417—Governmentwide
Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement), or any successor
regulations.
(c) 2 CFR parts 200 and 400 (Uniform
Assistance Requirements, Cost
Principles and Audit Requirements for
Federal Awards), or any successor
regulations.
(d) Subpart B of 2 CFR part 421,
which adopts the Governmentwide
implementation (2 CFR part 182) of the
Drug-Free Workplace Act.
(e) Executive Order 13166,
‘‘Improving Access to Services for
Persons with Limited English
Proficiency.’’ For information on limited
English proficiency and agency-specific
guidance go to https://www.lep.gov/.
(f) Federal Obligation Certification on
Delinquent Debt.
V. Application Review Information
A. Criteria
A priority score will be afforded to
complete applications deemed eligible
to compete. Given the purpose of the
HBIIP, higher priority will be afforded
to projects deemed to increase
significantly the sales and use of higher
blends of ethanol and biodiesel on a
gallons per dollar of requested funds,
basis. Priority scoring and ranking of
applications will be a function of the
following criteria:
(1) For Higher Blend Implementation
Activities related to transportation
fueling facilities.
(a) Annual sales volume for the past
3 years (2017–19) or projected sales for
fueling stations constructed during the
grant period, for all fuels including E10
and/or B5;
(b) The incremental increase in HB
fuel volume attributed to:
(i) The proposed change in percentage
of refueling positions offering E15 and/
or B20 or higher blends (the greater
percentage of HB fuel refueling
positions, the greater the HB fuel
volume attribution);
(ii) The proposed new ratio number of
fueling positions offering E15 and/or
B20 relative to the number of fueling
positions offering E10 and/or B5 (the
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greater the ratio of HB fuel refueling
positions relative to E10 and/or B5, the
greater the HB fuel volume attribution);
(iii) The proposed ratio number of
fueling positions offering E85 relative to
the number of fueling positions offering
E10 (the greater the ratio of E85
refueling positions relative to E10, the
greater the HB fuel volume attribution);
(iv) The proposed change in the
number of fueling stations with at least
one E15 fueling position (the greater the
number of fueling stations, the greater
the HB fuel volume attribution);
(v) Whether the applicant is an owner
of 10 fueling stations or fewer (if yes, a
Targeted Assistance Goal, HB fuel
volume attribution);
(vi) The proposed number of fueling
stations located along an interstate
highway corridor;
(vii) The proposed number of fueling
stations located as the sole station
(within a 1-mile radius) in an area;
(viii) The proposed number of fueling
stations located in areas under
consideration for Geographic Diversity:
1. The New England States of—Maine,
Vermont, New Hampshire,
Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode
Island; and/or
2. The Western States of—Arkansas,
Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho,
Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota,
Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada,
New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma,
Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah,
Washington, Wyoming;
(ix) A ‘‘Matching Funds’’ investment/
commitment to higher blends signage
and/or marketing is proposed (non-zero
investment yields greater HB fuel
volume attribution);
(c) The total amount of requested
funds.
The HBIIP online application,
‘‘Project Worksheet with Priority
Scoring Criteria for Transportation
Fueling Stations/Facilities,’’ is
interactive and designed to indicate an
applicant’s priority score based on—
HBIIP activities (e.g., fuel dispensers,
related equipment and infrastructure
installations), Administrator’s
geographic diversity priorities, Targeted
Assistance Goals (if applicable), and the
amount of requested funds. Applicants
may directly influence their priority
score by the activities they select in the
worksheet and by the amount of grant
funds they request.
Transportation fueling stations/
facilities applications should take
special care to provide evidentiary
documentation in support of their
proposed activities in the HBIIP Project
Technical Report. In the event of
suspect, overstated, or otherwise
unsubstantiated claims, the Agency
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reserves the right to adjust an
application’s priority score accordingly.
(2) For Higher Blend Implementation
Activities related to fuel distribution
facilities.
(a) Annual throughput volume for
past 3 years (2017–19), for all fuels;
(b) The incremental increase in
throughput of HB fuel, as substantiated
by:
i. Validated demand;
ii. Market drivers;
iii. Documented incentives;
iv. Project sustainability;
v. Investment to consumer education
and marketing; and
vi. Partnerships;
(c) The total amount of requested
funds.
Fuel distribution facility applications
should take special care to provide
evidentiary documentation in support of
their throughput projections in the
feasibility study/business plan/
equivalent planning documents and in
the HBIIP Project Technical Report. In
the event of suspect, overstated, or
otherwise unsubstantiated claims, the
Agency reserves the right to adjust an
application’s priority score accordingly.
B. Review and Selection Process
All complete applications will be
competed/ranked in accordance with
Section V.A., as specified above.
Applicants may work to complete the
online application until the deadline
specified in the DATES section of this
Notice.
Due to the competitive nature of this
program, applications receiving the
same priority score will be competed/
ranked based on submittal date. The
submittal date is the date the RBCS
receives a complete application. A
complete application contains all
information requested by RBCS and is
sufficient to allow the determination of
eligibility, score, rank, and compete the
application for funding, subject to funds
available. Incomplete applications will
not be competed and will not receive
funding.
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C. Administrator Points
The RBCS retains the discretion to
award priority to applications that
support HBIIP policy goals and that
specifically promote economic
development to improve life in rural
areas that are most in need:
(1) Targeted Assistance Goal of up to
40 percent of funds made available for
activities/investments related to higher
blends of fuel ethanol to applicants
(owners) owning 10 transportation
fueling stations/locations or fewer.
(2) A Consideration for Geographical
Diversity and markets underserved by
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higher blends is also afforded to
applicants/participants based on
location of the proposed transportation
fueling stations/locations.
D. Other Requirements
In order to be considered for funds,
complete applications must be received
by the deadline specified in the DATES
section of this Notice.
(1) Insufficient funds. If available
funds are insufficient to fund the total
amount of an application:
(a) The applicant will be notified and
given the option to lower the grant
request and accept the remaining funds.
If the applicant agrees to lower the grant
request, the applicant must certify that
the purposes of the project will be met
and provide the remaining total funds
needed to complete the project.
(b) If two or more applications have
the same priority score and the same
submittal date, both applicants will be
notified and given the option to lower
the grant requests and accept the
remaining funds. If an applicant agrees
to lower its grant request, the applicant
must certify that the purposes of the
project will be met and provide the
remaining total funds needed to
complete the project.
(2) Award considerations. All award
considerations will be on a
discretionary basis. In determining the
amount of an award, the RBCS will
consider the amount requested, subject
to:
(a) The maximum cost-share amount
of 50 percent of total eligible project
costs, or a lesser amount when deemed
appropriate, and/or
(b) the Maximum Award amount of $5
million, and/or
(c) available funds; whichever is least,
as applicable.
(3) Notification of funding
determination. Applicants will be
informed in writing by the RBCS as to
the funding determination of the
application.
VI. Federal Award Administration
Information
A. Federal Award Notices
HBIIP grants will be administered in
accordance with Departmental
Regulations, and as otherwise specified
in this Notice.
Applicants selected for funding, will
receive a signed notice of Federal award
containing instructions on requirements
necessary to proceed with execution
and performance of the award.
Applicants not selected for funding
will be notified in writing and informed
of any review and appeal rights. Awards
to successfully appealed applications
will be limited to available funding.
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B. Administrative and National Policy
Requirements
Additional requirements that apply to
grantees selected for this program can be
found in the Grants and Agreements
regulations of the Department of
Agriculture codified in 2 CFR parts 180,
400, 415, 417, 418, 421; 2 CFR parts 25
and 170; and 48 CFR 31.2.
In addition, all recipients of Federal
financial assistance are required to
report information about first tier
subawards and executive compensation
(see 2 CFR part 170). You will be
required to have the necessary processes
and systems in place to comply with the
Federal Funding Accountability and
Transparency Act of 2006 (Pub. L. 109–
282) reporting requirements (see 2 CFR
170.200(b), unless you are exempt under
2 CFR 170.110(b)). More information on
these requirements can be found at
https://www.rd.usda.gov/HBIIP. The
following additional requirements apply
to grantees selected for this program:
(1) Grant Agreement—RD 4280–2
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Financial Assistance Agreement;
(2) Letter of Conditions;
(3) Form RD 1940–1, ‘‘Request for
Obligation of Funds;’’
(4) Form RD 1942–46, ‘‘Letter of
Intent to Meet Conditions;’’ and
(5) Use Form SF 270, ‘‘Request for
Advance or Reimbursement.’’
C. Reporting
After grant approval and through
grant completion, grantees will be
required to provide periodically the
following, as indicated:
(1) A SF–425, ‘‘Federal Financial
Report,’’ and a project performance
report will be required on a semiannual
basis (due 30 working days after end of
the semiannual period). For the
purposes of this grant, semiannual
periods end on March 31st and
September 30th. The project
performance reports shall include the
elements prescribed in the Grant
Agreement; which for fueling stations
will include point of sale reporting for
up to 5 years post project completion
and for fuel distribution facilities will
include reporting of throughput
volumes of all fuels including HB fuels.
(2) A final project and financial status
report, as required per 2 CFR 200.343
‘‘Closeout’’, within 90 days after the
expiration or termination of the grant.
(3) Provide project outcome/
performance reports and final
deliverables. Reported data will be used
for program and policy evaluation. The
proprietary nature and confidentiality of
information collected from program
participants is specified in 7 U.S.C.
2276.
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VII. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts
For further information contact:
Anthony Crooks: telephone (202)205–
9322, email: EnergyPrograms@usda.gov.
Persons with disabilities that require
alternative means for communication
should contact the USDA Target Center
at (202)720–2600 (voice).
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VIII. Other Information
A. Paperwork Reduction Act
The Information Collection and
Recordkeeping requirements contained
in this rule have been approved by an
emergency clearance under OMB
Control Number 0570–NEW. In
accordance with the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C.
chapter 35), RBCS invites comments on
this information collection for which
the Agency intends to request approval
from the Office of Management and
Budget (OMB). RBCS invites comments
on any aspect of this collection of
information including suggestions for
reducing the burden. Comments may be
submitted regarding this information
collection by the following method:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov and, in the
lower ‘‘Search Regulations and Federal
Actions’’ box, select ‘‘RBCS’’ from the
agency drop-down menu, then click on
‘‘Submit.’’ In the Docket ID column,
select Docket No. RBS–20–Business–
0006 to submit or view public
comments and to view supporting and
related materials available
electronically. Information on using
Regulations.gov, including instructions
for accessing documents, submitting
comments, and viewing the docket after
the close of the comment period, is
available through the site’s ‘‘User Tips’’
link. Comments on this information
collection must be received by July 6,
2020. The information collection is onetime activity for the applications,
however, RBCS will need to submit a
formal information collection request
for the approval beyond the 6-month
emergency approval to address the
ongoing reporting requirement.
The burden for the HBIIP collection of
information includes both the upfront
one-time application and the on-going
reporting, which will include mid-year
and an annual reporting. The reporting
may include additional reports for
projects that run longer.
Comments are invited on (a) the
accuracy of the agency’s estimate of
burden including the validity of the
methodology and assumption used; (b)
ways to enhance the quality, utility, and
clarity of the information to be
collected; and (c) ways to minimize the
burden of the collection of information
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:16 May 04, 2020
Jkt 250001
on those who are to respond, including
using appropriate automated, electronic,
mechanical, or other technological
collection techniques on other forms
and information technology.
Title: Higher Blends Infrastructure
Incentive Program (HBIIP).
OMB Control Number: 0570-New.
Type of Request: New Information
Collection.
Abstract: The purpose of the HBIIP is
to increase significantly the sales and
use of higher blends of ethanol and
biodiesel. HBIIP is intended to
encourage a more comprehensive
approach to marketing higher blends by
sharing the costs related to building out
biofuel-related infrastructure.
Under the HBIIP, funds will be made
directly available to assist transportation
fueling and fuel distribution facilities
with converting to higher ethanol and
biodiesel blend friendly status by
sharing the costs related to the
installation, and/or retrofitting, and/or
otherwise upgrading of fuel storage,
dispenser/pumps, related equipment,
and infrastructure.
Cost-share grants of up to 50 percent
of total eligible project costs but not
more than $5 million will be made
available to assist transportation fueling
and fuel distribution facilities with
converting to higher blend friendly
status for ethanol (i.e., greater than 10
percent ethanol) and biodiesel (greater
than 5 percent biodiesel) by sharing the
costs related to the installation, and/or
retrofitting, and/or otherwise upgrading
of dispenser/pumps, related equipment,
and infrastructure.
The information collected from
applications as required by this NOFA
include, but are not limited to
determine whether participants meet
the eligibility requirements to be a
recipient of grant funds, project
eligibility, conduct the technical
evaluation, calculate a priority score,
rank and compete the application, as
applicable, in order to be considered.
Lack of adequate information to make
the determination could result in the
improper administration and
appropriation of Federal grant funds to
be a recipient of grant funds as well as
other documents and information that
may be relevant as determined by RBCS.
Estimate of Burden: Public reporting
burden for this collection of information
is estimated to average 78 hours per
response.
Estimated Number of Respondents:
100.
Estimated Total Annual Responses:
200.
Estimated Total Recordkeeping
Hours: 480.
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
Estimated Total Burden Hours:
15,600.
Estimated Total Annual Burden
(including recordkeeping) on
Respondents: 16,080 hours.
Copies of this information collection
can be obtained from MaryPat Daskal,
Regulatory Division Team 2, Rural
Development Innovation Center, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, 1400
Independence Ave. SW, Stop 1522,
Washington, DC 20250. Phone: 202–
720–7853.
All responses to this information
collection and recordkeeping notice will
be summarized and included in the
request for OMB approval. All
comments will also become a matter of
public record.
B. Nondiscrimination Statement
The U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) prohibits discrimination against
its customers, employees, and
applicants for employment on the basis
of race, color, national origin, age,
disability, sex, gender identity, reprisal
and where applicable, political beliefs,
marital status, familial or parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, or all
or part of an individual’s income is
derived from any public assistance
program, or protected genetic
information in employment or in any
program or activity conducted or funded
by the Department. (Not all prohibited
bases will apply to all programs and/or
employment activities.)
If you wish to file a Civil Rights
program complaint of discrimination,
complete the USDA Program
Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF),
found online at https://
www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_
cust.html, or complete the form at any
USDA office, or call (866) 632–9992 to
request the form. You may also write a
letter containing all of the information
requested in the form. Send your
completed complaint form or letter to us
by mail at U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Director, Office of
Adjudication, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250–
9410, by fax (202) 690–7442 or email at
program.intake@usda.gov.
Individuals who are deaf, hard of
hearing or have speech disabilities and
wish to file either an EEO or program
complaint, please contact USDA
through the Federal Relay Service at
(800) 877–8339 or (800) 845–6136 (in
Spanish).
Persons with disabilities, who wish to
file a program complaint, please see
information above on how to contact us
directly by mail or by email. If you
require alternative means of
communication for program information
E:\FR\FM\05MYN1.SGM
05MYN1
26665
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 87 / Tuesday, May 5, 2020 / Notices
(e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.)
please contact USDA’s TARGET Center
at (202) 720–2600 (voice and TDD).
Robert Stephenson,
Executive Vice President, Commodity Credit
Corporation.
Mark Brodziski,
Acting Administrator, Rural BusinessCooperative Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–09685 Filed 5–4–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410–05–P
COMMISSION ON CIVIL RIGHTS
Notice of Public Meeting of the
Vermont Advisory Committee
Commission on Civil Rights.
ACTION: Announcement of meeting.
AGENCY:
Notice is hereby given,
pursuant to the provisions of the rules
and regulations of the U.S. Commission
on Civil Rights (Commission), and the
Federal Advisory Committee Act
(FACA), that a press conference of the
Vermont Advisory Committee to the
Commission will convene by conference
call at 11:00 a.m. (EDT) on Thursday,
May 21, 2020. The purpose of the press
conference is to discuss the Committee’s
report on school disparities. The
Committee will also consider other
possible work products to conclude its
appointment term, which ends in June
2020.
DATES: Thursday, May 21, 2020, at 11:00
a.m. (EDT)
Public Call-In Information:
Conference call-in number: 1–800–353–
6461 and conference call 9016813.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Evelyn Bohor at ero@usccr.gov or by
phone at 202–376–7533.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Interested
members of the public may listen to the
discussion by calling the following tollfree conference call-in number: 1–800–
353–6461 and conference call 9016813.
SUMMARY:
Please be advised that before placing
them into the conference call, the
conference call operator will ask callers
to provide their names, their
organizational affiliations (if any), and
email addresses (so that callers may be
notified of future meetings). Callers can
expect to incur charges for calls they
initiate over wireless lines, and the
Commission will not refund any
incurred charges. Callers will incur no
charge for calls they initiate over landline connections to the toll-free
conference call-in number.
Persons with hearing impairments
may also follow the discussion by first
calling the Federal Relay Service at 1–
800–977–8339 and providing the
operator with the toll-free conference
call-in number: 1–800–353–6461 and
conference call 9016813.
Members of the public are invited to
make statements during the open
comment period of the meeting or
submit written comments. The
comments must be received in the
regional office approximately 30 days
after each scheduled meeting. Written
comments may be mailed to the Eastern
Regional Office, U.S. Commission on
Civil Rights, 1331 Pennsylvania
Avenue, Suite 1150, Washington, DC
20425 or emailed to Evelyn Bohor at
ero@usccr.gov. Persons who desire
additional information may contact the
Eastern Regional Office at (202) 376–
7533.
Records and documents discussed
during the meeting will be available for
public viewing as they become available
at https://www.facadatabase.gov/FACA/
FACAPublicViewCommitteeDetails
?id=a10t0000001gzmXAAQ, click the
‘‘Meeting Details’’ and ‘‘Documents’’
links. Records generated from this
meeting may also be inspected and
reproduced at the Eastern Regional
Office, as they become available, both
before and after the meetings. Persons
interested in the work of this advisory
committee are advised to go to the
Commission’s website, www.usccr.gov,
or to contact the Eastern Regional Office
at the above phone numbers, email or
street address.
Agenda
Thursday, May 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.
(EDT)
• Roll call
• Press Conference
• Other Business
• Open Comment
• Adjourn
Dated: April 29, 2020.
David Mussatt,
Supervisory Chief, Regional Programs Unit.
[FR Doc. 2020–09533 Filed 5–4–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Economic Development Administration
Notice of Petitions by Firms for
Determination of Eligibility To Apply
for Trade Adjustment Assistance
Economic Development
Administration, U.S. Department of
Commerce.
ACTION: Notice and opportunity for
public comment.
AGENCY:
The Economic Development
Administration (EDA) has received
petitions for certification of eligibility to
apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance
from the firms listed below.
Accordingly, EDA has initiated
investigations to determine whether
increased imports into the United States
of articles like or directly competitive
with those produced by each of the
firms contributed importantly to the
total or partial separation of the firms’
workers, or threat thereof, and to a
decrease in sales or production of each
petitioning firm.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
LIST OF PETITIONS RECEIVED BY EDA FOR CERTIFICATION OF ELIGIBILITY TO APPLY FOR TRADE ADJUSTMENT
ASSISTANCE
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with NOTICES
[4/15/2020 through 4/20/2020]
Date
accepted for
investigation
Firm name
Firm address
Kaspar Wire Works, Inc ..........................
959 State Highway 95 North, Shiner, TX
77984.
4/15/2020
Composite Cutter Technology, Inc ..........
31632 North Ellis Drive, Volo, IL 60073
4/17/2020
Fuller Industries, LLC ..............................
One Fuller Way, Great Bend, KS 67530
4/20/2020
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:16 May 04, 2020
Jkt 250001
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
Product(s)
The firm manufactures formed metal
wire products, such as metal wire baskets and cages.
The firm manufactures precision turning
and cutting tools.
The firm manufactures brushes and
chemical cleaning products.
E:\FR\FM\05MYN1.SGM
05MYN1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 87 (Tuesday, May 5, 2020)]
[Notices]
[Pages 26656-26665]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-09685]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Commodity Credit Corporation
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Notice of Funds Availability for the Higher Blends Infrastructure
Incentive Program (HBIIP) for Fiscal Year 2020
AGENCY: Commodity Credit Corporation and the Rural Business-Cooperative
Service, USDA.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and the Rural Business-
Cooperative Service (RBCS), a Rural Development agency of the United
States Department of Agriculture (USDA), announce the availability of
up to $100 million in competitive grants to eligible entities for
activities designed to expand the sales and use of renewable fuels
under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP). Cost-
share grants of up to 50 percent of total eligible project costs but
not more than $5 million will be made
[[Page 26657]]
available to assist transportation fueling and fuel distribution
facilities with converting to higher blend friendly status for ethanol
(i.e., greater than 10 percent ethanol) and biodiesel (greater than 5
percent biodiesel) by sharing the costs related to the installation,
and/or retrofitting, and/or otherwise upgrading of dispenser/pumps,
related equipment, and infrastructure.
DATES: The Agency will finalize the application window for enrollment
in the Higher Biofuels Infrastructure Incentive Program by future
notice in the Federal Register and Grants.gov. subject to the opening
of the electronic application system.
ADDRESSES:
Application Submission: The application system for electronic
submissions will be available at https://www.rd.usda.gov/HBIIP.
Electronic Submissions: Electronic submissions of applications will
allow for the expeditious review of an Applicant's proposal. As a
result, all Applicants must file their application electronically.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT: Anthony Crooks: Telephone (202)
205-9322, email: [email protected]. Persons with disabilities
that require alternative means for communication should contact the
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Target Center at (202) 720-2600
(voice).
SUPPLEMENATARY INFORMATION: Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act
(CRA; 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), the Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs in the Office of Management and Budget designated this action
as a major rule, as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2), because it will result
in an annual effect on the economy of $100,000,000 or more.
Accordingly, there is a 60-day delay in the effective date of this
action. Application processing (reviews, competition, selection,
awards, etc.) will not begin until after the application deadline 90
days after the application window date is announced by notice in the
Federal Register. Therefore, the 60-day delay required by the CRA is
not expected to have a material impact upon the administration and/or
implementation of the HBIIP.
Overview
Federal Agency: The Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and the
Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS), (USDA).
Funding Opportunity Title: Notice of Funds Availability for the
Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) for Fiscal Year
2020.
Announcement Type: Notice of Funds Availability.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.754.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Title: The Higher
Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP).
Due Date for Applications: The Agency will finalize the application
window for enrollment in the Higher Biofuels Infrastructure Incentive
Program by notice in the Federal Register and Grants.gov. subject to
future opening of the electronic application system.
Items in Supplementary Information
I. Program Overview
II. Federal Award Information
III. Eligibility Information
IV. Application and Submission Information
V. Application Review Information
VI. Federal Award Administration Information
VII. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts
VIII. Other Information
I. Program Overview
A. Background
Prior to publishing this Notice, the CCC and RBCS (the Agency)
determined it to be in the public interest to solicit informal comments
from the public and interested stakeholders on a wide range of issues
on information and options for fuel ethanol and biodiesel
infrastructure, innovation, products, technology, and data derived from
all HBIIP processes that drive economic growth, promote health, and
increase public benefit.
A Request for Information (RFI), was published in the Federal
Register (85 FR 2699) on January 16, 2020. Information received from
the public to the RFI was intended to inform the CCC and RBCS as well
as private sector and other stakeholders with interest in and expertise
relating to such a promotion. Fifty-seven (57) comments were submitted
from the public which served to inform the Agency on an array of
issues, including but not limited to: (a) Fueling stations, convenience
stores, hypermarket fueling stations, fleet facilities, and similar
entities with capital investments; (b) equipment providers, equipment
installers, certification entities and other stakeholder/manufacturers
(both upstream and down); (c) fuel distribution centers, including
terminals and depots; and (d) those performing innovative research,
and/or developing enabling platforms and applications in manufacturing,
energy production, and agriculture. Additionally, on February 5, 2020,
RBCS convened a Federal Inter-Agency Task Force of experts with
relevant knowledge, including technical experts from the Environmental
Protection Agency and Department of Energy/National Renewable Energy
Laboratory, to assist with the review of the public comments and
provide recommendations for the guiding principles of this Notice. And,
on February 28, 2020, an ``Announcement of Future Competitive Grant
Funds Availability for Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program
(HBIIP) for Fiscal Year 2020,'' was published in the Federal Register
(85 FR 2699) to alert prospective participants and stakeholders of
Agency intentions to publish this Notice.
B. Program Description
The purpose of the HBIIP is to increase significantly the sales and
use of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. HBIIP is intended to
encourage a more comprehensive approach to marketing higher blends by
sharing the costs related to building out biofuel-related
infrastructure.
Under the HBIIP, funds will be awarded to assist transportation
fueling and fuel distribution facilities to convert their facilities
through upgrade or installation of equipment required to ensure all
equipment is fully compatible with higher blends of ethanol (i.e.,
greater than 10 percent ethanol) and biodiesel (greater than 5 percent
biodiesel) (HB fuel). The program will share the costs related to the
upgrading of fuel dispensers (gas and diesel pumps) and attached
equipment, underground storage tank system components (which includes
but is not limited to tanks, pumps, ancillary equipment, lines,
gaskets, and sealants), and other infrastructure required at a location
to ensure the environmentally safe availability of fuel containing
ethanol blends greater than 10 percent or fuel containing biodiesel
blends greater than 5 percent.
Storing and dispensing E15, E85, or other high blends of ethanol at
gas stations with equipment that is not compatible with higher blends
of ethanol fuel can result in leaks and releases that contaminate land
and groundwater. Older and even some recent existing UST systems (which
includes but is not limited to tanks, pumps, ancillary equipment,
lines, gaskets, and sealants) are not fully compatible with E15 or
higher and require modification before storing these fuels. Biodiesel
blends above B20 have similar requirements; some infrastructure changes
may even be necessary when storing blends greater than B5. This program
will expand the
[[Page 26658]]
number of facilities fully compatible with higher blends of ethanol and
biodiesel.
Grants for up to 50 percent of total eligible project costs, but
not more than $5 million, are made available to vehicle fueling
facilities, including, but not limited to, local fueling stations/
locations, convenience stores (CS), hypermarket fueling stations (HFS),
fleet facilities, and fuel terminal operations, midstream partners,
and/or distribution facilities.
CCC is an agency and instrumentality of the United States within
the Department of Agriculture and operates under the supervision of the
Secretary of Agriculture. Among the activities that section 5 of the
CCC Charter Act authorizes CCC to undertake are actions to:
Make available materials and facilities required in
connection with the production and marketing of agricultural
commodities (other than tobacco) and
Increase the domestic consumption of agricultural
commodities (other than tobacco) by expanding or aiding in the
expansion of domestic markets or by developing or aiding in the
development of new and additional markets, marketing facilities, and
uses for such commodities.
Under this authority, CCC is making available up to $100 million in
the form of cost-share grants to eligible entities to assist with the
implementation of activities to expand the infrastructure for renewable
fuels derived from agricultural products produced in the United States.
HBIIP will be administered on behalf of CCC under the general
supervision of RBCS.
II. Federal Award Information
A. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number 10.754
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Title: The Higher
Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP).
B. Funds Available
Under HBIIP up to $100 million is made available to eligible
participants. Of the total amount of available funds, approximately $86
million will be made available to transportation fueling facilities
(including fueling stations, convenience stores, hypermarket fueling
stations, fleet facilities, and similar entities with capital
investments) for eligible implementation activities related to higher
blends of fuel ethanol greater than 10 percent ethanol, such as E15 or
higher; and approximately $14 million will be made available to
transportation fueling facilities and fuel distribution facilities
(including terminal operations, depots, and midstream partners), for
eligible implementation activities related to higher blends of
biodiesel greater than 5 percent biodiesel, such as B20 or higher.
C. Targeted Assistance Goal
A Targeted Assistance Goal is also established for applicants
(owners) owning the fewest number of transportation fueling stations/
locations (and owning at least one). Approximately 40 percent of funds
will be made available for activities/investments related to upgrading
or installing equipment to make a transportation fueling facilities
fully compatible to dispense/sell higher blends of fuel ethanol and/or
biodiesel. The Agency expects this Targeted Assistance to be exhausted
by applicants owning 10 fueling stations/locations or fewer.
This policy goal is rooted in Agency experience and borne out by
several comments submitted to the RFI (85 FR 2699). Approximately 80
percent of fuel sales in the U.S. is sold by convenience store owners.
Moreover, about 58 percent of the stores selling fuel in the U.S. are
``single store owners.'' A significant majority of HB fuel is currently
sold/dispensed by large retail convenience store chains located in the
Midwest and along the East Coast of the U.S., due in part because these
are the types of businesses and locations with the highest densities of
HB fueling infrastructure. The Agency established this Targeted
Assistance Goal as a means to distribute a portion of program funds
among a greater number of business owners and perhaps indirectly,
across a broader geographic region, that may not otherwise participate.
There is an underlying expectation that owners/participants located in
underserved areas today will be positioned as HB fuel market leaders
tomorrow.
D. Consideration for Geographical Diversity
A Consideration for Geographical Diversity and markets underserved
by higher blends is also afforded to applicants/participants based on
the location of the proposed transportation fueling stations/
facilities. This consideration is intended to work in concert with the
Targeted Assistance Goal to distribute program funds more broadly
across a greater number of states that may not otherwise participate.
E. Approximate Number of Awards
The number of awards will depend on the number of eligible
participants and the total amount of requested funds. In the unlikely
event that every successful applicant is awarded the maximum amount
available of $5 million, 20 awards will be made. The Agency intends/
expects to make approximately 150 awards and provide assistance to
1,500 locations from this solicitation.
F. Type of Instrument
Grants. Awards to successful applicants will be in the form of
cost-share grants for up to 50 percent of total eligible project costs,
but not to exceed $5 million, whichever is less.
III. Eligibility Information
A. Eligible Applicants
Owners of transportation fueling and fuel distribution facilities
located in the United States and its territories may apply for this
program. Eligible entities would include--fueling stations, convenience
stores, hypermarket retailer fueling stations, fleet facilities, and
similar entities with equivalent capital investments, as well as fuel/
biodiesel terminal operations, midstream partners, and heating oil
distribution facilities or equivalent entities.
Applicants must include all proposed activity under a single
application. Application requirements and other important information
is available at Grants.gov and on the HBIIP web page https://www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip.
B. Eligible Project
The goal of HBIIP is to increase the market availability of higher
blends biofuels. To be eligible for this program, a project's sole
purpose must be for the installation, and/or retrofitting, and/or
otherwise upgrading of fuel dispensers/pumps, related/attached
equipment, underground storage tank system components, and other
infrastructure required at a location to ensure the environmentally
safe availability of fuel containing ethanol blends greater than 10
percent or fuel containing biodiesel blends greater than 5 percent.
An eligible project must conform to all applicable Federal, State,
Tribal and local regulatory requirements pertaining to:
(1) Technical Standards and Corrective Action Requirements for
Owners and Operators of Underground Storage Tanks (UST), 40 CFR parts
280 and 281;
(2) Regulation of Fuels and Fuel Additives, 40 CFR part 80;
(3) Occupational Safety and Health Standards Subpart H--Hazardous
[[Page 26659]]
Materials Section 106--Flammable Liquids, 29 CFR 1910.106;
(4) Safety and Health Regulations for Construction Subpart F--Fire
Protection and Prevention Section 152--Flammable Liquids, 29 CFR
1926.152; and
(5) Automotive Fuel Ratings, Certification, and Posting, 16 CFR
part 306.
HBIIP funds may be used for equipment required at a location to
ensure the environmentally safe availability of fuel containing ethanol
blends greater than 10 percent or fuel containing biodiesel blends
greater than 5 percent.
Since 1988, EPA's UST regulations require fuel to be stored in
systems that are compatible with the type of fuel being stored. The
environmentally-safe growth in availability of fuels containing higher
blends of ethanol or biodiesel depends on these fuels being stored and
dispensed from underground storage tank (UST) systems that are
compatible with E15. Storing and dispensing E15 at gas stations with
equipment that is not compatible with higher blends of ethanol fuel can
result in leaks and releases that contaminate land and groundwater.
Section 280.32 of 40 CFR part 280 states that UST owners and operators
must use an UST system made of or lined with materials that are
compatible with the substance stored in the UST system.
Additionally, owners or operators who store regulated substances
that contain more than 20 percent biodiesel or more than 10 percent
ethanol, such as 15 percent ethanol or E15, must notify their
implementing agency 30 days before storing the fuel. Owners and
operators must also keep records demonstrating that their UST system is
compatible with the substance stored.
Demonstrating compatibility of an UST system means identifying what
equipment is installed as part of your UST system. You must show that a
component is approved by either the manufacturer of the component or by
a nationally recognized independent testing laboratory, such as
Underwriters Laboratory (UL), for use with the fuel to be stored. See
details about these requirements in regulations issued by EPA at 40 CFR
280.32.
Please note that compatibility extends beyond the fuel tank. Owners
and operators must demonstrate compatibility for the components below
to store substances containing more than 10 percent ethanol or more
than 20 percent biodiesel.
1. Tank;
2. Piping carrying product from the tank;
3. Piping containment sumps entered by the piping;
4. Pumping equipment, including the submersible pump or suction
pump, depending on the type of system;
5. Release detection equipment, including automatic tank gauging
(ATG) probes, sump sensors, and line leak detectors;
6. Spill equipment, such as spill buckets, for the tank; and
7. Overfill equipment, including ball float valves or flapper
valves.
The federal UST regulation from EPA does not require owners and
operators to demonstrate the compatibility of dispensers or associated
aboveground equipment. However, compatibility requirements for these
components may exist in other local regulations, such as the fire code.
Owners and operators should check for these requirements with their
implementing agency. HBIIP grant funds may be used to upgrade or
replace fuel dispensers/pumps, underground storage tank system
components, or other required infrastructure, necessary to make their
facility fully compatible with higher blends of ethanol or biodiesel.
Fuel dispensers/pumps, underground storage tank system components, and
other required infrastructure and components must meet the minimum
requirements of EPA's UST regulations and other Federal, State, and
local regulations or codes; and, must be approved by either the
manufacturer of the component or by a nationally recognized independent
testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL), for use at a
minimum for blends containing 25 percent ethanol or 100 percent
biodiesel.
C. Cost Sharing or Matching
There is a matching fund (cost-sharing) requirement of at least $1
for every $1 in grant funds provided by CCC. Matching funds plus grant
funds must equal total eligible project cost. Matching funds may be in
the form of cash or eligible in-kind contributions. Matching funds/
contributions and grant funds may be used only for eligible project
purposes, including any contributions exceeding the minimum amount
required. Applicants will certify and demonstrate that any required
matching funds are available during the grant period and provide
appropriate documentation with the application, as referenced in
Section IV.B of this Notice.
Funds made available under HBIIP may only be used for eligible
equipment, infrastructure and related expenses to support the sales and
use of higher biofuel blends--fuel containing ethanol greater than 10
percent by volume and/or fuel containing biodiesel blends greater than
5 percent by volume.
Applicants may enter into arrangements with private entities such
as, but not limited to, commercial vendors of fuels, agricultural
commodity promotional organizations, Tribes, and other entities
interested in the renewable fuels in order to secure such non-Federal
funds or in-kind contributions.
There are several existing or prior and ongoing State-led programs
and private sector efforts to help provide funding for higher blend
dispensers, related equipment and infrastructure. These programs may be
included as part of any matching contribution requirement. However, the
application must show how the HBIIP grant will add to the
infrastructure that fosters biofuel sales and use. HBIIP funds are
intended to provide additional incentives.
D. Eligible Funds
(1) Matching Funds. Those project funds required to receive an
HBIIP grant. The applicant is responsible for securing the remainder of
the total eligible project costs not covered by grant funds. Matching
funds are comprised of eligible in-kind contributions from third
parties and/or cash. In-kind contributions by the applicant cannot be
used to meet the matching fund requirement. Written commitments for
matching funds (e.g., Letters of Commitment and bank statements) must
be submitted with the Certification of Matching Funds when the
application is submitted. Funds provided by the applicant in excess of
matching funds are not matching funds. Unless authorized by statute,
other Federal grant funds cannot be used to meet a matching funds
requirement. Passive third-party equity contributions are acceptable
for HBIIP projects, including equity raised from the sale of Federal
tax credits. In the event of ineligible, overstated, or otherwise
unsubstantiated claims in the Certification of Matching Funds, the
Agency reserves the right to adjust an application's grant request such
that it is commensurate with eligible/actual Matching Funds, or take
otherwise action as deemed appropriate.
Up to 10 percent of an applicant's Matching Funds requirement (up
to five percent of total project costs) may be used to pay consumer
education and/or marketing and/or signage related expenses. HBIIP grant
funds awarded to transportation fueling stations are intended to assist
with converting those facilities to ensure full compatibility with HB
fuel through upgrade or
[[Page 26660]]
installation of fuel dispensers, related equipment, and infrastructure.
And while the contributions of consumer education and/or marketing and/
or signage toward a fuel station's fuel sales are well recognized, a
very tall sign to display fuel prices does not in any way assist a
facility with higher blends compatibility. Therefore, the Agency
determined that while HBIIP grant funds may not be used for consumer
education and/or marketing and/or signage, Matching Funds may.
(2) Eligible Project Costs. Eligible Project Costs are only those
costs incurred during the grant period and that are directly related to
the use and purposes of the HBIIP. Eligible Project Costs may include:
(a) Retrofitting of existing, or purchase and installation of new,
fuel dispensers (gas and/or diesel pumps) and attached equipment,
underground storage tank system components, and other infrastructure
required at a location to ensure the environmentally safe availability
of fuel containing ethanol blends greater than 10 percent or fuel
containing biodiesel blends greater than 5 percent;
(b) Construction, retrofitting, replacement, and improvements;
(c) Fees for construction permits and licenses; and
(d) Professional service fees for qualified consultants,
contractors, installers, and other third-party services.
(e) HBIIP grant funds may not be used to pay for expenses related
to consumer education and/or marketing and/or signage. However, up to
10 percent of an applicant's Matching Funds requirement (up to five
percent of total project costs) may be used to pay for consumer
education and/or marketing and/or signage related expenses.
E. Ineligible Project Costs
Ineligible project costs for HBIIP projects include, but are not
limited to:
(1) Used equipment and vehicles;
(2) Construction or equipment costs that would be incurred
regardless of the installation of HB fuel infrastructure shall not be
included as eligible project costs. For example, a fuel storage tank
for a fueling facility constructed during the grant period that would
have been otherwise installed should not be included in an application.
USDA believes all new tanks and piping available in the market only
come in models compatible with higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel,
so grant funds would not expand the market for higher blends by funding
such tank or equipment installation. However, other required equipment
such as fuel dispensers/pumps and other underground storage tank system
components that are still available in traditional and higher blend
compatible models, the latter at a higher cost, may be considered in
this funding program.
(3) Business operations that derive more than 10 percent of annual
gross revenue (including any lease income from space or machines) from
gambling activity, excluding State or Tribal authorized lottery
proceeds, as approved by the Agency, conducted for the purpose of
raising funds for the approved project;
(4) Business operations deriving income from activities of a sexual
nature or illegal activities;
(5) Real property/land;
(6) Lease payments;
(7) Any project that creates a Conflict of Interest or an
appearance of a Conflict of Interest;
(8) Funding of political or lobbying activities;
(9) To pay off any Federal direct or guaranteed loan or any other
form of Federal debt. Any incurred expense, equipment purchase, or paid
service prior to the grant period;
(10) Any expense associated with applying for this program; and
(11) Any expense associated with reporting results and/or outcomes
during the disbursement, performance, and servicing portions of this
program.
(12) Conflict of interest, for purposes of this program includes,
but is not limited to:
(a) Distribution or payment of grant, guaranteed loan funds, and
matching funds or award of project construction contracts to an
individual owner, partner, or stockholder, or to a beneficiary or
immediate family of the applicant when the recipient will retain any
portion of ownership in the applicant's or borrower's project. Grant
and matching funds may not be used to support costs for services or
goods going to, or coming from, a person or entity with a real or
apparent conflict of interest.
(b) Assistance to employees, relatives, and associates. The Agency
will process any requests for assistance under this subpart in
accordance with 7 CFR part 1900, subpart D.
(c) Member/delegate clause. No member of or delegate to Congress
shall receive any share or part of this grant or any benefit that may
arise there from; but this provision shall not be construed to bar, as
a contractor under the grant, a publicly held corporation whose
ownership might include a member of Congress.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Departmental Regulations and
Laws that contain other compliance requirements are referenced in
paragraphs VI. and VIII., of this Notice.
Applicants who are found to be/have been in violation of applicable
Federal Law/statutes will be deemed ineligible.
IV. Application and Submission Information
Applicants seeking to participate in this program must submit
applications in accordance with this Notice.
A. Electronic Application and Submission
Applications must be submitted electronically using either the
Government-wide www.Grants.gov website or by the secure-server portal
https://www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip. No other form of application will be
accepted.
Application and supporting materials are available at Grants.gov
and on the HBIIP web page https://www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip.
B. Content and Form of Application Submission
Applicants must submit complete applications by the date identified
in the DATES section of this Notice. Applications must contain all
parts necessary for the RBCS to determine applicant and project
eligibility, conduct the technical evaluation, calculate a priority
score, rank and compete the application, as applicable, in order to be
considered. All applications determined to be insufficient to these
purposes shall be deemed as incomplete and will neither be competed nor
receive funding.
(1) For Higher Blend Implementation Activities related to
transportation fueling stations/facilities, the HBIIP Online
Application is comprised of the following elements:
(a) SF 424 Application for Federal Assistance;
(b) HBIIP Project Worksheet with Priority Scoring Criteria:
Transportation Fueling Stations/Facilities;
(c) SF 424C Budget Information--Construction Programs;
(d) HBIIP Project Technical Report;
(e) Certification of Matching Funds;
(f) Request for Environmental Information; and
(g) SF 424D Assurances--Construction Programs.
(2) For Higher Blend Implementation Activities related to fuel
distribution facilities, an HBIIP Online Application is comprised of
the following elements:
(a) SF 424 Application for Federal Assistance;
(b) HBIIP Project Worksheet with Priority Scoring Criteria: Fuel
Distribution Facilities;
(c) Supporting information from a recent/recently updated (within 3
years)
[[Page 26661]]
feasibility study and/or business plan, or equivalent planning
documentation;
(d) SF 424C Budget Information--Construction Programs;
(e) HBIIP Project Technical Report;
(f) Certification of Matching Funds;
(g) Request for Environmental Information; and
(h) SF 424D Assurances--Construction Programs.
(3) System for Award Management (SAM). Applicants must be
registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to applying;
which can be obtained at no cost via a toll-free request line at (866)
705-5711 or online at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/. Registration of a new
entity in SAM requires an original, signed, and notarized letter
stating that the applicant is the authorized Entity Administrator,
before the registration will be activated. All recipients of Federal
financial grant assistance are required to report information about
first-tier sub-awards and executive total compensation in accordance
with 2 CFR part 170.
All applicants except those that are individuals, in accordance
with 2 CFR part 25, must have a DUNS/Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
number, which can be obtained at no cost via a toll-free request line
at (866) 705-5711 or online at https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform.
(4) Grants.gov. To use Grants.gov and to use the HBIIP online
application system you must already have a DUNS/Unique Entity
Identifier (UEI) number and you must also be registered and maintain
registration in SAM. We strongly recommend that you do not wait until
the application deadline date to begin the application process.
(5) Instructions and resources for completing the online
application are available on the HBIIP web page https://www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip. Applicants and their authorized/rightful users
will be required to obtain an E-Auth Identification and obtain access
to the secure portal. The application process requires the facility to
both view and generate PDFs (Portable Document Files). The use of a Web
browser such as Chrome or its equivalent is highly encouraged.
C. Submission Dates and Times
The deadline date for applications to be received in order to be
considered for funding is specified in the DATES section at the
beginning of this notice.
After electronically submitting an application through the HBIIP
website, the applicant will receive an automated acknowledgement,
specifying submission date and time, from the HBIIP online application
system. In order to be considered for funds under this Notice,
applications must be deemed complete and must be received by the secure
portal located on the HBIIP web page at https://www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip
by the deadline.
D. Intergovernmental Review
Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, Intergovernmental Review of Federal
Programs, applies to this program. This E.O. requires that Federal
agencies provide opportunities for consultation on proposed assistance
with State and local governments. Many states have established a Single
Point of Contact (SPOC) to facilitate this consultation. Instructions
for completing this required element and a list of States that maintain
a SPOC are available in the HBIIP online application.
E. Funding Restrictions
The following funding limitations apply to applications submitted
under this Notice.
(1) Only one HBIIP application may be submitted per HBIIP
applicant. An application may request HBIIP assistance for more than
one location. An HBIIP applicant/application may receive one and only
one award in this competition.
(2) There is no minimum HBIIP grant award.
(3) The maximum HBIIP grant award is not to exceed $5,000,000.
(4) HBIIP grants are awarded on a cost share basis for not more
than 50 percent of total eligible project costs.
(5) No HBIIP grant award may exceed an amount calculated as 50
percent of total eligible project costs or the Maximum HBIIP grant
award amount of $5,000,000, whichever is the lesser.
(6) If it is determined that an applicant is affiliated with
another entity that has also applied, then the maximum grant award
applies to all affiliated entities as if they applied as one applicant.
An Affiliate is an entity controlling or having the power to control
another entity, or a third party or parties that control or have the
power to control both entities.
(7) Underground Storage Tanks and Systems (USTs).
(a) New construction. Fueling Stations/Locations/facilities
constructed during the grant period are restricted from receiving HBIIP
grant funds for underground storage tanks. RBCS has determined that
tanks would be required of any new fueling stations/locations/facility
regardless of any commitment to market higher blends. However, other
required equipment such as fuel dispensers/pumps and other underground
storage tank system components that are still available in traditional
and higher blend compatible models, the latter at a higher cost, may be
considered in this funding program.
(b) Existing fueling stations that require upgraded, and/or
retrofitted and/or additional underground storage tanks may request
assistance of up to 25 percent of total eligible project costs or up to
$1,250,000, whichever is the lesser. They are eligible for any required
equipment including, but not limited to, the tank, piping, piping
containment sumps, underground pumping equipment, including the
submersible pump or suction pump, release detection equipment, spill
equipment (spill buckets), overfill equipment, fuel dispensers/pumps,
or other equipment.
(8) HBIIP grant funds may not be used to pay for expenses related
to consumer education, marketing, and/or signage. However, up to 10
percent of an applicant's Matching Funds (five percent of total project
costs) may be used to pay for education/marketing/signage related
expenses.
(9) No HBIIP grant funds may be used to pay for any incurred
expense, equipment purchase, or service paid outside the grant period.
F. Multiple Facilities
While only one HBIIP application may be submitted per applicant
under this Notice, an application may request assistance for multiple
facilities/locations. Section ``E. (6) Funding Restrictions,'' advises
on instances where more than one application is submitted by one or
more affiliates of an entity.
G. Compliance With Other Federal Statues and Other Submission
Requirements
(1) Environmental information. For the RBCS to consider an
application, the application must include all environmental review
documents with supporting documentation in accordance with 7 CFR part
1970 and as referenced in Section IV.B of this Notice. Any required
environmental review must be completed prior to obligation of funds.
Applicants are advised to contact RBCS to determine environmental
requirements as soon as practicable to ensure adequate review time.
Applicants should also submit to RBCS the compatibility
verification of equipment to be funded. EPA regulations found in 40 CFR
280.32 require demonstrating compatibility of systems storing fuel
containing greater than 10 percent ethanol or greater than 20 percent
biodiesel, so RBCS collecting this information in advance is not an
[[Page 26662]]
additional burden for applicants. It will ensure that grant funds are
used for purposes that expand the environmentally safe availability of
fuel containing higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. More
information can be found in this June 2019 compliance advisory from the
EPA Office of Underground Storage Tanks: https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-06/documents/compliance-advisory-ust-regs-06-2019.pdf.
(2) Original signatures. The RBCS reserves the right to request/
require that the applicant provide original signatures on forms
submitted electronically.
(3) Transparency Act reporting. All recipients of Federal financial
assistance are required to report information about first-tier sub-
awards and executive compensation in accordance with 2 CFR part 170. If
an applicant does not have an exception under 2 CFR 170.110(b), the
applicant must then ensure that they have the necessary processes and
systems in place to comply with the reporting requirements to receive
funding.
(4) Race, ethnicity, and gender. The RBCS is requesting that each
applicant provide race, ethnicity, and gender information about the
applicant. The information will allow the Agency to evaluate its
outreach efforts to under-served and under-represented populations.
Applicants are encouraged to furnish this information with their
applications but are not required to do so. An applicant's eligibility
or the likelihood of receiving an award will not be impacted by
furnishing or not furnishing this information.
(5) Other Federal statutes. The applicant must certify to
compliance with other Federal statutes and regulations by completing
the Financial Assistance General Certifications and Representations in
SAM, including, but not limited to the following:
(a) 7 CFR part 15, subpart A--Nondiscrimination in Federally
Assisted Programs of the Department of Agriculture--Effectuation of
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Civil Rights compliance
includes, but is not limited to the following:
(i) Collect and maintain data provided by ultimate recipients on
race, sex, and national origin and ensure that ultimate recipients
collect and maintain this data. Race and ethnicity data will be
collected in accordance with Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
Federal Register Notice, ``Revisions to the Standards for the
Classification of Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity'' (published
October 30, 1997 at 62 FR 58782). Sex data will be collected in
accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. These
items should not be submitted with the application but should be
available upon request by RBCS.
(ii) The applicant and the ultimate recipient must comply with
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section
504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of
1975, Executive Order 12250, and 7 CFR part 1901, subpart E.
(b) 2 CFR part 417--Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Non-
procurement), or any successor regulations.
(c) 2 CFR parts 200 and 400 (Uniform Assistance Requirements, Cost
Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards), or any successor
regulations.
(d) Subpart B of 2 CFR part 421, which adopts the Governmentwide
implementation (2 CFR part 182) of the Drug-Free Workplace Act.
(e) Executive Order 13166, ``Improving Access to Services for
Persons with Limited English Proficiency.'' For information on limited
English proficiency and agency-specific guidance go to https://www.lep.gov/.
(f) Federal Obligation Certification on Delinquent Debt.
V. Application Review Information
A. Criteria
A priority score will be afforded to complete applications deemed
eligible to compete. Given the purpose of the HBIIP, higher priority
will be afforded to projects deemed to increase significantly the sales
and use of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel on a gallons per
dollar of requested funds, basis. Priority scoring and ranking of
applications will be a function of the following criteria:
(1) For Higher Blend Implementation Activities related to
transportation fueling facilities.
(a) Annual sales volume for the past 3 years (2017-19) or projected
sales for fueling stations constructed during the grant period, for all
fuels including E10 and/or B5;
(b) The incremental increase in HB fuel volume attributed to:
(i) The proposed change in percentage of refueling positions
offering E15 and/or B20 or higher blends (the greater percentage of HB
fuel refueling positions, the greater the HB fuel volume attribution);
(ii) The proposed new ratio number of fueling positions offering
E15 and/or B20 relative to the number of fueling positions offering E10
and/or B5 (the greater the ratio of HB fuel refueling positions
relative to E10 and/or B5, the greater the HB fuel volume attribution);
(iii) The proposed ratio number of fueling positions offering E85
relative to the number of fueling positions offering E10 (the greater
the ratio of E85 refueling positions relative to E10, the greater the
HB fuel volume attribution);
(iv) The proposed change in the number of fueling stations with at
least one E15 fueling position (the greater the number of fueling
stations, the greater the HB fuel volume attribution);
(v) Whether the applicant is an owner of 10 fueling stations or
fewer (if yes, a Targeted Assistance Goal, HB fuel volume attribution);
(vi) The proposed number of fueling stations located along an
interstate highway corridor;
(vii) The proposed number of fueling stations located as the sole
station (within a 1-mile radius) in an area;
(viii) The proposed number of fueling stations located in areas
under consideration for Geographic Diversity:
1. The New England States of--Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire,
Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island; and/or
2. The Western States of--Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado,
Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska,
Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota,
Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming;
(ix) A ``Matching Funds'' investment/commitment to higher blends
signage and/or marketing is proposed (non-zero investment yields
greater HB fuel volume attribution);
(c) The total amount of requested funds.
The HBIIP online application, ``Project Worksheet with Priority
Scoring Criteria for Transportation Fueling Stations/Facilities,'' is
interactive and designed to indicate an applicant's priority score
based on--HBIIP activities (e.g., fuel dispensers, related equipment
and infrastructure installations), Administrator's geographic diversity
priorities, Targeted Assistance Goals (if applicable), and the amount
of requested funds. Applicants may directly influence their priority
score by the activities they select in the worksheet and by the amount
of grant funds they request.
Transportation fueling stations/facilities applications should take
special care to provide evidentiary documentation in support of their
proposed activities in the HBIIP Project Technical Report. In the event
of suspect, overstated, or otherwise unsubstantiated claims, the Agency
[[Page 26663]]
reserves the right to adjust an application's priority score
accordingly.
(2) For Higher Blend Implementation Activities related to fuel
distribution facilities.
(a) Annual throughput volume for past 3 years (2017-19), for all
fuels;
(b) The incremental increase in throughput of HB fuel, as
substantiated by:
i. Validated demand;
ii. Market drivers;
iii. Documented incentives;
iv. Project sustainability;
v. Investment to consumer education and marketing; and
vi. Partnerships;
(c) The total amount of requested funds.
Fuel distribution facility applications should take special care to
provide evidentiary documentation in support of their throughput
projections in the feasibility study/business plan/equivalent planning
documents and in the HBIIP Project Technical Report. In the event of
suspect, overstated, or otherwise unsubstantiated claims, the Agency
reserves the right to adjust an application's priority score
accordingly.
B. Review and Selection Process
All complete applications will be competed/ranked in accordance
with Section V.A., as specified above. Applicants may work to complete
the online application until the deadline specified in the DATES
section of this Notice.
Due to the competitive nature of this program, applications
receiving the same priority score will be competed/ranked based on
submittal date. The submittal date is the date the RBCS receives a
complete application. A complete application contains all information
requested by RBCS and is sufficient to allow the determination of
eligibility, score, rank, and compete the application for funding,
subject to funds available. Incomplete applications will not be
competed and will not receive funding.
C. Administrator Points
The RBCS retains the discretion to award priority to applications
that support HBIIP policy goals and that specifically promote economic
development to improve life in rural areas that are most in need:
(1) Targeted Assistance Goal of up to 40 percent of funds made
available for activities/investments related to higher blends of fuel
ethanol to applicants (owners) owning 10 transportation fueling
stations/locations or fewer.
(2) A Consideration for Geographical Diversity and markets
underserved by higher blends is also afforded to applicants/
participants based on location of the proposed transportation fueling
stations/locations.
D. Other Requirements
In order to be considered for funds, complete applications must be
received by the deadline specified in the DATES section of this Notice.
(1) Insufficient funds. If available funds are insufficient to fund
the total amount of an application:
(a) The applicant will be notified and given the option to lower
the grant request and accept the remaining funds. If the applicant
agrees to lower the grant request, the applicant must certify that the
purposes of the project will be met and provide the remaining total
funds needed to complete the project.
(b) If two or more applications have the same priority score and
the same submittal date, both applicants will be notified and given the
option to lower the grant requests and accept the remaining funds. If
an applicant agrees to lower its grant request, the applicant must
certify that the purposes of the project will be met and provide the
remaining total funds needed to complete the project.
(2) Award considerations. All award considerations will be on a
discretionary basis. In determining the amount of an award, the RBCS
will consider the amount requested, subject to:
(a) The maximum cost-share amount of 50 percent of total eligible
project costs, or a lesser amount when deemed appropriate, and/or
(b) the Maximum Award amount of $5 million, and/or
(c) available funds; whichever is least, as applicable.
(3) Notification of funding determination. Applicants will be
informed in writing by the RBCS as to the funding determination of the
application.
VI. Federal Award Administration Information
A. Federal Award Notices
HBIIP grants will be administered in accordance with Departmental
Regulations, and as otherwise specified in this Notice.
Applicants selected for funding, will receive a signed notice of
Federal award containing instructions on requirements necessary to
proceed with execution and performance of the award.
Applicants not selected for funding will be notified in writing and
informed of any review and appeal rights. Awards to successfully
appealed applications will be limited to available funding.
B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Additional requirements that apply to grantees selected for this
program can be found in the Grants and Agreements regulations of the
Department of Agriculture codified in 2 CFR parts 180, 400, 415, 417,
418, 421; 2 CFR parts 25 and 170; and 48 CFR 31.2.
In addition, all recipients of Federal financial assistance are
required to report information about first tier subawards and executive
compensation (see 2 CFR part 170). You will be required to have the
necessary processes and systems in place to comply with the Federal
Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (Pub. L. 109- 282)
reporting requirements (see 2 CFR 170.200(b), unless you are exempt
under 2 CFR 170.110(b)). More information on these requirements can be
found at https://www.rd.usda.gov/HBIIP. The following additional
requirements apply to grantees selected for this program:
(1) Grant Agreement--RD 4280-2 Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Financial Assistance Agreement;
(2) Letter of Conditions;
(3) Form RD 1940-1, ``Request for Obligation of Funds;''
(4) Form RD 1942-46, ``Letter of Intent to Meet Conditions;'' and
(5) Use Form SF 270, ``Request for Advance or Reimbursement.''
C. Reporting
After grant approval and through grant completion, grantees will be
required to provide periodically the following, as indicated:
(1) A SF-425, ``Federal Financial Report,'' and a project
performance report will be required on a semiannual basis (due 30
working days after end of the semiannual period). For the purposes of
this grant, semiannual periods end on March 31st and September 30th.
The project performance reports shall include the elements prescribed
in the Grant Agreement; which for fueling stations will include point
of sale reporting for up to 5 years post project completion and for
fuel distribution facilities will include reporting of throughput
volumes of all fuels including HB fuels.
(2) A final project and financial status report, as required per 2
CFR 200.343 ``Closeout'', within 90 days after the expiration or
termination of the grant.
(3) Provide project outcome/performance reports and final
deliverables. Reported data will be used for program and policy
evaluation. The proprietary nature and confidentiality of information
collected from program participants is specified in 7 U.S.C. 2276.
[[Page 26664]]
VII. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts
For further information contact: Anthony Crooks: telephone
(202)205-9322, email: [email protected]. Persons with
disabilities that require alternative means for communication should
contact the USDA Target Center at (202)720-2600 (voice).
VIII. Other Information
A. Paperwork Reduction Act
The Information Collection and Recordkeeping requirements contained
in this rule have been approved by an emergency clearance under OMB
Control Number 0570-NEW. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act
of 1995 (44 U.S.C. chapter 35), RBCS invites comments on this
information collection for which the Agency intends to request approval
from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). RBCS invites comments
on any aspect of this collection of information including suggestions
for reducing the burden. Comments may be submitted regarding this
information collection by the following method:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and, in the lower ``Search Regulations and Federal
Actions'' box, select ``RBCS'' from the agency drop-down menu, then
click on ``Submit.'' In the Docket ID column, select Docket No. RBS-20-
Business-0006 to submit or view public comments and to view supporting
and related materials available electronically. Information on using
Regulations.gov, including instructions for accessing documents,
submitting comments, and viewing the docket after the close of the
comment period, is available through the site's ``User Tips'' link.
Comments on this information collection must be received by July 6,
2020. The information collection is one-time activity for the
applications, however, RBCS will need to submit a formal information
collection request for the approval beyond the 6-month emergency
approval to address the ongoing reporting requirement.
The burden for the HBIIP collection of information includes both
the upfront one-time application and the on-going reporting, which will
include mid-year and an annual reporting. The reporting may include
additional reports for projects that run longer.
Comments are invited on (a) the accuracy of the agency's estimate
of burden including the validity of the methodology and assumption
used; (b) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the
information to be collected; and (c) ways to minimize the burden of the
collection of information on those who are to respond, including using
appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological
collection techniques on other forms and information technology.
Title: Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP).
OMB Control Number: 0570-New.
Type of Request: New Information Collection.
Abstract: The purpose of the HBIIP is to increase significantly the
sales and use of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. HBIIP is
intended to encourage a more comprehensive approach to marketing higher
blends by sharing the costs related to building out biofuel-related
infrastructure.
Under the HBIIP, funds will be made directly available to assist
transportation fueling and fuel distribution facilities with converting
to higher ethanol and biodiesel blend friendly status by sharing the
costs related to the installation, and/or retrofitting, and/or
otherwise upgrading of fuel storage, dispenser/pumps, related
equipment, and infrastructure.
Cost-share grants of up to 50 percent of total eligible project
costs but not more than $5 million will be made available to assist
transportation fueling and fuel distribution facilities with converting
to higher blend friendly status for ethanol (i.e., greater than 10
percent ethanol) and biodiesel (greater than 5 percent biodiesel) by
sharing the costs related to the installation, and/or retrofitting,
and/or otherwise upgrading of dispenser/pumps, related equipment, and
infrastructure.
The information collected from applications as required by this
NOFA include, but are not limited to determine whether participants
meet the eligibility requirements to be a recipient of grant funds,
project eligibility, conduct the technical evaluation, calculate a
priority score, rank and compete the application, as applicable, in
order to be considered. Lack of adequate information to make the
determination could result in the improper administration and
appropriation of Federal grant funds to be a recipient of grant funds
as well as other documents and information that may be relevant as
determined by RBCS.
Estimate of Burden: Public reporting burden for this collection of
information is estimated to average 78 hours per response.
Estimated Number of Respondents: 100.
Estimated Total Annual Responses: 200.
Estimated Total Recordkeeping Hours: 480.
Estimated Total Burden Hours: 15,600.
Estimated Total Annual Burden (including recordkeeping) on
Respondents: 16,080 hours.
Copies of this information collection can be obtained from MaryPat
Daskal, Regulatory Division Team 2, Rural Development Innovation
Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Stop
1522, Washington, DC 20250. Phone: 202-720-7853.
All responses to this information collection and recordkeeping
notice will be summarized and included in the request for OMB approval.
All comments will also become a matter of public record.
B. Nondiscrimination Statement
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination
against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the
basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender
identity, reprisal and where applicable, political beliefs, marital
status, familial or parental status, religion, sexual orientation, or
all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public
assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or
in any program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not
all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment
activities.)
If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of
discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form
(PDF), found online at https://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or complete the form at any USDA office, or
call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter
containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your
completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue
SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at
[email protected].
Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech
disabilities and wish to file either an EEO or program complaint,
please contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339
or (800) 845-6136 (in Spanish).
Persons with disabilities, who wish to file a program complaint,
please see information above on how to contact us directly by mail or
by email. If you require alternative means of communication for program
information
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(e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) please contact USDA's
TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).
Robert Stephenson,
Executive Vice President, Commodity Credit Corporation.
Mark Brodziski,
Acting Administrator, Rural Business-Cooperative Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-09685 Filed 5-4-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-05-P