2903.13—Evaluation criteria.
(a)
The following evaluation criteria will be used in reviewing applications submitted for the Biodiesel Fuel Education Program:
(1)
Relevance of proposed project to current and future issues related to the production, use, distribution, fuel quality, and fuel properties of biodiesel, including:
(i)
Demonstrated knowledge about markets, state initiatives, impacts on local economies, regulatory issues, standards, and technical issues;
(ii)
Demonstrated knowledge about issues associated with developing a biodiesel infrastructure; and
(iii)
Quality and extent of stakeholder involvement in planning and accomplishment of program objectives.
(2)
Reasonableness of project proposal, including:
(i)
Sufficiency of scope and strategies to provide a consistent message in keeping with existing standards and regulations;
(ii)
Adequacy of Project Description, suitability and feasibility of methodology to develop and implement program;
(iii)
Clarity of objectives, milestones, and indicators of progress;
(iv)
Adequacy of plans for reporting, assessing and monitoring results over project's duration; and
(v)
Demonstration of feasibility, and probability of success.
(3)
Technical quality of proposed project, including:
(i)
Suitability and qualifications of key project personnel;
(ii)
Institutional experience and competence in providing alternative fuel education, including:
(A)
Demonstrated knowledge about programs involved in alternative fuel research and education;
(B)
Demonstrated knowledge about other fuels, fuel additives, engine performance, fuel quality and fuel emissions;
(C)
Demonstrated knowledge about Federal, State and local programs aimed at encouraging alternative fuel use;
(D)
Demonstrated ability in providing educational programs and developing technical programs; and
(E)
Demonstrated ability to analyze technical information relevant to the biodiesel industry.
(iii)
Adequacy of available or obtainable resources; and
(iv)
Quality of plans to administer and maintain the project, including collaborative efforts, evaluation and monitoring efforts.