4280.109—Qualification for simplified applications.
When applying for a grant, applicants may qualify for the simplified application process. In order to use the simplified application process, each of the conditions specified in paragraphs (a)(1) through (8) of this section must be met.
(a) Simplified application criteria.
(1)
The applicant must be eligible in accordance with § 4280.107.
(4)
The proposed project must use commercially available renewable energy systems or energy efficiency improvements.
(5)
Construction planning and performing development must be performed in compliance with § 4280.115. The applicant or the applicant's prime contractor must assume all risks and responsibilities of project development.
(7)
The proposed project is scheduled to be completed within 24 months after entering into a grant agreement. The Agency may extend this period if the Agency determines, at its sole discretion, that the applicant is unable to complete the project for reasons beyond the applicant's control.
(8)
The applicant agrees not to request reimbursement from funds obligated under this program until after project completion, including all operational testing and certifications acceptable to the Agency.
(b) Application processing and administration—
(1) Application documents.
Application documents shall be submitted in accordance with § 4280.111 or, if applying for a combined grant and loan, also in accordance with § 4280.193(c).
(2) Demonstrated financial need.
The applicant must certify that it meets the definition of demonstrated financial need, as defined in § 4280.103. The Agency may require the applicant to provide supplemental information that will allow the Agency to make its own determination of the applicant's financial need.
(i)
Any grantee may participate in project development without direct compensation subject to the approval in writing by the prime contractor, provided that all applicable construction practices, manufacturer instructions, and all safety codes and standards are followed during construction and testing, and the work product meets all applicable manufacture specifications, and all applicable codes and standards. The prime contractor remains responsible for all the overall successful completion of the project, including any work done by the grantee, or
(ii)
A grantee who can demonstrate to the Agency that the grantee has the necessary experience and other resources to successfully complete the project may serve as the prime contractor/installer. Projects where the grantee serves as the prime contractor will need to secure the services of an independent, professionally responsible, qualified consultant to certify testing specifications, procedures, and testing results.
(4) Project completion.
The project is complete when the applicant has provided a written final project development, testing, and performance report acceptable to the Agency. Upon notification of receipt of an acceptable project completion report, the applicant may request grant reimbursement. The Agency reserves the right to observe the testing.