March 23, 2008, was the deadline for Phase 2 applications for the DOE September 22, 2008 solicitation for up to $8 billion in federal loan guarantees for coal gasification projects that employ advanced technologies that avoid, reduce or sequester emissions of air pollutants or greenhouse gases in the area of coal-based power generation, industrial gasification, and advanced coal gasification facilities.

Most assuredly applicants have been working long hours to prepare a compelling case for their proposal. In addition to providing the “meat and potatos” of the project, applicants must make sure they don’t run afoul of any of the many administrative rules. For example, “Documents supporting and forming a part of
applications must be submitted electronically, typed single-spaced, and must adhere to a format
consisting of standard 8.5” x 11” paper with 1” margins (top, bottom, left and right) with font not
smaller than Times New Roman 11 point . . .”

This writer has been trying to guess who the final applicants may be. Six projects come to mind, but not many more. It will be interesting to learn which project developers submitted Phase 2 applications. After all, Phase 2 applications require the final 75% of the application to be deposited – $600,000.

It’s certain that many a developer has breathed a sigh of relief knowing that their application has been submitted. Coal Gasification News says good luck to all and hopes for a speedy DOE selection process and a generous loan guarantee for all deserving projects.