DOE issues RFI regarding challenges and opportunities associated with scaling the domestic solar manufacturing workforce
Eligible applicants: labor unions, manufacturers. Applications are due: June 2, 2023
Announcement Type: Request for Information
Opportunity: Scaling the U.S. Solar Manufacturing Workforce
Overview and Eligible Uses: The U.S. Department of Energy's Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) aims to gather information to better understand the quantity, quality, and accessibility of solar manufacturing roles, the required skill sets, potential barriers, and solutions for meeting the demand for qualified labor. Additionally, SETO is particularly interested in promoting an employee-centered, diverse, and inclusive solar manufacturing workforce with access to quality jobs, defined career pathways, and opportunities to join labor unions.
The RFI focuses on job roles associated with operating U.S.-based manufacturing facilities involved in the production of photovoltaic (PV) modules, semiconductor materials and components, materials used in PV module construction, and other equipment associated with PV systems. However, it does not cover batteries used in PV coupled energy storage systems.
The information received through this RFI will inform future strategic programming and contribute to DOE's efforts in ensuring an equitable clean energy workforce. Please note that this RFI does not involve financial assistance or incentives, and the issuance of a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) will be determined based on the input received.
Eligible Applicants: The purpose of this Request for Information (RFI) is to gather feedback from various stakeholders, including industry, academia, research laboratories, government agencies, and other organizations, on the challenges and opportunities related to scaling the solar manufacturing workforce in the United States.
SETO is specifically interested in input from manufacturers, suppliers, education and training providers, community-based organizations, workers' rights organizations, and labor unions.
Key Dates: Responses are due June 2, 2023.
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