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. (b) [Reserved]