(a) The following evaluation criteria will be used in reviewing applications submitted for the Biodiesel Fuel Education Program:

1. (1) Relevance of proposed project to current and future issues related to the production, use, distribution, fuel quality, and fuel properties of biodiesel, including:

   1. (i) Demonstrated knowledge about markets, state initiatives, impacts on local economies, regulatory issues, standards, and technical issues;
   2. (ii) Demonstrated knowledge about issues associated with developing a biodiesel infrastructure; and
   3. (iii) Quality and extent of stakeholder involvement in planning and accomplishment of program objectives.

2. (2) Reasonableness of project proposal, including:

   1. (i) Sufficiency of scope and strategies to provide a consistent message in keeping with existing standards and regulations;
   2. (ii) Adequacy of Project Description, suitability and feasibility of methodology to develop and implement program;
   3. (iii) Clarity of objectives, milestones, and indicators of progress;
   4. (iv) Adequacy of plans for reporting, assessing and monitoring results over project's duration; and
   5. (v) Demonstration of feasibility, and probability of success.

3. (3) Technical quality of proposed project, including:

   1. (i) Suitability and qualifications of key project personnel;

   2. (ii) Institutional experience and competence in providing alternative fuel education, including:

      1. (A) Demonstrated knowledge about programs involved in alternative fuel research and education;
      2. (B) Demonstrated knowledge about other fuels, fuel additives, engine performance, fuel quality and fuel emissions;
      3. (C) Demonstrated knowledge about Federal, State and local programs aimed at encouraging alternative fuel use;
      4. (D) Demonstrated ability in providing educational programs and developing technical programs; and
      5. (E) Demonstrated ability to analyze technical information relevant to the biodiesel industry.
   3. (iii) Adequacy of available or obtainable resources; and
   4. (iv) Quality of plans to administer and maintain the project, including collaborative efforts, evaluation and monitoring efforts.