Together, the prizes will help to advance technological innovation in the direct air capture industry and help achieve emissions reduction targets. The deadline to apply for the first phase of the DAC Technology Prize is Sept. 29.
The American-Made DAC Prizes, sponsored by DOE's Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, support DAC technology advancement for decarbonization with a focus on incorporating environmental justice, community benefits planning and engagement, equity, and workforce development. The prize suite consists of separate but related competitions to address all phases of moving an innovation from an idea to a marketable product.
"We designed the suite of DAC Prizes to both fast-track direct air capture technology advancements and create a community of resources and support that will fortify the industry going forward," said Amishi Claros, acting division director of DOE's Carbon Dioxide Removal and Conversion Program.
The two challenges are:
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The DAC Pre-Commercial Energy Program for Innovation Clusters Prize, offering up to $3.7 million in cash prizes, is open to incubators and accelerators with impactful ideas to develop resources for energy startups and direct air capture entrepreneurs.
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The DAC Pre-Commercial Technology Prize, offering up to $4 million in cash prizes and technical assistance, is accepting applications for innovative, scalable technology solutions that address critical needs in the direct air capture industry.