Reviewer Comments - EERE

2011 Algae Platform Review – Reviewer Comments
Reviewer Comments are direct transcripts of commentary and material provided by the Platform’s
Review Panel. They have not been edited or altered by the Biomass Program.
Criteria Avg Score Std Deviation Count
Approach 4.29 1.83 7
Progress 4.14 1.36 7
Relevance 3.86 1.25 7
Critical Success Factors 3.71 1.28 7
1. Project Approach
The project performers have implemented technically sound research, development, and deployment
approaches and demonstrated necessary results to meet their targets
The project performers have identified a project management plan that includes well-defined milestones
and adequate methods for addressing potential risks.
Reviewer Comments
Reviewer: 1 Criteria Score: 2
Many different tasks have been proposed for this project. In addition, many others were added as various
tasks did not work out. This is not scientifically structured work.
Reviewer: 2 Criteria Score: 4
The focus of this project is to deliver nutrients to algae via poultry litter (feces) and to explore uses of
residual biomass. It appears that initial work may have been spread over more different goals than
optimal.
Reviewer: 3 Criteria Score: 7
Project addresses key targets in Biomass Multi-year Program Plan related to cost competitiveness of
biomass derived biofuels
Reviewer: 4 Criteria Score: 3
See Overall Impression text.
Reviewer: 5 Criteria Score: 4
Approach is very multi-faceted with a wastewater utilization theme. Approach and results were all
laboratory scale. Unfortunately, it was hard to understand many of the logical connections between the
different project themes.
Reviewer: 6 Criteria Score: 7
The PI is addressing a real world concern and in a manner that is keeping an eye on the realities of
commercialization. The PI could focus down a bit more and aggressively pursue a few stragetic pathways.
Reviewer: 7 Criteria Score: 3
The project goals should be defined around specific economic and productivity targets. The potential
magnitude of the nutrient opportunity should be defined in terms of potential tons/year of biomass.
2. Technical Progress and Accomplishments
Please evaluate the degree to which the project has made progress in its objectives and stated project
management plan has met its objectives in achieving milestones and overcoming technical barriers.
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