May 25, 2011



This month, The Department of Energy (DOE) released its new DOE G 413.3-12, Cost Estimating Guide, which is meant to “provide uniform guidance and best practices that describe the methods and procedures that could be used in all programs and projects at DOE for preparing cost estimates.” Integral to developing the guide was DOE’s strong relationship with AACE International, formalized through a cooperative agreement (reauthorized in 2007). Specifically, the guide references (and includes as an attachment) AACE RP 18R-97, Cost Estimate Classification System – As Applied in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction for the Process Industries, as the model for the estimate classifications being utilized within DOE Today. Even more importantly, the final version of the guide incorporated key recommendations made by AACE President- Elect Michael R. Nosbisch CCC PSP, who was invited to present them to the April meeting of the Energy Facility Contractors Working Group (EFCOG) Cost Estimating Subgroup, held at DOE’s Y-12 Facility in Oak Ridge, TN. In addition to Mike’s presentation, the meeting was hosted by AACE Certification Board member Robert E. McCoy CCC, and attended by several other leaders of the Association included Past AACE President Jennifer Bates, Annual Meetings Committee member Susan R. Jones CCE, and current Section Presidents John R. Baker CEP (Idaho Snake River) and Steven R. Dismuke (Palo Duro Canyon).

• To download DOE’s Cost Estimating Guide, click here.
• To download Mike Nosbisch’s presentation to the EFCOG Cost Estimating Subgroup, click here.