[Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 10, Volume 4] [Revised as of January 1, 2003] From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: 10CFR600.16] [Page 91] TITLE 10--ENERGY CHAPTER II--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY (CONTINUED) PART 600--FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE RULES--Table of Contents Subpart A--General Sec. 600.16 Legal authority and effect of an award. (a) A DOE financial assistance award is valid only if it is in writing and is signed, either in writing or electronically, by a DOE Contracting Officer. (b) DOE funds awarded under a grant or cooperative agreement shall be obligated as of the date the DOE Contracting Officer signs the award; however, the recipient is not authorized to incur costs under an award prior to the beginning date of the budget period shown in the award except as may be authorized in accordance with Secs. 600.125(e) or 600.230 of this part. The duration of the DOE financial obligation shall not extend beyond the expiration date of the budget period shown in the award unless authorized by a DOE Contracting Officer by means of a continuation or renewal award or other extension of the budget period.