The Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office 09, has issued a notice intending to award a sole-source contract to Schneider Electric IT Mission Critical Services Inc. for a main switchgear and high impedance relay upgrade at the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System's York Campus in Murfreesboro, TN. The contract, estimated to be in place by January 14, 2025, falls under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1) and FAR 13.106-1(b) for single-source solicitation. The justification highlights Schneider Electric's unique capabilities in developing relay programs, creating operational control schematics, and providing specific training necessary for the installed products. The document emphasizes the complexity of the project, stating that alternative suppliers would incur additional costs and complications, including inefficient new processes and risk of data loss from historical system integrations. Interested parties may express their capabilities within seven days of the notice. The NAICS code for this contract is 221122, concerning Electric Power Distribution, with a Small Business Administration size standard of 1,100 employees.
The document is a justification for a single-source award under the Simplified Acquisition Procedures by the Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically for the Tennessee Valley Medical Center. It outlines the need for specialized training and the installation of main switchgear and high impedance relay upgrades, scheduled from January 14, 2025, to January 13, 2026. Due to urgent circumstances, including delays and potential weather disruptions, only one source, Schneider Electric IT Mission Critical Services Inc., is deemed capable of fulfilling this requirement. Despite the existence of other Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) identified through market research, the immediate need and expertise of Schneider Electric render it the only feasible option. The contracting officer has certified this justification as accurate, confirming adherence to relevant federal acquisition regulations. This document exemplifies the procedural framework utilized in government procurement processes focused on expediting urgent needs while ensuring compliance with competitive sourcing guidelines.