The Sources Sought Notice SS-2024-3003 outlines the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL) urgent need for additional laboratory space to support its mission in renewable energy and efficiency research. With current facilities at full capacity, NREL requires an off-site lease for 80,000 square feet of laboratory space by FY 2026 to accommodate forecasted growth and fulfill existing research commitments. NREL’s mission emphasizes the effective utilization of space to support safety, efficiency, and collaboration, following specific criteria identified in a 2023 space needs assessment. Key requirements include sustainable building standards and adequate infrastructure to support medium hazard lab operations. The document details critical parameters for laboratory design, including height, ventilation, and load requirements. The overarching goal is to ensure that NREL maintains its leadership in energy transition and innovation through optimal facility management and expansion. The file serves as a formal solicitation to identify potential partners capable of meeting these pressing space needs, reinforcing NREL's strategic objectives aligned with federal guidelines and initiatives.

The document outlines the requirements for leased spaces related to federal RFPs, detailing "mission critical" and "highly desirable" attributes necessary for laboratory and support facilities. The mission-critical items include essential structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and safety provisions, with specific requirements detailed for laboratories and support spaces. Key requirements include adequate square footage for labs and support areas, security measures, specialized utilities, and environmental controls. Highly desirable goals focus on sustainability, seeking net-zero energy facilities and reliance on carbon-free electricity. The document emphasizes the importance of these attributes for successful program operation, reflecting the federal government's commitment to functional and environmentally conscious building standards.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) issued Sources Sought Notice No. SS-2024-3003 to gather market data for potential leased laboratory and office space to support its mission and anticipated growth. The desired facility, located within 50 miles of NREL’s South Table Mountain campus in Golden, CO, should encompass approximately 100,000 gross square feet of contiguous space, equipped with laboratory-grade HVAC systems and energy-efficient features. The document outlines the intent to engage the real estate market, providing submission guidelines for interested parties, including the requirement for capability statements and relevant facility details. A public webinar will be held to ensure comprehensive understanding of NREL’s needs, with clear timelines for inquiry submissions. This SSN serves as a preliminary stage in the procurement process, which may transition to a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) based on the interest exhibited by qualified vendors. Overall, the goal is to receive competitive offerings that align with NREL’s mission objectives, with its commitment to fostering renewable energy research effectively supported by adequate facility space.