Request for Proposal - Metals Development 150: Substation
ID: RFP-A25-1118Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFAMES LABORATORY - DOE CONTRACTORAmes, IA, 50011, USA

NAICS

Power, Distribution, and Specialty Transformer Manufacturing (335311)

PSC

INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT- INSTRUMENTS AND LABORATORY EQUIPMENT (N066)
Timeline
    Description

    The Ames National Laboratory, operated by Iowa State University under a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy, is soliciting proposals for the acquisition of a substation as part of the "Metals Development 150: Substation" project. The procurement involves the delivery and installation of various components, including medium-voltage switchgear and dry-type transformers, with a focus on compliance with federal standards and specifications. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the electrical distribution capabilities at the laboratory, ensuring operational efficiency and safety. Interested vendors must submit their proposals by April 11, 2025, and are encouraged to review the addendum for important updates; for inquiries, contact Nicole Howe at nhowe@ameslab.gov or Trevor Gunderson at trevorg1@ameslab.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document is an addendum to Request for Proposal (RFP) No. A25-1118 for Metals Development related to a substation project. It addresses inquiries from potential offerors regarding the scope and requirements of the RFP. Key points include clarification that all components of the substation, including the transformer, busway, panel, and switchgear, are part of the bidding process, contrary to initial assumptions. The target completion date of March 31, 2026, is confirmed, although it may be subject to delays based on supplier readiness. There is a requirement for compliance with the Buy American Act, as specified under federal regulations. Additionally, all interested bidders must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) for orders exceeding $10,000, with no exceptions permitted. This addendum outlines essential contractual requirements and clarifications critical for potential bidders to understand before submitting proposals.
    This document outlines the Terms and Conditions for Fixed-Price Commercial Products and Services concerning Ames National Laboratory and Iowa State University, effective March 12, 2024. Key clauses include definitions of terms related to the subcontract, acceptance procedures, order of precedence for documents, and dispute resolution mechanisms favoring negotiation and potential alternative dispute resolution. It emphasizes compliance with various laws, environmental protection standards, and inspection and acceptance processes for supplies and services. Important topics also cover liabilities, including governmental immunity and indemnification, warranty obligations for services and supplies, and risk of loss during delivery. The document grants the Laboratory the right to terminate for convenience or cause and necessitates communication and compliance with U.S. export control laws. Additionally, there are clauses specifying employee conduct, treatment of employee concerns, and the prohibition on the use of the organizations' names in advertising without consent. This comprehensive guide ensures contractors understand their rights and responsibilities, reinforcing transparency and compliance within federal and state contracting standards.
    The document outlines the contractor/vendor requirements for the procurement of Substation equipment by Ames Lab under project PRJ0012953 MD 150. The main focus is on the delivery and installation logistics of the equipment, specifically Square D and Schneider Electric products. Key responsibilities include executing decontamination work, coordinating with the appointed General Contractor (GC) during construction, and managing timelines for delivery. Contractors must secure parking permits if needed and ensure safe, clean working conditions. The project excludes Davis-Bacon wage rate requirements, and substantial completion is anticipated for March 31, 2026. Vendors are tasked with adhering to specified delivery, storage, and warranty guidelines, emphasizing compliance with pre-established technical specifications. This initiative reflects the government's approach to structured procurement and project management to ensure effective infrastructure development.
    The AMES Lab's MD150 Substation Repurchase project involves procuring secondary unit substations equipped with switchgear. It encompasses various components such as medium-voltage switchgear, dry-type transformers, and secondary distribution systems. Key deliverables include detailed product data, shop drawings, wiring diagrams, and factory test reports. The document outlines installation protocols, including compliance with electrical codes and manufacturer specifications. Components must be weather-protected during delivery and stored correctly. The warranty ensures coverage for defects in materials and workmanship post-commissioning. The vendor, Square D from Schneider Electric, is responsible for manufacturing units that meet rigorous standards, including IEEE and NFPA guidelines. The facilities will be designed for indoor use and include features like ventilation, corrosion resistance, and efficient cooling systems. The summary highlights the project's comprehensive scope, focusing on compliance, quality-control testing, and installation procedures, emphasizing safety and functional requirements in the context of federal and state electrical infrastructure initiatives. This significant undertaking reflects the government's commitment to enhancing electrical distribution systems critical to facility operations while ensuring safety and reliability standards are upheld.
    The document outlines the Intellectual Property Provisions (IPP) relevant to federal contracts involving commercial supplies and services that require the delivery of data. It delineates the rights in data, including definitions of terms like "data," "computer software," and "unlimited rights." The government typically retains unlimited rights to data produced under the contract, while contractors may assert copyright under specific conditions. Contractors also have the right to use data produced during the contract, provided it aligns with federal regulations. The document emphasizes the need for proper marking of data regarding its rights status and sets forth procedures for addressing unauthorized markings, incorrect notices, and inspection rights for the government. Additionally, it includes clauses governing additional data requirements and rights to proposal data, establishing a framework for managing technical data generated through federal contracts. Overall, the provisions ensure the government secures necessary access to data while respecting contractors' intellectual property rights in specific contexts.
    The document outlines specifications for the installation of electrical infrastructure at Ames Laboratory, specifically focusing on the creation of Unit Substation #3. Key components include a 1500 kVA transformer (XFMR T-3), 2000A switchgear, and associated metering systems. The setup mandates a NEMA 1 enclosure, infrared viewing windows, physical interlocks for safety, and comprehensive metering capabilities to facilitate efficient monitoring. Additionally, it specifies design features such as bus duct ratings and junction boxes for Ethernet connections for future remote monitoring. Detailed load calculations and equipment specifications are highlighted to ensure alignment with operational requirements. The report illustrates the critical importance of safety through physical interlocks and proper monitoring technology implementation, demonstrating forward-thinking design in the context of federal standards for electrical systems. This infrastructure upgrade aims to modernize laboratory capabilities while adhering to safety and operational efficiency standards.
    The document outlines the Representations and Certifications Supplemental (RCS) required for suppliers and subcontractors working with Ames National Laboratory under a Department of Energy contract. It mandates that companies pursuing contracts valued at $10,000 or more must register in the U.S. Government System for Award Management (SAM) and submit specific certifications. The submission requirements differ based on the contract value and registration status. Key sections include entity and business size information, compliance with export control laws, and representations regarding the use of domestic versus foreign products. Special certifications concerning nonsegregated facilities, patent rights, and the prohibition of suspect/counterfeit parts are also included. By signing the document, the authorized representative certifies the accuracy of the information provided. The RCS is integral for regulatory compliance and ensuring that the contracting process aligns with federal standards, particularly concerning funding and procurement practices.
    Ames National Laboratory, operated by Iowa State University under contract with the U.S. Department of Energy, has issued Request for Proposal (RFP) No. A25-1118 for the acquisition of goods or services related to the "Metals Development 150: Substation." Vendors are invited to submit proposals with a deadline of April 11, 2025. Key administrative dates include a cut-off for questions by April 7, 2025, and anticipated award on June 11, 2025. The acquisition is unrestricted, encouraging participation from small and minority-owned businesses. Proposals must adhere to strict submission guidelines including registrations in the System for Award Management (SAM) and comply with specific terms and conditions. The selection will follow a Lowest Price, Technically Acceptable (LPTA) evaluation approach. Offerors must recognize that funds are available only within the approved budget and that the Laboratory may honor only those offers that meet or exceed the stipulated requirements. The solicitation emphasizes compliance with necessary certifications, pricing structures, and delivery timelines, ensuring all responses detail the necessary qualifications to foster effective contract performance.
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