FAA Market Survey /Request for Information / Capability Assessment: Procurement of Alternative Energy Systems Equipment (AESE) and Life Cycle Support

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This SOW outlines the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) requirement for the acquisition and life cycle in-service support of Alternative Energy Systems (AES) equipment, referred to as Alternative Energy Systems Equipment (AESE). The goal is to enhance power reliability and resiliency to critical National Airspace Systems (NAS).

The contract requires AESE, technical support services, logistics support, training, and quality control. The Contractor must have extensive experience in designing, assembling, testing, and installing power distribution systems. The Contractor must also provide in-house access to core technical information and be able to troubleshoot, fault isolate, perform failure analysis, and provide maintenance and repair training for FAA technicians.

• Program Management: Includes providing a Program Plan, Program Management Report, and Risk Management Plan. Various conferences and meetings are required, including Post-Award Conference (PAC), Program Management Review (PMR), Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), Logistics Management Information Provisioning Conference (PC), Integrated Logistics Support Management Team (ILSMT) Conference, Contractor Depot Logistics Support Management Review (CDLSMR), and Logistics Guidance Conference (LGC).
• Hardware: AESE will consist of Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) equipment, potentially requiring configuration changes to meet FAA specifications. Site-specific configurations and parts obsolescence management are also addressed. Shop drawings for equipment configuration and seismic restraints are required.
• Software: Requires a comprehensive software quality assurance program, independent testing, and demonstration of proper functioning. The Contractor must provide Government access to EPMCS interface software control documents and system information, including applicable software licenses and firmware. Cybersecurity requirements are detailed in a separate SOW.
• Logistics: Detailed in a separate SOW, with Contractor Depot Logistics Support (CDLS) being an option to be exercised at the FAA's discretion.
• Training: The Contractor must provide equipment maintenance and repair training to FAA key stakeholders. This includes providing digital manuals, AESE Factory Training, Computer Based Training (CBT), and developing training materials, exams, and performance evaluations. Specific requirements for training development, validation, and delivery are outlined, including instructor qualifications, training schedules, and student materials.

Not explicitly detailed in this section, but implied to cover the life cycle of the AESE equipment and associated support services.

• Adherence to FAA Orders, Standards, Specifications, and Non-Government Standards (e.g., ASTM, EIA, ISO, UL, IEEE).
• Key Personnel requirement for a Program Manager.
• Specific documentation and reporting requirements via Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs).
• Government rights to modify, operate, and monitor systems.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This document outlines the cybersecurity requirements for contractors providing information technology (IT) systems, applications, or services to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It ensures compliance with the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) and the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP).

• General Protection: Contractors must ensure FAA information and systems are protected, implementing effective controls and methodologies adhering to NIST SP 800-53.
• Access Control: Implement role-based user permission groups for least privilege and integrate with FAA privileged user management systems.
• Logging & Auditing: Provide audit trails in an FAA-acceptable format for all user actions and activities on systems connected to the FAA network.
• Authentication: Enforce multifactor authentication (MFA) compliant with FAA and federal policies, excluding username/password only methods.
• Cryptography: Establish and manage cryptographic keys according to NIST SP 800-57.
• Data Encryption: Encrypt all FAA data at rest and in transit using FIPS 140 standards and HTTPS protocols.
• Data Jurisdiction: All data centers and backups must reside within the United States or its territories.
• Non-repudiation: Ensure proof of delivery and sender identity using digital certificates and FAA TLS site certificates.
• Media Transport: Document and protect FAA information during transport using cryptographic mechanisms.
• Boundary Protection: Route external connections through Trusted Internet Connections (TIC) processes.
• Security Alerts: Provide a contact for receiving security alerts, advisories, and directives.
• Developer Testing: Provide certificates of tests for developer security testing.
• Software Bill of Materials (SBOM): Provide SBOM and attestation per OMB Memo 22-18.
• Vulnerability Mitigation: Ensure systems do not contain vulnerabilities from the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) Catalog past their remediation date.
• Vulnerability Monitoring: Implement scanning for patch levels, ports, services, and flow control mechanisms, adhering to NIST SP 800-70 and FAA IT Security Policy. Non-compliant systems may be quarantined.
• Supply Chain Risk Management (C-SCRM): Contractors are responsible for subcontractor actions, managing supply chain risk lifecycle, and complying with NIST SSDF SP 800-218. This includes identifying AI usage and providing tamper-evident packaging.
• Authorization/Accreditation: Solutions must meet moderate Air Traffic Organization-tailored NIST SP 800-53 controls, potentially FIPS 199 high, and integrate with FAA authentication solutions. Cloud services require annual reviews and certifications.
• Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Implement DLP software and be responsible for patching and vulnerability management (PVM) of systems supporting FAA services.
• Data Ownership: The FAA retains all right, title, and interest in the data; contractors act as custodians and must return or delete data upon request.

Not explicitly detailed in this SOW, but implies ongoing services related to FAA IT systems.

• Compliance with NIST SP 800-53, FISMA, FedRAMP, and other relevant federal guidelines.
• Use of FAA-approved security controls and methodologies.
• Subcontractor management and vetting.
• Reporting of POA&Ms for identified vulnerabilities.
• Adherence to Zero Trust Architecture principles.
• Secure software development practices.
• Data must remain within the United States.
• Contractor must provide logical and physical access for government audits.

Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) / Market Survey

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting a market survey to gather information on vendor capabilities for a follow-on requirement for Alternative Energy Systems (AES) equipment and life cycle support. This survey aims to assess market conditions and determine potential acquisition strategies, including set-aside options for small businesses.

The FAA is seeking sources capable of providing AES life cycle in-service support. The anticipated requirement involves Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) and/or Non-Developmental Item (NDI) equipment, including photovoltaic panels, battery energy storage systems (BESS), Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries, hybrid supercapacitors, charge controllers, microgrid controllers, PV array rack systems, and associated AES cables/connectors. The systems will support National Air Space assets and facilities.

The requirement is anticipated to be a ten (10) year Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract, with a two (2) year base period and four (4) two-year option periods. The period of performance is subject to change.

Vendors are requested to submit a Capability Statement Form (Appendix A), not to exceed thirty (30) pages. Responses must include company information, point of contact, years in business, business size status, CAGE code, and UEID. The deadline for submission is May 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM EDT.

Currently, no set-aside applies. The FAA is seeking information to determine if competition can be set-aside for qualified small businesses. The acquisition strategy may result in an unrestricted competition or a full or partial set-aside.

This announcement is for informational and planning purposes only and is not a Request for Proposal (RFP). No solicitation currently exists, and unsolicited proposals will not be accepted. The FAA will not reimburse costs incurred in responding to this notice. Draft SOW and related attachments are available for review.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is Appendix A, a capability form required by the FAA for interested vendors to complete. It is used to assess vendor capabilities and past performance against the requirements outlined in the Draft Statement of Work (SOW).

• Capability Questions: Vendors must address questions in Block A regarding previous contracts (similar in size, scope, and complexity to the Draft SOW).
  • Requires detailed information for three (3) previous contracts (A1, A2, A3) including program title, customer name, project dates, customer POC, and description of work performed.
  • Requires detailed information for three (3) current contracts (B1, B2, B3) including program title, customer name, project dates, project value, customer POC, and description of work performed.
• Service Confirmation: Vendors must confirm their ability to provide all required services and equipment as outlined in the Draft SOW (Section C) using provided tables.
• Alternative Energy Systems Equipment (AESE) Capability: Vendors must indicate their capability to provide specific AESE components.
• Equipment Delivery Lead Time: Vendors must provide estimated lead times for various equipment categories and suggest mitigation strategies for lead times exceeding 12 months.
• Subcontracting: Vendors must identify any subcontractors, teaming agreements, or partnerships and the estimated percentage of work.
• Geographic Capability: Vendors must indicate regions (CONUS/OCONUS) where they can provide services and on-site technical support.
• Equipment Refresh/Obsolescence: Vendors must describe their approach to managing equipment refresh and obsolescence.
• Feedback: Vendors are requested to provide feedback on the Draft SOW and associated attachments.

This form is critical for vendors to demonstrate their qualifications and experience relevant to the opportunity. Completing it accurately and thoroughly is essential for the FAA's determination of vendor capability. Vendors must reference the Draft SOW when providing details about their past and current contracts and their ability to meet specific service and equipment requirements.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "SECTION J, ATTACHMENT J.01 SOLAR EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS," details the specific solar equipment requirements for different DC power system options: Small Systems (200W-2000W), Medium Systems (5KW-100KW), and Large Systems (100KW-1MW).

• Solar Panels: Specifies Tier 1 modules with UL 61730 certification and wattage ranges.
• Solar Charge Controller: Requires MPPT charge controllers with specific certifications (UL 1741) and communication protocols (Modbus RS485 or TCP/IP).
• Microgrid Controller/integrated switchgear or switchboard: Lists compliance with IEEE 2030.7 and communication requirements.
• Batteries/Battery Energy Storage: Defines deep-cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries with specific certifications (UL 1642, UL 1973) and options for stationary, rack, or containerized configurations.
• Inverters: Specifies inverter types (String, Central, RV/Mobile) and compliance with UL 1741SB, UL 1741SA, and IEEE 1547 standards.
• Solar Combiner Box: Requires UL 1741 certification.
• Wiring and Connectors: Mandates UL 4703 certified PV wires and UL 6703 MC4 connectors.
• Mounting/Racking Systems: Requires UL 2703 certified rack mounting equipment for fixed ground mounts.

This attachment is crucial for bidders to understand the minimum technical specifications and certifications required for all solar equipment components. It directly impacts the selection of materials and the design of proposed solar solutions to ensure compliance with the government's standards.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This document outlines the requirements for Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) for the AES system/equipment. The primary objective is to ensure the required level of service to end users at optimal lifecycle costs, encompassing new Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) investment programs as well as the sustainment of fielded products and services.

The SOW details the Contractor's responsibilities in providing comprehensive support for the AES program throughout its lifecycle. Key areas include:

• Integrated Logistics Management: Formation of an Integrated Logistics Support Management Team (ILSMT), conducting Logistics Guidance Reviews (LGR), and developing a Contractor's Logistics Plan (CLP).

• Program Logistics Deliverables: Provision of Spare Parts Lists (RSPL, SSPL, SPPL), Support Equipment Recommendation List (SERL), and Commercial and Technical Documentation (CSD).

• Maintenance: On-site maintenance, including warranty and non-warranty repairs.

• Supply Support: Provisioning for depot spares and contractor depot logistics support (CDLS).

• Technical Support: Providing technical and administrative assistance.

• Logistics Management Information (LMI): Data products and reviews related to logistics operations.

• The Contractor must provide a Contractor's Logistics Plan (CLP) within 90 days of contract award, subject to Government review and approval.

• Warranty period for new systems/equipment must be a minimum of two (2) years.

• Technical support response times are defined (e.g., within four (4) working hours during normal hours).

• CDLS delivery priorities (Priority 1-5) with specific turnaround times are established.

• The scope covers the entire lifecycle of the AES system/equipment.

• Maintenance and support services are to be provided on-site at the installation location.

• Parts delivery services are required throughout CONUS and OCONUS.

• Contractor must ensure compliance with Buy American Act (BAA) requirements.

• Personnel qualifications and training are critical for technical support roles.

• The Contractor must maintain and update Bill of Materials (BOMs) and other relevant documentation.

• CDLS operations require specific levels of personnel and management oversight based on the defined CDLS Levels (1, 2, and 3).

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment J.04 Labor Category Definitions," provides detailed definitions for labor categories required for the opportunity. It outlines the specific responsibilities and qualifications for each role, which bidders must consider when developing their proposals.

• Program Manager (PM): Responsibilities include overall contract management, planning, coordination, and serving as the primary liaison between the Contractor and the FAA. Qualifications require 5 years of project management experience in power monitoring and control solutions, with a BSEE or equivalent degree.
• Power Consultant/Technical Advisor (Principal Engineer): Serves as the main point of contact for equipment issues, provides technical expertise in renewable energy systems (Solar PV, BESS, Microgrid), assists with field issues, and analyzes/designs electrical power systems. Requires a minimum of 10 years of experience in power system analysis and design, with a BSEE degree preferred, and PE license is preferred.
• Field Services Engineer: Provides field service and technical assistance for installation, startup, repair, testing, and training. Requires 3 years of relevant experience in mechanical/electrical/power distribution services related to Microgrids, Solar PV, and BESS.
• Quotation Program Analyst: Responsible for developing, executing, tracking, and communicating quoting activities. Requires a minimum of 5 years of experience related to quoting electrical/electronic assemblies.

Bidders must use these definitions to ensure their proposed personnel meet the required qualifications for each labor category. This directly impacts staffing plans, cost proposals, and the overall technical approach. Understanding these requirements is crucial for demonstrating capability and compliance with the solicitation.