61--SJG SOLAR/BPS/POWER CONDITIONING
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), under the Department of Interior, is soliciting proposals for a Solar Photovoltaic Backup Power Generation System with Lithium-Ion Battery Storage and Power Conditioning (S+B-BPS) for the San Juan Magnetic Observatory in Cayey, Puerto Rico. This Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity aims to ensure continuous data collection during power outages. The estimated magnitude of construction is between $100,000 and $250,000. Proposals are due March 13, 2026, 12:00 PM (MDT).
Scope of Work
The contractor will design and construct a zero-export S+B-BPS at the observatory's Shop/Garage, including a power conditioning system to manage voltage fluctuations. The system must provide a minimum of 72 hours of autonomy for 14 designated observatory buildings at full normal usage following a utility power failure. The existing diesel generator will serve as a secondary backup. Bidders should assume an average monthly electric usage of 5060 kWh for proposal purposes and are required to confirm existing site conditions and analyze electrical power consumption.
Contract Details & Requirements
- Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business (FAR 19.5)
- NAICS: 221114 – Power Generation, Solar Electric contractors (Size Standard: 500 employees)
- Period of Performance: April 1, 2026 - July 30, 2026 (120 days)
- Place of Performance: San Juan Magnetic Observatory, Cayey, Puerto Rico
- Key Requirements:
- Compliance with prevailing wage rates (Wage Determination PR20260001).
- Secure all necessary permits and comply with applicable codes (IBC, NEC, IFC, ASCE).
- Use commercial/industrial grade products with a minimum 20-year service life.
- Performance and Payment Bonds (100% of contract price) are required.
- Training for USGS facility staff on the new system.
- No ferrous materials permitted within the designated Exclusion Zone.
Submission & Evaluation
Proposals must be submitted electronically to Philip Robinson (philip_robinson@ios.doi.gov) by the deadline. Evaluation will consider Technical Capabilities, Project Schedule/Plan, Key Personnel Experience, Past Experience, and Price, with technical merit being more important than price. Offerors must acknowledge all solicitation amendments, and proposals must remain valid for 60 days.
Amendments
This solicitation has been amended multiple times. Amendment 0004 extended the Period of Performance to July 30, 2026, and clarified solar system design and power consumption data. Amendment 0003 extended the proposal due date to March 13, 2026, and the question cutoff date. Amendment 0002 provided an updated Statement of Work, clarified grid connection (zero-export), and specified 72-hour autonomy.