Upgrade Refrigeration Equipment
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 USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is soliciting proposals for the Upgrade of Refrigeration Equipment for a seed storage cooler at its facility in Brookings, SD. This is a 100% Small Business Set-Aside for a Firm Fixed-Price contract. The project involves replacing an aging refrigeration system to meet current environmental standards and maintain precise temperature and humidity. Offers are due by April 27, 2026, at 0630 CT.
Scope of Work
The contractor will be responsible for the complete upgrade of the refrigeration system for the seed storage cooler. This includes:
- Demolition and removal of all existing mechanical equipment.
- Capture and disposal of R-12 refrigerant in accordance with EPA regulations.
- Installation of a new refrigeration system capable of maintaining temperatures between 32–41 °F (0–5 °C) within ±3 °F of setpoint, and relative humidity at 40% RH within ±5% RH of setpoint.
- Integration of temperature and humidity controls (KE2 Therm or equivalent) with continuous monitoring, alarm annunciation, and remote capabilities.
- Preparation of the existing cooler box for new controls and sensors, ensuring thermal integrity. The cooler box itself is in good condition and does not require replacement.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price
- Period of Performance: 150 days after receipt of order. Demolition and installation are key deliverables due within 60 days or earlier after contract acceptance.
- NAICS Code: 238220 (HVAC and Other Building Equipment Contractors)
- Size Standard: $19 Million
- Set-Aside: 100% Small Business
Submission & Evaluation
Offerors must submit a fully completed and signed SF1449, acknowledging all amendments, along with a summary cover letter. Key submission requirements include:
- Prior Experience: One reference for a similar project within the past two years (contract number, dollar amount, scope, location, POC, project description).
- Qualifications: Proof of being a licensed HVAC mechanic with at least five years of experience in HVAC repairs, licensed for work in South Dakota. Quotes will be evaluated for technical acceptability, with the award made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government. Failure to meet any requirement, including attending the mandatory site visit, may render the quote non-responsive.
Key Dates
- Solicitation Issue Date: April 7, 2026
- Mandatory Site Visit: April 15, 2026, at 0800 AM CST (Registration required by April 14, 2026, at 1200 PM CST)
- Requests for Information (RFIs) Due: April 20, 2026, at 0630 AM CST
- Offer Due Date: April 27, 2026, at 0630 CT
Special Requirements
Contractor personnel must possess a refrigerant usage license or permit and require a U.S. photo ID. Operations and Maintenance Manuals must be provided in Adobe format (Section 508 compliant). Bidders must comply with Wage Determination 2015-5375 for South Dakota, ensuring proposed wages and benefits meet or exceed minimums.