Class Justification and Approval - Brand Name - Baldor-Reliance Motors
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. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Northwestern Division (NWD), specifically the Walla Walla (NWW) and Portland (NWP) Districts, has issued a Class Justification and Approval (J&A) for the brand-name procurement of Baldor-Reliance motors. This J&A authorizes the acquisition of these motors for fish screens on hydroelectric operating projects without requiring individual justifications for each contract. The authorization is effective from Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 through FY 2031, expiring on May 1, 2031.
Scope of Work
This J&A covers the procurement of Baldor-Reliance brand motors for fish screens used on 153 hydropower turbines across the NWW and NWP districts. These motors are essential for the operation of fish screens, which are required by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Columbia River System Operations (CRSO) Biological Opinion (BiOp) Section 7 Permit to divert juvenile salmon. The specific motors are 5 HP, 180TY frame, fully submersible, severe duty rated, TENV enclosure, 240/480VAC, 3 phase, with a 1.25" x 2" shaft, and a custom C-faced mounting.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Justification (Class J&A for Other than Full and Open Competition)
- Duration: Covers acquisitions from FY2026 through FY2031 (expiration May 1, 2031).
- Product Service Code: 6105 (Motors, Electrical)
- Place of Performance: United States (Washington State mentioned for Walla Walla District).
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This procurement falls under a Partial Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5). A previous Sources Sought notice (W912EF26RSS10) indicated adequate competition among small businesses for brand-name Baldor-Reliance motors. Future procurements under this J&A will include synopses and solicitations specifically set aside for small businesses.
Additional Notes
Baldor-Reliance motors have been utilized for over 20 years due to their standardization, reliability, and compatibility with existing systems. No suitable alternatives were found that meet the exact specifications and federal requirements. The use of these specific motors is critical to prevent operational failures, environmental damage (e.g., oil leaks), and non-compliance with fish passage obligations. A prior protest regarding technical specifications was resolved, leading to improved communication and award posting practices.
Contact Information
- Primary Contact: Callie Rietfors (callie.rietfors@usace.army.mil, 509-527-7280)
- Secondary Contact: Brooke MOORE (brooke.n.moore@usace.army.mil)