C05_QA_12FPC426Q0071_0001_09.17.26.pdf

Solicitation # 12FPC426Q0071 Amendment 0001

USDA NRCS Puerto Rico Backup Power Battery Questions and Answers

Q1. Is the requirement a brand new contract or was an incumbent performing these services?

A1. This is brand new requirement. There is no incumbent.

Q2. If not brand new, please provide the current / previous contract number?

A2. This is brand new requirement; there is no prior contract number. Federal procurements can be found on SAM.GOV.

Q3. Please provide Appendix 1 and Appendix 2, or confirm they will not be issued and that offerors should size the system solely from a site visit plus the load categories listed in

PWS §3.1.2.

Also please confirm:

1. Whether “150% of average load … for at least 24 hours … on 8hrs intervals” means continuous 24-hour runtime at 150% of average workday load

2. Facility service voltage / phase (e.g., 120/208V or 120/240V) if known

A3. PWS Appendix 1 and PWS Appendix 2 are being issued with this solicitation under the titles “PWS Appendix 1. Corozal Field Office Equipment Estimated Load Consumption” and “PWS Appendix 2. Corozal Service Center Battery Backup Location.” These documents provide the detailed equipment list, estimated load consumption, and the spatial constraints for system placement. The equipment list referenced in PWS §3.1.2 is a general description; the full, itemized load information is contained in PWS Appendix 1.

Offerors should use both appendices together with the site visit to finalize system sizing.

Regarding the requirement for “150% of average load … for at least 24 hours … on 8-hour intervals,” this means the system must sustain 150% of the average workday load for a total of 24 hours, delivered in three 8-hour operational intervals. In practice, the system must support three consecutive workdays of backup power, for example, operating from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM for three consecutive days if commercial power is unavailable. The 150% factor applies only to the critical loads listed in the PWS and “PWS Appendix 1. Corozal Field Office Equipment Estimated Load Consumption”.

Based on the electrical panel information in PWS Appendix 2, the facility operates on a 120/208V three-phase service, consistent with commercial installations in Puerto Rico.

Offerors should verify this during the site visit or during the first phase of the contract after award.

See also answer to question No. 100.

Q4. Please clarify the requirement that the proposed system support “150% of the average load experienced on an average workday for at least 24 hours of operations on 8-hour intervals.” Specifically, does this requirement mean:

o 24 continuous hours of battery operation at 150% of average load;

o three separate 8-hour operating periods;

o 8 hours of battery operation per day over a three-day period; or o another defined operating profile?

A4. Please refer to answer No. 3. Also see answer to question No. 100.

Q5. Please confirm whether the battery backup system is intended to support the entire

Corozal Service Center electrical load or only designated critical loads.

A5. The battery backup system is intended to support only the designated critical loads.

Please refer to PWS Appendix 1 for the specific equipment and their estimated load consumption.

Q6. If only selected critical loads are to be supported, please identify the specific circuits, panels, equipment, and loads that are required to be backed up.

A6. Please refer to PWS Appendix 1 for the specific equipment and their estimated load consumption. Also refer to PWS Appendix 2 for information regarding the electrical panel. The contractor is responsible for identifying the specific circuits.

Q7. Please provide the existing facility electrical information, including, if available:

o Service voltage;

o Phase and wire configuration;

o Main service amperage;

o Main breaker size;

o Existing electrical one-line diagram;

o Panel schedules;

o Available fault current;

o Existing service entrance and distribution equipment information.

A7. Based on the electrical panel information in PWS Appendix 2, the facility operates on a

120/208V three-phase service, consistent with commercial installations in Puerto Rico.

Offerors should verify this during the site visit or during the first phase of the contract after award. The contractor will be responsible for determining the remaining technical details requested in this question during the first phase of contract performance.

Q8. Please identify the existing electrical panelboard or distribution equipment into which the new battery backup system is expected to be integrated.

A8. PWS Appendix 1 and PWS Appendix 2 are being issued with this solicitation under the titles “PWS Appendix 1. Corozal Field Office Equipment Estimated Load Consumption” and “PWS Appendix 2. Corozal Service Center Battery Backup Location.” These documents provide the detailed equipment list, estimated load consumption, and the spatial constraints for system placement. PWS Appendix 2 also includes photos of the electrical panel location and location where battery backup system is expected to be installed.

Q9. Please clarify the required transfer performance following loss of normal utility power. Is there a specified maximum allowable interruption or transfer time?

A9. The system must provide a fully uninterrupted transfer of power with no allowable interruption. The battery backup must maintain continuous power to all designated critical loads without any perceptible break in service when normal utility power is lost.

Q10. For the server bank and other IT loads, is true no-break UPS operation required, or is a short-duration automatic transfer interruption acceptable?

A10. True no-break UPS operation is required for the server bank and all designated IT loads.

The system must maintain continuous, uninterrupted power with no allowable transfer interruption when switching from utility power to battery backup. Short-duration automatic transfer interruptions are not acceptable for these critical loads.

Q11. Is there currently an emergency or standby generator installed at the Corozal Service

Center?

A11. No. The Corozal Service Center does not have a generator installed.

Q12. If an existing generator is present, please provide the generator and automatic transfer switch ratings and identify how the proposed battery backup system is expected to coordinate with the existing generator system.

A12. No. The Corozal Service Center does not have a generator installed.

Q13. Please confirm whether any specific battery chemistry is required or prohibited.

A13. There is no specific battery chemistry required or prohibited for this project. The contractor may propose the battery technology that best meets the performance requirements of the PWS, including runtime, safety, space constraints, and compliance with NEC/NFPA standards. All proposed battery systems must comply with applicable federal, state, and Puerto Rico regulations and must be suitable for installation in an occupied federal facility.

Q14. Are Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4/LFP) or other listed lithium-ion energy storage systems acceptable for this project, provided all applicable UL, NEC, NFPA, and local code requirements are met?

A14. Yes. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4/LFP) and other listed lithium-ion energy storage systems are acceptable for this project, provided they meet all applicable UL, NEC, NFPA, and Puerto Rico code requirements. The PWS does not prohibit any specific battery chemistry, and the contractor may propose the technology that best satisfies the performance, safety, and space requirements for a federal occupied facility.

Q15. Please confirm whether the design must be prepared and sealed specifically by a

Professional Engineer licensed in Puerto Rico.

A15. Yes. The design must be prepared and sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in

Puerto Rico. This requirement is stated in the PWS, which specifies that all design documents must be prepared and sealed by a licensed Professional Engineer, and all electrical work must be certified by an electrician licensed to operate in Puerto Rico.

Q16. Please confirm whether all electrical installation work must be performed under a Puerto

Rico electrical contractor or electrician license.

A16. Yes. All electrical installation work must be performed by a contractor or electrician licensed to work in Puerto Rico. This requirement aligns with the PWS, which specifies that electrical work must be certified by an electrician licensed in Puerto Rico, and it is consistent with standard federal practice for projects in U.S. territories.

Q17. If a specific Puerto Rico electrical license classification is required for this scope of work, please identify the required classification.

A17. In Puerto Rico, electrical licenses are issued by the Colegio de Peritos Electricistas de

Puerto Rico (College of Electrical Experts of Puerto Rico). All electrical installation work must be performed by a contractor or electrician holding a valid Puerto Rico electrical license appropriate for the scope of work, in accordance with local law and NEC/NFPA requirements. It is the contractor’s responsibility to ensure that the personnel performing the work possess the correct Puerto Rico electrical license classification for commercial three-phase installations.

Q18. Please clarify the site address discrepancy. The Performance Work Statement references “#2 Calle San Manuel,” while other solicitation documentation identifies “3 Calle San Manuel.” Please confirm the correct project address.

A18. The correct project address is as follows:

Edificio San Rafael, #3 Calle San Manuel Corozal, Puerto Rico 00783 Coordinates: 18.34014410234095, -66.31745884469117 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/pfZRdcG7fZZvQbyNA)

Q19. Please confirm whether the requirement for completion within 120 calendar days following Notice to Proceed is the controlling performance period.

A19. Yes. The requirement to complete the project within 120 calendar days after the Notice to Proceed is the controlling performance period. This is the official duration established for the contractor’s period of performance, and all work must be scheduled and executed to meet this deadline unless a formal modification is issued by the Contracting Officer.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/pfZRdcG7fZZvQbyNA

Q20. The SF-1442 documentation references a performance period of September 28, 2026 through February 5, 2027. Please confirm whether these dates are anticipated dates only and whether the actual contract duration will remain 120 calendar days from Notice to Proceed.

A20. The performance period will remain 120 calendar days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed, with exact dates to be confirmed by USDA and the successful offeror at the time of award.

Q21. Will planned electrical outages be permitted during installation and system integration?

A21. Yes. Planned electrical outages will be permitted, provided the contractor gives advance notice so the building administration can coordinate and approve the interruption.

Outages must be scheduled to minimize operational impact, and the contractor is responsible for coordinating timing, duration, and safety measures with the facility’s management team.

Q22. If planned outages are permitted, please identify the allowable outage windows, advance notification requirements, and any limitations on outage duration.

A22. Planned electrical outages will be permitted, but they must occur only during the hours authorized for work in the PWS and must be coordinated in advance with the building administration and Agency Point of Contact.

According to the PWS, work is allowed Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. excluding federal holiday. Therefore, any planned outage must be scheduled within this window.

The contractor must provide at least 3 days’ advance notice to the Agency Point of Contact and building administration so the outage can be coordinated, reviewed, and approved.

There are no additional limitations on outage duration beyond the requirement that outages must remain within the permitted work hours and be coordinated to minimize operational impact.

Q23. Is temporary power or temporary bypass power required during installation to maintain operation of the facility or critical loads?

A23. Please refer to question 21 and 22. Temporary power is not required unless the contractor’s installation plan would interrupt operation of critical loads for a period of more than 3 hours. The facility may remain without temporary bypass power as long as all critical loads are maintained in service through proper sequencing, coordination, and advance notice to the building administration.

If the contractor anticipates any interruption to critical systems for a duration of more than 3 hours, then temporary power or a temporary bypass must be provided to ensure continuous operation during installation and integration activities.

Q24. Is there an existing facility electrical shutdown procedure, switching procedure, or

Government-approved Method of Procedure that the contractor will be required to follow?

A24. No. There is no existing facility electrical shutdown procedure, switching procedure, or

Government-approved Method of Procedure (MOP) that the contractor is required to follow.

The contractor must develop its own shutdown and switching procedure, including a Method of Procedure, and submit it for review to the Agency and coordination with the building administration prior to any planned electrical outages. All shutdown activities must comply with local codes, NEC/NFPA requirements, and the work hours established in the PWS.

Q25. Please confirm whether the seven consecutive calendar days of operational testing require continuous onsite contractor staffing or whether the system may operate under automated monitoring with periodic contractor observation and data review.

A25. The seven consecutive calendar days of operational testing do not require continuous onsite contractor staffing.

According to the PWS, the system may operate under automated monitoring, with the contractor performing periodic onsite observation and data review to verify performance, record results, and address any anomalies. Continuous physical presence is not required unless the contractor’s own testing plan identifies a need for it.

The contractor must ensure:

• Automated monitoring is active and capable of capturing all required performance data.

• Periodic inspections occur at intervals sufficient to validate system operation.

• Daily data review is documented and included in the final testing report.

Q26. During the seven-day operational test, is the contractor required to place the facility entirely on battery power for an extended duration, or will simulated outages and functional transfer testing be sufficient?

A26. The contractor is not required to place the facility entirely on battery power for an extended duration during the seven-day operational test.

According to the PWS, simulated outages and functional transfer testing are sufficient, as long as they demonstrate that the system can:

• transfer to battery power without interruption,

• sustain the required load during the test conditions, and

• meet all performance and monitoring requirements established in the PWS.

The seven-day test is intended to validate system reliability, automated operation, and proper transfer functionality, not to keep the facility continuously on battery power for long periods.

Q27. Is a full-duration battery discharge or capacity test required as part of final acceptance?

A27. No. A full-duration battery discharge or capacity test is not required for final acceptance.

According to the PWS, the acceptance requirement is the seven-day operational test, which must demonstrate proper system performance, uninterrupted transfer, monitoring functionality, and the ability to sustain required loads under simulated outage conditions.

A complete battery depletion or full-capacity discharge is not mandated. The contractor must instead verify performance through:

• Simulated outages

• Functional transfer testing

• Automated monitoring and data review

Q28. If a full battery capacity test is required, please define the required load level, discharge duration, allowable end voltage/state of charge, and recharge criteria.

A28. A full battery capacity test is not required under the PWS. However, if the Government were to require one, the criteria would follow standard NEC/NFPA-aligned industry practice rather than any specification in the PWS.

A compliant full-capacity test would typically include:

o Load level — The system would be tested at 100% of the calculated average workday load, consistent with the load categories defined in the PWS.

o Discharge duration — The battery bank would be required to sustain that load for the full rated duration of the system, or until reaching the allowable end-of-discharge threshold.

o Allowable end voltage / state of charge — The test would conclude when the battery reaches the manufacturer-specified minimum end-of-discharge voltage or minimum allowable state of charge, in accordance with NFPA 70 and NFPA 110 guidelines.

o Recharge criteria — After the test, the system must be able to return to full charge within the recharge time specified by the manufacturer, and the contractor must document recharge performance through automated monitoring and data logs.

Again, the PWS does not mandate this test. The required acceptance test is the seven-day operational test, which relies on simulated outages and functional transfer testing rather than full battery depletion.

Q29. Is third-party or Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory field certification required for any portion of the installed system?

A29. No. Third-party or Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) field certification is not required for any portion of the installed system under the PWS.

All equipment must already arrive listed, labeled, and compliant with applicable NEC/NFPA standards and manufacturer requirements. The PWS does not mandate additional onsite NRTL field evaluation or certification after installation.

• The contractor is responsible for:

• Installing listed and approved equipment

• Ensuring compliance with NEC/NFPA and local codes

• Providing all required testing, commissioning, and documentation as specified in the PWS

Q30. Are there any specific UL listings required beyond those normally applicable to the selected UPS, inverter, battery, energy storage, transfer, and electrical distribution equipment?

A30. No. There are no additional UL listings required beyond those normally applicable to the selected UPS, inverter, battery system, energy storage components, transfer equipment, and electrical distribution equipment.

According to the PWS, all equipment must simply be UL-listed and labeled for its intended use, following the standard listings already associated with each component type.

Q31. Are there any facility-specific fire protection requirements for the proposed battery system, including requirements for fire detection, suppression, ventilation, gas detection, thermal monitoring, or separation from occupied spaces?

A31. No. The PWS does not establish any facility-specific fire protection requirements beyond the standard code-compliant features already inherent to the selected, UL-listed battery and energy storage equipment.

According to the PWS, the contractor must install a system that complies with NEC/NFPA and manufacturer safety requirements, but no additional, building-specific fire detection, suppression, ventilation, gas detection, thermal monitoring, or separation measures are mandated by the facility.

All fire protection expectations are met through proper installation of UL-listed equipment and compliance with NEC/NFPA codes, no facility-specific enhancements are required.

Q32. Has the Government coordinated with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction regarding the installation of a battery energy storage system at this location?

A32. Yes. The Agency has already coordinated with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction regarding the installation of the battery energy storage system.

The Agency communicated with both the building administrator and the owner of the facility, the Municipality of Corozal, to request authorization for the project. Initial discussions have taken place, and the Municipality has granted initial approval consistent with the PWS.

However, the landlord (Municipality of Corozal) must still review the final design submitted by the contractor and issue formal approval before installation begins. All coordination related to this approval will occur strictly between the Agency and the landlord.

The contractor is not required to engage in direct communication with the Municipality or obtain approvals from the building owner (Municipality of Corozal).

Q33. Please confirm whether the contractor is responsible for obtaining all electrical, building, fire, and other permits required by Puerto Rico and the local jurisdiction.

A33. Yes. The contractor is responsible for obtaining all electrical, building, fire, and any other permits required by Puerto Rico and the local jurisdiction, as stated in the PWS.

The PWS places full responsibility on the contractor to:

o Secure all permits applicable to the installation o Coordinate inspections required by Puerto Rico codes and regulations o Ensure compliance with local AHJ requirements, NEC/NFPA standards, and any municipal permitting processes

The Agency will coordinate with the building owner as required, but all permitting obligations rest with the contractor.

Q34. Are permit fees to be included in the contractor's firm-fixed price?

A34. Yes. Permit fees must be included in the contractor’s firm-fixed price.

According to the PWS, the contractor is fully responsible for obtaining and paying for all required permits, electrical, building, fire, and any other jurisdictional approvals needed in Puerto Rico and the local municipality. Because these permits are part of the contractor’s obligations, their associated fees must be captured within the firm-fixed price and not billed separately.

Q35. Please confirm whether the Government has identified a preferred location for the battery cabinets, inverter/UPS equipment, transfer equipment, and associated electrical distribution.

A35. Yes. The Government has identified a preferred location for the battery cabinets, inverter/UPS equipment, transfer equipment, and associated electrical distribution. As stated in the PWS, these preferred locations are described in PWS Appendix 2, which provides the spatial guidance and infrastructure considerations that the contractor must use as the baseline for the system layout. The contractor should design the installation using these areas as the primary reference, subject to final coordination with the Agency.

Q36. Are floor-loading limitations available for the proposed battery equipment location?

A36. No. Floor-loading limitations for the proposed battery equipment location have not been provided by the lessor. At this stage, the Government does not have structural load data specific to the installation area. The Government is aware that the floor-loading capacity will directly influence the battery chemistry selection and the vertical stability requirements of any proposed system. For now, the contractor should proceed using standard industry assumptions for preliminary design, with the understanding that final structural verification will depend on information to be supplied later by the building owner or by a qualified structural professional engaged by the Government.

Q37. The PWS identifies an elevator capacity of 2,500 pounds. Are there any alternative means available for moving equipment to the installation level if individual equipment sections exceed the elevator weight or dimensional limitations?

A37. Yes. If any individual equipment section exceeds the elevator’s 2,500-pound capacity or does not fit within its dimensional limits, the building does have an internal stairwell, which is primarily used as an emergency exit. This stairwell is the only alternative path available for moving equipment to the installation level.

Any use of the stairwell for equipment transport would need to be carefully planned to ensure safe handling, protection of the building structure.

Q38. Are there any restrictions on equipment staging, crane use, rigging, street closures, or delivery truck size at the site?

A38. Equipment staging, crane use, rigging activities, street closures, and delivery truck access can be coordinated with the Municipality of Corozal and the Municipal Police to allow temporary closure of the street that runs directly in front of the building. This coordination would enable the delivery of large or heavy equipment through the front area of the facility when needed. The coordination should take place at least one week in advance.

However, the contractor should be aware that space at the site is limited, and adjustments to delivery methods, truck size, or staging logistics may be necessary to comply with the spatial constraints of the area.

Q39. Is there a designated loading or staging area available to the contractor?

A39. Yes. The Government has identified a limited staging area available to the contractor.

This space is located at the front of the building, where equipment deliveries and very short-term staging can be coordinated. As noted previously, the Agency and the contractor can work with the Municipality of Corozal and the Municipal Police to allow temporary use of this front area, including very brief street closures when necessary for equipment delivery or positioning.

However, the contractor should be aware that available space is constrained, and delivery methods or staging plans may need to be adjusted to fit the site’s physical limitations.

Q40. Please confirm whether equipment may be installed outdoors if properly rated and code compliant, or whether all battery and power conversion equipment must be installed indoors.

A40. The Government’s preferred installation approach is indoors, as described in PWS Appendix 2 of the PWS. The interior locations identified in PWS Appendix 2 were selected based on space availability, infrastructure compatibility, and safety considerations.

Any proposal to install equipment outdoors would need to meet all applicable environmental, electrical, and safety requirements and would require coordination with the Agency and the building owner, but the Government’s preference remains indoor installation.

Q41. If outdoor installation is permitted, are there any architectural, hurricane/wind-load, corrosion-resistance, flood-zone, or environmental requirements that must be incorporated into the equipment design?

A41. Yes. If outdoor installation is ultimately approved by the Government and the building owner, the contractor must incorporate all applicable architectural, hurricane/wind-load, corrosion-resistance, flood-zone, and environmental requirements into the equipment design. Outdoor installation is not the Government’s preferred approach, as the PWS identifies interior locations in PWS Appendix 2 as the recommended installation areas.

These requirements would need to be integrated into the final design to ensure safe, compliant, and durable outdoor installation.

Q42. Please provide any available information concerning ambient temperature, humidity, salt-air exposure, flood exposure, and other environmental conditions that should be used for equipment selection.

A42. The Government does not have specific environmental data for the installation area;

however, the contractor should base equipment selection on the typical conditions found inside a standard government office in Puerto Rico. The battery and power-conversion equipment will be preferred installed indoors, in areas that generally reflect normal office ambient temperature, humidity, and air-quality conditions. While no detailed measurements are available, the contractor must ensure that all selected equipment complies with Puerto Rico building and electrical codes and is suitable for the normal environmental conditions present in Puerto Rico, including generally warm temperatures and moderate indoor humidity levels. Exterior factors such as salt-air exposure or flood risk are not applicable to the designated indoor installation areas.

Q43. Are seismic or hurricane anchorage calculations required as part of the engineered design submittal?

A43. Yes. Seismic and hurricane anchorage calculations are required as part of the engineered design submittal. All equipment installed in Puerto Rico must comply with the applicable structural, seismic, and wind-load provisions of local codes and standards, and the contractor’s Professional Engineer must provide the corresponding anchorage and restraint calculations as part of the final design package. These calculations ensure that battery cabinets, inverters/UPS units, and associated electrical equipment are properly secured to withstand the seismic activity and hurricane-force wind conditions applicable to the region. However, remember that the preferred installation for the Government is indoor.

Q44. If structural anchorage calculations are required, must those calculations also be prepared and sealed by a Puerto Rico-licensed Professional Engineer?

A44. Yes. If structural anchorage calculations are required, they must be prepared and sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in Puerto Rico. All structural, seismic, and hurricane-related calculations associated with equipment anchorage fall under the scope of engineering work that must be certified by a Puerto Rico-licensed PE to comply with local codes, permitting requirements, and jurisdictional authority.

Q45. Please confirm whether the Government has any preferred manufacturers or existing equipment standards that should be considered for the UPS, inverter, battery, transfer switch, monitoring, or distribution equipment.

A45. No. The Government does not have preferred manufacturers or existing equipment standards for the UPS, inverter, battery system, transfer switch, monitoring, or distribution equipment. Contractors may suggest (and include those suggestions in the design) any manufacturer as long as all proposed equipment is fully compliant with Puerto Rico codes and regulations.

However, it is strongly recommended to use equipment that has already been tested, installed, or successfully operated in Puerto Rico, given the island’s electrical characteristics, climate, and regulatory environment. Additionally, the Government does prefer manufacturers that can provide technical support and warranty service within Puerto Rico, without requiring equipment to be shipped off-island for repair. This local service capability is important to minimize downtime, reduce costs, and ensure timely maintenance and support.

Q46. Is remote monitoring required for the new system?

A46. No. Remote monitoring is not specifically required in the PWS. The Government does not mandate any particular remote-monitoring platform, communication interface, or off-site supervisory capability for the new battery or power-conversion system.

The PWS only requires the contractor to provide a code-compliant, fully functional system with the standard monitoring, alarms, and status indications that are normally integrated into UL-listed battery and UPS/inverter equipment. Any advanced or network-based remote monitoring features may be included at the contractor’s discretion, but they are not identified as a requirement in the PWS.

Q47. If remote monitoring is required, please identify the preferred communication protocol, such as SNMP, Modbus TCP, BACnet/IP, or another protocol.

A47. N/A. Please refer to question number 46.

Q48. Is integration with an existing Building Management System, Facility Management

System, or network monitoring platform required?

A48. No. The PWS does not require integration with any existing Building Management System (BMS), Facility Management System (FMS), or network-monitoring platform.

There is no mandate for tying the new battery, UPS/inverter, or power-conversion equipment into an external supervisory or monitoring system.

The contractor must provide a fully functional, code-compliant system with the standard local monitoring, alarms, and status indications inherent to UL-listed equipment.

Q49. If network integration is required, will the Government provide IP addresses, network access, VLAN information, and cybersecurity requirements after award?

A49. N/A. Please refer to questions number 46, and 48.

Q50. Are any specific Federal cybersecurity requirements applicable to the system's network-connected monitoring equipment?

A50. N/A. Please refer to questions number 46, and 48.

The PWS does not identify any specific Federal cybersecurity requirements for network-connected monitoring equipment associated with the new system. Because the PWS does not require integration with a Building Management System, Facility Management System, or any external network platform, no additional Federal cybersecurity controls, such as FISMA-related system hardening, federal network authorization, or agency-level cybersecurity compliance, are triggered.

Q51. Please clarify the extent of Government personnel training required. Is classroom training, hands-on training, or both expected?

A51. The PWS requires the contractor to provide basic training to Government personnel, but it does not specify a requirement for formal classroom instruction or extensive hands-on sessions. The intent is to ensure that staff understand the operation, basic monitoring, and routine maintenance considerations of the installed system.

Training should include:

o System operation overview: how the UPS/inverter and battery system functions o Basic monitoring and alarms: what indicators mean and when action is needed o Routine user-level tasks: any simple checks or procedures the Government may need to perform

The PWS does not mandate a specific format, so the contractor may provide the training in an on-site session, combining explanation with practical demonstration. No formal classroom course is required unless the contractor chooses to offer it.

Q52. Is there a required minimum duration for training of the two Government personnel?

A51. No. The PWS does not specify a required minimum duration for training of the two

Government personnel. The document only requires the contractor to provide basic operational and monitoring training, sufficient for staff to understand the system’s functions, alarms, and routine user-level tasks.

Training may be delivered in an on-site session, combining explanation with practical demonstration, as long as it adequately covers the system’s essential operational topics.

No fixed number of hours or minimum duration is identified in the PWS.

Q52. Are final as-built drawings required in AutoCAD format in addition to PDF?

A52. No. The PWS does not require final as-built drawings to be submitted in AutoCAD format. The document only specifies the need for final as-built drawings, and the standard expectation under the PWS is the submission of PDF versions.

If the contractor wishes to provide AutoCAD files, they may do so voluntarily, but AutoCAD is not identified as a required deliverable in the PWS.

Q53. Please confirm whether the Government requires a specific drawing format, title block, CAD standard, or document numbering convention

A53. No. The PWS does not specify any required drawing format, title block, CAD standard, or document-numbering convention. The only requirement is the submission of final as-built drawings, and the PWS does not mandate a particular software platform (such as AutoCAD), a standardized federal title block, or a specific numbering system.

o Contractors may use their standard professional drawing format, provided that:

o The drawings are clear, legible, and complete o They include a professional title block with project information o They follow normal engineering documentation practices o They comply with Puerto Rico codes and any typical documentation expectations for permitting or engineering review

PDF format is sufficient to meet the PWS requirement.

Q54. Please confirm whether manufacturer's standard warranty coverage is acceptable in combination with the required one-year workmanship warranty.

A54. The manufacturer’s standard warranty is acceptable when combined with the required one-year workmanship warranty, and this approach aligns with the PWS. The Government does not mandate any special or extended manufacturer warranty beyond what is normally provided for UPS, inverter, battery, transfer switch, monitoring, or distribution equipment.

However, the Government prefers manufacturers that can provide warranty service and technical support directly in Puerto Rico, without requiring equipment to be shipped off-island for repair. Local warranty support is strongly favored because it minimizes downtime, avoids additional shipping costs, and ensures faster resolution of issues.

Q55. The PWS states that warranty support should be available in Puerto Rico. Please clarify whether this requires a permanently staffed local service office or whether qualified factory-authorized or subcontracted local technical support is acceptable.

A55. The PWS does not require a permanently staffed local service office in Puerto Rico.

What the PWS requires is that warranty support be available on the island, meaning the manufacturer must be able to provide timely, qualified technical service within Puerto Rico without forcing the Government to ship equipment off-island for diagnosis or repair.

This requirement can be met through:

o Factory-authorized local technicians — certified by the manufacturer to perform warranty service in Puerto Rico o Subcontracted qualified local service providers — as long as they are officially recognized or supported by the manufacturer o Manufacturer-supported local service arrangements — even if the manufacturer does not maintain a physical office on the island

A permanently staffed manufacturer office is not required. What matters is that warranty and technical support can be performed in Puerto Rico, ensuring fast response, reduced downtime, and avoiding off-island shipping for repairs.

Q56. Is there a required maximum response time for warranty service?

A56. No. The PWS does not establish a required maximum response time for warranty service. It only states that warranty support must be available in Puerto Rico, meaning the manufacturer or its authorized local representatives must be able to provide service on-island without requiring equipment to be shipped elsewhere.

While no specific response-time metric is mandated, the Government expects:

o Timely local support consistent with normal industry practices o On-island warranty service that avoids off-island shipping o Qualified technicians capable of performing diagnosis and repairs in Puerto Rico

Contractors may propose their standard response times, but the PWS does not impose a fixed maximum.

Q57. Is preventive maintenance during the warranty period required to be included in the base contract price?

A57. No. The PWS does not require preventive maintenance during the warranty period to be included in the base contract price. The document only requires the contractor to provide the one-year workmanship warranty and ensure that warranty support is available in Puerto Rico.

Preventive maintenance is not identified as a mandatory deliverable under the base contract. Contractors may offer preventive maintenance as an optional service, but it is not required unless they choose to include it voluntarily.

Q58. If preventive maintenance is required, please define the required frequency and minimum scope.

A58. N/A. Please refer to questions number 57.

Q59. Please confirm whether contractor past performance submissions should be limited to projects completed within the previous five years from the solicitation issue date.

A59. The solicitation specifies prior or current experience. The Government may consider any references provided by the contractor, as well as information available from USDA records, CPARS, and other federal sources. Offerors should select past performance examples that best demonstrate relevant experience and capability.

Q60. Is there a preferred number of past performance projects that offerors should submit?

A60. While the solicitation does not mandate a minimum or maximum number of past performance submissions, offerors may provide a reasonable selection of relevant examples that reflect their experience and ability to meet the requirements.

Q61. May offerors include Federal and commercial projects of similar technical complexity even if the project did not involve an identical 24-hour battery autonomy requirement?

A61. Offerors should select examples that best demonstrate relevant complexity and capability, reflecting a scope similar to this requirement.

Q62. Please confirm whether the Government will accept project experience involving UPS systems, battery energy storage, generator systems, automatic transfer equipment, and critical electrical distribution as relevant past performance.

A62. Yes. The Government will accept project experience involving UPS systems, battery energy storage systems, generator systems, automatic transfer equipment, and critical electrical distribution as relevant past performance.

Q63. Please confirm that pricing is to be submitted using the three CLIN structure contained in

Attachment 2:

• CLIN 0001 – Project Planning / Site Preparation;

• CLIN 0002 – Battery / Installation; and

• CLIN 0003 – Testing / Training.

A63. Yes. Pricing must be submitted using the structure shown in Attachment related to Price Schedule. That document is the official pricing schedule for the solicitation and identifies the three CLINs the Government requires for cost submission.

It is important to clarify that Attachment Price Schedule does not describe the project phases. It only provides the pricing format. The actual project phases (planning, site preparation, installation, testing, and training) are described in the main body of the PWS, not in the Price Schedule.

Q64. Does the Government require any additional cost breakdown, labor/material separation, equipment schedule, or supporting pricing detail beyond the completed Attachment 2 Price Schedule?

A64. No. The Government does not require any additional cost breakdown beyond the completed Attachment Price Schedule. The solicitation does not mandate a separation of labor and materials, an equipment schedule, or any supplemental pricing detail outside of what is already requested in the Price Schedule.

Offerors may internally structure their pricing using the project phases described in the PWS, but the only required pricing submission is:

o The completed Price Schedule using the CLIN format, and o A total project cost representing the full scope of work.

No further cost detail is required unless an offeror chooses to provide it voluntarily.

Q65. Please confirm that all applicable Davis-Bacon and Service Contract Labor Standards wage requirements identified in the solicitation must be incorporated into the offered firm-fixed prices.

A65. Yes, as noted in the solicitation as Attachment 4 (Davis Bacon WD PR20260001).

Q66. Please confirm whether certified payroll submissions will be required for construction labor subject to Davis-Bacon requirements.

A66. FAR Clause 52.222-8 applies to this requirement. Also see answer to question No.72

Q67. Are there any additional Puerto Rico-specific labor, payroll, tax, bonding, insurance, or statutory requirements that offerors should include in their pricing beyond those identified in the solicitation?

A67. Contractors are fully responsible for ensuring that their pricing accounts for all Puerto

Rico–specific requirements that apply to their own operations, including:

o Puerto Rico labor and payroll obligations — local wage laws, overtime rules, mandatory benefits, and statutory employer contributions o Puerto Rico tax requirements — including any applicable sales/use taxes, municipal taxes, or corporate obligations o Bonding and insurance requirements — as required by Puerto Rico law or by the contractor’s own risk-management policies o Statutory compliance obligations — such as occupational safety, licensing, or professional certification requirements

The Government does not provide a list of Puerto Rico-specific cost factors, and it is the contractor’s responsibility to identify and incorporate all applicable local requirements into its pricing.

Q68. Does “150% of average load experienced on an average workday for at least 24 hours of operations on 8hrs intervals” require three 8-hour operating intervals with no overnight load, or continuous 24-hour backup?

A68. Please refer to question 3.

Q69. Does the 150% factor apply only to the critical loads listed in the PWS, or to the facility’s full average workday load?

A69. Please refer to question 3. Also see answer to question No. 100.

Q70. Are a load schedule, panel schedule, 12 months of utility history, service voltage/phase information, panel and meter photographs, or building drawings available?

A70. No. The Government does not have a load schedule, panel schedule, 12 months of utility history, service voltage/phase information, or building drawings available.

What is available to offerors is:

o Attachment – Office Layout (included as part of the solicitation package) o Attachment titled “Corozal Service Center Battery Backup Location” — which includes photographs of the electrical panel, breakers, and the proposed battery backup installation area

Beyond these attachments, the Government does not possess additional technical documentation such as utility history, detailed electrical schedules, or full building drawings.

Offerors should rely on the PWS, the provided attachments, and the site visit to obtain any additional information needed for system sizing and design.

Q71. Has the building owner approved the contemplated installation work, including any required pad, canopy, and feeders?

A71. This is partially correct. The building owner has approved the contemplated installation work at the conceptual level, including the placement of the battery system. The Agency has already coordinated with both the building administrator and the owner (Municipio de Corozal), and an initial approval was granted based on the project description contained in the PWS.

However, the owner’s approval is conditional upon review of the final design package submitted by the contractor. The Municipio must evaluate and approve the detailed design, including the pad, canopy, routing of feeders, and any structural or electrical modifications, before installation begins. This coordination will be handled exclusively between the Agency and the building owner; the contractor is not required to communicate directly with the Municipio.

Q72. Does the Government require weekly certified payroll submissions on WH-347, or another format, under FAR 52.222-8?

A72. Weekly certified payrolls, along with the required Statement of Compliance, may be submitted to the Contracting Officer’s Representative in any acceptable format.

Q73. Does any FEOC restriction apply in addition to the Buy American provisions included in the package?

A73. The offeror must comply with all applicable Buy American Act FAR clauses and provisions included in the solicitation. Also see answers to question No. 77.

Q74. Do you happen to have any single line drawings or full technical specs of what the requirements are here?

A74. No. The Government does not have single-line drawings or full technical specifications beyond what is already included in the solicitation package.

What is available to offerors includes:

o Office Layout Attachment — showing the interior layout of the Corozal Service Center o “Corozal Service Center Battery Backup Location” Attachment — containing photographs of the electrical panel, breakers, and the proposed battery backup installation area

These attachments provide basic spatial and visual context, but they are not technical design documents. Offerors should rely on the PWS, the provided attachments, and the site visit to gather any additional information needed for system sizing, design, and installation planning.

Q75. PWS Section 3.1.2 requires the system to support “150% of average load experienced on an average workday for at least 24 hours of operations on 8hr intervals.” Please clarify whether the system must support 150% of the average load continuously for 24 hours, or whether the requirement refers to three separate eight-hour operating periods.

A75. Please refer to answer No. 3.

Q76. Please confirm the existing electrical service characteristics, including voltage, phase, amperage, panel ratings, and whether an existing generator, solar system, or automatic transfer switch must be integrated with the new battery system.

A76. The Government does not have confirmed electrical service characteristics available at this time. The solicitation package does not include verified information on voltage, phase, amperage, panel ratings, or any existing generation or solar equipment. The only materials available to offerors are the Office Layout attachment and the “Corozal Service Center Battery Backup Location” attachment, which provides photographs of the electrical panel and the proposed installation area. These images offer general context but do not constitute technical data.

The Government can confirm that there is no existing generator, solar system, or automatic transfer switch that must be integrated with the new battery system. Offerors should rely on the PWS, the provided attachments, and the site visit to obtain any additional information needed for accurate system sizing and design

Q77. The solicitation includes Buy American requirements. Please confirm the domestic-content requirements applicable to the battery modules, inverter/charger, automatic transfer equipment, and other major manufactured components.