REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (SECONDARY METHOD)

Notice to Prospective Proposers RFP No. 25ISD009

March 3, 2026

You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 25ISD009, titled, “Analysis of Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel Feedstocks.” In submitting your proposal, you must comply with the instructions found herein.

This RFP is published online in the California State Contracts Register (CSCR) at https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/public-search.aspx. To ensure receipt of any addenda to this RFP that may be issued, interested parties are encouraged to register online at:

https://caleprocure.ca.gov.

The California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) deadline for receipt of proposals is April 3, 2026 no later than 12:00 p.m. PST. All proposals received late will be rejected. File size cannot exceed 50 Mega Bytes (MB). The naming convention of the proposal must be in the following format: “RFP 25ISD009 [Insert vendor name] Proposal”. Proposals must be received on or before the date and time specified herein at email addresses provided below:

EMAIL RFP Proposal to:

Purchasing@arb.ca.gov CC: Brian.Fong@arb.ca.gov CC: Vikki.Dyachuk@arb.ca.gov

You are advised that you are responsible for ensuring that your proposal is received by the above listed contact person by the time and date required. Any proposal reaching the contact person after the deadline date and time will be rejected. CARB reserves the right to amend this Agreement through a formal written amendment, signed by the parties, for additional time only.

In the opinion of CARB, this RFP is complete and without need of explanation. However, if you have questions, notice any discrepancies or inconsistencies, or need any clarifying information, contact the person listed below. All questions must be submitted in accordance with the RFP instructions contained herein and sent via email directly to the below listed contact person and not through the Cal eProcure system.

Contact: Brian Fong Email: Brian.Fong@arb.ca.gov

We appreciate your interest in this project and hope to receive a proposal from you if this is within your area of expertise.

California Air Resources Board RFP No. 25ISD009

Table of Contents

SECTION PAGE

I. PURPOSE / BACKGROUND / SCOPE OF WORK 3

A. Purpose 3 B. Background 4 C. Scope of Work 5

II. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (GENERAL) AND INFORMATION 7

A. Key Action Dates 7 B. Questions Regarding RFP Requirements 8 C. General Proposal Requirements 8 D. Submission of Proposals 8 E. Modification and/or Withdrawal of Proposals 9 F. Proposer Responsibilities 9 G. Signature 13 H. Disposition of Proposals 13 I. Socio-Economic and Preference Programs 13

III. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (TECHNICAL) 16

A. Technical Proposal Requirements 16

1. Minimum Qualifications 16

2. Title Page 17

3. Cover Letter / Letter of Commitment 17

4. Table of Contents 18

5. Summary 18

6. Minimum Qualifications Response 18

7. Required Attachments 18

8. References 18

9. Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement 18

10. Subcontracts / Subcontractors 18

11. Technical Portion 19

a. Management Plan 19

b. Methodology (Approach to Work) 19

c. Work Plan and Work Schedule 19

d. Personnel / Experience 21

e. Page Headers and Page Numbering 22

B. Cost Proposal Requirements 22

1. Cost Detail 22

2. Page Headers and Page Numbering 22

IV. EVALUATION, SELECTION, AND AWARD 23

A) Administrative Evaluation (Phase 1) 23

1. Responsive and Responsible Proposer 23 B) Technical Evaluation (Phase 2) 23

1. Scoring Criterion Guidelines 23

2. Cost Points 24

3. Proposal Evaluation Form 25 C. Proposal Rejection 28 D. Selection 28 E. Notice of Proposed Award 28 F. Standard Conditions of Service 29

G. Post Award Requirements 30

ATTACHMENTS

1. Required Attachment Checklist 31

2. Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213) 32

Exhibit A, Scope of Work 34 Exhibit A, Attachment 1 – Technical Proposal 38

Exhibit B, Budget Detail and Payment Provisions 39 Exhibit B, Attachment 1 – Contractor Cost Sheet 41 Exhibit C, General Terms and Conditions (GTC 02/2025) 42 Exhibit D, Special Terms and Conditions 43 Exhibit E, Additional Provisions 50 Exhibit F, Quarterly Progress Report Template 53 Exhibit G, Final Report Format 54

3. Proposer References Form 59

4. Payee Data Record (STD 204) 60

5. Payee Date Record (STD205) 62

6. Contractor Certification Clauses (CCC 04/2017) 64

7. California Civil Rights Laws Certification 68

8. Darfur Contracting Act Certification 69

9. Bidder Declaration Form 70

10. CA DVBE Bid Incentive Instructions 73

11. Contractor Cost Sheet 77

12. Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications 78

13. Covid-19 Prevention Contractor Self-Certification 79

14. Conflict of Interest & Confidentiality Statement 80

I. PURPOSE / BACKGROUND / SCOPE OF WORK

A. Purpose

The Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) program, administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) is designed to decrease the carbon intensity of California's transportation fuel pool and provide an increasing range of low-carbon and renewable alternatives, which reduces petroleum dependency and achieves air quality and climate benefits. The LCFS program requires fuel producers to reduce the carbon intensity of fuels sold in California and encourages the production of renewable alternatives by requiring higher carbon fuel producers to buy credits from companies that sell cleaner fuels if they miss the mandated targets. The program has reduced the state’s dependency on petroleum fuels, created the renewable fuel sources that are powering cleaner transportation options as the sector moves toward zero emissions, and has contributed to clean air improvements that bring public health and climate benefits to California’s communities. The program works by establishing an annual, declining carbon intensity target for transportation fuels used in California. The less carbon in a fuel, the more credits can be generated in the program. Entities with high carbon fuels such as gasoline and diesel generate deficits, and they need to purchase credits to comply with the annual target. All liquid transportation fuels are regulated by the LCFS program and voluntary clean fuel producers can opt-in to the program.

The purpose of this RFP is to solicit proposals from vendors for services that will provide CARB information and data on biodiesel (BD) and renewable diesel (RD) feedstock sources. This information will be used by CARB and third-party verification bodies to support administration of the LCFS. This RFP seeks a vendor that will utilize existing laboratory practices and other analytical or process-based methods to analyze BD and RD feedstocks or finished diesel fuels and identify the existence of virgin oils (e.g. palm oil, soybean oil, canola oil, or other oil feedstocks).

For a detailed description of the work to be performed, please refer to Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement, Exhibit A, Scope of Work. The work of this contract is expected to take twenty-six (26) months. No work shall begin until all required signatures and approvals are obtained and the CARB Project Manager provides directions.

The maximum budget for this contract is Eight hundred Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($800,000.00). Proposals exceeding this amount may be deemed non-responsive and ineligible for award.

Provided the Contractor has performed satisfactorily during the term of the contract, CARB reserves the right to amend the Agreement for time only

B. Background

The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, also referred to as Assembly Bill (AB) 32, authorized CARB to develop a portfolio of regulations to monitor, report, verify, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in California. In response, CARB implemented the original LCFS Regulation in 2010 and updated the Regulation again in 2015.

Subsequent legislation advanced and accelerated the State’s climate goals and the LCFS program continues to be key part of California’s climate and air quality programs.

In 2016, the California Legislature adopted Senate Bill (SB) 32 (Stats. 2016, ch.249 (Pavley)), building on the progress of AB 32 and codifying a statewide target to reduce GHG emissions by at least 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. In 2022, AB 1279 established the policy of the State to reduce anthropogenic emissions 85% below 1990 levels and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. To reflect the State’s updated goals and enhance the LCFS program, the LCFS Regulation has been amended multiple times, with the most recent version of the Regulation adopted in 2024.

The LCFS Regulation identifies entities that are required to retain the services of independent CARB-accredited verifiers for fuel pathway applications and LCFS data reports. The verification requirements in the LCFS are designed to ensure the accuracy of data reported under the program and maintain the integrity of LCFS credits. These requirements provide a systematic, independent, and documented process for evaluation of reported data against the LCFS regulatory requirements and methods for calculation.

The vendor selected under this request for proposal will analyze and identify the composition of certain feedstocks. The work under this contract will provide an additional objective analysis of renewable diesel and biodiesel feedstocks, and will serve as an additional level of verification for the LCFS program and will provide valuable market information

A feedstock of primary interest for this agreement is used cooking oil (UCO), which is the edible oil that has been previously utilized for frying/cooking in food service restaurants, food industry production facilities or households. UCO can be recycled and repurposed in various valuable ways including use in alternative transportation fuels.

There are hundreds of UCO suppliers around the world, wherever oils and fats are used for cooking, and the collection of such oil has been organized from recycling and reuse.

UCO can be refined into renewable fuels and used as a drop -in solution to replace fossil fuels. UCO is a key feedstock for producing biodiesel and renewable diesel.

However, increased subsidies for UCO and other low-carbon feedstocks have led to concerns of potential fraudulent activity, for example, blending UCO with virgin oils such as palm oil and marketing the blended fuel as UCO to maximize incentive value. CARB is seeking additional information on ways to identify potential UCO adulteration and fraud as part of LCFS program administration.

C. Scope of Work

This Scope of Work (SOW) outlines major tasks the selected contractor must complete to ensure successful analysis can be conducted utilizing a scientific approach, and includes the development of the testing methodology, implementation of the testing methodology and the sharing of results and reports obtained from its development.

Task 1 – Test Method and Protocol Documentation

Contractor shall develop a standard testing method following best practices in laboratory operations to identify and measure chemical or physical characteristics of used cooking oil (UCO) that can be validated in feedstock samples. The test method should include one or more of the following analytical methods:

spectroscopy, gas and or liquid chromatography, or low field unilateral nuclear magnetic resonance. In developing the protocol, the contractor must consider the identification/analysis of visual indicators, optical and photophysical properties, odors, characteristic markers, chemical compounds/fatty acid profiles, acid values, peroxide values, viscosity, moisture and/or carbon content as well as the identification of total polar material. The protocol must establish guidance or standards for identifying the presence of UCO that considers expected differences based on geographic sources.

The testing protocol must include the process for conducting the testing methods in the field and/or laboratory settings.

Task 2 – Analytical Method

Contractor shall document the process for analysis of data obtained through the test protocol developed in Task 1. Analysis must use best practices and any relevant industry and international standards and should use chemometrics such as partial least square analysis, principal component analysis, and/or machine learning.

Task 3 – Sample Method Protocol

Contractor will create a sample collection protocol using best practices and any relevant international standards to ensure zero contamination and accurate sampling. This protocol shall ensure the samples collected must be representative of uniform concentration of all the analytes and representative of the feedstock lot.

Task 4 - Reference Sample Collection

Contractor shall collect, test, and analyze, a broad representative reference set (e.g. 500 – 1,000) of unique samples of UCO taken from point -of -use sources, with the sample coming from a broad range of locations that are representative of imported UCO (including China, Southeast Asia, North America, and South America)using the Testing Method and Protocol developed in Task 1 and Sample Method Protocol developed under Task 3.

Task 5 – Reference Sample Analysis

Contractor will analyze the samples collected in Task 4, the Reference Sample Collection, utilizing the Analytical Method developed in Task 2 to determine sample properties. This data will be used to confirm and potentially refine the Analytical Methods developed in Task 2 and create a reference library of properties for algorithmic comparison with unknown feedstock samples.

Task 6 – Comingled Feedstock Analysis

Contractor will analyze comingled feedstock samples using the Analytical Method developed in Task 2 to accurately determine feedstock composition using the library from the Reference Sample Analysis conducted in Task 5. This analysis shall detect whether there is the presence of virgin cooking oil (VCO) in the feedstock batch. If the presence of VCO is detected in the batch, the analysis will further provide the percentage of VCO in the feedstock batch and will provide a precision of at least 95+% and accuracy of 90+% from a homogeneous feedstock.

Task 7 – Updates to Testing Methods, Protocols and Analysis

Contractor shall provide CARB with test results of new samples on a regular and agreed upon schedule.

Task 8 – Training and Knowledge Transfer Resource Development

Contractor shall create content for knowledge transfer and conduct educational sessions for CARB on Tasks 1 through 7.

Task 9 – Updates to Refinement of Analysis Analytical Process

Contractor shall use lessons learned and outreach to interested parties to identify potential emerging UCO adulteration tactics to refine the Test Method and Protocol

Documentation (Task 1) and analysis process from the Analytical Method (Task 2).

Outreach will be a continuous process with industry, trade groups, academia, and others to ensure market integrity.

Task 10 – Review of Supply Chain/Chain of Custody Best Practices

Contractor shall conduct ongoing supply chain analysis and mapping to identify potential areas of vulnerability in the feedstock supply chain for at least one year after completion of Tasks 1 - 9. Vendor should use Graph-Based Supply Chain Analytics as well as Risk Profiling and Predictive Modeling for this analysis.

II. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (GENERAL) AND INFORMATION

This section contains instructions for the submission of your proposal. It is the responsibility of the proposer to carefully read and follow all proposal requirements within this RFP.

Compliance with the RFP instructions is mandatory for your proposal to be considered for award. Failure to comply with the RFP instructions may cause your proposal to be deemed non-compliant and non-responsive, thus ineligible for award.

A. RFP Key Action Dates

Below is the tentative time schedule for this RFP. CARB reserves the right to modify the RFP and/or change dates and times at its sole discretion, prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals, by the issuance of an addendum that will be posted on the California State Contracts Register (CSCR) at: http://caleprocure.ca.gov

1. CARB reserves the right to modify or cancel in whole or any part of this solicitation.

2. Clarifications to the solicitation will only be provided in the form of a written addendum to all Proposers.

Key Actions Dates Time RFP available to prospective Proposers 03/03/2026 N/A Written Questions Submittal Deadline 03/20/2026 12:00pm Question and Answers Addendum Posted 03/24/2026 N/A Final Date for Proposal Submission/Receipt by CARB

04/03/2026 12:00PM

Complete Evaluation of Proposals 04/13/2026 N/A Posting of Intent to Award Notice(s) (Notice is posted for five [5] business days) 04/15/2026 N/A

Agreement sent to successful Proposer 04/22/2026 N/A Signed Agreement returned to CARB for counter-signature

04/29/2026 N/A

Agreement Approved and Executed – work begins

05/22/2026 N/A

Dates listed above (or below, depending on page) are estimates only, and subject to change at CARB’s sole discretion. No work shall begin until all required approvals and signatures, including the Department of General Services (DGS) Office of Legal Services, if applicable, are obtained.

B. Questions Regarding RFP Requirements

All questions or concerns related to the RFP requirements must be directed electronically to:

Administrative Services Division Acquisitions Branch Contact: Brian Fong Email: Brian.fong@arb.ca.gov

Questions must be received by the date and time specified under Section II, A. RFP Key Action Dates. Answers to all questions submitted will be in the form of an addendum posted to the DGS California State Contracts Register (CSCR) website https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/index.aspx by the date and time specified under Section II, A. RFP Key Action Dates. Please note that no verbal information given will be binding upon the State unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum to all parties/participants. All questions must be submitted referencing the RFP number in the subject line, directly to the above listed contact person and not through the Cal eProcure system.

C. General Proposal Requirements

1. Proposals should provide straightforward and concise descriptions of the Proposer’s ability to satisfy the requirements of this RFP. The proposal must be complete and accurate. Omissions, inaccuracies or misstatements will be sufficient cause for rejection of a proposal.

2. Proposals must be submitted for the performance of all services described herein.

Any deviation from the work specifications (Section Ill, Proposal Requirements, and Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement) may cause a proposal to be rejected.

D. Submission of Proposals

1. Proposals must be submitted no later than the date and time indicated in Section II.A.

Key Action Dates, and must be addressed as follows in Item 2.

Proposals received after this date and time will not be considered and will be rejected.

2. Delivery Instructions

Responses to this RFP shall be submitted to CARB at the following email addresses provided in Section 2.b. below and include:

a. One (1) copy containing the Technical Proposal and all other required elements along with the Cost Proposal.

b. Submit to the following email addresses and reference the RFP number in the subject line.

Purchasing@arb.ca.gov CC: Brian.Fong@arb.ca.gov

3. Each proposal will be reviewed to determine if it meets the proposal requirements contained in Section lV, Proposal Requirements (Technical). Failure to meet the requirements for the RFP may be cause for rejection of the proposal.

4. A proposal may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. The State may reject any or all proposals and may waive any immaterial deviation in a proposal. The State’s waiver of immaterial defect shall in no way modify the RFP document or excuse the Proposer from full compliance with all requirements if the Proposer is awarded the Agreement.

5. CARB may modify the RFP up to the specified time of the date fixed listed for submission of proposals by the issuance of an addendum to all parties who received a proposal package. Any addendum(s) will be issued through the Cal eProcure system.

6. The State reserves the right to reject all proposals.

7. More than one (1) proposal from an individual, firm, partnership, corporation or association under the same or different names, will not be considered. Reasonable grounds for believing that any Proposer has submitted more than one proposal for the work contemplated herein will cause the rejection of all proposals submitted by that Proposer. If there is reason to believe that collusion exists among the Proposers, none of the participants in such collusion will be considered, in this or future procurements.

E. Modification and/or Withdrawal of Proposals

1. A Proposer may modify a proposal after its submission by withdrawing its original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline.

The Proposer modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

2. A Proposer may withdraw its proposal by submitting a written withdrawal request to CARB signed by the Proposer or an agent authorized in accordance with Section II.G., titled “Signature”. A Proposer may thereafter submit a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline. Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause subsequent to proposal submission deadline.

F. Proposer Responsibilities

1. Proposers should carefully examine the entire RFP, with special attention to the tasks and deliverables found in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD

213). Proposers shall investigate obstacles that might be encountered. No additions or increases to the agreement amount will be made due to a lack of careful examination of the requirements.

2. Before submitting a response to this RFP, Proposer(s) should review their response, correct all errors, and confirm compliance with the RFP requirements. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to complete and submit all required attachments as listed on Attachment,1 Required Attachment Checklist.

3. Costs incurred for developing proposals and in anticipation of award of the Agreement are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be charged to

CARB.

4. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to promptly notify CARB’s contract analyst identified in the solicitation, in writing, by e-mail, if the Proposer believes that the solicitation is unfairly restrictive, contains errors or discrepancies, or is otherwise unclear. Notification must be done immediately upon receipt of the solicitation in order that the matter may be fully considered and appropriate action taken by CARB prior to the closing time set to receive solicitation responses. Such notification must be submitted no later than the question-and-answer period referenced in Section II.A., Key Action Dates. All such correspondence received after the question-and-answer deadline will not be considered.

5. Proposer is responsible to review, read, understand, and comply in full with the

State’s General Terms and Conditions along with the Contractor’s Certification Clauses (CCC) as listed at: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page- Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract- Language.

6. Each proposal must constitute an irrevocable offer for a period of at least 180 working days after proposal submission.

7. The Proposer must provide evidence to show that members of the team possess the specific qualifications, competence, experience, resources, and business integrity necessary to carry out the work under the contract as expected. Examples of evidence include, but are not limited to: résumés, letters of reference, project summaries that highlight the team’s specific experience. Proposers must complete Attachment 3, Proposer References Form.

8. The Proposer must own and operate a legitimate business. If required by law, the

Proposer must be registered and in good standing within the California Secretary of State. All businesses that are required to be registered with the California Secretary of State must be registered prior to date of Agreement award. Evidence of registration shall be submitted with the proposal.

9. In the event that any license(s) and/or permit(s) expire at any time during the term of this agreement, Proposer agrees to provide agency a copy of the renewed license(s) and/or permit(s) within thirty (30) days following the expiration date. In the event the Proposer fails to keep in effect at all times all required license(s) and permit(s), the

State may, in addition to any other remedies it may have, terminate this Agreement upon occurrence of such event.

10. It is unlawful for any person engaged in business within this state to sell or use any article or product as a “loss leader” as defined in Section 17030 of the Business and Professions Code.

11. The Proposer must complete and submit to CARB, the Payee Data Record (STD 204), Attachment 4, to determine if the selected proposer is subject to state income tax withholding, pursuant to California Revenue and Taxation Code, Section 18662.

This form can be found on the Internet at http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fm c/pdf/std204.pdf. No payment shall be made unless a completed STD 204 and/or Payee Data Record Supplemental STD 205 (if applicable) Attachment 5, has been returned to CARB. This form can be found on the Internet at https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std205.pdf

12. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, page one (1) of the Contractor

Certification Clauses (CCC 04/2017), Attachment 6, or the form can be obtained via the Internet at: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of- Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language.

13. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, the California Civil Rights Laws

Certification, Attachment 7.

14. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, the Darfur Contracting Act

Certification, Attachment 8.

15. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, the Bidder Declaration Form, Attachment 9.

16. The Proposer must complete and submit to CARB, the Contractor Cost Sheet, Attachment 11. Failure to fully complete and return this attachment with your proposal will cause your bid to be rejected and deemed non-responsive.

17. The Proposer must complete and submit to CARB, the Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications, Attachment 12. Failure to fully complete and return this attachment with your proposal will cause your bid to be rejected and deemed non-responsive.

18. As part of CARB’s ongoing efforts to protect the health and safety of its employees, CARB is requesting all vendors / Contractors who perform work in person or on site to provide certification that the vendor’s / Contractor’s employees and subcontractors have provided documentation to the vendor / Contractor that the employees are either fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (as defined by the CDC), or have obtained a negative COVID-19 test result within seventy-two (72) hours of in-person or on-site work. The vendor / Contractor does not need to provide the documentation of employees’ or subcontractors’ vaccination status or negative test result to CARB. If no employees or subcontractors of the vendor / Contractor will interact with any CARB employees or perform work on site, CARB requests the vendor / Contractor certify to this effect.

Additionally, all Contractors who perform services under a contract with CARB are expected to, at their own expense, comply with all applicable health and safety laws and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, all laws, regulations, and public health orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, the COVID-19 Prevention Contractor Self-Certification, Attachment 13.

19. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, the Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement, Attachment 14. The Proposer shall require each of its employees or officers who will be involved in the performance of this Agreement to agree to the terms and the terms of the Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement.

20. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)

The State of California seeks to realize the potential benefits of GenAI, through the development and deployment of GenAI tools, while balancing the risks of these new technologies.

Bidder / Offeror must notify the State in writing if it: (1) intends to provide GenAI as a deliverable to the State; or (2), intends to utilize GenAI, including GenAI from third parties, to complete all or a portion of any deliverable that materially impacts: (i) functionality of a State system, (ii) risk to the State, or (iii) Contract performance. For avoidance of doubt, the term “materially impacts” shall have the meaning set forth in State Administrative Manual (SAM) § 4986.2 Definitions for GenAI.

Failure to report GenAI to the State may result in disqualification. The State reserves the right to seek any and all relief to which it may be entitled to as a result of such non-disclosure.

Upon notification by a Bidder / Offeror of GenAI as required, the State reserves the right to incorporate GenAI Special Provisions into the final contract or reject bids/offers that present an unacceptable level of risk to the State.

Government Code 11549.64 defines “Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)” as an artificial intelligence system that can generate derived synthetic content, including text, images, video, and audio that emulates the structure and characteristics of the system’s training data.

21. Executive Order N-6-22 – Russia Sanctions

On March 4, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-6-22 (the EO) regarding Economic Sanctions against Russia and Russian entities and individuals. “Economic Sanctions” refers to sanctions imposed by the U.S.

government in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as any sanctions imposed under state law. By submitting a bid or proposal, Contractor represents that it is not a target of Economic Sanctions. Should the State determine Contractor is a target of Economic Sanctions or is conducting prohibited transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, that shall be grounds for rejection of the

Contractor’s bid/proposal any time prior to contract execution, or, if determined after contract execution, shall be grounds for termination by the State.

G. Signature

1. All documents requiring signatures contained in the original proposal package must have original or electronic signatures.

2. Only an individual who is authorized to bind the proposing firm contractually shall sign the required Cover Letter for the proposal. The signature must indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the firm. An unsigned proposal may be rejected.

H. Disposition of Proposals

Upon proposal opening, all documents submitted in response to this RFP will become the property of the State of California, and will be regarded as public records under the California Public Records Act (Government Code Section 6250 et seq.) and subject to review by the public. The State cannot prevent the disclosure of public documents.

I. Socio-Economic and Preference Programs

1. Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Incentive – Optional

This solicitation does not require a minimum amount of DVBE participation.

However, you are strongly encouraged to either become certified, if eligible, or to subcontract a portion of the work to a certified DVBE. If a prime bidder is a certified DVBE or commits to subcontracting with DVBE(s), the bid may be eligible to receive a bid preference provided that the DVBE provides a commercially useful function as defined in California Code of Regulations, Title 2, Section 1896.61(l). For evaluation purposes only, the State shall apply an incentive to bids that propose California certified DVBE participation as identified on Attachment 9, titled Bidder Declaration GSPD-05-105 and confirmed by the State. Proposers claiming the DVBE incentive must complete and return the Disabled Veteran Business Declarations form found at:

http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/pd_843.pdf

The incentive amount varies in conjunction with the percentage of DVBE participation offered. The minimum requirement is 1% with a maximum of 5% DVBE participation and the incentive will be equal to the participation offered as defined below:

Confirmed DVBE Participation of:

DVBE

Incentive:

1% to 1.99% inclusive 1% 2% to 2.99% inclusive 2% 3% to 3.99% inclusive 3% 4% to 4.99% inclusive 4%

5% or Over 5%

2. Small Business (SB) or Microbusiness (MB) Preference – Optional

If Proposer is claiming the 5% certified SB or MB preference, or is committing to subcontract 25% or more of their net bid price to one or more certified SB or MB (Non-small business preference [NSB]), list firm names on Attachment 8 (GSPD-05- 105 Bidder Declaration) and attach a copy of the certification. Additional References:

http://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/.

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/About/Page-Content/PD-Branch-Intro-Accordion- List/OSDS/OSDS

Questions regarding the certification approval process or the SB program should be directed to the Department of General Services, Procurement Division at (800) 559- 5529 or (916) 375-4940. For the 24-Hour Recording & Mail Request call (916) 322- 5060.

SB, MB or NSB bidders or proposers using the SB preference shall be granted a preference consisting of 5% of the highest responsible bidder’s total score.

3. Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA)

a. Government Code (GC) Section 4530 (TACPA) provides that California based companies shall be granted a 5% preference whenever a state agency prepares a solicitation for services in excess of $100,000. The preference(s) shall apply if the worksite is not fixed by the government agency and the proposer can demonstrate and certify, under the penalty of perjury, that at least 90% of the total labor hours required to perform the services shall be performed at an identified worksite located in a distressed area (TACPA). TACPA preferences will only be applied if this procurement results in more than one responsive proposal receiving a passing narrative proposal score.

b. Additional work force preferences ranging from 1% to 4% can be earned by eligible proposers that agree to hire 5% to 20% of persons with a high risk of unemployment or those living in a targeted employment area or that are enterprise zone eligible to perform a specified percentage of the contract work.

c. The granting of TACPA preference cannot displace an award to a certified small business.

d. Proposers seeking TACPA preference must submit a completed STD 830 - Target Area Contract Preference Act Request https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std830.pdf. Preference Request https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd0525.pdf https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd0526.pdf with their proposal. The applicable preference request form must include the following:

i. All appropriate certifications. (TACPA). The proposing firm’s name and the name of all suppliers and subcontractors that will work with the proposer to fulfill the terms of the contract along with the addresses of each of the worksite(s) and estimated labor hours;

ii. County census tract number and block group number;

iii. Proposer’s original signature; and

iv. A checkbox marked to identify the additional 1% to 4% preference sought for hiring persons with a high risk of unemployment.

e. TACPA preference cannot be granted if:

i. The lowest proposed cost does not equal or exceed $100,000 for the entire term;

ii. The work site or any part thereof is fixed or preset by the State;

iii. The services involve construction or a public works project; or

iv. A proposer who has claimed a TACPA preference and is awarded the contract will be obligated to perform in accordance with the preference(s) requested, provided the preference was granted in obtaining the contract.

f. Firms receiving preference must:

i. Report their labor hours to the State and reference the state contract on which the award is based for the specific reporting requirements.

g. Proposers wishing to learn more about TACPA requirements, designated work site(s) or enterprise zones in California should contact the appropriate office of the Department of General Services at (916) 375-4940. DGS will attempt to determine TACPA eligibility within two working days.

4. Preference and Incentive Application – Optional

a. DVBE Incentive Points are factored by multiplying a Proposer’s DVBE participation commitment percentage (%) by the total possible points that could be awarded (see Table 1 below). This amount is then added to the proposer’s total points. In the Table 2 sample below, Proposer B received a 60-point incentive (.05% commitment x 1200 total points available), which was added to its total points resulting in its proposal ranking as first in line for award. Proposer C’s 2% commitment resulted in its receiving 24 incentive points, and making its proposal rank as second in line for award.

b. Preference is calculated by multiplying 5% of the highest scoring NSB proposer, and adding those points to SB proposers and NSBs subcontracting 25% or more to a SB. In the Table 2 sample below, the calculation is based on Proposer B’s 1155 points x .05 resulting in 57.75 additional points added to the certified SBs (A and C).

c. Under the High Score Method, it is possible to displace a high point certified SB with the application of the DVBE Incentive.

TABLE 1: HIGH SCORE METHOD SAMPLE

Available points example using sliding scale:

Administrative: 200 points Technical: 400 points

Cost: 600 points Total: 1200 points

Possible Maximum 60 points DVBE incentive calculated as follows:

Confirmed DVBE Participation Possible Points Calculation:

1% - 1.99% inclusive 1% X 1200 = 12 2% - 2.99% inclusive 2% X 1200 = 24 3% - 3.99% inclusive 3% X 1200 = 36 4% - 4.99% inclusive 4% X 1200 = 48

5% and Higher 5% X 1200 = 60

TABLE 2: HIGH SCORE METHOD SAMPLE RESULTS

Proposer A B C Responsive/Responsible Yes Yes Yes

Total Points 1050 1155 1125 Eligible Preference SB None SB

SB Preference Points Applied

57.75 0 57.75

Subtotal 1107.75 1155 1182.75 Rank 3 2 1

Confirmed DVBE Participation

No (0%) Yes (5%) Yes (2%)

Incentive Points Applied None 60 24 Adjusted Points 1107.75 1215 1206.75

New Rank 3 1 2

III. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (TECHNICAL)

A. Proposal Requirements

The proposal must contain the following components, information and documents outlined below. Each requirement’s location must be listed in the Proposal’s Table of Contents. Also see Section II. D. Submission of Proposal, for general submittal details.

1. Minimum Qualifications

The Proposer must provide a detailed response, outlining information as to how the Proposer meets each of the minimum qualifications listed below. The Proposer must provide their detailed response on Attachment 12, Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications. Proposals that do not meet the minimum qualifications will be determined non-responsive and ineligible for award.

a. Three (3) years proven experience in materials analysis in a research or analytical laboratory.

b. Three (3) years proven experience in conducting test methods and analysis as proposed in the proposal.

c. Three (3) years of experience sampling feedstocks from complex and geographically diverse samples.

d. Proven knowledge and three (3) years of experience providing training and developing training tools, and techniques.

e. Proven knowledge and three (3) years of experience in supply chain analysis.

f. Lead staff must possess at least a Master’s Degree in a technical field, PhD preferred.

2. Title Page

The purpose of this page is to provide information needed by CARB administrative staff. It must contain the following items:

a. The title of the proposal, which must be the same as the title of the RFP;

b. The number of the RFP, 25ISD009; and

c. The date of proposal.

3. Cover Letter / Letter of Commitment

The cover letter must not be more than two (2) pages, in Arial size-11 point font or similar, and must include the following paragraph and the signature of the representative authorized to make the proposal on behalf of the firm:

“The enclosed proposal is submitted in response to the above referenced Request for Proposal 25ISD009, including any addenda. Through submission of this proposal, we agree to all of the terms and conditions of the Request for Proposal, and agree that any inconsistent provisions in our proposal may result in a lower score, up to and including disqualification. We have carefully read and examined the Request for Proposal, and have conducted such other investigations as were prudent and reasonable in preparing the proposal. We agree to be bound by statements and representations in our proposal.”

The cover letter must be provided on the company’s letterhead and include the following information and statements:

a. The name and address of your company [NOTE: You may use a Post Office box, but please provide your company's street address]; and

b. The name, title, and signature of a company official authorized to bind the proposal.

c. Name, email and/or phone number for the Proposer’s contact for CARB inquiries related to the proposal.

4. Table of Contents

5. Summary

The abstract shall be not longer than one (1) page. Include a brief description of the proposed project briefly summarizing the main point of the various sections of the proposal, including the features and benefits of the proposal.

6. Minimum Qualifications Response

Provide a response, outlining detailed information demonstrating how the Proposer meets each of the minimum qualifications listed in Section III, A. Submit applicable documentation on Attachment 12, Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications.

7. Required Attachments

The Technical Proposal must include all of the completed attachments listed in Attachment 1, Required Attachment checklist.

8. References

Each proposer must provide at least three (3) references detailing previous experience in testing, laboratory analysis and biofuels analysis related to the goals and objectives outlined in the RFP.

References must be provided using Attachment 3, Proposer References Form.

Submission of this attachment is mandatory. Failure to fully complete and return this attachment with your proposal may cause your proposal to be rejected and deemed non-responsive. Attachment 3 may be copied for additional references.

9. Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement

Proposer and each member of Proposer’s technical staff proposed to work on this project must sign and submit Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement, Exhibit E, Attachment 1 – Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement with your proposal.

10. Subcontracts/Subcontractors

If subcontractors are to be used, the Proposer must include in the Technical Proposal, a description of each person or firm and the work to be done by each subcontractor. Please use Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration Form (GSPD 05-105), to list all subcontractors used for this project. All subcontracts must be approved by CARB, and no work shall be subcontracted without the prior written approval of the State. The cost of the subcontract work is to be itemized in the Cost Proposal as described below in the section entitled Cost Proposal Requirements, and not in the Technical Proposal.

11. Technical Portion

Proposer shall demonstrate their understanding of the questions, or needs, that CARB is seeking to have addressed. The technical approach and work plan are considered the heart of the proposal and will receive a high level of scrutiny. This part of the proposal will be evaluated to ensure all tasks and deliverables, listed in the Scope of Work, are included and responsive. The technical portion of the Proposal must include a written response to all scoring elements listed in the sample Proposal Evaluation form, Section IV.B.3, and must include the following:

a. Management Plan

The Proposer shall provide a project management plan including the management structure and project organization. The Proposer shall designate, by name, the Project Manager to be employed. The selected Proposer shall not cause the substitution of the Project Manager without prior written approval of the State. Proposers should include methods to measure project progress against the project management plan to maintain project schedule.

b. Methodology (Approach to Work)

The Proposer shall describe their methodology and approach to the work, identify specific techniques and methodologies that will be used and specific administrative and operational management expertise that will be employed in order to accomplish the tasks listed in this RFP under Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement. Proposer shall indicate how skills developed in previous related work will be applied to the work described in this RFP.

The Proposer shall demonstrate their knowledge in UCO analysis, the subject of the RFP and lay the groundwork for the actual work to be performed for this project. The Proposer shall provide a detailed description of the overall approach and methodologies utilized to accomplish the tasks listed in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement, Exhibit A.

c. Work Plan and Work Schedule

The Proposer shall develop a Work Plan and Work Schedule that allows all tasks to be completed within the timeframes outlined in the Scope of Work. The Work Plan and Work Schedule shall identify each major task, necessary subtasks, and milestones by which progress can be measured and payments made. The Work Plan shall specify the estimated hours to accomplish each task and the Work Schedule shall provide the responsible party for performing the task, and anticipated dates of completion.

The Work Plan and Work Schedule must reflect the total project timeline of 26 months.

The Work Plan shall indicate how the supervision and oversight will be conducted for ensuring that the project will remain on schedule and that the distribution of workload is appropriate.

See Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213), for details on the tasks required. A work plan schedule format is provided below:

TASK Deliverables DATE OF COMPLETION Task 1: Test Method and Protocol Documentation

Draft and Final versions of written test method and protocol documents

Draft provided for CARB review no later than two (2) months after contract start date.

Final to be received no later than three (3) months after contract start date

Task 2:

Analytical Method

Draft and Final versions of written analytical method documentation

Draft provided for CARB review no later than four (4) months after contract start date.

Final to be received no later than five

(5) months after contract start date

Task 3: Sample Method Protocol

Draft and Final versions of written Sample Method Protocol documentation

Draft provided for CARB review no later than six (6) months after contract start date.

Final to be received no later than eight (8) months after contract start date

Task 4:

Reference Sample Collection

Interim and final documentation of initial sampling.

Updated sampling documentation completed through end of contract.

Monthly summaries documenting sample collection.

Final documentation of planned reference library sampling no later than eleven (11) months after contract start date.

Updates to reference sample library provided ongoing through contract term.

Task 5:

Reference Sample Analysis

Interim and Final sampling results.

Updated sampling results completed through end of contract.

Monthly summaries of Interim results after analysis begins.

Final results of reference library sampling no later than thirteen (13) months after contract start date.

Updates to reference sample library provided monthly and ongoing through contract term as additional sampling is completed.

Task 6:

Comingled Feedstock Analysis

Documentation of blending and sampling methods, Results of sampling.

Draft documentation of processes for review prior to blending and sampling.

Updates to process documentation as changes occur through analysis phase.

TASK Deliverables DATE OF COMPLETION Final documentation of process no later than fifteen (15) months after contract approval.

Final results of testing no later than sixteen (16) months after contract approval.

Task 7: Updates to Testing Methods, Protocols and Analysis

Written summaries of updates to prior approved processes and documents.

Draft materials for review no later than eighteen (18) months after contract approval.

Final materials no later than nineteen

(19) months after contract approval.

Task 8: Training and Knowledge Transfer Resource Development

Meetings, training sessions and final documentation of all contract deliverables.

No less than three (3) Interim training and review sessions to be scheduled over the course of the agreement, on a mutually agreed upon schedule.

Final training and knowledge transfer to be provided to CARB no later than twenty-three (23) months after contract approval.

Task 9: Updates to Refinement of Analysis Analytical Process

Meetings, training sessions and final documentation of all contract deliverables.

Ongoing and as requested by CARB

Task 10: Review of Supply Chain/Chain of Custody Best Practices

Written summary of industry practice to track original of feedstocks.

Draft materials for review no later than twenty (20) months after contract approval.

Final materials no later than twenty-four (24) months after contract approval.

d. Personnel / Experience /Work Samples

For this criterion, reviewers will rate the Proposer’s experience in conducting similar or related work described in the Scope of Work, and how skills developed in previous related work will be applied to this project as outlined in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement. The Proposer shall indicate how previous experience will be applied to the development of this project.

The Proposer shall list technical staff (specify staff name) who will be working on the project. Include their titles, qualifications, a summary of similar work or studies performed, a resume for each technical staff person, a statement indicating how many hours each professional will be assigned to…