25ISD018_RFP_-_FINAL.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (SECONDARY METHOD)

Notice to Prospective Proposers RFP No. 25ISD018

March 5, 2026

You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 25ISD018, titled, “Evaluating Climate Progress Under SB 32 and AB 1279 Climate Targets.” 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/index.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 March 30, 2026, no later than 12:00 p.m. 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 25ISD018 [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: Desiree.Lee@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.

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: Desiree Lee Email: Desiree.Lee@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. 25ISD018

Table of Contents

SECTION PAGE

I. PURPOSE / BACKGROUND / SCOPE OF WORK 3

A) Purpose 4 B) Background 4 C) Scope of Work 4

II. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (GENERAL) AND INFORMATION 5

A) RFP Key Action Dates 5 B) Questions Regarding RFP Requirements 5 C) General Proposal Requirements 6 D) Submission of Proposals 6 E) Modification and/or Withdrawal of Proposals 7 F) Proposer Responsibilities 7 G) Signature 10 H) Disposition of Proposals 11 I) Socio-Economic and Preference Programs 11

III. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (TECHNICAL) 14

A) Technical Proposal Requirements 14

1) Minimum Qualifications 14

2) Title Page 15

3) Cover Letter / Letter of Commitment 15

4) Table of Contents 16

5) Summary 16

6) Minimum Qualifications Response 16

7) Required Attachments 16

8) References 16

9) Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement 16

10) Subcontracts / Subcontractors 16

11) Technical Portion 17

a) Management Plan 17

b) Methodology (Approach to Work) 17

c) Work Plan and Work Schedule 17

d) Personnel / Experience 18

e) Page Headers and Page Numbering 19

B) Cost Proposal Requirements 19

1) Cost Detail 19

2) Page Headers and Page Numbering 19

IV. EVALUATION, SELECTION, AND AWARD 20

A) Administrative Evaluation (Phase 1) 20 B) Technical Evaluation (Phase 2) 20

1) Scoring Criterion Guidelines 20

2) Cost Points 20

3) Proposal Evaluation Form 22 C) Proposal Rejection 24 D) Selection 25 E) Notice of Proposed Award 25 F) Standard Conditions of Service 26 G) Post Award Requirements 26

ATTACHMENTS

1) Required Attachment Checklist 28

2) Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213) 29

Exhibit A, Scope of Work 31 Exhibit A, Attachment 1 – Technical Proposal 37 Exhibit A, Attachment 2 – Interim Report 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 40

3) Proposer References Form 53

4) Payee Data Record (STD 204) 54

5) Payee Data Record (STD 205) 56

6) Contractor Certification Clauses (CCC 04/2017) 58

7) California Civil Rights Laws Certification 62

8) Darfur Contracting Act Certification 63

9) Bidder Declaration Form 64

10) CA DVBE Bid Incentive Instructions 66

11) Contractor Cost Sheet 69

12) Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications 71

13) COVID-19 Prevention Contractor Self-Certification 72

14) Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement 73

I. PURPOSE / BACKGROUND / SCOPE OF WORK

A. Purpose

The Request for Proposal (RFP) seeks competitive proposals from experienced and qualified contractors to support an analysis of California’s progress in achieving the state’s SB 32 and AB 1279 climate targets. The contractor will evaluate progress by analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data across the economy with findings specific to each of the AB 32 GHG Inventory sectors.

The evaluation should:

a. Develop clear and actionable metrics to describe progress in current policies, programs, and investments;

b. Collect qualitative insights to better understand the impacts and implementation of California’s climate action;

c. Develop a communication strategy to support and effectively convey progress, benefits, and priority areas to a broad audience.

The evaluation will take a comprehensive, data-informed, and equity-centered approach. This approach is critical because the communities most burdened by environmental degradation and climate change have often been excluded from the decisions that impact them. Addressing this disconnect today requires not only more inclusive engagement, but a deeper understanding of how climate actions affect

California’s communities. Clearly communicating both the benefits of climate action and the challenges it may face, especially to historically excluded communities, is essential to advancing effective and equitable climate solutions.

The evaluation will utilize both quantitative and qualitative data to assess the implementation and impacts of climate actions. CARB will provide quantitative data from sources such as the Green House Gas (GHG) Inventory, energy and fuel use data, air quality and health metrics, clean energy deployment, and vehicle registration records.

The contractor will be expected to gather additional quantitative data as well as qualitative data through literature and document reviews, interviews, public feedback, and/or surveys. This combined analysis will provide contextual insights into current actions and their potential effects on communities, workers, consumer behavior, businesses, and specific populations.

A key outcome of this work will be communications materials and a communication strategy featuring diverse representations of the results, such as narrative case studies, graphical figures, highlight sheets, and other accessible formats to support public communication and engagement.

Together, these efforts will increase transparency, foster engagement, and strengthen California’s ability to communicate its climate goals as outlined in the 2022 Scoping Plan through 2045 and successes to date.

For a detailed description of the work to be performed, please refer to Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213). The work of this contract is expected to require twenty-three (23) months. No work shall begin until all required signatures and approvals are obtained and the CARB Project Manager provides direction.

The total budget for the entire contract is Five Hundred Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($500,000.00) Proposals exceeding this amount may be deemed non-responsive and ineligible for award. CARB reserves the right to amend this Agreement through a formal written amendment, signed by the parties, for additional time only.

B. Background

The 2022 Scoping Plan Update outlined key actions across both the AB 32 GHG Inventory sectors and Natural and Working Lands (NWL). Since the adoption of the most recent Scoping Plan, California has begun implementing regulations and programs. The Scoping Plan, legislative efforts, and public and private investments, have all worked towards pushing California closer to carbon neutrality. This contract will investigate the outcomes of regulations, programs, policies and investments to date and provide clear, accessible information to the public and policymakers.

C. Scope of Work

The objective of this work is to evaluate California’s progress in meeting its climate goals by identifying quantitative and qualitative progress in each of the AB 32 GHG Inventory sectors, developing communications materials to convey these findings and providing recommendations for a communication strategy that uses materials such as case studies, graphics, and summary sheets to support communications and public understanding.

For a detailed description of the work to be performed, please refer to Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

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: https://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.

RFP Key Actions Dates Time RFP available to prospective Proposers 3/05/2026 N/A Written Questions Submittal Deadline 3/13/2026 12:00pm Question and Answers Addendum Posted 3/20/2026 N/A Final Date for Proposal Submission/Receipt by CARB

3/30/2026 12:00pm

Complete Evaluation of Proposals 4/15/2026 N/A Posting of Intent to Award Notice(s) (Notice is posted for five [5] business days) 4/21/2026 N/A

Agreement sent to successful Proposer 5/05/2026 N/A Signed Agreement returned to CARB for counter-signature

5/12/2026 12:00pm

Agreement Approved and Executed – work begins

5/19/2026 N/A

RFP Key Action Dates listed above 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:

Fiscal Services Division Acquisitions Branch Contact: Desiree Lee Email: Desiree.Lee@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.

RFP 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 below in Section 2.b. in PDF format, cannot exceed 50 Mega Bytes (MB) 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: Desiree.Lee@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 name 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, the Proposer 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. RFP 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, and 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 with 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 CARB with 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 proposer is a certified DVBE or commits to subcontracting with DVBE(s), the proposal may be eligible to receive a proposal 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 proposals that propose California certified DVBE participation as identified on Attachment 10, titled California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Bid Incentive Instructions 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 proposal price to one or more certified SB or MB (Non-small business preference [NSB]), list firm names on Attachment 9 (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) 375-4400. For the 24-Hour Recording & Mail Request call (916) 322- 5060.

SB, MB or NSB proposers using the SB preference shall be granted a preference consisting of 5% of the highest responsible proposal’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 (2) 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 twenty-four (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. Technical 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. At least two (2) completed projects where the Proposer evaluated GHG emission reduction strategies across multiple sectors (e.g. transportation, industrial, electricity, residential/commercial, agriculture and high global-warming potential).

Projects that can demonstrate familiarity with California climate-related policies are preferred. The Proposer must include a sample of two (2) completed projects for CARB review.

b. Proven knowledge and three (3) years of experience in evaluation of climate, or related environmental policies such as renewable energy standards, low carbon fuels, zero emission vehicles, nature-based solutions, or carbon pricing.

c. Proven knowledge and three (3) years of experience in evaluating GHG emission reduction scenarios using metrics such as health impacts, economic impacts, and environmental impacts.

d. Proven knowledge and three (3) years of experience conducting both quantitative and qualitative analyses in support of public decision-making processes, including development of surveys, interviews, and/or other analyses. Project will require flexibility in terms of final product, schedule, and close communication with project sponsor to review and approve interim project milestones prior to draft deliverables. The Proposer must include a statement describing prior project experience that demonstrates ability to adjust to changing timelines, to accommodate requested modifications to final products, and to maintain close communication with project sponsor.

e. Proven knowledge and three (3) years of experience in writing technical reports and communication materials for policy and decision makers. The Proposer must include a sample of two (2) products developed to communicate technical information to policy and decisions makers, including graphics that simplify complex topics.

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, 25ISD018; 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 25ISD018, 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];

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

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 no 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 providing consultation services on process workflow 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 14, 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

The 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 Contract Manager to be employed. The selected Proposer shall not cause the substitution of the Contract 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 (STD 213). The 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 climate policy, quantitative and qualitative analyses, and equity-focused communication strategies, 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 twenty-three (23) 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 RESPONSIBLE PARTY

(Prime or Subcontractor)

DATE OF

COMPLETION

Task 1 - Development of Concepts for Quantitative Metrics and Qualitative Narrative Concepts

Task 2 - Develop Draft Quantitative Metrics, Graphics Illustrating each Metric and Descriptions of all Methods and Data Sources

Task 3 - Develop Draft Qualitative Insights into Climate Action

Task 4 - Develop Final Materials and Communication Strategy

Task 5 - Project Management and Reporting

d. Personnel / Experience

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 (STD 213). 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 the Agreement and what tasks each professional will perform. The selected Proposer shall not cause key members of the project team to be substituted without prior written approval of the State.

The Proposer shall demonstrate experience and breadth of knowledge in climate policy, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and equity-focused communication strategies as described in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

e. Page Headers and Page Numbering

All pages of the Technical Proposal, including cover pages, Table of Contents, references and resumes, and the Bidder Declaration Form GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 9) shall have the following header and page numbering format in the upper right-hand corner:

Technical Proposal

Exhibit A, Attachment 1 Page ## of ##

B. Cost Proposal Requirements

The cost breakdown (Cost Proposal) shall be included in the Technical Proposal. Cost Proposals shall include the following required information: Budget, and Preference Program Documents (See Section lI, I. Socio-Economic and Preference Programs) and at a minimum, all information listed in Cost Detail (below). Proposers must use the Attachment 11, Contractor Cost Sheet.

All costs must be provided for each task and deliverable. The proposed costs should be broken down into the outline in the Work Plan and Work Schedule for the purpose of this cost proposal submittal.

CARB’s budget for the proposed contract is limited to Five hundred Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($500,000.00). Any cost proposals exceeding this amount will be disqualified and ineligible for award. Proposers shall submit a cost proposal for all tasks described in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

1. Cost Detail

a. Itemized Tasks – Using Attachment 11, Contractor Cost Sheet, provide firm-fixed costs for specific tasks listed in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement

(STD 213).

For all tasks, the Proposer must include all items such as labor, personnel, subcontractors, travel, meetings, materials, reports, and tax, if applicable, as necessary to perform and complete the tasks on the Contractor Cost Sheet, Attachment 11.

b. 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. Additionally, all subcontractors proposed to be used for this project must be identified on Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration Form (GSPD-05-105).

2. Page Headers and Page Numbering

All pages of the Cost Proposal; the Bidder Declaration Form GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 9); https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/GS/PD/GSPD05- 105.pdf and, if applicable, any forms pertaining to socio-economic preferences (SB, MB, or DVBE), shall have the following header and page numbering format in the upper right-hand corner:

Cost Proposal

Exhibit B, Attachment 1 Page # of ##

IV. EVALUATION, SELECTION, AND AWARD

A. Administrative Evaluation (Phase 1)

CARB will conduct an administrative evaluation in accordance with the RFP requirements to determine a Proposer’s responsiveness and responsibility. Each proposal will be checked for completeness and/or absence of all required information and to ensure that the Proposer meets the minimum qualifications in conformance with the submission requirements. During the evaluation period, if an item is unclear, or needs further clarification, Proposers may be requested to provide additional documentation.

B. Technical Evaluation (Phase 2)

CARB will also conduct an evaluation of the Technical Proposal by an evaluation panel consisting of CARB employees. If deemed necessary, independent academic, technical or policy experts may be called upon to answer any specific questions regarding the responses to the RFP. These individuals will not participate in the scoring process.

1. Scoring Criterion Guidelines

Note: There will be no individual sheets, no written scores, and no written notes. There will be one final score for each Proposer. Proposer must score a minimum of 70 points (combined score of technical evaluation and cost points) to be eligible for award.

The Proposal Evaluation Form in Section IV, B.3 contains the scoring criteria that will be used by reviewers evaluating proposals submitted in response to this RFP. The evaluation team shall determine a consensus score for each item, based on the team's verbal discussion of each Proposer's responses. To determine the consensus score, evaluators will meet either in person or by teleconference to discuss in detail the strengths, weaknesses, and ratings of each proposal to determine scores. The evaluation team will carefully review and discuss the completeness of the Proposer's response, as well as clarity of documentation presented in the proposals submitted in response to this RFP.

2. Cost Points (30 points)

Proposers may achieve a maximum of thirty (30) cost points. This criterion allows staff to evaluate and compare the budgets of each proposal relative to those of its competitors. The budgeted amount is the maximum allowable amount by CARB for this Agreement (Section III, B.). Any proposals submitted that are over the expected expenditure / budgeted amount may be disqualified.

The technically qualified proposal that has the lowest cost will be given a maximum score of thirty (30) for this criterion.

All other technically qualified proposals will be calculated based on the ratio of the lowest cost proposal to the proposer’s cost, multiplied by the maximum number of cost points available thirty (30), as shown in the example below:

Lowest Total Cost Proposal X Total Cost Points Available Proposer Total Cost

Example: To help illustrate this process, refer to the Cost Evaluation Methodology Example table below for the cost score calculation process. Cost figures in this example explain the cost calculations and have no other significance.

Cost Evaluation Methodology Example

Proposer Grand Total

Cost Calculation

Cost Points Awarded

A $350,000 $300,000 X 30 $350,000

B $325,000 $300,000 X 30 $325,000

C $300,000 $300,000 X 30 $300,000

Final Scoring Methodology Example

Proposer Technical Score Cost Score Total Points

Awarded A 81 26 107 B 86 28 114 C 92 30 122

In this case, the highest scored proposal from Proposer C would be the intended awardee.

Preferences will be applied as required to eligible proposals. Please see Section II, I.

Socio-Economic and Preference Programs.

The evaluation team will abide by the following Scoring Criterion Guidelines for the Technical Evaluation Scoring Criteria below:

Possible Points

Interpretation Explanation for Percentage Points

0% Inadequate Response does not include or fails to address the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.

Possible Points

Interpretation Explanation for Percentage Points

30% Barely Adequate

Response addresses the requirements being scored, but there are one or more omissions, flaws, or defects or the requirements are addressed in such a limited way that it results in a low degree of confidence in the proposed solution.

80% Good

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a good degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s). Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.

100% Excellent or Outstanding

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a high degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution. Applicant offers one or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.

The Proposal…