72011718R00003.pdf

Issue Date: August 29, 2018 Questions Due: September 12, 2018, 9:00 a.m. Chisinau Time Closing Date: October 4, 2018, 4:00 p.m. Chisinau Time

SUBJECT: Request for Proposals (RFP) No.: 72011718R00003 Moldova Energy Efficiency and Renewables Project (MEERP)

The United States Agency for International Development in Moldova (USAID/Moldova) is seeking proposals from U.S. small business concerns for the USAID Moldova Energy Efficiency and Renewables Project (MEERP). Subject to availability of funds USAID anticipates awarding a single Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) Contract. The total estimated cost of this acquisition is in the range of $9 – $11 million (including option). The period of performance is anticipated to be up to three (3) years, with the possibility to exercise a two (2)-year option. The authorized Geographic Codes are 110 and 937. USAID/Moldova sets aside this procurement for U.S. Small Business entities.

The purpose of this contract is to assist Moldova with fulfilling its commitments to the Energy Community Treaty, comply with its renewable energy acquis, and to make progress towards integration of the energy sector with the EU countries. The contract aims to enhance Moldova’s energy security by assisting with development of the legal and regulatory environment for public and private investment in small scale renewable energy installations and energy efficiency.

The applicable NAICS Code is: 541990 - All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services. All qualified U.S. small business offerors are invited to submit a proposal.

Questions and comments related to this RFP must be submitted electronically to Moldovasolicitations@usaid.gov, with a copy to me at mtelevantos@usaid.gov by the deadline stated. Answers to questions received in writing will be made available to all offerors through an amendment to the RFP and posted on www.fbo.gov.

Please refer to Section L for information regarding proposal requirements. It is extremely important that electronic submissions be made by the date and time indicated above. Proposals received after the closing date and time will be processed as late and handled in accordance with FAR 15.208. Electronic submissions must be sent to the following address:

Moldovasolicitations@usaid.gov. No other form of submission will be accepted.

Issuance of this RFP in no way obligates the U.S. Government to award a contract nor does it commit the U.S. Government to pay any costs incurred in the preparation and submission of a proposal. Furthermore, the Government reserves the right to reject any and all offers, if such action is considered to be in the best interest of the U.S. Government.

Thank you for your interest in USAID programs.

Sincerely, ______/S/_______ Maria Televantos Regional Contracting Officer mailto:Moldovasolicitations@usaid.gov mailto:dharter@usaid.gov http://www.fbo.gov/ mailto:moldovasolicitations@usaid.gov

72011718R00003

SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD

4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3. SOLICITATION NUMBER

7. ISSUED BY CODE 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7)

ORDER UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 700)

6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NUMBER

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations "offer" and "offeror" mean "bid" and "bidder".

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

SEALED BID (IFB)

5. DATE ISSUED

1. THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED RATING PAGE OF PAGES

1 130

C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

EXT.NUMBERAREA CODE

B. TELEPHONE (NO COLLECT CALLS)A. NAME

10. FOR

INFORMATION

CALL:

CAUTION: LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

(Date)(Hour) local timeuntildepository located in copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if hand carried, in the

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and

PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

CONTRACT CLAUSES

PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

I

J

K

L

M SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

PACKAGING AND MARKING

DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK STATEMENT

SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSESPART I - THE SCHEDULE

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A

SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S) (X) DESCRIPTION SEC. (X)

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

18. OFFER DATE17. SIGNATURE

SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

IS DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE - ENTER

15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS

EXT.NUMBERAREA CODE

15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER

(Type or print)AND

ADDRESS

OF

OFFEROR

CODE FACILITY

16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER15A. NAME

DATEAMENDMENT NO.DATEAMENDMENT NO.

and related documents numbered and dated):

amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of

14. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF AMENDMENTS

CALENDAR DAYS (%)30 CALENDAR DAYS (%)20 CALENDAR DAYS (%)10 CALENDAR DAYS (%)

(See Section I, Clause No. 52.232.8)

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item, delivered at the

NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror)

IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

28. AWARD DATE

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

CODE 24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7)

ITEM

(4 copies unless otherwise specified)

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN

41 U.S.C. 253 (c) ( 10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) (

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION:

21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION20. AMOUNT19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED

AWARD (To be completed by government)

CODE

08/29/2018 X

720117

USAID/Moldova 00000

1600 C 10/04/2018

Armen Karapetyan 202 akarapetyan@usaid.gov

216-6276

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PAGE(S)

Maria Televantos

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition is unusable

STANDARD FORM 33 (Rev. 9-97)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within _____180_________ calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted

RFP No.: 72011718R00003

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Contents

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

B.1 PURPOSE

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE

B.3 ESTIMATED COST, FIXED FEE, AND OBLIGATED AMOUNT

B.4 PRICE SCHEDULE

B.5 COST REIMBURSABLE

B.6 INDIRECT COSTS

B.7 CEILING ON INDIRECT COSTS (if applicable)

B.8 PAYMENT OF FIXED FEE

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

C.1 PROJECT PURPOSE

C.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT

C.3 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

C.4 CROSS-CUTTING

C.5 EXPECTED PROJECT OUTCOMES:

SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKING

D.1 AIDAR 752.7009 MARKING (JAN 1993)

D.2 BRANDING STRATEGY

D.3 BRANDING AND MARKING POLICY

D.4 BRANDING IMPLEMENTATION AND MARKING PLAN

SECTION E – INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

E.2. INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OF PERFORMANCE

F.1. NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

F.4 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

F.5 AUTHORIZED WORK DAY / WEEK

F.6 DELIVERABLES AND REQUIRED REPORTING

F.7 KEY PERSONNEL

F.8 AIDAR 752.7005 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR DEVELOPMENT EXPERIENCE

DOCUMENTS (SEPTEMBER 2013)

SECTION G – CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 CONTRACTING OFFICER'S AUTHORITY

G.2 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICE

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G.3 CONTRACTING OFFICER’S REPRESENTATIVE (COR)

G.4 TECHNICAL DIRECTIONS/RELATIONSHIP WITH USAID

G.5 PAYING OFFICE

G.6 AIDAR 752.7003 DOCUMENTATION FOR PAYMENT (NOV 1998)

G.7 INVOICING INSTRUCTIONS

G.8 ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

G.9 CONTRACTOR’S PRIMARY POINT OF CONTACT

SECTION H – SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H.1. NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

H.2 INSURANCE AND SERVICES

H.3 AUTHORIZED GEOGRAPHIC CODE

H.4 LOGISTICS SUPPORT

H.5 EXECUTIVE ORDER ON TERRORISM FINANCING (FEB 2002)

H.6 AIDAR 752.222-70 USAID DISABILITY POLICY (DEC 2004)

H.7 AIDAR 752.225-70 SOURCE AND NATIONALITY REQUIREMENTS (FEB 2012)

H.8 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST

H.9 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE

H.10 AIDAR 752.7032 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL APPROVAL AND NOTIFICATION

REQUIREMENTS (APR 2014)

H.11 USAID-FINANCED THIRD-PARTY WEB SITES (NOV 2017)

H.12 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED FACILITIES OR PROPERTY

H.13 SUBMISSION OF DATASETS TO THE DEVELOPMENT DATA LIBRARY (DDL) (OCT 2014) 40

H.14 DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION

H.15 LIMITATION ON ACQUISITION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DEVIATION NOs. M/OAA-

DEV-FAR-18-2c and M/OAA-DEV-AIDAR-18-2c) (APRIL 2018)

H.16 CONFLICT OF INTEREST

H.17 AIDAR 752.7013 CONTRACTOR-MISSION RELATIONSHIPS (JUNE 2018)

H.18 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONNEL COMPENSATION

H.19 CONSENT TO SUBCONTRACT

H.20 ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS SYSTEM

H.21 CLOUD COMPUTING (MAY 2016)

H.22 AIDAR 752.204-72 ACCESS TO USAID FACILITIES AND USAID'S INFORMATION SYSTEMS

(APRIL 2018) (DEVIATION NO. M/OAA-DEV-AIDAR-18-2c))

H.23 ELECTRONIC AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ACCESSIBILITY (APRIL 2018)

PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES

I.1. FAR 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

I.2 AIDAR CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (MAR 2015)

I.3 FAR 52.204-1 APPROVAL OF CONTRACT (DEC 1989)

I.4 FAR 52.229-8 TAXES-FOREIGN COST-REIMBURSEMENT CONTRACTS (MAR 1990)

I.5 AIDAR 752.7101 VOLUNTARY POPULATION PLANNING ACTIVITIES (JUN 2008)

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I.6 AIDAR 752.7025 APPROVALS (APR 1984)

I.7 FAR 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

I.8 FAR 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (Mar 2000)

I.9 AIDAR 752.222-71 NONDISCRIMINATION

I.10 FAR 52.203-19 – PROHIBITION ON REQUIRING CERTAIN INTERNAL CONFIDENTIALITY

AGREEMENTS OR STATEMENTS (JAN 2017)

I.11 AIDAR 752.7036 USAID IMPLEMENTING PARTNER NOTICES (IPN) PORTAL FOR

ACQUISITION (JULY 2014)

I.12 REPORTING OF FOREIGN TAXES (JULY 2007)

I.13 CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS AND REQUIREMENT TO INFORM

EMPLOYEES OF WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS (APR 2014)

I.14 FAR 52.204-23 – PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING FOR HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, AND

SERVICES DEVELOPED OR PROVIDED BY KASPERSKY LAB AND OTHER COVERED

ENTITIES (JUL 2018)

PART III – LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

SECTION J - LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

PART IV – REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION K – REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER STATEMENTS

K.1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

K.2 FAR 52.204-8 ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATION (JAN 2018)

K.3 FAR 52.209-5 CERTIFICATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (OCT 2015)

K.4 FAR 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (JUL 2013)

K.5 FAR 52.209-11 REPRESENTATION BY CORPORATIONS REGARDING DELINQUENT TAX

LIABILITY OR A FELONY CONVICTION UNDER ANY FEDERAL LAW (FEB 2016)

K.6 FAR 52.209-13 VIOLATION OF ARMS CONTROL TREATIES OR AGREEMENTS-

CERTIFICATION (JUNE 2018)

K.7 FAR 52.219-1 SMALL BUSINESS REPRESENTATIONS (OCT 2014)

K.8 FAR 52.222-22 PREVIOUS CONTRACTS AND COMPLIANCE REPORTS (FEB 1999)

K.9 FAR 52.222-25 AFFIRMATIVE ACTION COMPLIANCE (APR 1984)

K.10 FAR 52.225-2 BUY AMERICAN CERTIFICATE (MAY 2014)

K.11 FAR 52.230-1 COST ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOTICES AND CERTIFICATION (OCT

2015)

K.12 FAR 52.230-7 PROPOSAL DISCLOSURE—COST ACCOUNTING PRACTICE CHANGES (APR

2005)

K.13 INSURANCE - IMMUNITY FROM TORT LIABILITY

K.14 AUTHORIZED NEGOTIATORS

K.15 SIGNATURE

SECTION L - INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

L.1 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

L.2 NOTICE LISTING SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

L.3 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

L.4 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

L.5 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

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L.6 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

L.7 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE TECHNICAL PROPOSAL

L.8 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE COST PROPOSAL

SECTION M - EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

M.1. GENERAL INFORMATION

M.2 TECHNICAL EVALUATION CRITERIA

M.3 COST/BUSINESS EVALUATION

M.4 DETERMINATION OF COMPETITIVE RANGE

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PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

B.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this contract is to obtain services as described in Section C - Statement of Work.

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE

This is a Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) Completion Contract. For the consideration set forth below, the Contractor must accomplish the performance objectives and provide the results, deliverables and output as described in Section C and Section F, and in accordance with the performance standards specified therein.

B.3 ESTIMATED COST, FIXED FEE, AND OBLIGATED AMOUNT

a) The total estimated cost for the base period and option period required hereunder, exclusive of fixed fee, if any, is $ [inserted at award]. The fixed fee, if any, is $ [inserted at award]. The total estimated cost plus fixed fee, if any, is $ [inserted at award].

b) The estimated cost for the base period required hereunder, exclusive of fixed fee, if any, is $[inserted at award]. The fixed fee for the base period is $[inserted at award]. The estimated cost plus fixed fee for the base period is $[inserted at time of award].

c) The estimated cost for the option period required hereunder, exclusive of fixed fee, if any, is $[inserted at award]. The fixed fee for the option period is $[inserted at award]. The estimated cost plus fixed fee for the option period is $[inserted at time of award].

d) Within the estimated cost plus fixed fee (if any) specified in paragraph B.3.a) above, the amount currently obligated and available for reimbursement of allowable costs incurred by the Contractor (and payment of fee, if any) for performance hereunder is $ [inserted at award]. The Contractor must not exceed the aforesaid obligated amount nor will the Government be responsible for costs incurred should the Contractor do so.

B.4 PRICE SCHEDULE

a) The following is the contract budget:

ITEM Base Period Total

Option Period Total

Total

Direct Costs Demonstration Projects* $2,000,000 $1,250,000 $3,250,000 Indirect Costs Total Minus Fixed Fee Fixed Fee Total Estimated Cost

*Does not include the cost of technical assistance

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b) The inclusion of any costs in the above cost categories does not obviate the requirement for prior approval by the Contracting Officer of cost items designated as requiring prior approval by any of the terms and conditions of this contract, including the applicable cost principles (see FAR § 52.216-07, “Allowable Cost and Payment”); nor does it constitute a determination of allowability by the Contracting Officer of any item of cost, unless specifically stated elsewhere in this contract. Also, these amounts may not be adjusted without a written modification signed by the Contracting Officer. The Contractor must not bill any amounts against this contract in excess of the amounts specified for each line item.

B.5 COST REIMBURSABLE

The U.S. dollar costs reimbursable under this contract will be limited to those costs determined to be necessary allocable, allowable, and reasonable as determined in accordance with FAR 31 (Contract Cost Principles), 2 CFR 215 (Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Non-profit Organizations), 2 CFR 230 (Cost Principles for Non-Profit Organization), FAR 52.216-7, (Allowable Cost and Payment), and FAR 52.216-8, (Fixed Fee), if applicable, and AIDAR

752.7003 (Documentation for Payment).

B.6 INDIRECT COSTS

a. Pending establishment of revised provisional or final indirect costs, USAID will reimburse allowable indirect costs on the basis of the following negotiated provisional or predetermined rates and the appropriate bases pursuant to the Contractor’s current executed Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement:

Description Rate Base Type Period % 1/ 1/ 1/

1/Base of Application:

Type of Rate:

Period:

b. The Contractor will make no change in its established method of classifying or allocating indirect costs without the prior written approval of the Contracting Officer.

B.7 CEILING ON INDIRECT COSTS (if applicable) [determination to include this clause in the contract will be made at the time of award in accordance with FAR 42.707(b)(1)]

a. Reimbursement for indirect costs shall be at the lower of the negotiated final (or predetermined) or the following ceiling rates:

Description Rate Base Type Period % 1/ 1/ 1/

1/Base of Application:

Type of Rate:

Period:

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b. The Government will not be obligated to pay any additional amount should the final indirect cost rates exceed the negotiated ceiling rates. If the final indirect cost rates are less than the negotiated ceiling rates, the negotiated rates will be reduced to conform to the lower rates.

c. This understanding will not change any monetary ceiling, obligation, or specific cost allowance or disallowance. Any changes in classifying or allocating indirect costs require the prior written approval of the Contracting Officer.

B.8 PAYMENT OF FIXED FEE

Payment of fixed fee, subject to the terms stated in FAR 52.216‐8, may be made upon receipt of a proper invoice. Subject to FAR 52.216‐8, Fixed Fee, payment of fixed fee shall be allocated based upon the proportion of the invoiced amount in the period covered by the invoice to the total estimated cost of the periods of the contract not including fixed fee.

[END OF SECTION B]

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SECTION C – DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

MOLDOVA ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEABLES PROJECT (MEERP)

C.1 PROJECT PURPOSE

The purpose of this project is to assist Moldova with fulfilling its commitments to the Energy Community Treaty, comply with its renewable energy acquis, and to make progress towards integration of the energy sector with the EU countries. The project aims to enhance Moldova’s energy security by assisting with development of the legal and regulatory environment for public and private investment in small scale renewable energy installations and energy efficiency.

This project must contribute to USAID/Moldova’s CDCS DO2 Intermediate Results, namely, IR 2.1: Improved Economic Foundation for Growth, and IR 2.2: Improved Private Sector Competitiveness in Selected Industries. Energy efficiency and renewable resources are key components for ensuring economic growth, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, improvement of national security and public health.

At a national level, scaling installations of solar PV will result in increased domestic power production and the reduction of electricity imports. The development of the solar industry will also create many new jobs in engineering, procurement and installation of the equipment, including U.S. business opportunities. At the end user level, rooftop solar provides opportunities for cost savings. Effective branding at the schools and other demonstration projects will help increase awareness of USAID support for Moldova’s development.

C.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT

Moldova has one of the lowest energy security ratings in the world, (ranking 116th in 125 countries evaluated by the World Energy Council), lacking basic diversification of sources causing vulnerability to energy supply disruption, manipulation of energy prices, corruption and abuse for political gain. This impedes economic growth, leaves the economy highly vulnerable to price shifts, draws governmental and private sector resources away from other priority issues, and creates dependence upon foreign energy suppliers. Moldova relies heavily on imports of electricity from “Moldavska Gres” located in Transnistria, with potential alternative imports from Ukraine. The recent conflict with Russia in the Donbass region and Crimea, however, has jeopardized this power source. Ukraine, in fact, is itself suffering from power shortages.

Improving energy efficiency, utilization of renewable energy sources (RES), and energy security are among the main priorities of the National Development Strategy ‘Moldova 2020ʼ, National Energy Strategy of Moldova through 2030 (NES), and Moldova’s National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP)1.

According to NES and NREAP, 159.5 MW of additional renewable energy capacity is targeted by 2020. Despite the ambitious targets set at the national level, the implementation of renewable energy projects is slow and only 5.2 MW of capacity was installed by the end of 2015, out of which only 2.38 MW was solar energy. A number of obstacles have prevented wide-scale adoption of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems at the residential and commercial level. The lack of regulatory guidelines for distributed PV permitting results in large delays as distribution companies have no mandates to process applications. Project economics are hampered by the lack of an implemented net metering protocol that will allow customers to be compensated for electricity sold to the grid. Large-scale deployment is hindered by a lack of tested business

1 https://www.energy-community.org/dam/jcr:4b3ef508-7809-4a67-92f2-c2fb5b31d356/NREAP_2014_MD.pdf

11 | P a g e models for developing projects and operating and maintaining installed systems. The sector may also require additional incentives, to properly incentive distributed energy systems among targeted customer groups.

Moldova’s Law on Promoting the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources will come into force at the end of March 2018. The new rules, which transpose EU Directive 2009/28/EC on promotion of the use of renewable energies, will introduce changes intended to incentivize the deployment of distributed energy resources in the residential and commercial sectors. For instance, the law will include net-metering for renewable energy power stations with capacity up to 100 kW, enhancing the economic viability of these projects. The law also includes requirements for non-discriminatory access to the grid, priority dispatch of electricity generated from renewable energy, guaranteed purchase for eligible producers selected through competitive auctions, and minimization of curtailment.

C.3 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

Considering commitments to the Energy Community to utilize renewable resources at the level required by the Energy Community EnCT acquis, Moldova must resolve key issues hindering the application of distributed renewable resources, including but not limited to: 1) establishment of a regulatory environment and enhanced project economics; 2) market development through demonstration projects and outreach; 3) institutional capacity building and educational programs for renewable energy deployment.

In supporting such reforms, the MEERP project development objectives are to: (i) reduce energy dependence of selected publically-owned municipal school buildings by implementing Renewable Energy (RES); (ii) demonstrate the commercial viability of the installed technology and provide models to help attract investment into energy efficiency and renewable energy projects; and (iii) enhance the policy and regulatory environment for energy efficiency and renewable energy development.

The Moldova Energy Efficiency and Renewables Project (MEERP) must partner with Moldova’s Energy sector Regulator (ANRE), Ministry of Economy and Infrastructure, electric utilities, municipal governments, local community organizations, municipal organizations, and the private sector to achieve the stated development objectives.

In order to realize the project objectives, three components must be carried out. These include:

(i) (RES) and Energy Efficiency (EE) policy and regulatory support, (ii) demonstration projects in schools and commercial buildings, and (iii) market development and outreach.

Task 1. Renewable Energy(RES) and Energy Efficiency (EE) Policy, Regulatory and Utility support Key Stakeholders: Ministry of Economy and Infrastructure (MoE), ANRE, Distribution Utilities, etc.

Under this task, the contractor must take a comprehensive approach to addressing the policy, regulatory, and utility barriers to scaling up distributed renewable energy resources in Moldova.

The passage of Moldova’s new law on Promoting Renewable Energy Resources is an important first step in this process, but additional support is required to realize the full potential of these cost effective resources. Other illustrative activities under this project include: Project level economic analysis: The implementation of a net-metering protocol provides an opportunity for enhanced project economics across all customer classes. Nonetheless, project pay-back periods will be strongly influenced by a number of variables across different customer classes.

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The contractor must undertake an analysis across different customer categories for a variety of locations and representative load profiles to determine the project economics of distributed PV and inform discussion regarding alternative incentive schemes.

Application, licensing and permitting: International experience has demonstrated that a mandated and fast-tracked application process is necessary to avoid lengthy, and costly, project implementation delays. The contractor must work with key stakeholders to develop a mandated multi-tracked application, licensing and permitting process. The contractor must provide support to ANRE on tariff setting methodology. Technical support must also be provided to the distribution companies to perform grid impact studies for larger systems, or a high concentration of systems on a single feeder, if required.

Equipment Standards and Grid Codes: The Contractor must reach a consensus among regulators, utilities, project developers and customers on appropriate distributed energy equipment standards and grid codes, this being essential to ensure effective system operation, reduce costs, streamline permitting processes, and enhance long term grid stability.

Business and Ownership Models: Globally, a variety of innovative financing and ownership models have been utilized to enhance uptake of distributed PV. These include third party leasing, rent-a-roof programs, community solar, and community choice aggregation approaches.

The contractor must analyze policy and regulatory barriers to such models, provide technical assistance to overcome such barriers, and prioritize piloting of these schemes under Task 2 activities.

Expected Results Task 1:

The project must assess the need and must work on development of draft regulations to be submitted to the MoE and ANRE for consideration. It is expected that the draft documents will include regulations concerning the use of net metering, licensing procedures and tariff setting methodologies, among others. Most regulations will be required to support implementation of the Demonstrational projects. Others will be a result of the Demonstrational Projects’ key lessons learnt.

Task 2. Demonstration Projects Key Stakeholders: Ministry of Education, project developers, DSOs, Energy Efficiency Fund, etc.

This component must focus on accelerating the commercial viability and development of RES through demonstration projects (test and measure the effects of program changes) on schools and businesses. The demonstration projects must serve as test cases for effective implementation of task 1 outcomes such as the net metering schemes, new technology standards and grid codes, and streamlined permitting and application process. It is envisioned that a large component of the project site selection, feasibility, economic analysis, and system installation will be performed by private installers with appropriate oversight and support from USAID’s prime contractor.

The Contractor must implement Demonstration projects in schools and in businesses. As part of the Demonstration projects, the Contractor must fund the installation subcontracts, or material, installation labor and all miscellaneous cost directly associated with the implementation of the demonstration project.

Task 2a: Selection of Projects Sites Project identification and selection will be based on a set of criteria developed during the inception of the project and approved by USAID. It is expected that 70% of the demonstration

13 | P a g e budget will be spent on schools and 30% on businesses. The capacities of most systems are expected to range from 20 to 100 kW. The project identification and selection process must commence with public announcement of the planned activity, request for applications (including preparation of all necessary application forms and data information), followed by survey of potential partner municipalities and a more detailed evaluation of applications that meet the minimum eligibility criteria.

At a minimum, demonstration project site selection criteria must include the following:

Level of support by the school administration, municipal government, business owner of the project. A local cost share of up to 20% of the total project costs will be sought for school projects. For business installations, the project will cover up to 20% of project costs.

Selection of the building with respect of its geographical location, sun exposure, size and overall projected project economics.

Positive results of roof (or related structure) integrity and required technical parameters necessary for installation of a PV solar system.

Environmental aspects/impact of the installation

Likelihood of commercial installations to be replicated at other similar facilities without USAID support.

Structural assessments might also be required to confirm the rooftop area, rooftop strength, the capacity of the upper level transformer, and the capacity of the existing cable line.

Task 2b: Design, Installation, and Commissioning A competitive process must be utilized to select solar installation companies to perform the design and installation work. Workshops must be held with appropriate stakeholders from the installation companies, utilities, permitting agency, and benefiting facility to review best practice design, installation, and maintenance protocols. School system design must include consideration of options, such as highly visible real time energy monitoring billboards, and accessibility to key system components, to maximize the educational and public relations impact of the installations.

For the school projects, where possible, the Contractor must engage with the Energy Efficiency Fund of Moldova to leverage funding or expand the project to include additional elements of energy efficiency (lighting, wires replacement, rooftop reinforcement, etc.). If schools can trim their energy budgets through efficiency improvements like new LED lighting, they will have more to spend on the important things like salaries and textbooks. The beneficiary schools will own the rooftop systems taking full responsibility for their operation and maintenance (after the project funded maintenance contract ends) and will also be responsible for signing net-metering agreements with the distribution companies.

For commercial projects, funds will be leveraged through co-financing by the beneficiaries, other donors and International Financial Institutions (IFIs), the Energy Efficiency Fund of Moldova, local commercial banks, and wherever appropriate, with PrimeCapital (the USAID energy efficiency DCA Guarantee beneficiary lender), to facilitate access to commercial loans. The co-financing options will be mainly secured by the beneficiaries. The project must provide support to the Prime Capital in structuring specific products for the PV solar projects, if required. Some of the sectors likely to be included in the program could include wine, textile/apparel, IT, and tourism. It is anticipated that the general design of the system prepared for school buildings will be applicable for installations also in small businesses. However, the Contractor must modify the

14 | P a g e general design as appropriate, accommodate for any differences resulting from size, applicable equipment, installation method, location, etc. The contractor must provide TA to prospective commercial beneficiaries carrying short energy assessments and analyzing the retail tariffs and current usage profile of the business to propose a system that will optimize the return on investment.

Task 2c: Monitoring and Maintenance Installation must be monitored, both by the Contractor and the installers, to ensure high quality of the work, parts and materials used. After the installation and commissioning, verification of performance must be executed for at least the first full year of operation of the system. A common package of support from the private installer must consist of an arrangement of several components, including solar panels, inverter, as well as mounting, cabling, other electrical accessories to set up a working system, and a long term warranty for system components. A visible real time energy monitoring billboard and at least a 2-years maintenance contract (paid by the project) must also be part of the package.

The Contractor must be responsible for completeness and quality of the works performed by its subcontractors, as well as for monitoring of the works quality and timeliness. USAID branding will be applied appropriately and opening events must be organized for each project, inviting USG and host country officials.

The installation for schools, including the permitting process and commissioning, must be done in line with the Law on Promoting the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources and other relevel legislation and will be coordinated with the Ministry of Education (MoED), Ministry of Economy, and the National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE).

Task 2 Expected Results:

Educational institutions facing budget shortfalls can slash operating costs by lowering their electric bills with solar power. With application of net metering rules, the project’s beneficiaries may generate and sell electricity to the grid especially during the summer, and create a substantial credit balance which can be utilized during the school year to contribute to a better education for students. Watching low-cost renewable energy in action can inspire kids, their families, and entire communities to adopt low cost energy solutions that bring real savings to schools and possibly to other technology adopters.

Electricity prices have increased significantly over the last few years, pushing up operational expenses for businesses, making them less competitive. Meanwhile, the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has declined, making solar an increasingly affordable way for businesses to offset their electricity consumption and hedge against future price rises. It is generally considered that a small business consuming 50,000 Kwh per annum that installs a 15kw system can displace an average of 33% of its electricity usage.

Detailed and professional energy assessments for businesses will reveal consumption patterns compared to the expected generation from perspective solar systems that will optimize the return on investment and could incentivize business owners to invest in such systems and make their businesses more competitive.

Output will be measured by:

- number of projects completed and operated

- number of PV project completion events organized with USG participation

- reduced demand for equivalent grid electricity

- number of net-metering contracts facilitated

- cost savings to the private business, which can be effectively used for investments and upgrades

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Task 3. Market Development and Outreach Activities in this task must focus on enhancing awareness of the public and other stakeholders about the attractiveness of distributed solar investments as well as on enhancing the capacity for municipal officials, business owners and managers, local contractors/installers, and representatives of the government agencies responsible for RES promotion of private sector PV installers. The Contractor must utilize available capacity building methods including “learning by doing”, classroom education, information dissemination, round tables form or conferences gathering.

Classroom education: the Contractor must prepare two basic courses for at least three groups each of potential designers and installers in theory and practical knowledge of solar PV system design, installation and operation. These courses must provide participants with basic knowledge of the system necessary for their engagement in projects implementation, in compliance with the Regulation on certification of RES installers. The courses may be prepared and carried out together with a leading training/technical institutes to ensure sustainability.

Learning by doing: the Contractor must engage local engineers and installers and must provide training and specific instruction during the installation and must closely monitor quality and timelines of executed works.

Round tables: the Contractor must organize at least 3 round tables (annual event) for potential owners, installers, bank representatives, electric utilities, donors, and government agencies representatives. Round tables must create a forum for discussion of benefits, hindrances and road blocks to solar PV installation and for dissemination of information.

Conference: the Contractor must organize at least one conference with the participation of large numbers of stakeholders to disseminate the achievements of the project. This conference must be organized at the end of the third year of project performance.

Additionally the Contractor must work with educators at benefiting schools to develop a curriculum to highlight the operations and benefit of the solar installations; support customer outreach “solarize” campaigns with utilities or installation companies; and promote innovative leasing and financing schemes in collaboration with project developers and financial institutions.

Task 3 Expected Results:

The project must provide valuable experience, and demonstrative and educational effects and benefits (technical feasibility, economic viability, safeguards, and project management) for developing similar commercially successful projects in other public and commercial buildings.

C.4 CROSS-CUTTING

Gender Considerations: The contractor is required to ensure that gender issues are suitably addressed throughout the activity and to undertake specific efforts to ensure that the interventions do not discriminate against either sex.

Communication: An intense branding strategy must be promoted to emphasize USAID’s contribution toward development of the innovative demonstrative projects.

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C.5 EXPECTED PROJECT OUTCOMES:

• US Assistance to Moldova gains more visibility.

• The project will clearly and tangibly demonstrate all steps of the implementation process, including the permitting and commercial contracting with the utility to purchase the power from renewable resource under the feed-in tariff.

• The project will make the PV solar application process visible and will very likely prompt others to follow.

• The project must set up the process of installation and utilization of net metering which is necessary for making PV solar systems economical for all possible users.

• Results/experience from the project must support implementation of the RES law by providing tangible information on best approaches supported by real life installation.

• Schools will benefit from the installation by lower electricity expenses. Electricity produced and sold to the grid (especially through the summer) will generate credit with the DSO which will be used during the school year to finance school or institutional improvements.

• The project will set an example for others to follow.

• Energy from renewables will be generated, thus contributing to Moldova’s overall energy security.

[END OF SECTION C]

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SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKING

D.1 AIDAR 752.7009 MARKING (JAN 1993)

a) It is USAID policy that USAID-financed commodities and shipping containers, and project construction sites and other project locations be suitably marked with the USAID emblem.

Shipping containers are also to be marked with the last five digits of the USAID financing document number. As a general rule, marking is not required for raw materials shipped in bulk (such as coal, grain, etc.), or for semi-finished products which are not packaged.

b) Specific guidance on marking requirements must be obtained prior to procurement of commodities to be shipped, and as early as possible for project construction sites and other project locations. This guidance will be provided through the cognizant technical office indicated on the cover page of this contract, or by the Mission Director in the Cooperating Country to which commodities are being shipped, or in which the project site is located.

c) Authority to waive marking requirements is vested with the Regional Assistant Administrators, and with Mission Directors.

d) A copy of any specific marking instructions or waivers from marking requirements is to be sent to the Contracting Officer; the original be retained by the Contractor.

D.2 BRANDING STRATEGY

Per ADS 320.3.2.1, the Branding Strategy for this Contract is as follows:

The Project Name is Moldova Energy Efficiency and Renewables Project (MEERP). In every public event or document and in discussions with the Government of Moldova and other counterparts, the Contractor must identify the activity as Moldova Energy Efficiency and Renewables Project on each reference.

Branding: All USAID logos on materials and communications produced under this contract must be positioned in accordance with the standardized USAID regulations on branding. The Contractor must use full branding and the USAID tagline “From the American People” on materials and communications, which may be translated into local languages as appropriate. Co-branding and no branding must only be considered on a case-by-case basis as considered appropriate by the Contracting Officer (CO) and Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). All requests for branding waivers require the approval of the USAID Principal Officer.

Desired Level of Visibility: The desired level of visibility is high, except in circumstances where the CO and COR determine that USAID branding could compromise achievement of the activity’s results or objectives. All branding must comply with the standardized USAID regulations on branding and USAID identity must be prominently displayed on commodities or equipment. In any co-branding approved by the CO and COR, the USAID brand must be at least equal in size and prominence with that of its partners, and of other U.S. government (USG) and non-USG entities engaged in a specific activity implemented under this contract, on all public or internal documentation and communications, commodities or equipment, publications, advertising, presentations, studies, reports, websites, brochures, and events.

Organizations to be Acknowledged: When activities occur in coordination with other USG or non-USG partners, including GoM partners, acknowledgement of the contribution and efforts of

19 | P a g e these organizations must be included in any relevant public or internal documentation, publications, advertising, presentations, brochures, etc. Activity documents must not use the Contractor’s logo, but must acknowledge that the document was prepared for USAID/Moldova.

D.3 BRANDING AND MARKING POLICY

This Activity will be branded and marked in accordance with ADS 320 requirements for USAID direct contracting. Agency policy requires that implementing partners provide a "Branding Implementing Strategy," indicating how they propose to name and promote the USAID-funded programs, and a "Marking Plan," detailing Activity materials that will showcase the USAID identity.

1. A well-defined Branding Implementing Strategy describes how the Activity is named and positioned; how it is promoted and communicated to beneficiaries, and citizens of Moldova; and how USAID will be identified and acknowledged.

2. A well-defined Marking Plan details the public communications and activity materials and other items that will visibly bear the USAID identity.

The Contractor must comply with the requirements of USAID “Graphic Standards Manual” available at: www.usaid.gov/branding with the policies found at Automated Directives System (ADS) Chapter 320, or any successor branding policy.

D.4 BRANDING IMPLEMENTATION AND MARKING PLAN

The contractor Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan will be finalized and submitted for Contracting Officer approval. The approved Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan submitted by the Contractor will be incorporated into the contract. The contractor must follow the approved plan during implementation of this contract unless a waiver is requested and approved. Guidance on applying for waivers can be found at USAID Automated Directive Supplement Chapter 320, Branding and Marking.

[END OF SECTION D]

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SECTION E – INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The following contract clauses pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) in accordance with the clause at FAR "52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE" in Section I of this contract. See FAR 52.252-2 for an internet address (if specified) for electronic access to the full text of a clause.

NUMBER TITLE DATE

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR Chapter 1)

52.246-5 INSPECTION OF SERVICES—COST-REIMBURSEMENT APR 1984

E.2. INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

USAID inspection and acceptance of services, reports and other required deliverables or outputs shall take place at the principal place of performance or at any other location where the services are performed and reports and deliverables or outputs are produced or submitted. The COR listed in Section G has been delegated authority to inspect and accept all services, reports and required deliverables or outputs.

[END OF SECTION E]

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SECTION F – DELIVERIES OF PERFORMANCE

F.1. NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The following contract clauses pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) in accordance with the clause at FAR "52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE" in Section I of this contract.

NUMBER TITLE DATE

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR Chapter 1)

52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER AUG 1989

52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER ALTERNATE I APR 1984

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The estimated period of performance for this Contract is three years plus one, two-year option period. The base period of performance for the contract is from [TBD] to [TBD]. There is one subsequent, two-year option period, making the maximum length of the contract 5 years. The exercise of the option is subject to the availability of funds, USG need for the program and satisfactory Contractor performance of work under the contract.

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The place of performance under this contract is Moldova.

F.4 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

USAID will evaluate the Contractor’s performance in accordance with FAR 42.15, corresponding USAID procedures, and the Contractor’s adherence to the annual work plan, reporting against its Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Plan, and quality reports/ deliverables described in Section F.6 below. USAID will evaluate the Contractor’s performance during the initial, intermediate, and final periods of the contract in accordance with the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS).

The Contracting Officer and the COR will jointly conduct the evaluation of the Contractor’s overall performance on an annual basis. This evaluation will form the basis of the Contractor’s permanent performance record under this contract. The following general performance standards will form the basis of the evaluation for the Contractor Performance Assessment Report (CPAR):

1. Quality of Product and Service;

2. Schedule;

3. Cost Control;

4. Management;

5. Regulatory Compliance.

F.5 AUTHORIZED WORK DAY / WEEK

No overtime or premium pay is authorized under this contract. The contractor is authorized up to a 5 day workweek for long-term staff in the field with no premium pay, and 6 day workweek for short-term advisors in the field with no premium pay.

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F.6 DELIVERABLES AND REQUIRED REPORTING

In addition to the requirements set forth for submission of reports and in the AIDAR clause 752.242-70, Periodic Progress Reports, the contractor must submit the following plans, reports and deliverables electronically to the Contracting Officer’s Representative and/or Contracting Officer.

All deliverables and required reporting must be submitted in English language, unless otherwise specified. The contractor must promptly notify the Contracting Officer, of any problems, delays, or adverse conditions which materially impair the contractor’s ability to meet the requirements of the contract.

F.6.1 DELIVERABLES

Base Period Deliverables:

Assess and develop renewables sector required regulations.

Development of a databank of meteorological data to be used for system calculations Development of a general design and specifications of the solar PV system At least 100 projects identified, at least 50 selected for scheduled implementation Training curriculum developed in collaboration with local institute or vocational/technical school.

Three groups (at least 50 people) trained in design and installation of solar PV At least 3 round tables (annual event) executed One conference organized

Option Period Deliverables (if exercised):

At least 50 projects selected for scheduled implementation Policy and regulatory environment for energy efficiency and renewable energy development improved.

Develop innovative financing and ownership models to enhance uptake of distributed PV

F.6.2 PLANS

1. Annual Work Plans: Annual work plans are required throughout the life of the contract.

The Contractor must submit annual work plans describing how the…