Adobe_Creek_XF_21-2.jpg

This is a project photograph related to an Invitation for Bids issued by the City of Palo Alto Utilities Department for the repair and refurbishment of a critical substation asset. The image depicts Adobe Creek Transformer-21, a 15 MVA Allis Chalmers substation transformer located in Santa Clara County, California, showing the transformer unit and its associated equipment infrastructure. The procurement requires qualified contractors to perform complete replacement of the existing 1967 TLH-21 on-load tap changer (OLTC) with a certified remanufactured unit, comprehensive oil handling and processing for approximately 4,348 gallons from the main tank and 760 gallons from the OLTC tank, replacement of radiator valves and gaskets, removal and replacement of the 60 kV SMD fuse holder, and execution of extensive pre- and post-work diagnostic testing including power factor, TTR, excitation, winding resistance, SFRA, DGA, and oil quality analysis. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the City's procurement portal by 3:00 p.m. on April 9, 2026, with questions and clarifications due by 1:00 p.m. on March 30, 2026. Work is anticipated to commence on or about July 1, 2026, with completion required within eighty (80) calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder based on demonstrated ability, experience, capacity, equipment, resources, and satisfactory performance record. Bidders must submit a Bid Bond of not less than ten percent (10%) of the aggregate bid amount for bids exceeding $25,000, and the selected contractor must furnish Performance and Payment Surety Bonds equal to 100% of the Contract Sum within ten (10) business days of award. Contractors must be registered with the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) to perform public work and must comply with prevailing wage requirements under California Labor Code Sections 1720 et seq. Liquidated damages of five hundred dollars ($500) per day apply for unexcused delays beyond the contract completion date. The specific budget or award value is not disclosed in the procurement documents, though the contract sum must include all labor, materials, equipment, prevailing wage costs, bonds, insurance, taxes, and overhead necessary for complete project delivery. No set-asides for disadvantaged enterprises or incumbent vendors are identified in the procurement.