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This is a procurement image file related to an Invitation for Bids (IFB) issued by the City of Palo Alto Utilities Department in California for the repair and refurbishment of Adobe Creek Transformer-21, a 15 MVA Allis Chalmers substation transformer located in Santa Clara County. The project scope includes complete replacement of an 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 pressure testing of the main tank. The contractor must also perform extensive pre- and post-work diagnostic testing including power factor testing, TTR (turns ratio) testing, excitation testing, winding resistance measurement, SFRA (sweep frequency response analysis), DGA (dissolved gas analysis), and oil quality analysis. Proposals must be submitted electronically 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 in the amount of 100% of the Contract Sum within ten (10) business days of award. Contractors are subject to liquidated damages of five hundred dollars ($500) per day for unexcused delays beyond the contract completion date. All 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., with valid California licensing required. The City of Palo Alto Utilities will be responsible for de-energizing, disconnecting, isolating, and grounding the transformer prior to work commencement and disposing of any transformer oil not intended for reuse. No specific budget or award values, set-asides for disadvantaged enterprises, or incumbent vendors are identified in the procurement documents. The contract is governed by California law with venue in Santa Clara County, and disputes shall be resolved through a Contract Dispute Resolution Process including claims submission, meet and confer, mediation, and binding arbitration.