Questions_and_Answers_(2)_5_7_13.pdf

Questions and Answers

Q1: Sections 3.3, 3.3.1.1, mention a single 7kW inverter. Are two inverters, rather a single inverter, acceptable?

A1: Yes.

Q2: Section 3.0 requires developing long‐term plans for a 100KW system. If the system capacity would be limited by the existing infrastructure, are the plans to depict any necessary future changes?

A2: Yes, though work accomplished in the current phase shall not address any future changes as may be necessary at a later phase.

Q3: Section 3.3.2 suggests roof‐mount and ground‐mount installation will be considered. Shall we describe the type of solution proposed when submitting an offer on this design‐build project?

A3: Yes, describe the type of solution proposed when submitting an offer.

Q3: Section 3.5.1 states a preference for a minimum panel efficiency of 18%. While this preference is acknowledged, are lesser efficient panels acceptable?

A3: Yes, lesser efficient panels acceptable. The preference for high efficiency panels relates to the need to minimize the system footprint, where a summary description of the solution proposed shall be when submitting an offer.

Q4: Do the specifications require both a System Monitoring Device, described in section 3.7, as well as a separate Modbus enabled meter described in section 3.8?

A4: The System Monitoring Device focuses on monitoring the DC and AC output of the system, and the general status of the photovoltaic. The Modbus enabled meter shall be connected to USDA’s Enterprise

6.0 metering system, and focuses specifically on capturing the AC output of the system within this enterprise system. If the minimally described AC output measurements can be logged through the use of a custom Modbus device driver that connects the System Monitoring Device and USDA’s Enterprise

6.0 metering system, then this would meet the intent of both 3.7 and 3.8.

Q5: Optional Item 002 is stated as an option. Will we be considered non‐responsive if failing to submit a price for Optional Item 002 as well?

A5: No, offerors that only provide a bid for item 001 will be considered.