Solicitation RFIs_Microgrid_7-Aug-26.pdf

1. We acknowledge that the bid documents required access for this solicitation.

However, we did not identify any Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) requirements in the solicitation. Could you please confirm it is acceptable for us to share the bid documents with prospective subcontractors and vendors solely for the purpose of obtaining bids for this project?

Yes, the Contractor can share with Sub-contractors.

2. Do we need to do a CMMC verification? While not listed on the solicitation posting, we’d like to ensure that we are not missing any documents.

CMMC is not necessary.

3. Section 32 31 13 appears to reference both PVC-coated chain-link fencing and aluminum-alloy-coated chain-link fencing, and also lists multiple potential coating colors. Please confirm the required finish and color for the permanent chain-link fencing and gates.

Please spec aluminum-alloy coated fencing in the standard metallic grey color.

4. For the PV & BESS options please provide 12 months of electrical billings from the utility provider. Please include, where available, interval kW demand, kWh consumption, kVAR/kVARh, power factor, peak demand, minimum demand, meter identifiers, and any seasonal or operational load variations applicable to the microgrid service area. Please also confirm whether the contractor must obtain any additional data directly from Ohio Edison and, if so, whether the Government will provide the necessary authorization. Is that included in any of the bid documents?

The PV and BESS have already been spec’d, but electrical billing data can be provided to the awardee. Interconnect agreement has been submitted to the utility.

Construction contractor must coordinate the recloser installation and commissioning with Ohio Edison.

5. Please clarify the bid bond calculation. In Provision/Clauses 52.228-1, Bid Guarantee, (c) states, “the amount of the bid guarantee shall be 20 percent of the bid price or $3,000,000.00, whichever is less.” Does that mean 20% of whichever is less – the bid price or $3M? In other words, if the total bid price is $7M then the bid guarantee would be $600k ($3M x 20%). Is that correct?

No, that is incorrect. You do not multiply 20% by the $3M cap.

The formula is a straight comparison between two final numbers: [20% of your total bid price] vs. [$3,000,000]. You owe the lesser of those two final amounts.

For example, for a $7,000,000 bid, your bid guarantee must be $1,400,000 (not $600,000).

6. Will the Government please provide the basis-of-design manufacturer for the microgrid control system that was used in development of the specifications and contract drawings?

Contracting regulations prevent us from being able to provide the BOD.

7. Will the Government please provide the basis-of-design manufacturer for the gaseous emergency engine generators that was used in development of the specifications and contract drawings?

8. Index of Drawings Sheet ID GI001 of the contract drawings lists a Sheet Number of “S- 502” with a corresponding Sheet Name of “Structural Special Inspections.” The contract drawings do not include this sheet. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that the reference to Sheet Number/Name S-502/Structural Special Inspections is not applicable?

Sheet S-502 is N/A.

9. Overall General Note 9 on Sheet ID GI004 of the contract drawings states, “The Contractor shall be responsible for relocation of all excess excavated material, soils to an onsite location as directed by the Contracting Officer.” However, Subpart 3.9 – Disposition of Surplus Material of Section 31 00 00 of the specifications states, “Remove from Government property all surplus or other soil material not required or not suitable for filling or backfilling . . .” The Equipment Pad detail H9 on Sheet ID S-

501 of the contract drawings requires that the area below and around the concrete equipment slab area (66 LF x 60 LF plus the perimeter), indicated on Sheet ID CS101 of the contract drawings, to be undercut to a depth of 3’-0” and backfilled with “compacted frost-resistant structural fill,” as specified by Subpart 2.1.1 of Section 31 00 00 of the specifications. More significantly, the Solar Panel Foundation detail C1 on Sheet ID S-501 of the contract drawings also requires the area below and around the solar array area (approximately ~350 LF x ~160 LF plus the perimeter), indicated on Sheet ID CS101 of the contract drawings, to be undercut to a depth of greater than ~2’-2” and backfilled with “compacted frost-resistant structural fill,” as specified by Subpart 2.1.1 of Section 31 00 00 of the specifications. As a result of performing this undercutting and placement of structural fill material below the solar array area and concrete equipment slab area, there will be in excess of 7,500 cubic yards of surplus soil material that will need to be exported. This approximate quantity does not include any additional surplus soil that will be generated by the construction of the other project features (i.e., gravel roadway, ditch/swale, electrical and telecommunications duct banks, cast-in-place concrete pads and footings, etc.). Will the Government please clarify if the Contractor will be able to relocate the surplus soil material to “an onsite location” as indicated by the referenced contract drawings and, if so, where specifically that “onsite location” will be located (i.e., within the Limit of Work, or somewhere else on the base); or if the Contractor will be required to remove the surplus soil material from Government property as required by the referenced specification?

Contractor will be able to relocate the soil to an onsite location. That location is tentatively beside and around Building 166 (~300 ft from the center of the PV array).

10. Will the Government please provide the bidders with the “Geotechnical Boring and Test Data” (i.e., “subsurface boring logs” and “geotechnical memorandum”) referenced in Overall General Note 16 on Sheet ID GI004 of the contract drawings (and referenced in Section 31 00 00 of the specifications)?

The boring logs were not directly provided to the Government. However, from the Design Narrative, “Based on the field exploration program and laboratory test results, the subsurface conditions below the topsoil include a loose to medium dense silt with sand layer, comprising silt with some fine to coarse sand and little to trace fine gravel, to depths ranging from 6 to 18 feet bgs. Additionally, there is a silt and clay layer consisting of medium stiff to hard silt and clay with some fine to coarse sand and little to trace fine to coarse gravel, extending to the maximum explored depth of 21 feet bgs.” The A-E should be able to provide the full boring report to the awarded construction contractor.

11. Utility Coordination note 4 on Sheet ID GI004 of the contract drawings states, “Costs for temporary removal or replacement (to be conducted by the private utility owner) will be the responsibility of the Contractor.” Will the Government please clarify where specifically any “temporary removal or replacement (to be conducted by the private utility owner)” will be required for this project?

No temporary removal or replacement is anticipated for the project; if this changes, the contractor is responsible for the associated cost and coordination with the private utility company.

12. On Existing Conditions Site Plan Sheet ID V102 of the contract drawings, as well as from viewing the existing conditions from Google Street View, there appears to be an existing, elevated electronic sign with associated foundation and electrical feed that is located in the footprint of the work at the project site; and, according to the contract drawings, it appears that these items are to remain in place. Will the Government please clarify if these items are to remain in place, or if they are going to be removed by the Government prior to the performance of the project?

The existing sign is to be demolished and removed be the construction contractor.

The breaker for the sign is in the Guard Shack Bldg 149. A 120V feed and CAT6 can be demo’d in place.

13. On Existing Conditions Site Plan Sheet ID V102 of the contract drawings, there are two existing sanitary sewer lines that are located in the footprint of the work at the project site (including directly below the planned locations of the new electrical equipment); and, according to the contract drawings, these two existing sanitary sewer lines are to remain in place. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that the Contractor is not responsible for any work associated with these existing sanitary sewer lines and, if the existing sanitary sewer lines are in conflict with the new work, that the existing sanitary sewer lines will be relocated by the Government or a modification will be provided to the Contractor to relocate any existing sanitary sewer lines that are in conflict with the new work?

Contractor is not responsible for any sewer line work. The pad for the new electrical equipment is to be located over a section of the existing sewer.

14. On Existing Conditions Site Plan Sheet ID V102 of the contract drawings, there is an existing water line that is located in the footprint of the work at the project site (including directly below the planned locations of the new electrical equipment);

and, according to the contract drawings, this existing water line is to remain in place. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that the Contractor is not responsible for any work associated with this existing water line and, if the existing water line is in conflict with the new work, that the existing water line will be relocated by the Government or a modification will be provided to the Contractor to relocate any existing water lines that are in conflict with the new work?

No water line is believed to conflict with the new work. If it is found to be found to be in conflict, Contractor is responsible for the relocation.

15. The new double-wide chain-link gate indicated on Sheet ID CS101 of the contract drawings is noted as “16-ft chain link fence gate (typ. of 3).” However, there is only one (1) new double-wide chain-link gate indicated on the contract drawings. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that the Contractor is only required to provide one (1) double-wide chain-link gate?

Confirmed – there is only one (1) double-wide chain-link gate.

16. There are two (2) locations of “12” RCP” indicated on Sheet ID CS101 of the contract drawings, with dimensions noted to be 29’-6” (at each location). However, these same two (2) locations of “12” RCP,” indicated on Sheet ID CG101 of the contract drawings, are indicated to have dimensions of 12’-6” and 20’-0”, respectively. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that we are to utilize the dimensions indicated on Sheet ID CG101 (not Sheet ID CS101) of the contract drawings?

Sheet ID CS101 has the correct dimensions – both should be 29’-6”.

17. The detail that is referenced for the two (2) new “Equipment Slab(s)” indicated on Sheet ID CS102 of the contract drawings is identified as “B / S-501.” However, there is no detail “B” included on Sheet ID S-501 of the contract drawings. Will the Government please provide the missing detail for these two (2) new “Equipment Slab(s)?”

The contractor shall reference details H9 and H16 on Sheet S-501 for the Equipment Slab details.

18. The Detail: 8-Ft Chain Link Fence Gate detail K14 on Sheet ID CG201 of the contract drawings indicates a fence and gate height of “10’-0.” However, both descriptions for details K8 and K14 on Sheet ID CG201, as well as Site Plan Sheet ID CS101, of the contract drawings indicate that the new chain-link fencing and gates are to have a height of 8’-0”. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that the new chain-link fencing and gates are to have a height of 8’-0” (not 10’-0”)?

Chain-link fence and gates are to be of 8’ height.

19. The Equipment Pad detail H9 on Sheet ID S-501 of the contract drawings appears to indicate that individual “Equipment Pad(s)” (for the pad-mounted transformer, microgrid switchboard, generators, and BESS) are to be constructed on top of the overall 66 LF x 60 LF “Equipment Slab” indicated on Sheet ID CS101 of the contract drawings; however, the detail is unclear, as there is no further information provided.

Will the Government please clarify if individual equipment pads (for the pad-mounted transformer, microgrid switchboard, generators, and BESS) are to be constructed on top of the overall 66 LF x 60 LF “Equipment Slab,” and, if so, provide the details (i.e., dimensions, reinforcing, etc.) for these equipment pads?

Individual equipment pads are to be raised on top of the slab. Equipment pads are to be constructed to meet the load of the equipment. Since name-brand equipment cannot be specifically spec’d, equipment pad sizing must be calculated by construction contractor.

20. The Plan: Enlarged Demolition Plan detail C2 and Plan: Enlarged Modification Plan detail C7 indicated on Sheet ID E-102 of the contract drawings require an existing duct bank to be demolished and new duct banks (along with new equipment) to be installed. This work will require cutting and patching of the existing finished surfaces. Will the Government please clarify what type and thickness of existing surfaces are to be restored in this area?

Switch pad is ~10” thick. Area around pad is gravel. Please fill cuts to match existing.

21. Certain work included on Sheet ID E-102 of the contract drawings is indicated to be part of a “Bid Option.” For example:

• the new duct bank (E16 / E-102) routed between the new pad-mounted recloser and the new RTU/metering cabinet;

• the new RTU/metering cabinet;

• the new duct bank (C12 / E-102) routed between the new RTU/metering cabinet; and

• the new direct-buried duct bank routed from the new RTU/metering cabinet to outside of the existing fence, for use by the utility company.

Also, Subparts 2.3.14 through 2.3.14.5e.(5)(b) of Section 26 37 13 of the specifications are identified as “RTU (Option Item).” Will the Government please clarify in which bid option (i.e., Option Line Item 0002 or Option Line Item 0003) is the cost of this work to be included?

This cost should be included in Bid Option 1 (PV Array).

22. The Plan: Site detail C2 on Sheet ID E-401 of the contract drawings requires the new telecommunications duct bank (E17 / E-401) to be constructed through, what appears to be, existing concrete pavement. This work will require cutting and patching of the existing concrete pavement. Will the Government please clarify the thickness of the existing concrete pavement (and any required aggregate base course, reinforcing/dowels, and any other applicable details) that will be required for this work?

The pavement in this area is asphalt. Cuts through this area are to be patched to match existing.

23. Sheet IDs E-601 and E-602 of the contract drawings includes a note that states, “Utility owned recloser (Contractor to provide per utility specifications).” (Note – this appears to be in addition to the “new 15kV three-phase pad-mounted recloser” that is also to be provided.) Will the Government please confirm that the Contractor (not the electrical utility company) is to provide this “utility owned recloser?” If so, will the Government please provide the bidders with the “utility specifications” for this “utility owned recloser?”

Contractor must provide the utility owned recloser. Contractor must coordinate with utility company on specs for their recloser.

24. Will the Government please clarify who owns and operates the domestic water utility at Springfield-Beckley Air National Guard Base, so that we may contact to coordinate the requirements for temporary connections?

Domestic water infrastructure on base is owned by the Government. Coordinate with 178 CES (Base Squadron) for connections.

25. Will the Government please clarify who owns and operates the sanitary sewer utilities at Springfield-Beckley Air National Guard Base, so that we may contact to coordinate the requirements for temporary connections?

Sanitary sewer infrastructure on base is owned by the Government. Coordinate with 178 CES (Base Squadron) for connections.

26. Will the Contractors and subcontractors be required to make payment for access badges in order to timely access Springfield-Beckley Air National Guard Base on a daily basis?

Contractors and subcontractors are not required to pay for access badges.

Contracting will send out instructions for access to the bid opening – additional information for long-term access will be coordinated with the awardee.

27. The specifications include Section 31 05 19.13 – Geotextiles for Earthwork, which states, “Place the geotextile . . . at the locations shown.” The contract drawings do not show any locations where geotextiles are to be provided. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that Section 31 05 19.13 of the specifications is not applicable, or clarify where these geotextiles are to be provided?

Geotextile is required under the gravel area of the PV array.

28. The requirements contained within Section 32 31 13 of the specifications make reference to “PVC coated” fencing and gate materials. Will the Government please confirm its intent that all new chain-link fencing and gate materials are to be PVC-coated?

Please spec aluminum-alloy coated fence and gate materials.

29. Subpart 2.3 – Fencing of Section 01 50 00 of the specifications states, “To block public view of the construction, enclose the project work area and Contractor lay-down area with a 8 ft high chain link fence and gates with brown, UV light resistant, plastic fabric mesh netting . . .” Certain portions of the Limit of Work indicated on Sheet ID CS101 of the contract drawings contains (or is adjacent to) existing permanent fencing. Will the Government allow the Contractor to utilize portions of the existing permanent fencing for certain portions of the temporary construction fencing perimeter? If so, will the Government require the Contractor to still install temporary plastic fabric mesh netting on these sections of the existing permanent fencing, or may the existing permanent fencing remain as-is?

Yes, permanent fencing may be used where it abuts temporary fencing. Mesh should be installed on these sections as well.

30. Will the Government please confirm our understanding that the Contractor will not be charged for the natural gas usage that will be required to start up, test, inspection, and commission the microgrid, between the time of equipment start-up through substantial completion of the project?

Contractor will not be charged for natural gas usage in this manner.

31. Will the Government please clarify if the “qualified testing organization” specified by Subpart 1.4.1 of Section 26 08 00 of the specifications and the “independent commissioning firm” specified by Subpart 1.5 of Section 26 08 00 of the specifications are required to be two (2) separate, independent companies?

These can be performed by the same company.

32. Subpart 1.1 – Summary of Section 26 32 13.16 of the specifications requires the new generators to be provided in a “non-walk-in enclosure.” However, Subpart 2.7b

– Outdoor Engine Generator Enclosure of Section 26 32 13.16 of the specifications requires the new generator enclosures to be “walk-in enclosure[s].” Will the Government please confirm our understanding that the generators are to be provided in “non-walk-in enclosure[s]” as specified by Subpart 1.1 – Summary of Section 26 32 13.16 of the specifications?

Generator enclosures are not required to be walk-in enclosures.

33. Section 26 41 00 – Lightning Protection System is included in the specifications, and includes generic lightning protection system requirements. However, neither the specifications nor the contract drawings indicate specifically where the lightning protection system is to be provided. Will the Government please clarify where the lightning protection system is required to be provided? More specifically, it is required across the entire project site (throughout the entire area of the solar arrays, as well as at the equipment slab area), or is there only a specific location where the lightning protection system is required to be provided?

See the UFCs and NPFA guidelines referenced in the Specifications for comprehensive requirements.

34. Subpart 2.1.3.12 – Control System Resilience and Redundancy of Section 26 37 13 of the specifications states, “Redundant communication paths are to be established using star topology.” Further, Subpart 3.10.1 – Wire and Cable of Section 26 37 13 of the specifications states, “Additional raceways not shown in the drawings but required for proper system operation must be provided and installed.

Utilize separate raceways to segregate cables for redundant equipment and systems.” Both Sheet IDs E-603 and T-101 of the contract drawings very specifically indicate the quantity and the routing of the new fiber optic and CAT6 cabling, including installing a certain number of new fiber optic cables through EXISTING telecommunications duct banks and buildings in order to tie in to certain existing and new equipment. The contract drawings do not indicate that any redundant communication paths and/or separate raceways are to be provided. Will the Government please confirm that the Contractor is only required to provide the new fiber optic and CAT6 cabling quantities and routing indicated by the contract drawings? If the Government is going to require additional, redundant communications paths and/or separate raceways, please update the contract drawings to indicate these additional requirements.

Additional, redundant communications paths in separate raceways beyond what is shown in the contract drawings is not required.

35. Subpart 3.18 – Maintenance and Service of Section 26 37 13 of the specifications includes requirements for providing maintenance and service; however, the duration required for the maintenance and service is not specified. Will the Government please clarify the duration, if any, for which the Contractor must maintain and service the microgrid control system?

Maintenance and service after final acceptance is not required.

36. Paragraph 1.6.5 of the Statement of Work states, “Obtain any required Air Quality (EPA) permit from the Regional Air Pollution Control Agency (RAPCA) for Dayton, Ohio.” Will the Government please clarify if a “Air Quality (EPA) permit” will be required for this project?

Contactor is responsible for evaluation of permit requirement based on equipment being supplied.

37. Paragraph 4 – Bid Structure of the Statement of Work states, “The Contractor shall submit bids that include individual prices for each item listed below, plus an aggregate total cost that includes all items (001-003) for ease of identification by the KO of the apparent low bid.” The Bid Schedule included in Section 00 10 00 of the solicitation does not include a place for the bidders to include an aggregate total cost. Will the Government please clarify if the Contractors are required to add a line on the Bid Schedule for the aggregate total cost?

Technically the total amount of all the CLINs (Base+the two options) would go in block 22. AMOUNT, however you can also add a line under the CLINs if that would make it easier. The prices for CLINs, options, and total bid price just need to be readily apparent during the Bid Opening.

38. Paragraph 4 – Bid Structure of the Statement of Work and the Bid Schedule included in Section 00 10 00 of the solicitation do not include a CLIN for the bid option work indicated on Sheet ID E-102 of the contract drawings. Will the Government please clarify where the bid amount for this bid option is to be included on the Bid Schedule?

This cost should be included in Bid Option 1 (PV Array).

39. Paragraph 4 – Bid Structure of the Statement of Work and the Bid Schedule included in Section 00 10 00 of the solicitation is missing the pre-priced CLINs (bid allowances) for the work to be performed by the privatized natural gas company (Columbia Gas of Ohio) and by the privatized electrical utility company (Ohio Edison). Service and Metering note 3 on Sheet ID E-003 of the contract drawings states, “Pay fees and charges for permanent service via bid allowance and submit power company invoices to owner for substation.” Will the Government please clarify the amounts of the pre-priced CLINs (bid allowances) for the work to be performed by the privatized natural gas company (Columbia Gas of Ohio) and by the privatized electrical utility company (Ohio Edison), as well as clarify where these amounts are to be included on the Bid Schedule? Or, will the Government please confirm that the Government (not the Contractor) will be responsible for directly contracting with, and making payments to, the privatized utility companies for the performance of the privatized utility companies’ work and responsibilities?

Awarded Contractor is responsible for working with privatized natural gas and electrical utility companies for any costs related to this project. We do not have any pre-negotiated prices established with the privatized utility companies.

40. The solicitation indicates that the bids are due by 11:00 a.m. on Monday, 3 August 2026. We respectfully request that the Government consider shifting the bid due date to another business day. A Monday morning bid due date significantly limits the contractor’s ability to finalize bids after the close of business on the preceding day, as during the weekend, subcontractors, suppliers, and other key personnel are generally unavailable to respond to last-minute questions, provide clarifications, resolve discrepancies, and submit revised pricing. In addition, many subcontractors and suppliers routinely submit their final quotes on the last business day before the bid due date. A Monday morning bid due date essentially eliminates the opportunity for meaningful review, coordination, and confirmation of those quotes before submitting the bids. Providing a bid due date on another business day would allow the contractors to complete appropriate and thorough review, improve the accuracy and completeness of the bids, and encourage greater competition, ultimately benefiting the Government through more competitive pricing.

Bid Opening date was extended to 14 August 2026 due to high number of RFIs received. Any extension past this date could jeopardize our ability to award this contract.

41. Subpart 3.6.1 – Periodic Schedule Update Meetings of Section 01 32 01.00 10 of the specifications states, “The Contractor scheduler must attend in person unless virtual attendance is approved by Contracting Officer." With the user-friendliness of current technology, it has become customary for the scheduler to participate in update meetings virtually. Will the Government please consider allowing the scheduler to attend and perform their duties virtually during the Periodic Schedule Update Meetings? Allowing the scheduler to participate virtually will increase efficiency due to having more direct access to the required technology, without sacrificing the effectiveness of the meetings.

Contractor may allow virtual attendance to progress meetings, as long as it does not impede on project schedule or quality.

42. Subpart 3.2.1.5 – Stormwater Notice of Termination for Construction Activities of Section 01 57 19 of the specifications states, "Prepare as-built topographic survey information required by the permitting agency for certification of the stormwater management system, and provide to the Contracting Officer." Will the Government please clarify what extent of the project site will require the "as-built topographic survey information?"

For this project, the Government does not require submission of a project-wide as-built topographic survey under Section 01 57 19. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable NPDES permit requirements and provide any documentation required by the permitting authority to obtain permit closeout.

43. Subpart 1.2.1.1 – Level One SSHO of Section 01 35 26 of the specifications states, “A designated employee with full-time SSHO responsibility that meets and follows the requirements of EM 385-1-1.” Additionally, Subpart 1.7.3 – Contract Site Safety and Health Officer(s) (SSHOs) Minimum Requirements of Section 01 35 26 of the specifications states, “Provide a minimum of one Level One SSHO that meets the requirements of EM 385-1-1 for this project.” Will the Government please confirm our understanding that for this project the SSHO is to be assigned no other duties other than SSHO?

SSHO does not need to be an independent role for a single individual.

44. Subpart 3.5.1 – Preconstruction Air Permits of Section 01 57 19 of the specifications states, “Notify the Air Program Manager, through the Contracting Officer, at least 6 months prior to bringing equipment, assembled or unassembled, onto the Installation, so that air permits can be secured. Necessary permitting time must be considered in regard to construction activities. Clean Air Act (CAA) permits must be obtained prior to bringing equipment, assembled or unassembled, onto the Installation. Confirm that these permits have been obtained." Will the Government please clarify whether or not these requirements are applicable to the contract and if the Contractor will in fact be required to "Notify the Air Program Manager . . . at least 6 months prior to being equipment . . . onto the Installation, so that air permits can be secured?" If so, will the Government please clarify to the bidders the "Necessary permitting time [that] must be considered in regard to construction activities?"

The Contractor shall coordinate with the Contracting Officer to secure necessary air permits once equipment selection is made. This specifically applies to natural gas generators.

45. The solicitation and Paragraph 2.3.1 of the Statement of Work state, “Contractor shall have a maximum of 450 calendar days from the initial Notice to Proceed (NTP) to complete the project including any design and construction. Any changes or extensions to this time period need prior approval from the Contracting Officer.” As the Government is aware, there is a substantial amount of specialized equipment and material that will be required to be provided by the Contractor, much of which will require a substantial amount of time to prepare/review/approve submittals and then fabricate and deliver before the physical work, integration, start-up, check-out, testing, and commissioning can be performed. Much of this specialized equipment and material will require months (and in some cases, well over a year) to procure after approval of the submittals. For example, it is anticipated that the generators will require between 12 and 18 months for fabrication—one manufacturer has already confirmed a lead-time of approximately 15 to 18 months. Further, Section 26 37 13 – Microgrid Control System of the specifications requires substantial existing conditions examination and assessment, design, development, administrative requirements, power system studies (also including those studies required by Section 26 05 73 – Power System Studies of the specifications), among other requirements, that all must be performed and prepared/reviewed/approved prior to the specialized equipment and material being able to be released and placed into fabrication. It is anticipated that this process will require at least six months to perform. It is understood that the Contractor will be required to diligently begin the preparation/review/submission of the submittals upon the Government’s issuance of the notice to proceed (“NTP”) so that the fabrication of the equipment and materials required for the project will begin as soon as possible. While the contract duration of 450 calendar days may be reasonable for the on-site construction duration, it does not provide adequate time to perform all of the preconstruction design, submittals, and fabrication requirements that are necessary to commence the physical work. Will the Government please consider substantially increasing the contract duration (to account for the necessary preconstruction duration) as well as confirming that the Contractor will be able to schedule its physical mobilization to the project site and be able to schedule the commencement of the physical work commensurate with (and coordinated with) the delivery of the long lead-time equipment and materials, as well as the duration required to perform and complete the physical work and commissioning activities by no later than the contract completion date? Alternatively, would the Government please consider issuing a two-step NTP—first issuing an Administrative NTP that would allow the Contractor to prepare and submit submittals, obtain approval, and procure the equipment, and then a separate Physical Work NTP that would coincide with the then known expected delivery dates? If this were acceptable to the Government, the contract duration from Physical Work NTP to substantial complete could be maintained at 450 calendar days.

The Government will adhere to the period of performance of 450 calendar days after the Notice to Proceed (NTP), as specified in the solicitation documents. We recognize the complexities associated with project planning and long-lead procurement. While we are committed to collaborating with the awarded contractor to address scheduling challenges as they arise, we expect reciprocal proactive management. To ensure compliance with the established timeline, the contractor will be expected to prioritize the early submittal of long-lead items and deliver a working schedule as soon as possible to facilitate seamless coordination with government officials.

46. Will the Government please clarify the DPAS (Defense Priorities and Allocations System) rating for this contract?

At this time, we have not received notification of an assigned DPAS rating for this effort.

47. Paragraph 7 – Utility Services of Section 01 00 00 of the solicitation states, “The Contracting Officer has determined that Government-operated utilities are adequate and will be furnished to the contractor without charge where existing outlets are available. The contractor is responsible for installing temporary service outlets, as necessary, at its expense in accordance with clause entitled “Availability and Use of Utility Services” (RFO FAR Clause 52.236-14). The following utilities will be available: Electricity and Water.” However, Service and Metering note 2 on Sheet ID E-003 of the contract drawings states, “Pay for fees and changes as required for temporary/construction power for Contractor’s use.” Will the Government please confirm our understanding that electricity “will be furnished to the contractor without charge” for use during the performance of this contract, as clarified by Paragraph 7 of Section 01 00 00 of the solicitation.

Contractor may utilize existing 120V on nearby facilities. If contractor wishes to have a temporary service installed closer to the site, they may do so at their own expense.

48. Service and Metering note 1 on Sheet ID E-003 of the contract drawings states, “Electric power company serving this project is Ohio Edison . . . Comply with power company standards.” Service and Metering note 4 on Sheet ID E-003 of the contract drawings states, “Interconnection application has been submitted under cover OE01-0001524133-2025-09-18. Coordinate with the utility for necessary provisions and requirements of the interconnection. The microgrid system (including the recloser, microgrid controller, PV system, BESS, NG generator, etc) is to be owned and operated by OHANG.” Subpart 1.12.1 – Utility Interconnect Contract of Section 26 37 13 of the specifications states, “Coordinate with Contracting Officer and Base

Civil Engineer. Submit completed and approved evidence of meeting all Utility Interconnect Contract requirements. Including but not limited to technical specifications, safety protocols, metering and telemetry, power quality standards, liability and indemnification clauses.” Also, Subparts 1.15.2, 1.15.3, and 2.1.15 of Section 26 37 13 of the specification make further references to “utility interconnection requirements” and “utility privatization ownership requirements.”

Paragraph 3.1.6 of the Statement of Work states, “Contractor shall abide by and ensure project compliance with the Interoperability Agreement with the base electricity provider (Ohio Edison). The Contractor shall communicate and coordinate with the utility as required . . . See attachments for the utility Interoperability Agreement.” The “Interoperability Agreement” was not included in the attachments. As the Government is aware, this project is a design-bid-build project and the contract documents clarify that the microgrid system will be “owned and operated by OHANG.” Therefore, will the Government please confirm our understanding that the Government’s design (as reflected in the contract drawings and specifications), when constructed, will “comply with power company standards,” will include “necessary provisions and requirements of the interconnection,” will meet “all Utility Interconnect Contract requirements,” and will “abide by and ensure project compliance with the Interoperability Agreement with the base electricity provider (Ohio Edison)?”

The Interoperability Agreement is still pending approval; however, the design has been worked in close coordination with Ohio Edison to ensure their requirements are complied with. Specifically, the requirement for two reclosers (one owned by the utility company, and one by the Government) was a cohesive solution formed between the A-E and Ohio Edison.

49. Subpart 2.2.2.2 – Composite Posts of Section 32 31 13 of the specifications includes producing resin reinforced posts filled with concrete; however, the drawings do not specify locations or use of composite posts. Will the Government please clarify if any posts for the chain link fencing must be composite posts as described in the specifications?

Standard metal chain-link fence posts complying with Paragraph 2.2.2.1 of Section 32 31 13 are acceptable for this project. Composite posts described in Paragraph

2.2.2.2 are not required. All other applicable requirements of Section 32 31 13 remain in effect.

50. Service and metering note 1 on Sheet ID E-003 of the contract drawings states, “Power Company Contact is Vineet Kumar.” After contacting Mr. Kumar, we were advised that the project has been assigned to Constance Wilcox. Upon contacting Ms. Wilcox, Ohio Edison (First Energy) advised that they are unable to provide project-specific information until additional information is received from the customer. As a result, Ohio Edison is unable to provide associated fees, or costs that may be required for this project. Will the Government provide an allowance for any Ohio Edison (First Energy) utility fees and associated work required for this project or confirm that any utility company fees and associated costs required by Ohio Edison (First Energy) will be paid by the Government and will not be the responsibility of the Contractor.

The aforementioned fees are the responsibility of the of the Contractor.

51. Sheet ID note on Sheet ID M-101 of the contract drawings states, “Contractor to contact the gas company, Columbia gas of Ohio.” Will the Government please confirm and provide the point of contact for Columbia Gas of Ohio to coordinate any fees associated with their work the Contractor may be responsible for.

The Government does not have a standardized POC for Columbia Gas.

52. Will the Government please provide the basis-of-design manufacturer for the facility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that was used in development of the specifications and contract drawings?

53. The Solar Panel Foundation detail C1 on Sheet ID S-501 of the contract drawings requires the solar panel racks to be mounted to cast-in-place concrete foundations that are a minimum of 14’-0” long and spaced at a maximum of 16’-0” on center.

Subpart 2.6.1 – Foundation Anchorage of Section 26 31 00 of the specifications states, “Anchor mounting structure to concrete pad . . .” and Subpart 3.8 – Foundation for Equipment and Assemblies of section 26 31 00 of the specifications states, “Provide cast-in-place concrete work . . .” However, both Subpart 2.5.1 and Subpart 3.3.1b of Section 26 31 00 of the specifications contemplate “driven pile” foundations. For example, Subpart 2.5.1 states, “Provide driven pile as indicated . . .

or as required in the structural drawings.” However, it should be noted that the structural drawings do not require driven pile foundation; the structural drawings indicate cast-in-place concrete foundations. Will the Government please confirm that cast-in-place concrete foundations (as indicated by the contract drawings) will be required for anchoring of the mounting structures for this project; or if “driven pile” type foundations (or other alternative foundation types, such as ground screws) will be acceptable for anchoring of the mounting structures for this project.

Further, if the Government determines that foundation types other than the cast-in-place concrete foundations are acceptable for this project, will the Government then please clarify whether or not the “Compacted Frost Resistant Structural Fill” indicated by the Solar Panel Foundation detail C1 on Sheet ID S-501 of the contract drawings will still be required for foundation types other than cast-in-place concrete foundations?

Cast in place foundation as shown on structural drawings shall be provided. No driven piles are required.

54. Please identify the Government-approved location for the contractor’s job trailer.

Please also identify any available temporary electrical, potable water, sanitary sewer, and telecommunications hookup points serving the trailer area.

Job trailer location is to be determined. Contractor can connect trailer to Building 132 for electric and water service only. No other utilities will be provided.

55. Would a 30-day proposal due date extension from receipt of the final RFI responses be considered, allowing contractors adequate time to coordinate with vendors and subcontractors and therefore provide a more comprehensive and cost-effective approach?

The solicitation has been extended out to 14 August 2026.

56. Will the Government consider any other means of bid submission aside from hand delivery?

No, all bids must be hand carried and dropped into the bid box before the time and date specified in the solicitation. Be sure to follow solicitation instructions and submit the necessary information in the time required to attend Bid Opening.

57. Does the ground-mounted racking system have to be ballasted, or are pile-driven Schedule 40 posts acceptable? If pile-driven posts are acceptable, please provide the required delegated-design, test-pile, pull-test, refusal, predrilling, and corrosion-protection criteria.

Follow current Drawings and Specifications. No deviations will be made.

58. Please confirm that any photovoltaic module may be used provided it is manufactured by a company on the current Bloomberg NEF Tier 1 module-manufacturer list and otherwise complies with the project’s technical and warranty requirements.

As long as it meets the specs and drawings and follows contractual requirements.

59. Do the equipment and photovoltaic modules have to be Foreign Entity of Concern-compliant? Please also identify all applicable Buy American, Build America Buy America, Trade Agreements Act, domestic-content, or other country-of-origin requirements and any applicable waivers.

Follow contractual requirement established in solicitation.

60. Who is the current natural-gas utility provider serving the installation? Please provide the utility representative’s contact information for bidding and project coordination.

Columbia Gas. POC will be provided to Awardee.

61. Are there other preferred or incumbent vendors currently being utilized by the installation, including vendors for Honeywell Niagara 4, fire alarm, protective relaying, electrical metering, generators, or utility integration?

No specified vendors.

62. Since the utility meter is located at Building 13, it appears the metering communications would need to follow approximately the same 4,400-foot route as the controls conduit. However, Sheet E-602, Note 4, appears to state that the meter is located immediately outside the gate. Please confirm the actual meter location, point of common coupling, required metering route, communications route, and division of responsibility for the associated metering equipment.

The point-of-common-coupling and the microgrid meter will be at separate locations; the point-of-common-coupling as shown at Building 13 and the microgrid meter as shown on E-602. The utility will communicate with their meter from that point to effect any control at the point-of-common-coupling.

63. Where is Manhole 14 located, and how many existing manholes are present along the proposed route but are not depicted on Sheet E-101? Please provide a complete schedule of affected manholes, handholes, pull boxes, duct banks, conduit quantities and sizes, elevations, ownership, and available capacity.

Manhole 14 is located on E-401 southeast of Building 132 and Southwest of Building 166; at the area where the three COMM lines intersect. It is the ACE's understanding that there are approximately 15 manholes and handholes between the buildings, however, the exact number must be determined in the field, however, the government has confirmed the existing ductbanks have sufficient spare conduits/capacity for the fiber optic installation.

64. Sheet E-101 states that existing lights may need to be removed and reinstalled. How many light poles are expected to be affected? Please identify their exact locations and confirm whether temporary lighting or continued operation is required during construction.

Final route for fiber conduits in buildings must be field verified/determined by the contractor.

65. What are the complete base-access requirements for contractor employees, vendors, delivery drivers, and subcontractors? Please identify required documentation, background checks, DBIDS requirements, citizenship restrictions, vehicle requirements, processing lead times, escort requirements, and procedures for one-time deliveries.

Base access protocols are determined by the number of individuals requesting entry within a given timeframe. Please note that Security Forces requires at least three (3) business days to process and issue passes for all visitors, and all vehicles are subject to inspection at the gate.

For small groups of five or fewer, each individual must submit an online DBIDS request alongside a copy of their driver’s license. For groups of six or more, the prime contractor supervisor is responsible for submitting a SANB Form 3, which must include the full name, date of birth, driver's license number/state of issue, and intended base destination for all personnel. Additionally, one-time deliveries requiring a government escort must be coordinated and scheduled well in advance to ensure personnel availability.

66. Please issue a detailed scope-responsibility matrix allocating all work among the Base Bid, Option 1 – PV Solar Array, and Option 2 – BESS. The matrix should address shared sitework, foundations, fencing, duct banks, fiber, grounding, transformers, switchgear, switchboard sections, controls, metering, utility work, testing, commissioning, and restoration.

Delineation of work between the contractor, owner, and engineer is as per the drawings and specifications. Unless otherwise noted, all work is the ultimate responsibility of the contractor.

67. Please confirm whether this is a construction contract based on a complete 100-percent design or whether the contractor is responsible for completing any design.

Please identify every system requiring delegated design, signed and sealed calculations, manufacturer engineering, or redesign based on selected equipment.

This is a construction contract based on a complete 100% design.

68. Please confirm that all three CLINs must be separately priced and whether the aggregate price of the Base Bid and both options will determine the apparent low bidder. Please also confirm whether both options are expected to be exercised at award; if not, identify the option-exercise period, required price-validity period, allowable escalation, and schedule requirements for options exercised after award.

The apparent low bidder will be determined on the aggregate price of the Base Bid and both options together. It will be determined whether the government will exercise the options at award.

69. Please clarify the exact event that starts the 450-calendar-day performance period.

If one or both options are exercised after the initial NTP, please confirm whether the original completion date remains unchanged or whether a separate performance period will be provided for the added option work.

The 450-calendar-day Notice to Proceed (NTP) will begin once have received the Awardee Contractors Payment and Performance Bonds and Insurance information.

Usually the NTP is issued at the Pre-Construction Briefing. 450-calendar-days PoP is for the based bid and the options if exercised.

70. Please identify all schedules, plans, design documents, administrative submittals, and equipment submittals that must be approved before the initial NTP will be issued. Please also identify which preconstruction activities may be performed between award and NTP.

See answer in question number 69. Any preconstruction activities that you see fit, however keep in mind that it is at the contractor’s risk as you have not been issued the NTP.

71. Please confirm whether long-lead equipment may be released for manufacture following approval of the individual equipment submittal or whether the contractor must wait…