OCED Transaction Counsel FY25

The Department of Energy's Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) is conducting a Sources Sought Notice to identify legal counsel for providing comprehensive transaction support services. The agency seeks senior-level outside counsel capable of supporting a diverse portfolio of clean energy programs, including industrial demonstrations, advanced nuclear, regional clean hydrogen hubs, carbon management, and renewables/grid initiatives. Key qualifications include demonstrable experience as primary legal counsel on at least 3-5 project finance transactions valued over $100 million since January 2019, proven expertise in representing lenders in bankruptcies exceeding $100 million, and maintaining office presence in Washington DC. Vendors must submit their 15-page capabilities statements through the STRIPES system by January 24, 2025, at 12:00pm EST, and be registered in both SAM and FedConnect. The evaluation will focus on vendors' legal expertise across multiple domains, including corporate matters, debt financing, contracts, tax, bankruptcy, real estate, environmental law, and intellectual property.

This Sources Sought Notice is not a formal solicitation and carries no set-aside designations for small businesses, despite using NAICS code 541110 with a $13.5 million size standard. The procurement is structured as market research to assess industry capabilities for potential future solicitation development. While specific award values are not disclosed, the Notice suggests substantial legal support requirements across multiple complex clean energy demonstration projects. The anticipated contract period appears to align with Fiscal Year 2025, indicating a potential multi-year engagement for the selected legal counsel. Vendors must demonstrate comprehensive transactional legal capabilities, with an emphasis on experience managing high-value, complex energy infrastructure and financing projects. The Department of Energy's approach suggests a strategic intent to identify highly qualified legal resources capable of supporting its ambitious clean energy portfolio.