2026 Consulting Services - Avoided Costs

The Public Service Commission of South Carolina is requesting proposals for independent consulting services to evaluate avoided cost rates, methodologies, and calculations for three utility dockets (Dominion Energy South Carolina, Duke Energy Carolinas, and Duke Energy Progress) under RFP 5400029780, with proposals due August 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST.

This solicitation carries a critical eligibility constraint: the RFP is exempt from the South Carolina Procurement Code, prospective bidders have no rights to protest the solicitation or award, and all mandatory qualifications must be met. Offerors must demonstrate independence as required by S.C. Code Ann. Section 58-41-20(I), ability to abide by ex parte laws, and willingness to sign an acknowledgement of ex parte prohibitions. Single legal entities only may submit offers; joint bids are not permitted. Vendor registration is mandatory.

The scope requires qualified independent third-party consultants and experts to evaluate avoided cost rates, methodologies, terms, calculations, and conditions across three utility dockets. Offerors must be available for public interviews, prepared to respond to discovery requests, be deposed, cross-examined, and testify before the Commission if requested.

The estimated contract period runs from November 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027. Pricing must be submitted as an hourly rate for services provided. Reimbursable expenses are capped at current GSA maximum lodging rates (excluding taxes) and $35 per day for meals within South Carolina or $50 per day outside the state. The Commission may award contracts to more than one qualified consultant.

Evaluation factors include qualifications and performance data, employee and staff expertise, interviews, written conflicts of interest certification, pricing, and any other information the Commissioners deem relevant. Written questions are due July 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST. Offers will be publicly opened at a Commission Business Meeting on August 13, 2026 at 1:00 PM. Award will be made to the responsive and responsible offeror whose offer is determined most advantageous to the State, as determined by the Commissioners at a public Commission Business Meeting on a date to be determined.