9280-27-R-IFBD-00006

The University of Southern Mississippi is requesting sealed bids for a solar-powered e-bike and scooter charging station under BID 27-08, with bids due September 1, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time at Bond Hall, Room 214, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

The scope requires a complete turnkey charging infrastructure system accommodating a minimum of 16 e-bikes and/or e-scooters simultaneously with secure, lockable charging compartments. The station must operate primarily from integrated solar photovoltaic panels with battery energy storage, solar charge controllers, power management systems, surge protection, and energy-efficient charging controls. Standard 120-volt charging capability with ground fault protection and weather-protected outlets is required. All electrical components must be UL-listed and comply with the National Electrical Code and NFPA standards. Equipment must be engineered for Mississippi climatic conditions, withstanding temperatures from 0°F to 110°F, high humidity, and sustained wind loads of at least 120 mph with sealed calculations from a licensed professional engineer. Construction materials shall be marine-grade aluminum, stainless steel, or equivalent non-corrosive materials with UV-resistant finishes and rust-resistant hardware. Minimum warranty requirements are 25 years for solar panels, 5 years for structural and battery storage components, and 2 years for electrical components and installation workmanship.

Evaluation criteria weight technical compliance at 30%, experience and references at 20%, sustainability features at 15%, warranty and support at 15%, and cost proposal at 20%. Award will be made to the lowest responsible bidder meeting specifications. The University reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to award on an all-or-none or line-by-line basis. Pricing terms are stated as 2/10 net 45 days per Mississippi law. Bids must include at least one signed original, one signed copy, and a portable electronic virus-free copy on a thumb drive. Detailed specifications are available through the university's website at https://www.usm.edu/procurement-contract-services/current-bids-and-sole-source-notices.php or from the Procurement Services office.