Affordable Housing Solar Projects

The City of Tucson's Housing and Community Development Department has issued Request for Qualifications (RFQ) No. 230209 for Affordable Housing Solar Projects, seeking a qualified Solar Contractor to design and install solar panel systems for single-family residential properties throughout the city. The project, funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, requires contractors to provide comprehensive services including site assessments, structural evaluations, solar design, equipment installation, monitoring setup, permitting, and warranty services. Each solar installation will target 4 KW per site, with potential adjustments based on individual property assessments. The RFQ utilizes a two-step selection process where firms first submit Statements of Qualifications (SOQs), with the top three ranked firms invited to submit detailed proposals. Evaluation will be conducted using a points-based system across three criteria: Qualifications and Experience (50 points), Method of Approach (40 points), and Relevant Design Experience with Residential Solar Projects (10 points). The solicitation was published on January 30, 2024, with submittals due on February 22, 2024, at 2:00 pm local Arizona time, and a pre-submittal conference was held virtually on February 13, 2024. The estimated project cost is $300,000.

The contract includes specific requirements for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation, mandating prime contractors take affirmative steps to utilize DBE firms in accordance with 2 CFR 200.321 Good Faith Efforts. Additional compliance requirements include Davis-Bacon wage standards, Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program provisions, and adherence to federal procurement guidelines. Contractors must break down contract work into economically feasible units and provide opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses. The project encompasses 17 distinct residential sites across six city wards, with addresses spanning zip codes 85705 to 85746. Potential consequences for non-compliance with DBE and SBE provisions include withholding payments, contract termination, and disqualification from future bidding. Contractors must also complete a Contractor Responsibility Information form, demonstrating financial resources, performance record, technical expertise, and ability to meet contract requirements. The City of Tucson will carefully evaluate each submission to ensure the selected contractor can effectively execute the solar installation project while meeting all federal, state, and local regulatory standards.