Aquaponics Facility Equipment and Installation: Phase 3 Electrical

Walton County, in cooperation with the Muscogee Nation of Florida, has issued an Invitation to Quote (ITQ) #25-08 for the Aquaponics Facility Equipment and Installation: Phase 3 Electrical project. The procurement seeks qualified electrical contractors to provide comprehensive electrical installation for an aquaponics facility, specifically requiring a single-phase 200-amp electrical service, conduit and wiring installations, and optional grow light setup. Contractors must hold a valid Florida electrical contractor's license and demonstrate expertise in electrical systems for agricultural facilities. The project mandates strict compliance with the National Electric Code (NEC), local regulations, and industry best practices. Key deliverables include detailed project plans to be submitted within two weeks of contract award, installation commencement within four weeks, and total project completion within 12 weeks. The response deadline is February 14, 2025, at 5:00 pm, with contractors required to provide a detailed project approach, itemized cost estimates, and references from similar past projects. Evaluation criteria will likely include technical capability, project timeline, cost-effectiveness, and demonstrated experience in similar agricultural electrical infrastructure projects.

The procurement appears to be open to all qualified electrical contractors, with no specific set-aside designations mentioned. Successful bidders will be required to provide liability insurance naming Walton County and submit proof of workers' compensation coverage. The project is funded through a $543,840 RESTORE Act Direct Component grant from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, targeting the development of an agritourism destination at the Muscogee Nation of Florida Micro Farm. The total estimated project cost for the electrical installation is approximately $39,200, with the broader project including the construction of aquaponic facilities and a 2,000 linear foot eco-tour boardwalk. The electrical infrastructure will support greenhouse operations, including grow lights, pumps, and monitoring systems for an aquaponics facility focusing on tilapia production and organic vegetable cultivation. The project is part of a phased approach to developing an agricultural and tourism infrastructure, with the electrical installation being a critical component of the overall facility development.