Consulting services relating to electric transmission and distribution structural integrity standards reports and plans for the management and inspection of electric distribution poles.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) is soliciting consulting services through a Request for Proposals (RFP) focused on electric transmission and distribution structural integrity standards and pole management. The primary objective is to engage a contractor who will assist the Commission in developing comprehensive standards for structural integrity of transmission and distribution poles, with specific tasks including rulemaking, reviewing approximately 150 utility distribution pole plans and 161 transmission and distribution structural integrity standards reports. The contractor will be expected to establish evaluation templates, provide recommendations to the Commission, and address regulatory gaps identified following the Smokehouse Creek Fire, which was caused by a decayed utility pole. This procurement stems from requirements outlined in House Bill 144 and Senate Bill 1789 from the 89th Legislative Session. The RFP was released on July 16, 2025, with proposals due by August 6, 2025, at 10:00 am Central Time, and the anticipated contract period will span six years with potential for two two-year extensions. Successful respondents must demonstrate expertise in utility infrastructure standards, regulatory compliance, and technical analysis of electric distribution and transmission systems.

The solicitation specifically encourages participation from Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs), with a subcontracting goal of 26.0% for all other services contracts. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the contract will be funded through state agency resources. The procurement appears open to consulting firms, engineering organizations, and technical service providers with specialized knowledge in utility infrastructure, regulatory standards, and pole integrity assessment. No incumbent vendors are mentioned in the available documentation. The contract's focus on implementing legislative requirements and addressing infrastructure safety suggests a comprehensive and technically demanding scope of work. Potential respondents should be prepared to demonstrate extensive experience in utility infrastructure analysis, regulatory compliance, and technical reporting, with a particular emphasis on transmission and distribution pole structural integrity standards.