DPC-1366875677-BP-Storage Batteries

The North Carolina Department of Administration, Division of Purchase & Contract, is seeking qualified vendors for a Statewide Term Contract for Storage Batteries through a competitive Invitation for Bid (IFB). The procurement covers storage batteries for automotive, marine, golf, and backup power applications, targeting all 100 North Carolina counties. The contract will have an initial five-year term beginning on or after May 30, 2025, with two distinct battery categories: Core List Batteries and Category Batteries. Bids are due by May 16, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, with a pre-bid conference scheduled for April 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Award determination will be based on lowest price for Core List Items and a comprehensive evaluation of percentage discount off manufacturer's standard retail price, quantity, quality, delivery, service, and geographical coverage for Category Batteries. Vendors must provide detailed pricing, meet specific technical specifications, offer manufacturer warranties, and comply with state procurement requirements. The solicitation aligns with Governor Cooper's Executive Order 80 on climate change, emphasizing sustainability features in battery products.

The procurement includes specific requirements for HUB (Historically Underutilized Businesses) participation goals, which suggests opportunities for disadvantaged enterprises to participate in the bidding process. The state anticipates awarding the contract on May 30, 2025, and the contract will be mandatory for state departments, most state agencies, and state higher education institutions. Historically, the state has purchased approximately $9.3 million in storage batteries during the previous contract period, indicating a significant market opportunity for potential vendors. While specific incumbent vendors are not mentioned, the comprehensive nature of the solicitation suggests a competitive and open procurement process. Vendors will be required to manage electronic catalogs and provide a wide range of battery products across multiple applications. The contract's broad scope and mandatory status for state entities present a substantial potential award value, with the previous contract's purchasing history indicating a robust market for storage battery procurement in North Carolina.