Electric School Bus Chargers, Management and Maintenance

The Lansing Public School District is seeking proposals for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) through RFP #SO-1838, targeting the district's Clean School Bus Project in Ingham County, Michigan. The procurement focuses on purchasing electric vehicle charging infrastructure to support the replacement of 20 diesel buses with battery-powered electric buses, with an initial requirement of at least seven charging ports in the 2025-2026 school year and potential expansion to 16 chargers over three years. Proposers must provide Level 2 and Level 3 chargers with interoperability across all EV bus makes and models, with a preference for bi-directional charging capabilities. The RFP requires comprehensive support including software, training, maintenance, and service level guarantees, with a minimum five-year warranty. Key evaluation criteria include compliance with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act, which mandates domestically produced charging infrastructure, and adherence to Davis-Bacon Act wage standards. The solicitation timeline includes a pre-bid virtual meeting on April 17, 2025, with proposals due on April 24, 2025, and specific requirements for electrical worker certification through the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP).

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, but emphasizes creating educational opportunities for Lansing Technical High School students through exposure to electric vehicle service equipment operations, maintenance, and management. The project is funded through a combination of federal (including EPA's Clean School Bus program), state, utility, and local funds, suggesting potential flexibility in vendor qualifications. While no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the RFP indicates a comprehensive approach to integrating new charging infrastructure with existing school bus fleet operations. Although a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the scope of replacing 20 diesel buses and installing up to 16 charging ports implies a significant investment in electric vehicle infrastructure. Vendors will need to demonstrate technical capabilities in providing interoperable, domestically manufactured charging solutions with robust support services, training programs, and long-term maintenance commitments.