Electric System Study

The City of Fort Collins Light & Power division is seeking proposals for a comprehensive 10-year electric system study through RFP 10173, targeting qualified professionals to conduct an in-depth evaluation of the city's electric utility infrastructure. The procurement requires a detailed assessment covering the existing electric distribution network serving over 79,000 customers across 55 square miles, with a specific focus on load forecasting, reliability analysis, and system planning through 2036. Required deliverables include a current system evaluation report, scenario-based load forecast, resilience assessment, distribution planning model, and a comprehensive electrical distribution system growth study. The professional must create a multi-speak compliant planning model that integrates with the city's GIS and AMI data, capable of analyzing the entire primary distribution network from substations to service transformers. Proposals are due by 3:00 PM Mountain Time on July 30, 2025, with the study required to account for projected growth, distributed generation, and the city's ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2030. The study must comprehensively consider factors such as population growth, economic development, technological advancements, and the city's strict building codes.

While no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondents were explicitly detailed in the documentation, the contract appears structured for professional consulting firms with specialized electric utility system expertise. The contract will cover the years 2026-2036, with potential one-year extensions and payment structured through monthly partial payments subject to verified progress. Although a specific budget range was not provided, the city will compensate the selected professional based on their proposed pricing for the comprehensive system study. The project requires integration with existing city infrastructure, specifically the Geographic Information System (GIS) and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) data platforms. The study's scope suggests a sophisticated technical engagement requiring deep understanding of electric utility systems, long-term infrastructure planning, renewable energy transitions, and complex modeling capabilities. Prospective respondents should demonstrate significant experience in electric utility system analysis, forward-looking infrastructure planning, and the technical capability to develop multi-speak compliant planning models.