Electricity Demand response Services

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of General Services, is conducting an Invitation to Qualify (ITQ) for Electricity Demand Response Services. The purpose of this ITQ is to qualify Curtailment Service Providers (CSPs) to facilitate the participation of Commonwealth facilities in demand response programs administered by PJM Interconnection, LLC. The qualified CSPs will be responsible for enrolling Commonwealth facilities in PJM demand response programs, determining curtailable load, managing participation, and ensuring compliance with PJM requirements. The contract term is from June 1, 2017 until terminated by the Commonwealth. The ITQ is a two-step procurement process, where only qualified CSPs can participate in the second step of requesting quotes to provide demand response services to Commonwealth agencies and facilities. Key requirements for CSPs include being a PJM member and being in business for at least one year.

The ITQ is an open, competitive solicitation, rather than a requirement for incumbent providers. Suppliers electing to offer services to COSTARS members must complete the COSTARS Program Election to Participate Form and pay an administrative fee. The contract includes enhanced minimum wage provisions requiring CSPs to pay employees at least $10.15 per hour for work on the contract. The initial enrollment period for this ITQ contract commenced on the date the contract was issued and closed on January 2, 2017. After the initial enrollment period, enrollment for this ITQ contract will remain open throughout the remaining term of the agreement. The bid evaluation and contract execution process for a new supplier may take an estimated sixty (60) Commonwealth business days to complete.