Electrification Fee and Incentives Study

The City of Bend, Oregon is conducting an informal Request for Proposal (RFP) for a comprehensive electrification fee and incentives study targeting residential natural gas use within the city. The primary objective is to retain a consultant who can develop a strategic approach to reducing natural gas consumption through innovative fee structures and potential incentive programs. The consultant will be expected to provide expert analysis on creating a fee mechanism that addresses the social and environmental costs of carbon emissions, potentially developing a framework that disincentivizes natural gas usage while simultaneously promoting electricity adoption in residential and commercial buildings. Key deliverables will likely include detailed data analysis, policy recommendations, and a comprehensive strategy for transitioning energy consumption patterns. The procurement is specific to Deschutes County and follows Oregon's local government contracting procedures, with proposals due by August 29, 2025. Evaluation criteria are expected to focus on the consultant's expertise in energy policy, economic analysis, and their ability to develop creative, implementable solutions for carbon reduction.

While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed in the provided documentation, the procurement appears to be open to qualified consulting firms with demonstrated expertise in energy policy, environmental economics, and municipal sustainability initiatives. The RFP includes attached documents such as Oregon Statutory Certifications and two addenda, suggesting a structured procurement process with potential legal and procedural requirements for respondents. No incumbent vendors are identified, and no specific budget range is explicitly stated in the available materials. The study represents a forward-looking municipal initiative aimed at addressing climate change through innovative policy design, potentially serving as a model for other municipalities considering similar electrification strategies. Interested consultants will need to demonstrate significant technical capability, policy expertise, and a nuanced understanding of energy transition mechanisms to be competitive in this procurement opportunity.