ESCO RFQ 2025-01 Department of General Services

The California Department of General Services (DGS), Office of Sustainability, is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to establish a statewide qualified pool of Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) for energy efficiency and decarbonization projects. The procurement seeks firms capable of comprehensive energy services, including energy audits, project design, implementation, measurement and verification, commissioning, and project financing coordination for renewable and clean energy generation and storage systems on state-owned properties. Minimum qualifications require firms to hold specific California Contractors State License Board licenses (Class A, B, C-10 Electrical, or C-20 HVAC), maintain at least one professional engineer on staff, and be registered with the California Department of Industrial Relations. Key submission requirements include demonstrating at least two completed government energy efficiency projects in California within the last six years, with verified energy savings and return on investment analysis. Critical deadlines include November 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. for written questions, November 20, 2025, for question-and-answer release, and the final submission deadline of December 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with notification of the qualified pool expected by December 12, 2025.

The RFQ does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, though firms must comply with California Civil Rights Laws, the Darfur Contracting Act, and the Iran Contracting Act. Financing options for potential projects include GS$Mart loans, the Energy Efficient State Property Revolving Fund, on-bill financing through utility providers, and various grants. Firms must showcase expertise in Title 24 Energy Code compliance, utility incentive coordination, obtaining necessary state approvals, conducting investment-grade audits, and implementing measurement and verification protocols. The qualified ESCO pool will remain active for up to three years from the final pool creation date, with submissions accepted via mail, hand-delivery, or electronic upload through the OBAS Active Solicitations website. While specific award values are not detailed, the statewide scope suggests significant potential project opportunities across California's state-owned properties. Submission packages must include a completed Payee Data Record, license copies, firm qualification narratives, key personnel resumes, and office location information.