GO-Biz Clean Energy Assessment Report

The Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Clean Energy Assessment Report focusing on barriers and challenges limiting clean energy project deployment in California. The contract seeks a contractor to prepare a comprehensive assessment that supports the state's energy and climate goals, with specific emphasis on examining at least three clean energy project types such as geothermal, long-duration energy storage, renewable hydrogen, nuclear/fusion, and natural gas with carbon capture. The primary deliverable will be a detailed report analyzing impediments to clean energy project development, with the goal of helping the state evaluate current methods and develop improved project delivery strategies. The RFP was released on May 27, 2025, with proposals due by June 10, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. PDT, and an anticipated contract start date of June 20, 2025. Proposers must disclose any use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in their proposal and may be subject to potential interviews during the evaluation process. The assessment is driven by California's ambitious goal of achieving carbon-free electricity by 2045, which requires adding approximately 150 percent more electricity capacity and deploying 7,000 to 10,000 megawatts annually.

The RFP includes a five percent preference for certified small businesses, microbusinesses, and disabled veteran business enterprises (DVBEs), creating opportunities for diverse business participation. Potential bidders must complete several mandatory certification documents, including the California State Contractor Certification Clauses (CCC), Payee Data Record (STD 204), Drug-Free Workplace Certification, and Darfur Contracting Act Compliance form. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the assessment suggests a substantial project scope. Bidders must demonstrate the ability to holistically examine energy project development across the state, assess challenges in different project stages, explore various development methods, and recommend strategic improvements. The procurement process requires thorough documentation, including detailed business certifications, tax information, and compliance with state-specific regulations. Subcontractors, if used, must also meet specific certification and qualification standards, and bidders must provide comprehensive information about their business status and proposed work breakdown.