Kipnuk Distribution System Upgrade Transformer and H-Pile Purchase

The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) has issued Invitation to Bid (ITB) #25043 for the Kipnuk Distribution System Upgrade, soliciting bids to purchase pole mount transformers and H-Piles. The procurement specifically seeks various single-phase and three-phase transformers with ratings ranging from 10 kVA to 50 kVA, along with 130 H-Piles measuring 10x57x46ft, to be delivered to a location adjacent to the barge landing in Kipnuk, Alaska. The bid was released on March 25, 2025, with proposals due by May 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM Alaska Time. Bidders are required to provide a firm delivery timeline, with the desired delivery timeframe being within 60 calendar weeks after receipt of an order. No site visit or pre-bid conference is scheduled for this procurement, and the contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder who holds a valid Alaska business license. Evaluation criteria will focus on compliance with specifications, delivery timeline, and overall responsiveness to the ITB requirements.

The procurement is federally funded and subject to Build America, Buy America Act preferences, mandating that all iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials be produced in the United States. Bidders must comply with federal assurances, including provisions on equal employment opportunity, Davis-Bacon Act, and debarment regulations. The estimated budget for this contract ranges between $650,000 and $750,000, with pricing to exclude federal, state, and local taxes. The contract term will run from the date of award until delivery and acceptance at the F.O.B. point, and includes a 12-month warranty covering defects in design, material, and workmanship. While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are mentioned, the procurement appears open to qualified vendors who can meet the technical specifications and federal compliance requirements. The contract will be administered through the Aleutians East Borough and Anchorage Municipality jurisdictions, with the ultimate goal of upgrading the Kipnuk distribution system infrastructure.