OER - Installation of DC Fast Chargers for RI Park & Ride Facilities

The State of Rhode Island, specifically through the Office of Energy Resources (OER), is seeking proposals for the installation of Direct Current (DC) Fast Chargers at two Park & Ride facilities in Ashaway and Warwick. The procurement involves site work, electrical connections, and the installation of four 150kW DC fast chargers, with two chargers at each location capable of simultaneously charging four electric vehicles. The Request for Quotation (RFQ24003158) was released on August 10, 2023, with proposals due by September 6, 2023, at 2:00 PM EDT, and a vendor Q&A period running from August 10 to August 17, 2023. Qualified vendors must provide a bid surety bond or certified check for 5% of their cost proposal and be prepared to furnish 100% payment and performance bonds prior to purchase order issuance. The contract requires substantial completion within 6 months from the Notice to Proceed, with final construction completion within 365 days. Vendors must submit a base bid price to perform all specified work, including bond costs and any allowances or addenda, and must be registered in the state's Ocean State Procures system.

The solicitation includes specific requirements for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) participation, mandating a minimum of 10% of the total contract value be awarded to MBE firms. Vendors must comply with Rhode Island's prevailing wage requirements, affirmative action policies, and domestic steel provisions. Insurance requirements include $1,000,000 liability coverage per occurrence, workers compensation, and automobile liability. The State reserves the right to make one or multiple awards and to reject any or all bids, with contract continuation beyond the initial fiscal year subject to funding availability. While no incumbent vendor is specifically identified, the project represents an expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Rhode Island's Park & Ride facilities. Contractors must maintain valid registration with the Rhode Island Contractors' Registration Board throughout the contract term. Although the exact project budget is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive requirements and scope suggest a significant investment in sustainable transportation infrastructure.