PUC Consulting Services – Rhode Island Renewable Energy Standard

The Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking consulting services to administer the rules associated with the state's Renewable Energy Standard Act (RES), specifically under R.I. Gen. Laws 39-26-1-10. The procurement solicits a firm, individual, or organization with demonstrated expertise in renewable energy to provide comprehensive consulting services for managing the state's renewable energy regulations. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the Ocean State Procures system by September 30, 2024, at 1:30 PM EDT, with a vendor Q&A period running from August 31 to September 12, 2024. The initial contract term will be one year, beginning approximately January 1, 2025, with options for two additional one-year extensions, potentially creating a maximum three-year engagement. Evaluation criteria will include technical merit, cost proposal, and the vendor's proposed utilization of small businesses and enterprise programs, with proposals judged on their ability to effectively administer and support Rhode Island's renewable energy standards. Vendors must demonstrate substantial knowledge of renewable energy regulations, policy implementation, and administrative frameworks specific to state-level renewable energy programs.

The RFP strongly encourages participation from Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Women Business Enterprises (WBE), and Disability Business Enterprises (DisBE), with evaluation points specifically allocated for ISBE (Individual, Small Business, or Minority Enterprise) participation rates. Vendors must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including $1 million in general liability, $100,000 in workers compensation, $1 million in automobile liability, $500,000 in crime coverage, and $2 million in professional liability insurance. While no specific contract value is disclosed, the solicitation indicates that funding is contingent on the availability of appropriated state funds. All potential respondents must be registered in the Ocean State Procures system and comply with Rhode Island's affirmative action and non-discrimination policies. The state reserves the right to award the contract to the vendor deemed most qualified or to cancel the procurement entirely, maintaining flexibility in the selection process to ensure the most effective partner for administering the Renewable Energy Standard Act.