Replace failed VFD's and upgrade main panel for BMS

This state contracting opportunity is for the replacement of failed Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and the upgrade of the main panel for the Building Management System (BMS) in Illinois. The Illinois Chief Procurement Office is procuring these services through a Small Purchase Sole Source process, as the incumbent vendor, Alpha Controls and Services, is the only authorized vendor for this proprietary equipment and system integration. The project aims to modernize the existing Barber Colman Network 8000 system by transitioning it to the Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Building Operation platform, which will provide improved IT compliance, enhanced reporting, and better overall operational efficiency. The scope of work includes the replacement of a failed controller main panel, failed VFDs, and one network controller for an Air Handling Unit. The proposal from Alpha Controls and Services has a base bid of $16,661, with two voluntary alternates of $10,893 and $1,701, respectively, and the total value of this sole source procurement is $42,000. The project is expected to be completed in 2023.

This sole source procurement is restricted to Alpha Controls and Services, as they are the only authorized vendor for the existing Network 8000 system and corresponding compatible equipment components. Without this sole source, the existing system would need to be investigated, redesigned, specified, and put out for bid, which would take months and negatively impact the site's ability to control temperature and humidity during the upcoming cooling season. There are no set-aside designations or other restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, as this is a sole source procurement. The incumbent vendor, Alpha Controls and Services, has been used numerous times in the past by the agency to maintain system integrity and connectivity at any sites that utilized the older Network 8000 system.