REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) NO. 24-003-020 Energize Thurston 2025 Heat Pump

Thurston County is issuing Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 24-003-020 for the Energize Thurston 2025 Heat Pump program, seeking qualified HVAC and plumbing contractors to install residential heat pump space conditioners and heat pump water heaters. The procurement targets approximately 140-230 heat pump space conditioners and 120-140 heat pump water heaters across Thurston County and its cities, including Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater, and Tenino. Contractors must possess a Washington State HVAC or plumbing license, hold manufacturer certifications (such as Mitsubishi Diamond Dealer or Daikin Pro Dealer), and be a Puget Sound Energy Trade Ally. The RFP allows firms to propose installations individually or through joint proposals, with a preference for contractors capable of providing Spanish language support and expertise in building performance evaluation. The proposal submission deadline is January 10, 2025, at 4:00 PM PST, with a pre-proposal webinar previously held on December 11, 2024. The contract period spans 12 months from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025, with potential extensions at the County's discretion.

The program is supported by $1.7 million in grant funding from the Washington State Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate Program and the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program. It includes both subsidized installations for low- and moderate-income households (managed by South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity) and self-funded installations for non-income qualified participants. For subsidized installations, contractors must provide prevailing wage quotes and file intent to pay prevailing wage with Washington State Labor and Industries. Installers will be required to handle both existing R410 refrigerant systems and new A2L refrigerant systems, with potential for equipment and pricing negotiations before the March 4, 2025 contract execution date. Payment processing differs between subsidized and self-funded installations, with Habitat for Humanity typically taking 30-45 days for subsidized project payments, while self-funded installations will follow the installer's standard payment terms. The county expects to select multiple installers, expanding beyond the two contractors who served the previous Energize Olympia program in 2024.