Request for Proposals for Regional Energy Management Assistance for the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) Regional Energy Management Program

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts' State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) is seeking proposals from Texas Councils of Governments (TCOGs) to develop and deploy a regional energy management program through RFP No. 240c. The procurement aims to award three contracts to qualified TCOGs to demonstrate regional energy and water savings activities in the public sector, with key objectives including energy education, facility infrastructure consumption reporting, and developing a regional template for increasing energy and water efficiency. Respondents must have at least seven years of experience in regional planning and demonstrate expertise in energy management, efficiency, and reporting. The solicitation requires potential contractors to assist municipalities, counties, special districts, and local governmental entities in developing energy management programs. Key dates include written questions due by September 3, 2025, and proposals due by September 26, 2025, with an initial contract term from October 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, and potential renewal options for two additional one-year periods through August 31, 2028.

The procurement is specifically restricted to Texas Councils of Governments, with no explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. The program will be funded with approximately $750,000 in reimbursable funding from oil overcharge funds or federal funds approved by the U.S. Department of Energy. Successful respondents are required to provide a minimum 20% match, which must be approved by DOE prior to contract execution. The maximum reimbursement for indirect costs is limited to 10% of the total contract amount. The program emphasizes regional collaboration, energy reporting, and developing partnerships to advance energy and water efficiency initiatives. Proposals will likely be evaluated on factors such as demonstrated regional planning experience, technical expertise in energy management, proposed methodology for achieving program objectives, and capacity to effectively implement regional energy efficiency strategies.