RFI 23-0002 Microgrid for Electric School Buses

The Beaverton School District has issued a Request for Information (RFI) 23-0002 seeking comprehensive solutions for developing a microgrid infrastructure specifically designed for electric school buses. The procurement focuses on obtaining detailed information about storage battery systems, solar array configurations, and supporting infrastructure necessary to support an electric bus fleet currently comprising 18 buses, with plans to expand to 50 buses. Key objectives include creating a resilient power system capable of providing backup power during outages and potentially generating revenue through grid electricity sales. The RFI requests technical feedback on storage battery sizing, solar array specifications, software management systems, and overall project feasibility. Responses are due by August 23, 2023, with the district's ideal implementation timeline targeting Q1 of 2026. The district currently maintains 19 Level 2 chargers and 3 Level 3 DC Fast Chargers at their facility located at 1270 NW 167th Pl. in Beaverton, Oregon, and is specifically interested in exploring low-kWh Level 3 chargers with bi-directional feedback capabilities.

The RFI does not impose specific set-aside designations or vendor restrictions, and it is explicitly structured as an information-gathering exercise rather than a direct contract solicitation. The existing infrastructure includes electrical systems supporting bus batteries ranging from 155kWh to 210kWh, with anticipated future battery capacities expanding to 240kW. While no specific budget range is disclosed, the district is a state-funded entity seeking an economical solution and is open to various contracting models. The procurement allows for potential site visits or demonstrations to evaluate proposed solutions, and the district may utilize the gathered information to develop future solicitations or contracts. Vendors are encouraged to provide general cost estimates and detailed technical specifications for the proposed microgrid solution. The district emphasizes that responses to this RFI will not impact evaluation processes for subsequent Requests for Proposals or Invitations to Bid, maintaining a neutral and exploratory approach to gathering comprehensive technical and infrastructural insights.