Solar Photovoltaic Expansion

Denver Water is seeking a Design/Builder (Contractor) to design, furnish, and install a Solar Photovoltaic Expansion Project involving ground-mounted, behind-the-meter solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at six facilities across Colorado. The project aims to support Denver Water's net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2030 through renewable energy generation, with estimated annual generation ranging from 750,000 to 3,400,000 kWh per site. Contractors must design PV systems that offset 100-200% of annual site electrical usage, with specific technical requirements including a 20% safety factor, minimum panel efficiency of 20%, and a 25-year linear power warranty. The evaluation criteria will be weighted across contractor qualifications (20%), proposed approach and project plan (30%), financial viability (40%), and incentive compliance (10%). Key dates include a mandatory pre-proposal meeting on May 13, 2025, optional site visits on May 15-16, 2025, and a proposal submission deadline of June 3, 2025. Written requests for clarification must be submitted to Paul Ries via email no later than May 26, 2025 at 12:00 pm MST. The anticipated project timeline includes a Board Award on July 9, 2025, a Notice to Proceed on August 7, 2025, and final site construction completion by November 26, 2027.

The project requires compliance with the Keep Jobs in Colorado Act, mandating that at least 80% of labor be performed by Colorado workers. While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are explicitly mentioned, contractors must provide comprehensive documentation including company qualifications, project experience, and financial strength. The project will be funded through Denver Water's internal sustainability initiatives, with a budget of approximately $3 million annually over three years. Contractors must demonstrate financial viability and the capability to implement a comprehensive solar generation upgrade across multiple sites. Communication with Denver Water personnel other than Paul Ries is prohibited and could result in disqualification. The project represents a significant opportunity for solar installation contractors with expertise in designing and implementing large-scale photovoltaic systems for municipal infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on technical capability, financial stability, and local workforce engagement.