Specifications for inspection of electric distribution poles

Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association (FKEC) is soliciting bids for a seven-year inspection program of its electric distribution pole system comprising approximately 15,322 poles, with bids due July 30, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and intent to award by August 17, 2026. Written questions are due July 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. This is a compliance-driven scope: all work must satisfy Florida Public Service Commission Rule 25-18.020 (mandating pole inspections at least every eight years) and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) standards.

The scope encompasses visual inspections, non-destructive testing, sounding, excavation, and treatment of wood (10,801), concrete (2,735), ductile iron (1,442), steel (335), fiberglass (6), and hybrid (3) poles in substantially equal annual increments from 2027 through 2033. Work is performed across the Upper and Middle Florida Keys. Contractors must hold valid Florida business licenses, required operating permits, and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 certification for field personnel; demonstrate substantial experience in pole inspections; and implement documented safety programs compliant with OSHA and NFPA 70E requirements.

Pricing uses unit-rate methodology for line items including visual-only inspections, wood pole testing, excavation, treatment, aerial and drone inspections, labeling, and identification of third-party attachment owners. All pricing must remain valid for the contract duration and be designated as a Total Not To Exceed Price; FKEC retains the right to withhold 10% of projected costs if the contractor exceeds the scheduled completion date, with withheld funds released only upon FKEC's satisfaction that all deliverables are met following delay resolution.

The evaluation committee weights qualifications of the firm and staff at 40 points, relevant past performance at 20 points, and cost proposal at 40 points. Contractors intending to subcontract must take affirmative steps to solicit small and minority businesses and women-owned business enterprises. FKEC reserves the right to award to multiple respondents and to cancel the solicitation at any time. Project completion is due December 31, 2033.