Standing Energy Counsel

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, through the Governor's Office of General Counsel, is seeking a Standing Energy Counsel via Request for Proposal (RFP) OGC-2025-03. The procurement is for legal services focused on energy-related matters, including representation before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and potential appeals of agency orders. Qualified law firms must submit both technical and cost submittals electronically by August 13, 2025, with a contract term of one year and potential renewals for two additional years. Evaluation criteria will be weighted 75% for technical merits and 25% for cost, with key assessment areas including understanding of the problem, offeror qualifications, proposed personnel expertise, and approach to engagement. Successful vendors will provide comprehensive legal guidance on complex energy regulatory matters, advise on issues affecting Pennsylvania's energy interests, and potentially represent the Commonwealth before various energy-related agencies. Required qualifications include demonstrated experience in energy regulatory law, administrative appeals, and extensive knowledge of federal energy regulatory proceedings.

The RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The Commonwealth reserves the right to make a limited multiple award, potentially selecting top-ranked firms for negotiation. While no incumbent vendors are identified, the contract allows for reimbursement of work satisfactorily performed dating back to the Appointment letter date. The cost submittal template suggests an estimated allocation of 1,000 hours per year across various staffing positions, though actual work volume is not guaranteed. Compensation will be structured through monthly invoicing with comprehensive billable rates covering overhead, travel, and supplies. The contract template requires selected firms to maintain professional liability insurance and comply with state provisions including nondiscrimination and integrity requirements. Although a specific budget range is not provided, the comprehensive nature of the solicitation suggests a substantial potential contract value for the selected energy counsel.