Substation Battery Replacement

The City of Tallahassee is seeking bids for a Substation Battery Replacement project through Invitation for Bid (IFB-015-25-RM), located in Leon County, Florida. The procurement involves replacing several existing 125VDC nickel-cadmium substation battery strings, including hardware, connection cables, and 2-step non-seismic battery racks, with approximately two battery banks to be replaced annually over a 3-5 year period. Specific deliverables include 47 Saft SBM138-2 NiCad cells, a Saft SL2290 battery rack, and factory commissioning of the battery string prior to shipment. The City will handle installation, and the contractor must provide recycling services for existing battery banks consisting of 94 cells each. Delivery is required to the Utility Supply Center at 2641 Municipal Way, Tallahassee, FL 32304, with delivery hours Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Key deadlines include a question submission cutoff on December 2, 2025, with final bid responses due December 16, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. through the Bonfire platform. The City will award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder without discussion, with an anticipated contract term of three years and an optional two-year extension.

The solicitation includes several set-aside and preference provisions, including a local vendor preference of 5 points for businesses maintaining a permanent presence in Leon, Wakulla, Gadsden, or Jefferson County with full-time employees for at least six months prior to the bid due date. While no specific minority or women business enterprise participation goals are mandated, the City encourages such participation. Vendors must submit multiple required documents, including a Drug-Free Workplace Certification, Non-Collusion Affidavit, and Vendor Conflict of Interest form. Performance security of 100 percent of the contract price is required within ten days of award notification. Insurance requirements include $2,000,000 in Commercial General Liability, $1,000,000 in Business Automobile Liability, and Workers' Compensation coverage. Bidders must demonstrate capability through a Responsible Vendor Review, which includes evaluating organizational experience, accounting controls, and technical skills. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the comprehensive insurance and performance requirements suggest a significant project value for the battery replacement and associated services.