Three-Phase Pad Mount Transformers

Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) is soliciting bids under ITB-E 2027-017 for the annual, as-needed purchase of three-phase pad-mounted transformers, with bids due December 9, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. through the GRU e-Procurement Portal (OpenGov). Eligibility is restricted to transformers manufactured by one of seven approved manufacturers: Cooper Power Systems, General Electric/Prolec, Howard Industries, ABB/Hitachi, ERMCO, WEG Transformers, or Central Moloney, Inc.

Units must conform to GRU's approved standards for its Electric Distribution System, as detailed in three attached technical specification files covering design, electrical performance, cooling, safety, and testing. Bidders must submit certified test reports and manufacturer approval drawings before fabrication. On receipt, GRU measures no-load, load, and total losses. Individual units may not exceed quoted values by more than 10% for no-load losses or 6% for total losses. Defective or nonconforming units are rejected and replaced at no cost to GRU, with the supplier bearing removal, return, transportation, and replacement costs. The contract requires General Liability insurance of $1 million, Automobile Liability of $0.5 million, statutory Workers' Compensation, E-Verify compliance, and cyber liability insurance.

Delivery is F.O.B. Destination with freight included. Pricing must be firm, submitted on the Pricing Response Form with applicable taxes included, and GRU is exempt from Florida sales tax. Price adjustments tied to new tariffs or trade restrictions are subject to good-faith negotiation within 15 business days of supplier notification. Required submittals include a Respondent Certification Form, Drug-Free Workplace Certification, Anti-Human Trafficking Affidavit, Subcontractor Information Form, and any Clarifications and Exceptions.

The term runs November 1, 2026 through October 31, 2029, with one two-year renewal option and a potential six-month extension to complete a new solicitation. GRU reserves the right to make multiple awards and to purchase transformers not specifically identified in the solicitation. Listed jurisdictions are Alachua County and Graceville City.

Questions are due November 30, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. A non-mandatory bid evaluation meeting is scheduled for January 12, 2027, with an intended award date of January 19, 2027.