GSA has developed a guide to serve as the Federal source for contracting information. GSA does not require payment and performance bonds in a service contract, but it is a requirement for construction contracts. Payment and performance bonds are not a problem as long as they are included up front because they are regarded as an extra cost. It depends on the contracting officer and project specifications. Payment and performance bonds are generally good for the utility because they eliminate risk.
Contracting officers have a certificate to prove that they are authorized to sign contracts.
For large projects, agency lawyers issue a statement legitimating the signature of the contracting officer. The panel discussion on placing Task Orders is the first in a series relating to contracting issues. For suggestions for topics at the next meeting, contact Mary Colvin . For each project, studies are performed to verify hours of operation and equipment maintenance requirements. In order to continue serving Federal customers, utilities should think about how deregulation can totally redefine their roles in providing energy services.