This is a model document only and does not attempt to identify or address all circumstances or conditions you may encounter or desire. Consult with your legal counsel, applicable legislation and procurement staff to adapt it to meet your needs. AT-A-GLANCE – REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) TO PRE-QUALIFY ESCOs Overview The Big Picture – What does the RFQ accomplish? A list of pre-qualified ESCOs Minimum standards and requirements for ESCO performance How does the RFQ streamline the procurement process for clients? Eliminates the need for clients to evaluate ESCO capabilities Shortens the timeline for project development by eliminating the need for clients to initiate an RFP process How does the RFQ set the for the program? Describes the program’s role Establishes the program’s authority with respect to ESCOs and clients A number of elements can be considered for inclusion in a “best practices” RFQ adopted by a state energy office. These RFQ elements are listed below. AT-A-GLANCE – REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) TO PRE-QUALIFY ESCOs Title Description & Key Points Negotiating Items & Recommendations Overview and Background Program overview, intent, historical background, role of the state, information on how the ESCO will be selected for a project (two-step procurement process with followed by secondary selection process). Provide the ESCO with a snapshot of the state’s intention, a broader view of the state’s interests, and how to go beyond pre-qualification to final selection for a project. Proposal submittal and Administrative requirements and processes for ESCSOs (proposal Customize with your specific procurement requirements.
the legal department if possible. H Financing Solicitation Package Included in the event the ESCO can provide information on financing approaches and if the client asks the ESCO to manage in RFP process to solicit financing companies on the client’s behalf. Note that federal law restricts ESCO’s role in advising on financing. If other financing sources are preferred, provide information for the ESCO and eliminate this requirement. I Owner’s MOU Define responsibilities of the facility owner (use pre-qualified list, apply secondary selection process, provide facility information and access, etc.). Customize contract. Get approval from the legal department. J State Executive Orders RFQ Element Description & Key Points Negotiating Items & Recommendations Key Elements Pre-agreed markups and fees Requests maximum markups and fees. This step removes the difficult process for facility owners to evaluate cost proposals. It enables downward negotiation on prices for particular projects. Measurement & verification (M&V) plan and process Clearly establishes how M&V will be carried out, with a plan developed as part of the audit contract and a detailed M&V approach laid out for each measure in the performance contract. (This information is included in the audit contract.) Self-funded program If the program plans to be self-funded, give ESCOs advance notice that a small percentage of the cost savings stream may be removed to provide technical services to facility owners in return for a pre-agreed percentage of the guaranteed Consider a self-funded program. Obtain legal and procurement approval. This may also require legislative approval for an agency to collect a fee for service.
efficiency savings, once savings are achieved. Other Elements Supplemental Funding Capability Establishes means to augment performance contract with utility rebates, grants, operating funds, future funds, etc. Gives ESCO advance notice of funds to expand a project. Measurement & verification oversight; & Commissioning Oversight Establishes that a party M&V commissioning oversight contractor will be hired and paid for through a set-aside portion of guaranteed efficiency savings. Give advance notice that a small percentage of the savings stream may be removed. Project management oversight Establishes that a third party project management contractor will be hired and paid for through a pre-agreed set-aside portion of guaranteed efficiency savings. Give advance notice that a small percentage of the savings stream may be removed REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS TO PRE-QUALIFY FOR AS-NEEDED ENERGY SAVINGS PERFORMANCE CONTRACTING SERVICES FOR PROGRAM NAME ISSUER’S NAME ADDRESS