REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL 000-00-000



REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Establishing a Long-Term Natural Gas Research Strategy to Achieve Aggressive Statewide Carbon Neutrality GoalsRFP-20-501energy.contracts/State of California California Energy CommissionJanuary 2021Contents TOC \o "1-3" \h \z \u I.Introduction PAGEREF _Toc61949223 \h 7A.Purpose of RFP PAGEREF _Toc61949229 \h 7B.Key Activities and Dates PAGEREF _Toc61949230 \h 8C.Background PAGEREF _Toc61949231 \h 8D.Available Funding and How Award is Determined PAGEREF _Toc61949235 \h 12E.Eligible Bidders PAGEREF _Toc61949236 \h 12F.Notice of Pre-Application Workshop PAGEREF _Toc61949237 \h 13G.Questions PAGEREF _Toc61949238 \h 14H.Contact Information PAGEREF _Toc61949239 \h 14I.Responses to this RFP PAGEREF _Toc61949240 \h 14J.Funds Spent in California and California-Based Entities PAGEREF _Toc61949241 \h 15II.Scope of Work and Deliverables PAGEREF _Toc61949250 \h 16A.About This Section PAGEREF _Toc61949251 \h 16B.Background PAGEREF _Toc61949252 \h 16C.Goals and Objectives PAGEREF _Toc61949257 \h 19D.Scope of Work PAGEREF _Toc61949258 \h 21III.Proposal Format, Required Documents, and Delivery PAGEREF _Toc61949277 \h 37A.About This Section PAGEREF _Toc61949278 \h 37B.Required Format for a Proposal PAGEREF _Toc61949279 \h 37C.Number of Copies PAGEREF _Toc61949280 \h 37D.Packaging and Labeling PAGEREF _Toc61949281 \h 37E.Preferred Method for Delivery PAGEREF _Toc61949282 \h anize Your Proposal As Follows PAGEREF _Toc61949283 \h 38IV.Evaluation Process and Criteria PAGEREF _Toc61949286 \h 43A.About This Section PAGEREF _Toc61949287 \h 43B.Notice of Proposed Award PAGEREF _Toc61949288 \h 43C.Proposal Evaluation PAGEREF _Toc61949289 \h 43D.Scoring Scale PAGEREF _Toc61949292 \h 44V.Business Participation Programs (Preferences/Incentives) PAGEREF _Toc61949293 \h 49A.Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) PAGEREF _Toc61949294 \h 49B.DVBE Incentive PAGEREF _Toc61949295 \h 52C.Small Business / Microbusiness / Non-Small Business PAGEREF _Toc61949297 \h 54D.California Based Entities (CBE) Preference Points PAGEREF _Toc61949302 \h 56E.Target Area Contract Preference Act PAGEREF _Toc61949312 \h 57VI.Administration PAGEREF _Toc61949313 \h 58A.RFP Defined PAGEREF _Toc61949314 \h 58B.Definition of Key Words PAGEREF _Toc61949315 \h 58C.Cost of Developing Proposal PAGEREF _Toc61949316 \h 58D.Software Application Development PAGEREF _Toc61949317 \h 58E.Printing Services PAGEREF _Toc61949318 \h 59F.Confidential Information PAGEREF _Toc61949319 \h 59G.Darfur Contracting Act of 2008 PAGEREF _Toc61949320 \h 59H.California Civil Rights Laws PAGEREF _Toc61949321 \h 59I.RFP Cancellation and Amendments PAGEREF _Toc61949322 \h 60J.Errors PAGEREF _Toc61949323 \h 60K.Modifying or Withdrawal of Proposal PAGEREF _Toc61949324 \h 60L.Immaterial Defect PAGEREF _Toc61949325 \h 60M.Disposition of Bidder’s Documents PAGEREF _Toc61949326 \h 60N.Bidders’ Admonishment PAGEREF _Toc61949327 \h 60O.Grounds to Reject a Proposal PAGEREF _Toc61949328 \h 61P.Protest Procedures PAGEREF _Toc61949329 \h 62Q.Agreement Requirements PAGEREF _Toc61949330 \h 62AttachmentsContractor Status FormDarfur Contracting ActDVBE Std. 843Bidder Declaration form GSPD-05-105Contractor Certification ClausesBudget FormsSample Standard AgreementCalifornia Based Entities FormCalifornia Civil Rights Laws Certification Technical and Cost Proposal TemplateReference and Work Product FormProject ScheduleApplicant DeclarationI.IntroductionNOTE ABOUT SIGNATURESThe CEC may have waived the requirement for a signature on application materials for this solicitation for submissions. If a notice, regarding CEC’s waiver of the signature requirement appears here: , the waiver applies to this solicitation. In the event of a conflict between the notice and any language in this solicitation regarding signatures, the notice will govern.Even if the requirement for signatures has been waived, applicants are still expected to adhere to the requirements of this solicitation as if they had signed.The waiver applies to Attachment 1 (Contractor Status Form), and Attachment 13 (Applicant Declaration). All these attachments must be completed, where indicated, and included with your application. If you are an awardee, the CEC will require wet or certified electronic signatures for these attachments within 30 days after posting of the Notice of Proposed Award.Acceptable certified electronic signatures:Electronic signatures that lock the file from further editing after signing are required).Certified electronic signatures created using Adobe Acrobat or DocuSign, with the feature selected to lock the file after signing and saving, are acceptable.Certified electronic signature programs, other than Adobe Acrobat and DocuSign, must be approved by the CEC prior to use. Please work with your assigned Commission Agreement Manager to determine if the certified electronic signature program is acceptable.Purpose of RFPThe purpose of this RFP is to produce a long-term natural gas research strategy to help decarbonize California by 2045. The strategy is expected to produce prioritized research recommendations that include all stages in the supply chain (production, transmission, storage, and distribution for low carbon fuels) and all natural gas (NG) end use sectors, except for utility-scale power generation. These recommendations will inform future research on technology development, deployment, and demonstration in the California Energy Commission’s (CEC) Natural Gas Research Program to help transition to a net-zero carbon natural gas system. Please refer to section II for full details on the scope of the study. Key Activities and DatesKey activities including dates and times for this RFP are presented below. An addendum will be released if the dates change for the asterisked (*) activities.RFP Release Date – January 20, 2021Pre-Bid Conference Date – January 27, 2021Written Questions Submittal Deadline* – January 29, 2021 by 5:00 p.m.Distribute Questions/Answers and Addenda (if any) to RFP – Week of February 8, 2021Deadline to Submit Proposals* – March 19, 2021 by 5:00 p.m. Clarification Interviews (If necessary) Date(s) – Week of April 5, 2021Notice of Proposed Award Date - Week of April 19, 2021Commission Business Meeting Date – June 9, 2021Contract Start Date – June 30, 2021Contract Termination Date – June 30, 2023BackgroundNatural Gas R&D ProgramThis solicitation will award projects under the Natural Gas Research Program, which is funded by a surcharge on NG consumed by ratepayers of NG Investor Owned Utilities (IOUs) in California (see California Public Utilities Code section 890 and 895). The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) designated the CEC as administrator of the program in August 2004. The purpose of the program is to bring benefits to California NG ratepayers by funding public interest research and development activities, which the CPUC has defined as “developing science or technology, the benefits of which accrues to California citizens and are not adequately addressed by competitive or regulated entities.”Program Areas, Strategic Objectives, and Funding InitiativesNG Research, Development, and Demonstration projects must fall within one or more specific focus areas (“funding initiatives”) identified in the Natural Gas Research, Development, and Demonstration Budget Plan. This solicitation targets the following funding initiative:Natural Gas R&D Budget Plan for Fiscal Year 2019/2020:Research Area: Natural Gas Strategic Planning ResearchResearch Initiative: Establishing a Long-Term Technological Development Strategy to Meet Aggressive Statewide Decarbonization GoalsApplicable Laws, Policies, and Background DocumentsThis solicitation addresses the energy goals described in the following laws, policies, and background documents.Laws/RegulationsAssembly Bill (AB) 32 - Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 AB 32 created a comprehensive program to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in California. GHG reduction strategies include a reduction mandate of 1990 levels by 2020 and a cap-and-trade program. AB 32 designates the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources of GHG Emissions. AB 32 also required CARB to develop a Scoping Plan that describes the approach California will take to reduce GHGs. CARB must update the plan every five years.Additional information: Law: California Health and Safety Code §§ 38500 et. seq. Senate Bill (SB) 32 - California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006: Emissions LimitSB 32 updates statewide GHG reduction goals originally set by AB 32. This requires CARB to ensure that statewide GHG emissions are reduced to 40% below the 1990 level by 2030.Additional information: 350 - Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act of 2015SB 350 requires the following: 1) the amount of electricity generated and sold to retail customers per year from eligible renewable energy resources be increased by 50 percent by December 31, 2030; 2) the CEC to establish annual targets for statewide energy efficiency savings in electricity and natural gas final end uses of retail customers by January 1, 2030; and 3) provide for transformation of the Independent System Operator into a regional organization. Applicable Law: SB 100 – The 100 Percent Clean Energy Act of 2018SB 100 declares that it is state policy for eligible renewable energy resources and zero-carbon resources to supply 100 percent of all retail sales of electricity to California end-use customers by December 31, 2045. The bill requires the CPUC and the CEC, in consultation with ARB, to ensure that California’s transition to a zero-carbon electric system does not cause or contribute to GHG increases elsewhere in the western grid.Applicable Law: 49 - Appliance Standards and State Water Project AssessmentSB 49 requires the following 1) that the Natural Resources Agency, in collaboration with the CEC and the Department of Water Resources assess the opportunities and constraints for potential operational and structural upgrades to the State Water Project to aid California in achieving its climate and energy goals and 2) directs the CEC to adopt cost-effective energy efficiency regulations that facilitate the deployment of demand flexible technologies.Applicable Law: 3232 - Zero-Emissions Buildings and Sources of Heat EnergyAB 3232 requires the CEC to assess the potential for the state to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases from the state’s residential and commercial building stock by at least 40% below 1990 levels by January 1, 2030 and to include in the integrated energy policy report a report on the emissions of greenhouse gases associated with the supply of energy to residential and commercial buildings.Applicable Law: Energy Policy Report (Biennial)California Public Resources Code Section 25302 requires the CEC to release a biennial report that provides an overview of major energy trends and issues facing the state. The Integrated Energy Policy Report (IEPR) assesses and forecasts all aspects of energy industry supply, production, transportation, delivery, distribution, demand, and pricing. The CEC uses these assessments and forecasts to develop energy policies and provide recommendations for future research and analysis areas.Additional information: Law: California Public Resources Code § 25300 et seq.Climate Change Scoping PlanAB 32 requires ARB to create and maintain a comprehensive, multi-year program to reduce GHG emissions in California. AB 32 required ARB to develop a Scoping Plan that describes the approach California will take to reduce GHGs to achieve the goal of reducing emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. ?The Scoping Plan was first approved by the Board in 2008 and must be updated at least every five years.Executive Order B-30-15Governor Brown’s Executive Order B-30-15 established a new interim statewide GHG emission reduction target (circumscribed by the Governor’s authority) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 40 % below 1990 levels by 2030, to ensure California meets its target of reducing GHG emissions to 80 % below 1990 levels by 2050. The Executive Order addresses the need to incorporate climate impacts into the state’s Five-Year Infrastructure Plan and planning and investment decisions. Additional Information: Order B-55-18Governor Brown’s Executive Order B-55-18 sets a goal that the entire California economy achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 and achieve and maintain net negative emissions thereafter (circumscribed by the Governor’s authority). This goal is in addition to existing statewide targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Executive Order directs the ARB to work with relevant state agencies to ensure future Scoping Plans identify and recommend measures to achieve the carbon neutrality goal.Additional Information: Order N-19-19Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-19-19 requires that “every aspect of state government redouble its effort to reduce GHG emissions and mitigate impacts of climate change while building a sustainable, inclusive economy.” It calls on the creation of a Climate Investment Framework that leverages the state’s $700 billion investment portfolio to advance the State’s climate leadership, protect taxpayers, and support the creation of high-road jobs.Additional Information: Reference DocumentsRefer to the documents below for information about CEC research and related activities associated with natural gas decarbonization.Mahone, Amber, ZacharySubin, Jenya Kahn-Lang, Douglas Allen, Vivian Li, Gerrit De Moor, Nancy Ryan, Snuller Price. 2018. Deep Decarbonization in a High RenewablesFuture: Updated Results from the California PATHWAYS Model. California Energy Commission. Publication Number: CEC-500-2018-012, Dan, Amber Mahone, Zack Subin, Michael Mac Kinnon, Blake Lane, and Snuller Price. 2020. The Challenge of Retail Gas in California’s Low-Carbon Future: Technology Options, Customer Costs and Public Health Benefits of Reducing Natural Gas Use. California Energy Commission. Publication Number: CEC-500-2019-055-F. Energy Commission. 2020. DRAFT 2021 SB 100 Joint Agency Report. , Kevin. 2019. Natural Gas Research and Development Program Proposed Program Plan and Funding Request for Fiscal Year 2019-20. California Energy Commission Research and Development Division. Publication Number: CEC-500-2019-035 California Energy Commission Research Reports and Publications: Funding and How Award is DeterminedThere is $500,000 available for the contract resulting from this RFP. This is an hourly rate plus cost reimbursement contract and the award will be made to the responsible Bidder receiving the highest points.The CEC reserves the right to reduce the contract amount to an amount deemed appropriate in the event the budgeted funds do not provide full funding of Energy Commission contracts. In this event, the Contractor and Commission Agreement Manager (CAM) shall meet and reach agreement on a reduced scope of work commensurate with the level of available funding.Eligible BiddersThis is an open solicitation for public and private entities. Each agreement resulting from this solicitation includes terms and conditions that set forth the contractor’s rights and responsibilities. Private sector entities must agree to use the standard terms and conditions located at the following website: (Terms and Conditions Documents). Note that the resulting contract will include the General Terms and Conditions prepared by the Department of General Services (GTC 04/2017 - General Terms and Conditions for non-IT services contracts except for Interagency Agreements. [Effective on 4/4/2017]). The University of California or U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratories must use either the standard or the pre-negotiated terms and conditions at the same website. The CEC will not award agreements to non-complying entities. The CEC reserves the right to modify the terms and conditions prior to executing agreements.All corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships (LPs) and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) that conduct intrastate business in California are required to be registered and in good standing with the California Secretary of State prior to its project being recommended for approval at an Energy Commission Business Meeting.?If not currently registered with the California Secretary of State, bidders are encouraged to contact the Secretary of State’s Office as soon as possible to avoid potential delays in beginning the proposed project(s) (should the application be successful).?For more information, contact the Secretary of State’s Office at SOS Website.?Sole proprietors using a fictitious business name must be registered with the appropriate county and provide evidence of registration to the Energy Commission prior to their project being recommended for approval at an Energy Commission Business Meeting.Notice of Pre-Application WorkshopCEC staff will hold one Pre-Application Workshop to discuss the solicitation with potential applicants. Participation is optional but encouraged. The Pre-Application Workshop will be held remotely, consistent with Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-29-20 and the recommendations from the California Department of Public Health to encourage physical distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19. Applicants may attend the workshop via the internet (Zoom, see instructions below), or via conference call on the date and at the time and location listed below. Please call (916) 654-4381 or refer to the CEC's website at energy.contracts/index.html to confirm the date and time.Date and time: January 27, 2021 at 10:00 a.m.Zoom Instructions:To join the Zoom meeting, go to and enter the Meeting ID below and select “join from your browser.” Participants will then enter the meeting password listed below and their name. Participants will select the “Join” button.: Meeting Link: ID: 999 4400 8506Meeting Password: meeting@10Topic: RFP-20-501 Pre-Application Workshop?Telephone Access Only:Call 1-888 475 4499 (Toll Free) or 1-877 853 5257 (Toll Free). When prompted, enter the meeting number above. International callers may select a number from the Zoom International Dial-in Number List at: . To comment, dial *9 to “raise your hand” and *6 to mute/unmute your phone line.Access by Mobile Device:Download the application from the Zoom Download Center, Support:For assistance with problems or questions about joining or attending the meeting, please call Zoom Technical Support at 1-888-799-9666 ext. 2. . You may also contact the CEC’s Public Advisor’s Office at publicadvisor@energy., or 800-822-6228.System Requirements: To determine whether your computer is compatible, visit: you have a disability and require assistance to participate, please Erica Rodriguez by e-mail at Erica.Rodriguez@energy. or (916) 654-4314 at least five days in advance. QuestionsApplicants may ask questions at the Pre-Application Workshop, and may submit written questions via mail, electronic mail, and by FAX. However, all technical questions must be received by the deadline listed in the “Key Activities Schedule” above. Questions received after the deadline may be answered at the CEC's discretion. Non-technical questions (e.g., questions concerning application format requirements or attachment instructions) may be submitted to the Commission Agreement Officer (CAO) at any time prior the application deadline. The questions and answers will also be posted on the Commission’s website at: an applicant discovers a conflict, discrepancy, omission, or other error in the solicitation at any time prior to the application deadline, the applicant may notify the CEC in writing and request modification or clarification of the solicitation. The CEC, at its discretion will provide modifications or clarifications by either an addendum to the solicitation or by written notice to all entities that requested the solicitation. At its discretion, the CEC may, in addition to any other actions it may choose, re-open the question/answer period to provide all applicants the opportunity to seek any further clarification required. Any verbal communication with a Commission employee concerning this solicitation is not binding on the State and will in no way alter a specification, term, or condition of the solicitation. Therefore, all communication should be directed in writing to the assigned CAO.Contact InformationMarissa SuttonCommission Agreement OfficerCalifornia Energy Commission1516 Ninth Street, MS-18Sacramento, California 95814Phone: (916) 897-1586E-mail:marissa.sutton@energy.Responses to this RFPResponses to this solicitation shall be in the form of an Administrative, Technical and Cost Proposal according to the format described in this RFP. The Administrative response shall include all required administrative documents. The Technical Proposal shall document the Bidder’s approach, experience, qualifications, and project organization to perform the tasks described in the Scope of Work, and the Cost Proposal shall detail the Bidder’s budget to perform such tasks.Funds Spent in California and California-Based Entities Only CEC reimbursable funds counts towards funds spent in California and funds spent on California-Based Entities totals."Spent in California" means that: Funds in the "Direct Labor category and all categories calculated based on direct labor (e.g., fringe benefits, indirect costs and profit) are paid to individuals that pay California state income taxes on wages received for work performed under the agreement. Payments made to out-of-state workers do not count as “funds spent in California.” However, funds spent by out-of-state workers in California (e.g., hotel and food) can count as “funds spent in California.”; AND(2) Business transactions (e.g., material and equipment purchases, leases, and rentals) are entered into with a business located in California. (3) Total should include any applicable subcontractors.Airline ticket purchases for out-of-state travel and payments made to out-of-state workers are not considered funds “spent in California.” However, funds spent by out-of-state workers in California (e.g. lodging) and airline travel originating and ending in California are considered funds “spent in California.” A business located in California means: 1) businesses registered with Secretary of State?AND 2) transaction is with a location in California that is directly related to the grant project (e.g., direct purchase of material and equipment to be used in the grant) and results in the support of California business and jobs. Example 1: Grant funds will be spent on temperature sensors.? The temperature sensors are manufactured in Texas. The recipient orders the temperature sensors directly from a CA based supply house. ?The invoice shows that the transaction occurred with the CA based supply house. This transaction is eligible and can be counted as funds spent in CA.Example 2: Grant funds will be spent on temperature sensors. The temperature sensors are manufactured in Texas. The recipient orders the temperature sensors directly from Texas.? The manufacturer has training centers in CA that instructs purchasers on how to use the sensors. The invoice shows that the transaction occurred in Texas. This transaction is not eligible and cannot be counted as funds spent in CA.Pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 25620.5(h), the California Energy Commission’s Natural Gas Program must give priority to “California-Based Entities” (CBEs) when making awards. California Public Resources Code Section 25620.5(i) defines “CBE” as a corporation or other business entity organized for the transaction of business that either: Has its headquarters in California AND manufactures in California the product that is the subject of the award; orHas an office for the transaction of business in California and substantially manufactures the product or substantially performs the research within California that is the subject of the award.Applications must meet the following requirements in order to receive CBE preference points:The proposal must include a CBE as either the recipient or a subcontractor. The budget must show that the CBE(s) will receive more than 60.00% of the funds awarded.II.Scope of Work and DeliverablesAbout This SectionThis section describes the contract scope of work, deliverables and due dates under the direction of the CAM.BackgroundPolicy DriversThe CEC’s Natural Gas Research Program invests in technologies and solutions that promote a more reliable, cost-effective, safe, and equitable energy service for natural gas sector ratepayers and supports California’s energy and environmental goals. In September 2018, Governor Edmund G Brown Jr. set in motion two of the most ambitious climate targets in history by signing SB 100 and issuing Executive Order B-55-18. Senate Bill 100 (De León, Chapter 312, Statutes of 2018) requires that all retail sales of electricity in California be renewable or zero-carbon while Executive Order B-55-18 sets a goal that the entire California economy achieve carbon neutrality. The target dates for both goals is 2045. Consistent with program goals and previous research planning, the CEC must explore the role of the Natural Gas Research Program in meeting these new landmark climate goals. These goals require an aggressive and targeted approach.New energy technologies and strategies will need to be developed to achieve these aggressive goals, and with limited research funding, investments will need to be strategically targeted.Key TerminologyThe following terms are used throughout the scope of work and are defined below for the purposes of this solicitation and the resulting contract:Natural Gas System: The natural gas system refers to the entire supply chain of natural gas, including production, transmission, storage, distribution, and end use equipment. For the purpose of this study, utility-scale power generation is excluded from end use equipment as decarbonization of this sector is being thoroughly investigated through Senate Bill 100.Sectors: Sectors refer to the residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, and transportation economic sectors.Sub-sectors: Sub-sectors refer to specified segments of the above economic sectors and are to be defined within the study for the purposes of categorizing the research recommendations (e.g., research recommendations for medium-duty and heavy-duty transportation sub-sectors).Decarbonization technologies: decarbonization technologies refer to those which could enable currently fossil fueled energy systems to become net-zero carbon on a lifecycle basis.Low Carbon Fuels: Low carbon fuels are those with a lower carbon intensity compared to natural gas.Disadvantaged Community: Disadvantaged Communities are those in the top 25% scoring areas from CalEnviroScreen along with other areas with high amounts of pollution and low populations. () Low Income Community: Low-income Communities are defined as communities within census tracts with median household incomes at or below 80 percent of the statewide median income or the applicable low-income threshold listed in the state income limits updated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. ()Natural Gas Strategic Planning ResearchIn response to these policy goals and corresponding CPUC direction, the CEC established a new Strategic Planning Research Area in its 2019-2020 Natural Gas Budget Plan. This new research area aims to be crosscutting and forward-looking, examining natural gas use in every sector (residential, commercial, industrial, infrastructure, and transportation), reviewing the potential alternatives, and charting a pathway for how to achieve the state’s ambitious energy policy goals.Strategic Planning Research supports studies that examine the Long-Term Research Strategy for natural gas use in California within the context of the state’s renewable energy and carbon neutrality goals. With only slightly more than two decades to effect this transition, planning must begin now for the state to transition toward these goals while minimizing costs and burdens to natural gas ratepayers.Scope of the Long-Term Research StrategyThe long-term research strategy is expected to produce prioritized research recommendations that would enable the transition to a net-zero carbon natural gas system by 2045. The recommendations should include all stages in the supply chain (production, transmission, storage and distribution for low carbon fuels) and all natural gas end use sectors, except for utility-scale power generation. In addition, while net-zero carbon emissions is the end goal, technologies and strategies which reduce GHG emissions in the interim and help enable the transition to decarbonization (e.g., energy efficiency) are within the scope of the study. Further details on the scope of the study are provided below:Research Categories: Research funded by the Natural Gas Research Program generally falls into three research categories. Research recommendations produced by the selected-contractor must include all of the following:Scientific and Techno-Economic Analysis - Developing new knowledge and tools that can inform energy policy and planning decisionsTechnology Development - Developing early stage technologies at lab or prototype level (TRL 3-5). These technologies should have the potential for scale-up and wide deployment within 10-15 years after successful demonstration. Technology Demonstration and Deployment - Demonstrating later stage technologies or systems at a scale that will reflect actual operating, performance, and financial characteristics and risk (TRL 6-9). These technologies should have the potential for scale-up and wide deployment within 1-10 years after successful demonstration.Research Areas: The Natural Gas Research Program funds research in distinct topic areas. Research recommendations produced by the selected-contractor must be within all the following research areas:Resiliency, Health, and SafetyBuilding DecarbonizationPipeline DecarbonizationIndustrial and Agricultural InnovationRenewable Energy and Advanced GenerationLow-emission TransportationAreas not listed above, in particular natural gas-fueled utility-scale power generation, are not included in the scope of this study. In order to better understand the scope of each research area, applicants should familiarize themselves with the references identified in section I and recent annual reports and investment plans available at: technology categories: There are many technologies to decarbonize natural gas and they generally fall into four technology categories. Research recommendations by the selected contractor should generally fall within the bounds of all these categories:Electrification of end-use equipmentUtilization of solar thermal and/or thermal storageUtilization of low carbon fuels such as renewable gas, biofuels, and hydrogenUtilization of natural gas in conjunction with carbon capture, sequestration, and utilizationEstablished Decarbonization Scenarios: The CEC has funded and co-authored several recent studies focused on possible ways to decarbonize California’s energy system. These studies, focused on deep decarbonization, the future of natural gas, and meeting the goals of Senate Bill 100, present pathways and scenarios by which California could meet its carbon neutrality goals. The long-term research study should leverage these studies and present its research recommendations within the bounds of these scenarios. The selected contractor is not expected to perform new modeling or analysis to determine additional scenarios, nor are they expected to make policy recommendations regarding which scenarios the state should follow.The funded study should consider the information above and provide recommendations which fit within the bounds of each. Each recommendation produced should clearly indicate what research category, research area, decarbonization technology category, and decarbonization scenario the recommendation falls under (e.g., technology development of electrification equipment for industrial application in a high electrification scenario).Goals and ObjectivesThe goal of this RFP is to develop a long-term research strategy which would enable a decarbonized natural gas system in California by 2045. The key outputs of this strategy will be research recommendations which will inform the CEC’s Natural Gas Research Program and its complementary initiatives. The strategy must be developed in consultation with key stakeholders and subject matter experts, including the CEC and Technical Advisory Committee. Specifically, the strategy must:Conduct a baseline assessmentPerform a comprehensive literature review in order to build on the results of previous similar reports,, especially recent CEC studies on deep decarbonization, the future of natural gas, and Senate Bill 100.Examine existing natural gas system-wide scenarios for a carbon neutral energy system, such as high electrification, high hydrogen, and others and consider the role of energy efficiency and other low-carbon pathways.Select at least three existing scenarios to base future research recommendations on.Perform a comprehensive technology assessment in order to determine the current baseline (in-use today, e.g., heat pump water heaters) and state-of-the-art natural gas decarbonization technologies for each sector.Identify sectors and sub-sectorsIdentify the sectors and sub-sectors including their current demand for natural gas.Develop a methodology for prioritizing which sectors and sub-sectors to research to achieve decarbonization, including sectors with the highest GHG reduction potentialEvaluate and screen the sectors and sub-sectors which will be the focus of the long-term strategy based on the established methodology.Perform a technology evaluationDevelop a methodology for categorizing and prioritizing emerging decarbonization technologies.Establish criteria by which to evaluate early stage and emerging decarbonization technologies (e.g., maturity, capital and infrastructure cost to decarbonize, carbon intensity, equity considerations, impacts on vulnerable populations, timeline for conversion, cost effectiveness).Screen and evaluate emerging decarbonization technologies based on the established criteria and methodology.Identify barriers to adoption of decarbonized natural gas technologies (e.g., cost and performance, maturity, consumer acceptance) and the research needed to address these barriersIdentify research gaps and performance metricsIdentify technology and strategy research gaps which may be addressed through the Natural Gas Research Program.Develop performance and cost targets, and other metrics to be critical indicators of research success and increase probability of market adoption.Gather and analyze stakeholder inputEstablish a technical advisory committee (TAC) of key stakeholders and subject-matter experts to provide input throughout the project. The TAC should represent both technical experts (e.g., technology manufacturers, research institutions) and end users (e.g., technology adopters, disadvantaged and/or low-income communities and representative community-based organizations).Conduct interviews with additional subject matter experts as needed throughout the project.Conduct two or more public workshops to present intermediate results and solicit input from experts and stakeholders.Provide comprehensive, prioritized recommendationsRecommend a timeline to make key planning decisions in a natural gas transition and the associated research portfolio. Recommend near-term technology deployment strategies for sectors and subsectors which could readily decarbonize (e.g., new residential construction), including goals and metrics, and strategies for addressing cost, funding, market/ manufacturing readiness and other challenges.Provide research recommendations for all sectors which will enable the transition to a decarbonized natural gas system.Categorize research recommendations by near (1-5 years), mid (5-10 years), long (10-15 years) and very long (>15 years) term and what research can accelerate the implementation timeline. Prioritize research recommendations by low, medium, and high priority for the Natural Gas Research Program and why.Scope of WorkTask 1 General Project TasksDeliverablesSubtask 1.1 Deliverables The goal of this subtask is to establish the requirements for submitting project deliverables (e.g., reports, summaries, plans, and presentation materials). Unless otherwise specified by the Commission Agreement Manager (CAM), the Contractor must provide deliverables as required below by the dates listed in the Schedule of Deliverables (Part V). Deliverables that require a draft version are indicated by marking “(draft and final)” after the deliverable name in the “Deliverables” section of the task/subtask. If “(draft and final)” does not appear after the deliverable name, only a final version of the deliverable is required. With respect to due dates within this Scope of Work, “days” means working days. The Contractor shall: For deliverables that require a draft version, including the Final Report Outline and Final Report Submit all draft deliverables to the CAM for review and comment in accordance with the Schedule of Deliverables (Part V). The CAM will provide written comments to the Contractor on the draft deliverable within 15 days of receipt, unless otherwise specified in the task/subtask for which the deliverable is required. Consider incorporating all CAM comments into the final product. If the Recipient disagrees with any comment, provide a written response explaining why the comment was not incorporated into the final deliverable. Submit the revised deliverable with responses and comments within 10 days of notice by the CAM, unless the CAM specifies a longer time period, or approves a request for additional time.For deliverables that require a final version onlySubmit the deliverable to the CAM for acceptance. The CAM may request minor revisions or explanations prior to acceptance. For all deliverablesSubmit all data and documents required as deliverables in accordance with the following:Instructions for Submitting Electronic Files and Developing Software:Electronic File FormatSubmit all data and documents required as deliverables under this Agreement in an electronic file format that is fully editable and compatible with the Energy Commission’s software and Microsoft (MS)-operating computing platforms, or with any other format approved by the CAM. Deliver an electronic copy of the full text of any Agreement data and documents in a format specified by the CAM, such as memory stick or CD-ROM. The following describes the accepted formats for electronic data and documents provided to the Energy Commission as deliverables under this Agreement, and establishes the software versions that will be required to review and approve all software deliverables:Data sets will be in MS Access or MS Excel file format (version 2007 or later), or any other format approved by the CAM.Text documents will be in MS Word file format, version 2007 or later.Documents intended for public distribution will be in PDF file format.The Contractor must also provide the native Microsoft file format.Project management documents will be in Microsoft Project file format, version 2007 or later.Software Application DevelopmentUse the following standard Application Architecture components in compatible versions for any software application development required by this Agreement (e.g., databases, models, modeling tools), unless the CAM approves other software applications such as open source programs:Microsoft framework (version 3.5 and up). Recommend 4.0. Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS), (version 6 and up) Recommend 7.5.Visual (version 2008 and up). Recommend 2010. C# Programming Language with Presentation (UI), Business Object and Data Layers. SQL (Structured Query Language). Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Stored Procedures. Recommend 2008 R2. Microsoft SQL Reporting Services. Recommend 2008 R2. XML (external interfaces).Any exceptions to the Electronic File Format requirements above must be approved in writing by the CAM. The CAM will consult with the Energy Commission’s Information Technology Services Branch to determine whether the exceptions are allowable.MEETINGSSubtask 1.2 Kick-off MeetingThe goal of this subtask is to establish the lines of communication and procedures for implementing this Agreement. The Contractor shall: Attend a “Kick-off” meeting with the CAM, the Commission Agreement Officer (CAO), and any other Energy Commission staff relevant to the Agreement. The Contractor will bring its Project Manager and any other individuals designated by the CAM to this meeting. The administrative and technical aspects of the Agreement will be discussed at the meeting. Prior to the meeting, the CAM will provide an agenda to all potential meeting participants. The meeting may take place in person or by electronic conferencing (e.g., WebEx), with approval of the CAM.The administrative portion of the meeting will include discussion of the following: Terms and conditions of the Agreement;Deliverables (subtask 1.1);CPR meetings (subtask 1.3);Match fund documentation (subtask 1.7);Permit documentation (subtask 1.8);Subcontracts (subtask 1.9); andAny other relevant topics.The technical portion of the meeting will include discussion of the following:The CAM’s expectations for accomplishing tasks described in the Scope of Work;An updated Project Schedule;Deliverables (subtask 1.1);Progress reports and invoices (subtask 1.5);Final Report (subtask 1.6); Technical Advisory Committee meetings (subtasks 1.10 and 1.11); andAny other relevant topics.Provide an Updated Schedule of Deliverables, List of Match Funds, and List of Permits, as needed to reflect any changes in the documents.The CAM shall:Designate the date and location of the meeting.Send the Contractor a Kick-off Meeting Agenda.Contractor Deliverables:Updated Schedule of Deliverables (if applicable)Updated List of Match Funds (if applicable)Updated List of Permits (if applicable)CAM Deliverable:Kick-off Meeting AgendaSubtask 1.3 Critical Project Review (CPR) Meetings The goal of this subtask is to determine if the project should continue to receive Energy Commission funding, and if so whether any modifications must be made to the tasks, deliverables, schedule, or budget. CPR meetings provide the opportunity for frank discussions between the Energy Commission and the Contractor. As determined by the CAM, discussions may include project status, challenges, successes, advisory group findings and recommendations, final report preparation, and progress on technical transfer and production readiness activities (if applicable). Participants will include the CAM and the Contractor, and may include the CAO and any other individuals selected by the CAM to provide support to the Energy Commission.CPR meetings generally take place at key, predetermined points in the Agreement, as determined by the CAM and as shown in the Task List on page 1 of this Exhibit. However, the CAM may schedule additional CPR meetings as necessary. The budget will be reallocated to cover the additional costs borne by the Contractor, but the overall Agreement amount will not increase. CPR meetings generally take place at the Energy Commission, but they may take place at another location, or may be conducted via electronic conferencing (e.g., WebEx) as determined by the CAM. The Contractor shall:Prepare a CPR Report for each CPR meeting that: (1) discusses the progress of the Agreement toward achieving its goals and objectives; and (2) includes recommendations and conclusions regarding continued work on the project.Submit the CPR Report along with any other Task Deliverables that correspond to the technical task for which the CPR meeting is required (i.e., if a CPR meeting is required for Task 2, submit the Task 2 deliverables along with the CPR Report).Attend the CPR meeting.Present the CPR Report and any other required information at each CPR meeting.The CAM shall:Determine the location, date, and time of each CPR meeting with the Contractor’s input. Send the Contractor a CPR Agenda and a List of Expected CPR Participants in advance of the CPR meeting. If applicable, the agenda will include a discussion of match funding and permits. Conduct and make a record of each CPR meeting. Provide the Contractor with a Schedule for Providing a Progress Determination on continuation of the project.Determine whether to continue the project, and if so whether modifications are needed to the tasks, schedule, deliverables, or budget for the remainder of the Agreement. If the CAM concludes that satisfactory progress is not being made, this conclusion will be referred to the Deputy Director of the Energy Research and Development Division.Provide the Contractor with a Progress Determination on continuation of the project, in accordance with the schedule. The Progress Determination may include a requirement that the Contractor revise one or more deliverables.Contractor Deliverables:CPR Report(s) Task Deliverables (draft and/or final as specified in the task)CAM Deliverables: CPR Agenda List of Expected CPR Participants Schedule for Providing a Progress Determination Progress DeterminationSubtask 1.4 Final MeetingThe goal of this subtask is to complete the closeout of this Agreement.The Contractor shall:Meet with Energy Commission staff to present project findings, conclusions, and recommendations. The final meeting must be completed during the closeout of this Agreement. This meeting will be attended by the Contractor and CAM, at a minimum. The meeting may occur in person or by electronic conferencing (e.g., WebEx), with approval of the CAM.The technical and administrative aspects of Agreement closeout will be discussed at the meeting, which may be divided into two separate meetings at the CAM’s discretion.The technical portion of the meeting will involve the presentation of findings, conclusions, and recommended next steps (if any) for the Agreement. The CAM will determine the appropriate meeting participants. The administrative portion of the meeting will involve a discussion with the CAM and the CAO of the following Agreement closeout items:Disposition of any state-owned equipment. Need to file a Uniform Commercial Code Financing Statement (Form UCC-1) regarding the Energy Commission’s interest in patented technology.The Energy Commission’s request for specific “generated” data (not already provided in Agreement deliverables).Need to document the Contractor’s disclosure of “subject inventions” developed under the Agreement.“Surviving” Agreement provisions such as repayment provisions and confidential deliverables.Final invoicing and release of retention.Prepare a Final Meeting Agreement Summary that documents any agreement made between the Contractor and Commission staff during the meeting.Prepare a Schedule for Completing Agreement Closeout Activities.Provide All Draft and Final Written Deliverables on a CD-ROM or USB memory stick, organized by the tasks in the Agreement.Deliverables:Final Meeting Agreement Summary (if applicable)Schedule for Completing Agreement Closeout ActivitiesAll Draft and Final Written DeliverablesREPORTS AND INVOICESSubtask 1.5 Progress Reports and InvoicesThe goals of this subtask are to: (1) periodically verify that satisfactory and continued progress is made towards achieving the project objectives of this Agreement; and (2) ensure that invoices contain all required information and are submitted in the appropriate format. The Contractor shall: Submit a monthly Progress Report to the CAM. Each progress report must:Summarize progress made on all Agreement activities as specified in the scope of work for the preceding month, including accomplishments, problems, milestones, products, schedule, fiscal status, and an assessment of the ability to complete the Agreement within the current budget and any anticipated cost overruns. See the Progress Report Format Attachment for the recommended specifications. Submit a monthly or quarterly Invoice that follows the instructions in the “Payment of Funds” section of the terms and conditions, including a financial report on Match Fund and in-state expenditures.Deliverables:Progress Reports InvoicesSubtask 1.6 Final ReportThe goal of this subtask is to prepare a comprehensive Final Report that describes the original purpose, approach, results, and conclusions of the work performed under this Agreement. The CAM will review the Final?Report, which will be due at least two months before the Agreement end date. When creating the Final Report Outline and the Final Report, the Contractor must use the Style Manual provided by the CAM.Subtask 1.6.1 Final Report OutlineThe Contractor shall:Prepare a Final Report Outline in accordance with the Style Manual provided by the CAM. (See Task 1.1 for requirements for draft and final deliverables.)Contractor Deliverables:Final Report Outline (draft and final)CAM Deliverables:Style ManualComments on Draft Final Report OutlineAcceptance of Final Report OutlineSubtask 1.6.2 Final Report The Contractor shall: Prepare a Final Report for this Agreement in accordance with the approved Final Report Outline, Style Manual, and Final Report Template provided by the CAM with the following considerations: Ensure that the report includes the following items, in the following order:Cover page (required)Credits page on the reverse side of cover with legal disclaimer (required)Acknowledgements page (optional)Preface (required)Abstract, keywords, and citation page (required)Table of Contents (required, followed by List of Figures and List of Tables, if needed)Executive summary (required)Body of the report (required)References (if applicable)Glossary/Acronyms (If more than 10 acronyms or abbreviations are used, it is required.)Bibliography (if applicable)Appendices (if applicable) (Create a separate volume if very large.)Attachments (if applicable)Ensure that the document is written in the third person.Ensure that the Executive Summary is understandable to the lay public.Briefly summarize the completed work. Succinctly describe the project results and whether or not the project goals were accomplished.Identify which specific ratepayers can benefit from the project results and how they can achieve the benefits.If it’s necessary to use a technical term in the Executive Summary, provide a brief definition or explanation when the technical term is first used.Follow the Style Guide format requirements for headings, figures/tables, citations, and acronyms/abbreviations.Ensure that the document omits subjective comments and opinions. However, recommendations in the conclusion of the report are allowed.Include a brief description of the project results in the Abstract.Submit a draft of the report to the CAM for review and comment. The CAM will provide written comments to the Recipient on the draft product within 15 days of receipt.Consider incorporating all CAM comments into the Final Report. If the Recipient disagrees with any comment, provide a written response explaining why the comment was not incorporated into the final product. Submit the revised Final Report and responses to comments within 10 days of notice by the CAM, unless the CAM specifies a longer time period or approves a request for additional time.Submit the Final Report to the CAM along with Written Responses to Comments on the Draft Final Report. Deliverables:Final Report (draft and final)Written Responses to Comments on the Draft Final ReportCAM Deliverable:Written Comments on the Draft Final ReportMATCH FUNDS, PERMITS, AND SUBCONTRACTSSubtask 1.7 Match FundsThe goal of this subtask is to ensure that the Contractor obtains any match funds planned for this Agreement and applies them to the Agreement during the Agreement term. While the costs to obtain and document match funds are not reimbursable under this Agreement, the Contractor may spend match funds for this task. The Contractor may only spend match funds during the Agreement term, either concurrently or prior to the use of Energy Commission funds. Match funds must be identified in writing, and the Contractor must obtain any associated commitments before incurring any costs for which the Contractor will request reimbursement. The Contractor shall:Prepare a Match Funds Status Letter that documents the match funds committed to this Agreement. If no match funds were part of the proposal that led to the Energy Commission awarding this Agreement and none have been identified at the time this Agreement starts, then state this in the letter.If match funds were a part of the proposal that led to the Energy Commission awarding this Agreement, then provide in the letter:A list of the match funds that identifies:The amount of cash match funds, their source(s) (including a contact name, address, and telephone number), and the task(s) to which the match funds will be applied. The amount of each in-kind contribution, a description of the contribution type (e.g., property, services), the documented market or book value, the source (including a contact name, address, and telephone number), and the task(s) to which the match funds will be applied. If the in-kind contribution is equipment or other tangible or real property, the Contractor must identify its owner and provide a contact name, address, telephone number, and the address where the property is located.A copy of a letter of commitment from an authorized representative of each source of match funding that the funds or contributions have been secured.At the Kick-off meeting, discuss match funds and the impact on the project if they are significantly reduced or not obtained as committed. If applicable, match funds will be included as a line item in the progress reports and will be a topic at CPR meetings. Provide a Supplemental Match Funds Notification Letter to the CAM of receipt of additional match funds.Provide a Match Funds Reduction Notification Letter to the CAM if existing match funds are reduced during the course of the Agreement. Reduction of match funds may trigger a CPR meeting.Deliverables:Match Funds Status Letter Supplemental Match Funds Notification Letter (if applicable)Match Funds Reduction Notification Letter (if applicable) Subtask 1.8 PermitsThe goal of this subtask is to obtain all permits required for work completed under this Agreement in advance of the date they are needed to keep the Agreement schedule on track. Permit costs and the expenses associated with obtaining permits are not reimbursable under this Agreement, with the exception of costs incurred by University of California recipients. Permits must be identified and obtained before the Contractor may incur any costs related to the use of the permit(s) for which the Contractor will request reimbursement.The Contractor shall:Prepare a Permit Status Letter that documents the permits required to conduct this Agreement. If no permits are required at the start of this Agreement, then state this in the letter. If permits will be required during the course of the Agreement, provide in the letter:A list of the permits that identifies: (1) the type of permit; and (2) the name, address, and telephone number of the permitting jurisdictions or lead agencies.The schedule the Contractor will follow in applying for and obtaining the permits.The list of permits and the schedule for obtaining them will be discussed at the Kick-off meeting (subtask 1.2), and a timetable for submitting the updated list, schedule, and copies of the permits will be developed. The impact on the project if the permits are not obtained in a timely fashion or are denied will also be discussed. If applicable, permits will be included as a line item in progress reports and will be a topic at CPR meetings.If during the course of the Agreement additional permits become necessary, then provide the CAM with an Updated List of Permits (including the appropriate information on each permit) and an Updated Schedule for Acquiring Permits. Send the CAM a Copy of Each Approved Permit.If during the course of the Agreement permits are not obtained on time or are denied, notify the CAM within 5 days. Either of these events may trigger a CPR meeting.Deliverables:Permit Status LetterUpdated List of Permits (if applicable) Updated Schedule for Acquiring Permits (if applicable) Copy of each Approved Permit (if applicable) Subtask 1.9 Subcontracts The goals of this subtask are to: (1) procure subcontracts required to carry out the tasks under this Agreement; and (2) ensure that the subcontracts are consistent with the terms and conditions of this Agreement.The Contractor shall:Manage and coordinate subcontractor activities in accordance with the requirements of this Agreement.Incorporate this Agreement by reference into each subcontract.Include any required Energy Commission flow-down provisions in each subcontract, in addition to a statement that the terms of this Agreement will prevail if they conflict with the subcontract terms.If required by the CAM, submit a draft of each Subcontract required to conduct the work under this Agreement.Submit a final copy of the executed subcontract.Notify and receive written approval from the CAM prior to adding any new subcontractors (see the discussion of subcontractor additions in the terms and conditions).Deliverables:Subcontracts (draft if required by the CAM)Technical Advisory CommitteeSubtask 1.10 Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)The goal of this subtask is to create an advisory committee for this Agreement. The TAC should be composed of diverse professionals. The composition will vary depending on interest, availability, and need. TAC members will serve at the CAM’s discretion. The purpose of the TAC is to:Provide guidance in project direction. The guidance may include scope and methodologies, timing, and coordination with other projects. The guidance may be based on:Technical area expertise;Knowledge of market applications; orLinkages between the agreement work and other past, present, or future projects (both public and private sectors) that TAC members are aware of in a particular area.Review deliverables and provide recommendations for needed deliverable adjustments, refinements, or enhancements.Evaluate the tangible benefits of the project to the state of California, and provide recommendations as needed to enhance the benefits.Provide recommendations regarding information dissemination, market pathways, or commercialization strategies relevant to the project deliverables.The TAC may be composed of qualified professionals spanning the following types of disciplines:Researchers knowledgeable about the project subject matter;Members of trades that will apply the results of the project (e.g., designers, engineers, architects, contractors, and trade representatives);Public interest market transformation implementers;Product developers relevant to the project;U.S. Department of Energy research managers, or experts from other federal or state agencies relevant to the project;Public interest environmental groups;Utility representatives;Air district staff; andMembers of relevant technical society committees. The Contractor shall: Prepare a List of Potential TAC Members that includes the names, companies, physical and electronic addresses, and phone numbers of potential members. The list will be discussed at the Kick-off meeting, and a schedule for recruiting members and holding the first TAC meeting will be developed. Recruit TAC members. Ensure that each individual understands member obligations and the TAC meeting schedule developed in subtask 1.11. Prepare a List of TAC Members once all TAC members have committed to serving on the TAC. Submit Documentation of TAC Member Commitment (such as Letters of Acceptance) from each TAC member.Deliverables:List of Potential TAC Members List of TAC MembersDocumentation of TAC Member Commitment Subtask 1.11 TAC Meetings The goal of this subtask is for the TAC to provide strategic guidance for the project by participating in regular meetings, which may be held via teleconference.The Contractor shall: Discuss the TAC meeting schedule with the CAM at the Kick-off meeting. Determine the number and location of meetings (in-person and via teleconference) in consultation with the CAM. Prepare a TAC Meeting Schedule that will be presented to the TAC members during recruiting. Revise the schedule after the first TAC meeting to incorporate meeting comments. Prepare a TAC Meeting Agenda and TAC Meeting Back-up Materials for each TAC meeting. Organize and lead TAC meetings in accordance with the TAC Meeting Schedule. Changes to the schedule must be pre-approved in writing by the CAM. Prepare TAC Meeting Summaries that include any recommended resolutions of major TAC issues. The TAC shall:Help set the project team’s goals and contribute to the development and evaluation of its statement of proposed objectives as the project evolves.Provide a credible and objective sounding board on the wide range of technical and financial barriers and opportunities.Help identify key areas where the project has a competitive advantage, value proposition, or strength upon which to build.Advocate on behalf of the project in its effort to build partnerships, governmental support and relationships with a national spectrum of influential leaders.Ask probing questions that insure a long-term perspective on decision-making and progress toward the project’s strategic goals.Review and provide comments to proposed project performance metrics.Review and provide comments to proposed project Draft Technology Transfer Plan. Deliverables:TAC Meeting Schedule (draft and final)TAC Meeting Agendas (draft and final)TAC Meeting Back-up MaterialsTAC Meeting SummariesTechnical TasksTask 2 Conduct a Baseline AssessmentThe goals of this task are to: 1) conduct a baseline assessment of natural gas decarbonization scenarios and state-of-the-art natural gas decarbonization technologies, and 2) to screen and identify the sectors and sub-sectors which will be the focus of the long-term strategy.The Contractor shall: Perform a comprehensive literature review in order to build on the results of previous similar reports, especially recent CEC studies on deep decarbonization, the future of natural gas, and Senate Bill 100.Examine existing system-wide scenarios for a carbon neutral energy system detailed in the above referenced CEC studies such as (1) high electrification, (2) high hydrogen, and others and consider the role of energy efficiency, and other low-carbon pathways.Select at least three existing scenarios to base future research recommendations on. All research recommendations should be made within the context of the selected scenarios.Prepare and provide a Literature Review Summary of peer reviewed technical journals, government reports, trade journals and other high quality sources of information regarding performance specifications of state-of-the-art natural gas decarbonization technologies. Include references for all sources.Identify the sectors and sub-sectors including their current demand for natural gas. Sub-sectors could include, but are not limited to: new residential buildings, new commercial buildings, existing single family residential buildings, existing multi-family residential buildings, existing commercial buildings, light industrial, heavy industrial, agricultural, and light-, medium-, and heavy-duty transportation. Sub-sectors should be defined based on baseline assessments and for categorizing future research recommendations.In conjunction with CEC staff, develop a methodology, including criteria and reasons, for prioritizing which sectors and sub-sectors to research to achieve decarbonization.Evaluate and screen the sectors and sub-sectors which will be the focus of the long-term strategy based on the established methodology.Perform a comprehensive technology assessment in order to determine the current baseline (in use today, e.g., heat pump water heaters) and state-of-the-art natural gas decarbonization technologies for each sector and sub-sector.Prepare and provide a Baseline Assessment of Natural Gas Decarbonization Technologies and Strategies which includes a summary of key system-wide scenarios, state-of-the-art natural gas decarbonization technologies, and sector and sub-sector research prioritization.Deliverables:Literature Review Summary (draft and final)Baseline Assessment of Natural Gas Decarbonization Technologies and Strategies (draft and final)Task 3 Evaluate Decarbonization Technologies and BarriersThe goal of this task is to perform a technology evaluation of emerging decarbonization technologies and to identify barriers to adoption of these technologies.The Contractor Shall:Develop a methodology for categorizing and prioritizing early stage and emerging decarbonization technologies.Establish criteria, in consultation with CEC staff, by which to evaluate emerging decarbonization technologies (e.g., maturity; capital and infrastructure cost to convert; operating costs carbon intensity; equity considerations; impacts on disadvantaged and/or low-income communities; timeline for conversion; cost effectiveness). Take into account ongoing changes in energy building codes.Screen and evaluate emerging decarbonization technologies, in consultation with CEC staff, based on the established criteria and methodology.Prepare and provide an Emerging Natural Gas Decarbonization Technologies Report which describes the criteria and methodology used to evaluate the technologies, the technical characteristics of the selected technologies, and a prioritized list of most promising technologies for each sector and sub-sector.Identify barriers to adoption of decarbonized natural gas technologies (e.g., cost and performance, maturity, consumer acceptance) and the research needed to address these barriers.Identify research gaps which may be addressed through the Natural Gas Research Program. Identify other research gaps, such as impacts on the electrical system and demand, which should be addressed through other processes, such as the Integrated Energy Policy Report process.Develop performance and cost and benefit targets, and other metrics to be critical indicators of research success and increase probability of market adoption.Prepare and provide a Natural Gas Decarbonization Opportunities Report which describes the barriers to adoption of decarbonized technologies, research and policy recommendations which would address these barriers, and critical performance indicators and metrics for the decarbonization technologies.Deliverables:Emerging Natural Gas Decarbonization Technologies Report (draft and final)Natural Gas Decarbonization SolutionsReport (draft and final)Task 4 Gather and Analyze Stakeholder InputThe goal of this task is to gather and analyze stakeholder and subject-matter expert input throughout the project.The Contractor shall:Prepare and submit a draft List of Experts to Interview regarding the current cost and performance attributes of natural gas decarbonization technologies; developing trends and opportunities of specific technologies and strategies to facilitate decarbonization of the natural gas system; and identify other critical indicators of success.Prepare and submit a draft list of Interview Questions to use when interviewing experts on topics listed above.Submit the final List of Experts and final Interview Questions, incorporating the CAM’s comments.Conduct interviews with experts regarding pathways to decarbonizing the natural gas system, baseline and state-of-the-art decarbonization technologies and strategies, including cost and performance attributes of specific decarbonization technologies, current and anticipated research and critical indicators of success.Prepare and submit an Interview Summary which includes a summary of the experts interviewed and their responses.In accordance with subtask 1.10, establish a TAC of key stakeholders and subject-matter experts to provide input throughout the project. The TAC should represent both technical experts (e.g., technology manufacturers, research institutions) and end users (e.g., technology adopters, disadvantaged and/or low-income communities and representative community-based organizations).Conduct at least two public workshops to present intermediate results and solicit input from experts and stakeholders.Prepare and provide a Workshop Summary which includes a summary of workshop topics, stakeholder feedback received, and response to stakeholder feedback.Deliverables:List of Experts to Interview (draft and final)Interview Questions (draft and final)Interview Summary (draft and final)Workshop Summary(s)Task 5 Recommend Long-Term Research StrategiesThe goal of this task is to utilize stakeholder feedback and the findings from previous tasks to recommend long-term research strategies and to provide comprehensive, prioritized research recommendations.The Contractor Shall:Recommend a timeline to make key Natural Gas research planning decisions regarding the natural gas transition and the recommend the associated research portfolio. Recommend near-term deployment strategies for sectors which could readily decarbonize (e.g., new residential construction), including goals and metrics, and strategies for addressing cost and other challenges, and taking into account ongoing changes in energy building codes.Provide research recommendations for all sectors which will enable the full transition to a decarbonized natural gas system by 2045.Categorize research recommendations by near (1-5 years), mid (5-10 years), long (10-15 years) and very long (>15 years) term for each sector. Prioritize research recommendations by low, medium, and high priority, in conjunction with CEC staff.In accordance with task 4, regularly analyze the stakeholder feedback (e.g., from TAC meetings, workshops, and expert interviews) to continually improve the research recommendations.Prepare and provide a Long-Term Natural Gas Decarbonization Research Recommendations Report which provides comprehensive, prioritized research recommendations.In accordance with subtask 1.6 incorporate the results of all previous reports into the Final Report.Deliverables:Long-Term Natural Gas Decarbonization Research Recommendations Report (draft and final)Task 6 Technology and Knowledge TransferThe goal of this task is to ensure the Long-Term Research Strategy developed under this agreement is utilized in the energy policy, and/or planning decisions at the state and/or local levels, academic community and/or commercial sector. The Contractor Shall:Develop and submit a Knowledge Transfer Plan (Draft/Final) that identifies the proposed activities the recipient will conduct to meet the goal of the task. The Knowledge Transfer Plan should include at a minimum:Specific policy and planning efforts this project is expected to inform.Specific stakeholder groups and energy policy and planning practitioners who will utilize the results of this project. Proposed activities the recipient will conduct to ensure the tools and results from this project be utilized and adopted by the groups identified above. Present the Draft Knowledge Transfer Plan to the TAC for feedback and comments.Develop and submit a Summary of TAC Comments that summarizes comments received from the TAC members on the Draft Knowledge Transfer Plan. This document will identify:TAC comments the recipient proposes to incorporate into the Final Knowledge Transfer Plan. TAC comments the recipient does not propose to incorporate with and explanation why.Submit the Final Knowledge Transfer Plan to the CAM for approval.Implement the activities as described in the Final Knowledge Transfer Plan.Develop a Knowledge Transfer Summary Report (Draft/Final) that includes high level summaries of the activities, results, and lessons learned of tasks performed relating to implementing the Final Technology Transfer Plan. This report should not include any proprietary information.Develop Presentation Materials (Draft/Final) for a CEC-sponsored conference/workshop/webinar on the project. Present in at least one CEC-sponsored conference/workshop/webinar to disseminate results of the Long-Term Research Strategy.Deliverables:Knowledge Transfer Plan (Draft/Final)Summary of TAC CommentsTechnology Transfer Summary Report (Draft/Final)Presentation Materials (Draft/Final)III.Proposal Format, Required Documents, and DeliveryAbout This SectionThis section contains the format requirements and instructions on how to submit a proposal. The format is prescribed to assist the Bidder in meeting State bidding requirements and to enable the Commission to evaluate each proposal uniformly and fairly. Bidders must follow all Proposal format instructions, answer all questions, and supply all requested data. Required Format for a ProposalAll proposals submitted under this RFP must be typed or printed using a standard 12 point font, singled-spaced and a blank line between paragraphs. Pages must be numbered and sections titled and printed back-to-back. Spiral or comb binding is preferred and tabs are encouraged. Binders are discouraged.The technical and cost proposal is limited to thirty pages in length, not including any attachments.Number of CopiesBidders must submit the original of the proposal.Bidders must also submit electronic files of the proposal on a USB memory stick along with the paper submittal. Only one USB memory stick is needed. Electronic files must be in Microsoft Word 2016 (*.docx format) and Excel Office Suite formats. Completed Budget Forms, Attachment 6, must be in Excel format. Electronic files submitted via e-mail will not be accepted.Packaging and LabelingThe original and copies of the proposal must be labeled "Request for Proposal 20-501,” and include the title of the proposal and the appropriate section number. Include the following label information and deliver your proposal, in a sealed package:Person’s Name, Phone #Bidder’s NameStreet AddressCity, State, Zip CodeFAX #RFP-20-501Contracts Office, MS-18California Energy Commission1516 Ninth Street, 1st FloorSacramento, California 95814Preferred Method for DeliveryA Bidder may deliver a Bid by:U. S. Mail, Fed Ex, UPS (or similar mail service)Bids must be delivered no later than 5:00 p.m., to the Energy Commission during normal business hours and prior to the deadline specified in this RFP (Section I). In accordance with Public Contract Code 10341, Bids received after the specified date and time are considered late and will not be accepted. There are no exceptions to this law.? Postmark dates of mailing, E-mail and facsimile (FAX) transmissions are not acceptable in whole or in part, under any circumstances. Organize Your Proposal As FollowsSECTION 1, Administrative ResponseCover LetterTable of ContentsContractor Status FormAttachment 1Darfur Contracting Act FormAttachment 2Small Business Certification If applicableCompleted Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise formAttachment 3Bidder Declaration form GSPD-05-105Attachment 4Contractor Certification ClausesAttachment 5TACPA Forms If applicableCA Civil Rights Laws CertificationAttachment 9Applicant DeclarationAttachment 13SECTION 2, Technical and Cost ProposalTechnical ApproachAttachment 10Impacts and BenefitsAttachment 10Team Qualifications, Capabilities, and ResourcesAttachment 10Labor Hours by Personnel and TaskAttachment 10Funds Spent in CaliforniaAttachment 10Reference and Work ProductAttachment 11Project ScheduleAttachment 12Budget Forms Attachment 6See also G belowTechnical ApproachDescribe the technique, approach, and methods to be used in performing the work described in the Scope of Work. Identify and discuss factors critical for success, in addition to risks, barriers, and limitations (e.g. loss of key subcontractor). Provides a plan to address them. Discuss the degree to which the proposed work is technically feasible and achievable within the proposed project schedule.Describe the knowledge transfer plan, including how key stakeholders and potential users will be engaged, and the plan to disseminate knowledge of the project’s results to those stakeholders and users.Discuss why the proposed approach will result in implementable, prioritized research recommendations that include all stages in the supply chain and all natural gas end use sectors.Team Qualifications, Capabilities, and ResourcesIdentify credentials of prime and any subcontractor key personnel, including the project manager, principal investigator and technology and knowledge transfer lead (include this information in the Project Team Form).Demonstrates that the project team appropriate qualifications, experience, financial stability and capability to complete the project.Provide a current resume for all team members listed, including job classification, relevant experience, education, academic degrees and professional licenses.Provide detailed estimates of hours for each task for each team member.Explain the team structure and how various tasks will be managed and coordinated.Describe the facilities, infrastructure, and resources available that directly support the project.Describes the team’s history of successfully completing projects in the past 10 years.Indicate whether the bidder maintains Commercial General Liability (CGL), automobile insurance, professional liability insurance, and Workers’ Compensation Insurance. State the policy limits on the above policies by occurrence and in the aggregate.Reference and Previous Work ProductEach bidder shall complete Reference Forms. Three client references are required for the Contractor and three for each subcontractor.Each Bidder shall provide at least two examples of a similar work or academic research product, for the services to be provided as described in the RFP. If subcontractors will be providing technical support in a task area, each subcontractor shall also submit one example of a work or academic product that demonstrates experience in potential work assignments described in this RFP.Where appropriate work or academic products should describe in detail and highlight the Bidder’s ability to support tasks identified in this RFP including equations, data analysis methods and strategies, data schema, and diagrams.Describes the work product provided including its relevance to the work described in the RFP.Describes the specific work performed in the previous work product and its relevance to the RFP, including methods and strategies, data collection and analysis, and results and conclusions produced.It is not necessary to provide more than one copy of each work product example. Web links are acceptable.Do not provide any confidential information. Funds Spent in CaliforniaState the percentage of contracted funds to be spent in California.Only CEC reimbursable funds counts towards the funds spent in California total."Spent in California" means that: (1) Funds in the "Direct Labor category and all categories calculated based on direct labor (e.g., fringe benefits, indirect costs and profit) are paid to individuals that pay California state income taxes on wages received for work performed under the agreement. Payments made to out-of-state workers do not count as “funds spent in California.” However, funds spent by out-of-state workers in California (e.g., hotel and food) can count as “funds spent in California.”; AND(2) Business transactions (e.g., material and equipment purchases, leases, and rentals) are entered into with a business located in California. (3) Total should include any applicable subcontractors.Airline ticket purchases for out-of-state travel and payments made to out-of-state workers are not considered funds “spent in California.” However, funds spent by out-of-state workers in California (e.g. lodging) and airline travel originating and ending in California are considered funds “spent in California.” A business located in California means: 1) businesses registered with Secretary of State?AND 2) transaction is with a location in California that is directly related to the grant project (e.g., direct purchase of material and equipment to be used in the grant) and results in the support of California business and jobs. Example 1: Grant funds will be spent on temperature sensors.? The temperature sensors are manufactured in Texas. The recipient orders the temperature sensors directly from a CA based supply house. ?The invoice shows that the transaction occurred with the CA based supply house. This transaction is eligible and can be counted as funds spent in CA.Example 2: Grant funds will be spent on temperature sensors. The temperature sensors are manufactured in Texas. The recipient orders the temperature sensors directly from Texas.? The manufacturer has training centers in CA that instructs purchasers on how to use the sensors. The invoice shows that the transaction occurred in Texas. This transaction is not eligible and cannot be counted as funds spent in CA.Project ScheduleThe Project Schedule includes a list of all product, meetings, and due dates. All work must be scheduled for completion by the “Key Dates” section of this solicitation manual.Electronic files for the Project schedule must be in MS Excel file format.Cost Points - Labor Hours by Personnel and TaskProvide the title or classification of each person and their level of effort (hours) for each task, including subcontractor hours (see Budget Forms below).Budget FormsCategory BudgetAttachment 6Direct LaborAttachment 6Fringe BenefitsAttachment 6TravelAttachment 6Materials & MiscellaneousAttachment 6SubcontractsAttachment 6Indirect Costs and ProfitAttachment 6Loaded Rate CalculationAttachment 6aTotal Expected Labor CostAttachment 6bThe Bidder must submit information on all of the attached budget forms and this will be deemed the equivalent of a formal Cost Proposal. Detailed instructions for completing these forms are included at the beginning of Attachment 6 and within each budget tab.Rates and personnel shown must reflect rates and personnel you would charge if you were chosen as the Contractor for this RFP. Bidder must include all people anticipated who will provide service on the Agreement. The Energy Commission may consider adding a person that the Bidder did not include in its Proposal. However, because the additional person might affect the Bidder's score or take additional time that the Energy Commission does not have or does not want to spend, the Energy Commission reserves the right to do any of the following, along with any other existing rights:Assess how the new person might affect the Bidder’s score, including possibly rescoring the Proposal Refuse to add the new personAdd the new person.Bidders are cautioned that they should include all team members in their Proposal.? The Energy Commission does not want to be in the position of assessing additional persons after the Notice of Proposed Award.The salaries, rates, and other costs entered on these forms become a part of the final agreement. The entire term of the agreement and projected rate increases must be considered when preparing the budget. The rates bid are considered capped and shall not change during the term of the contract. The Contractor shall only be reimbursed for their actual rates up to these rate caps. The labor rates shall be unloaded (before fringe benefits, overheads, general & administrative (G&A) or profit).All budget forms are required because they will be used for the contract prepared with the winning Bidder.NOTE: The information provided in these forms will not be kept confidential.IV.Evaluation Process and CriteriaAbout This SectionThis section explains how the proposals will be evaluated. It describes the evaluation stages, preference points, and scoring of all proposals. Notice of Proposed AwardThe Commission will post a Notice of Proposed Award (NOPA) on the Commission’s Web Site and will email the NOPA to all parties that submitted a proposal.Proposal EvaluationA Bidder’s proposal will be evaluated and scored based on their response to the information requested in this RFP. The entire evaluation process from receipt of proposals to posting of the Notice of Proposed Award is confidential.To evaluate all Proposals, the Energy Commission will organize an Evaluation Committee. The Evaluation Committee may consist of Energy Commission staff or staff of other California state entities.The Proposals will be evaluated in two stages:Stage One: Administrative and Completeness ScreeningThe Contracts Office will review Proposals for compliance with administrative requirements and completeness. Proposals that fail Stage One shall be disqualified and eliminated from further evaluation.SCREENING CRITERIA The Application must pass ALL criteria to progress to Stage Two.Pass/FailThe application is received by the CEC’s Contracts, Grants, and Loans Office by the due date and time specified in the “Key Activities Schedule” in Part I of this solicitation and is received in the required manner (e.g., no emails or faxes). ? Pass ? FailThe Contractor Status Form (Attachment 1) is signed where indicated.? Pass ? FailThe Bidder Declaration Form (Attachment 4) is signed where indicated. ? Pass ? FailThe Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise form (Attachment 3) is completed and signed where indicated.? Pass ? FailThe Darfur Contracting Act (Attachment 2) is signed where indicated.? Pass ? FailThe California Civil Rights Laws Certification is signed where indicated. ? Pass ? FailStage Two: Technical and Cost Evaluation of ProposalsProposals passing Stage One will be submitted to the Evaluation Committee to review and score based on the Evaluation Criteria in this solicitation. During the evaluation and selection process, the Evaluation Committee may schedule a clarification interview with a Bidder that will either be held by telephone or or web conference for the purpose of clarification and verification of information provided in the proposal. However, these interviews may not be used to change or add to the contents of the original Proposal.The total score for each Proposal will be the average of the combined scores of all Evaluation Committee members. After scoring is completed, Proposals not attaining a score of 70 percent of the total possible points will be eliminated from further competition. All applicable Preferences will be applied to all Proposals attaining a minimum of 70 percent of the total possible points. The agreement shall be awarded to the responsible Bidder meeting the requirements outlined above, who achieves the highest score after application of Preferences.Scoring ScaleUsing this Scoring Scale, the Evaluation Committee will give a score for each criterion described in the Evaluation Criteria Worksheet.% of Possible PointsInterpretationExplanation for Percentage Points0%Not ResponsiveResponse does not include or fails to address the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.10-30%Minimally ResponsiveResponse minimally addresses the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.40-60%InadequateResponse addresses the requirements being scored, but there are one or more omissions, flaws, or defects or the requirements are addressed in such a limited way that it results in a low degree of confidence in the proposed solution.70%AdequateResponse adequately addresses the requirements being scored. Any omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are inconsequential and acceptable.75%Between Adequate and GoodResponse better than adequately addresses the requirements being scored. Any omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are inconsequential and acceptable.80%GoodResponse fully addresses the requirements being scored with a good degree of confidence in the applicant’s response or proposed solution. No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s). Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.85%Between Good and ExcellentResponse fully addresses the requirements being scored with a better than good degree of confidence in the applicant’s response or proposed solution. No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s). Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.90%ExcellentResponse fully addresses the requirements being scored with a high degree of confidence in the applicant’s response or proposed solution. Applicant offers one or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.95%Between Excellent and ExceptionalResponse fully addresses the requirements being scored with a better than excellent degree of confidence in the applicant’s response or proposed solution. Applicant offers one or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.100%ExceptionalAll requirements are addressed with the highest degree of confidence in the applicant’s response or proposed solution. The response exceeds the requirements in providing multiple enhancing features, a creative approach, or an exceptional solution.Additional Screening Criteria for Past Performance Screening CriteriaApplicant Past Performance with CECThe applicant—defined as at least one of the following: the business, principal investigator, or lead individual acting on behalf of themselves—received funds from the CEC (e.g., contract, grant, or loan) and entered into an agreement(s) with the CEC and demonstrated severe performance issues characterized by significant negative outcomes including:Significant deviation from agreement requirements;Termination with cause;Demonstrated poor communication, project management, and/or inability, due to circumstances within its control, from?materially completing the project;Quality issues with deliverables including poorly written final report that prevents publishingSevere unresolved negative audit findings.Must pass to continue with Scoring CriteriaPass/FailScoring CRITERIAScoring CriteriaMaximum PointsTechnical Approach Describes the technique, approach, and methods to be used in performing the work described in the Scope of Work.Identifies and discusses factors critical for success, in addition to risks, barriers, and limitations (e.g. loss of key subcontractor). Provides a plan to address them. Discusses the degree to which the proposed work is technically feasible and achievable within the proposed project schedule.Describes the knowledge transfer plan, including how key stakeholders and potential users will be engaged, and the plan to disseminate knowledge of the project’s results to those stakeholders and users.Discusses why the proposed approach will result in implementable, prioritized research recommendations that include all stages in the supply chain and all natural gas end use sectors 40Team Qualifications, Capabilities, and ResourcesEvaluations of ongoing or previous projects including project performance by applicant and team members will be used in scoring for this criterion. This can include contacting references.Identifies credentials of prime and any subcontractor key personnel, including the project manager, principal investigator and technology and knowledge transfer lead (include this information in the Project Team Form).Demonstrates that the project team has appropriate qualifications, experience, financial stability and capability to complete the project.Explains the team structure and how various tasks will be managed and coordinated.Describes the facilities, infrastructure, and resources available that directly support the project.Describes the team’s history of successfully completing projects in the past 10 years.20Previous Work ProductsEach Bidder shall provide at least two examples of similar and relevant work or academic research product, for the services to be provided as described in the RFP. If subcontractors will be providing technical support in a task area, each subcontractor shall also submit one example of relevant work or academic product that demonstrates experience in potential work assignments described in this RFP.Describes the work product provided including its relevance to the work described in the RFP.Describes the specific work performed in the previous work product and its relevance to the RFP, including methods and strategies, data collection and analysis, and results and conclusions produced.Both individual attachments and web links are acceptable.5Total Possible Points for criteria 1- 3(Minimum Passing Score for criteria 1-3 is 45.5)65COST CRITERIA Natural Gas Funds Spent in CaliforniaSee below for more information on how the score is determined10Cost Points. The Score for this criteria will be derived from the mathematical cost formula set forth below:Lowest Bidder’s Cost Total Expected Labor Cost divided by Bidder’s Total Expected Labor Cost = Bidder’s Percentage of Points25Total Possible Points100Minimum Passing Score (70%)70BIDDER’S TOTAL TECHNICAL SCORECost CriteriaTotal Expected Labor Costs (25/35 Cost Points)Step 1Calculate each Individual’s Loaded Hourly Rate = DL + FB + Indirect + Profit (Separately for the Prime and each Subcontractor). This is documented on Attachment 7a in each workbook. Step 2The Bidder (Prime Contractor) will complete the Attachment 7b of the budget workbook. This form will calculate the Total Expected Labor Costs portion of the cost criteria.Total Expected Labor Cost Points:Lowest Proposal Total Expected Labor Cost = 100% of total possible points for this criteriaAll other proposals get a lower percentage of the possible points based on how close their proposal Total Expected Labor Cost is to the lowest proposal Total Expected Labor Cost as follows:Lowest Proposal Total Expected Labor Cost / Other Proposal Total Expected Labor Cost = Other Proposal % of Possible PointsExample:Proposal A Total Expected Labor Cost: $85,347; Proposal B Total Expected Labor Cost: $90,242; Proposal C Total Expected Labor Cost: $87,249.Proposal A: Lowest Proposal Total Expected Labor Cost = 100% possible pointsProposal B: $85,347/$90,242 = 94.57% possible pointsProposal C: $85,347/$87,249= 97.82% possible pointsPoints Allocation (25 possible points):Proposal A: 100% possible points = 15 pointsProposal B: 94.57% possible points = 14.18 pointsProposal C: 97.82% possible points = 14.67 pointsNatural Gas Funds Spent in CaliforniaProjects that spend Natural Gas funds in California will receive points as indicated in the table below. “Spent in California” means that: (1) Funds under the “Direct Labor” category and all categories calculated based on direct labor in the Direct Labor tab are paid to individuals who pay California state income taxes on wages received for work performed under the contract; and (2) Business transactions (e.g., material and equipment purchases, leases, rentals, and contractual work) are entered into with a business located in California. Airline ticket purchases and payments made to out-of-state workers are not considered funds “spent in California.” However, funds spent by out-of-state workers in California (e.g., hotel and food) are considered funds “spent in California.”Percentage of Natural Gas funds spent in CAPercentage of Possible Points>60%20%>70%40%>80%60%>90%80%>100%100%V.Business Participation Programs (Preferences/Incentives)A Bidder may qualify for preferences/incentives as described below. Each Bidder passing Stage One screening will receive the applicable preference/incentive. This section describes the following business participation programs:DVBE Participation Compliance RequirementsSmall Business/Microbusiness PreferenceNon-Small Business PreferenceTarget Area Contract Act PreferenceDisabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Compliance Requirements DVBE Participation RequiredThis RFP is subject to a mandatory certified DVBE participation of at least three percent (3%). Two Methods to Meet DVBE Participation RequirementIf Bidder is a DVBE, then Bidder has satisfied the participation requirements if it commits to performing at least 3% of the contract with the Bidder’s firm, or in combination with other DVBE(s).If Bidder is not a DVBE, Bidder can satisfy the requirement by committing to use certified DVBE Subcontractors for at least 3% of the contract. Required FormsBidders must complete Attachments 1, 3 and 4 to document DVBE participation. If Bidder does not include these forms, the Bid is considered non-responsive and shall be rejected. Contractor Status Form (Attachment 1). Under the paragraph entitled: “Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Participation Acknowledgement”, make sure to check the “yes” “DVBE Participation” box. DVBE Declarations Std. Form 843 (Attachment 3)Bidder Declaration Form GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 4) DVBE Definition For DVBE certification purposes, a "disabled veteran" is: A veteran of the U.S. military, naval, or air service; The veteran must have a service-connected disability of at least 10% or more; and The veteran must be domiciled in California. DVBE Certification and EligibilityTo be certified as a DVBE, your firm must meet the following requirements: Your business must be at least 51% owned by one or more disabled veterans; Your daily business operations must be managed and controlled by one or more disabled veterans The disabled veterans who exercise management and control are not required to be the same disabled veterans as the owners of the business; and Your home office must be located in the U.S. (the home office cannot be a branch or subsidiary of a foreign corporation, foreign firm, or other foreign based business). DVBE limited liability companies must be wholly owned by one or more disabled veterans. Each DVBE firm listed on the DVBE Declarations Std. form 843 (Attachment 3) and on the Bidder Declaration form GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 4) must be formally certified as a DVBE by the Office of Small Business and DVBE?Services (OSDS). The DVBE program is not a self-certification program. Bidder must have submitted application to OSDS for DVBE certification by the Bid due date to be counted in meeting participation requirements.Printing / Copying Services Not EligibleDVBE Subcontractors cannot provide printing/copying services.? For more information, see section VI Administration, which states that printing services are not allowed in proposals.To Find Certified DVBEsAccess the list of all certified DVBEs by using the Department of General Services, Procurement Division (DGS-PD), online certified firm database at The State of California Certifications Webpage. Search by “Keywords” or “United Nations Standard Products and Services Codes” (UNSPSC) that apply to the elements of work you want to subcontract to a DVBE. Check for Subcontractor ads that may be placed on the California State Contracts Register (CSCR) for this solicitation prior to the closing date. You may access the CSCR at California State Contracts Register Webpage. For questions regarding the online certified firm database and the CSCR, please call the OSDS at (916) 375-4940 or send an email to: OSDCHelp@dgs..Commercially Useful FunctionDVBEs must perform a commercially useful function relevant to this solicitation, in order to satisfy the DVBE program requirements. California Code of Regulations, Title 2, Section 1896.62(l) provides:“Commercially Useful Function (CUF) means a DVBE Contractor or Subcontractor that contributes to the fulfillment of contract requirements as determined by awarding departments in § 1896.71, and does all of, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Is responsible for the execution of a distinct element of work for the contract; (2) Carries out contractual obligations by actually performing, managing, or supervising the work involved; (3) Performs work that is normal for its business services and functions; (4) Is not further subcontracting a portion of the work that is greater than expected to be subcontracted by normal industry practices; (5) Is responsible, with respect to products, inventories, materials, and supplies required for the contract, for negotiating price, determining quality and quantity, ordering, installing, if applicable, and making payment; and, (6) Its role is not an extra participant in the transaction, contract or project through which funds are passed in order to obtain the appearance of DVBE participation.” Information VerifiedInformation submitted by the Bidder to comply with this solicitation’s DVBE requirements will be verified. If evidence of an alleged violation is found during the verification process, the State shall initiate an investigation, in accordance with the requirements of PCC Section 10115, et seq., and Military & Veterans Code Section 999 et seq., and follow the investigatory procedures required by California Code of Regulations Title 2, Section 1896.90 et. seq. Contractors found to be in violation of certain provisions may be subject to loss of certification, sanctions and/or contract termination.DVBE ReportUpon completion of the contract for which a commitment to achieve DVBE participation was made, the Contractor that entered into a subcontract with a DVBE must certify in a report to the Energy Commission: 1) the total amount the prime Contractor received under the contract; 2) the name and address of the DVBE(s) that participated in the performance of the contract; 3) the amount each DVBE received from the prime Contractor; 4) that all payments under the contract have been made to the DVBE(s); and 5) the actual percentage of DVBE participation that was achieved. A person or entity that knowingly provides false information shall be subject to a civil penalty for each violation. Military & Veterans Code Section 999.5(d). The Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS)OSDS offers program information and may be reached at:Department of General ServicesOffice of Small Business and DVBE Services707 3rd Street, 1st Floor, Room 400West Sacramento, CA 95605DGS WebsitePhone: (916) 375-4940 Fax: (916) 375-4950E-mail: OSDSHelp@dgs.DVBE LawPublic Contract Code Section 10115 et seq.Military & Veterans Code Section 999 et. seq. California Code of Regulations Title 2, Section 1896.60 et. seq. DVBE IncentiveNOTE on the DVBE Incentive Program paragraph below: The information below explains how the incentive is applied and how much of an incentive will be given. Incentive ApplicationAward Based on High Point: The Incentive is applied by adding the incentive points to the Proposal for Bidders that include more than the minimum required 3.00% DVBE participation. In other words, if a Bidder includes 3.01% DVBE participation or greater, it will receive the DVBE incentive. If you include 3% DVBE participation, you will not receive the incentive. You will only receive the incentive, if you include 3.01% or greater DVBE participation. Incentive points cannot be used to achieve any applicable minimum point requirements. The DVBE incentive is only applied during the Proposal evaluation process and only to responsive Proposals from responsible Bidders. Incentive amount For awards based on low price, the incentive will vary in conjunction with the percentage of DVBE participation. The DVBE Incentive Program may be used in conjunction with the Small Business preference which gives a 5% preference to small business Bidders or 5% to non-small business Bidders committed to subcontracting 25% of the overall Bid with small businesses.Proposed DVBEDVBE IncentiveDVBE Incentive Participation Level% Point PreferencePoints3.01% - 3.99%1%14.00% - 4.99%2%25.00% - 5.99%3%36.00% - 6.99%4%47.00% or over5%5*The percentage is based on the total possible available points not including preference points for small/micro business, non-small business or TACPA.Required Forms:Contractor Status Form (Attachment 1). DVBE Declarations Std. Form 843 (Attachment 3)Bidder Declaration Form GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 4) DVBE Incentive LawMilitary & Veterans Code Section 999.5(a)California Code of Regulations Title 2, Section 1896.99.100 et.seq. Small Business / Microbusiness / Non-Small BusinessPreferenceBidders who qualify as a State of California certified small business will receive five percent (5%) preference points based on the highest responsible bidder's total score, if the highest scored proposal is submitted by a business other than a certified small business.? Bidders qualifying for this preference must submit a copy of their Small Business Certification and document their status in Attachment 1, Contractor Status Form.Required FormsSubmit a copy of your Small Business CertificationContractor Status Form (Attachment 1)Complete the “Small Business Preference Claim” section Bidder Declaration Form GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 4)CertificationA business must be formally certified by the Department of General Services, Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS), in order to receive the small/microbusiness preference.Non Profit Veteran Service AgencyBidders that qualify as a Non Profit Veteran Service Agency can be certified as a small business and are entitled to the same benefits as a small business. DefinitionsSmall business means a business certified by the Office of Small Business Disabled Veteran Services (OSDS) in which:(1) It is independently owned and operated; and (2) The principal office is located in California; and (3) The officers of the business in the case of a corporation; officers and/or managers, or in the absence of officers and/or managers, all members in the case of a limited liability company; or the owner(s) in all other cases, are domiciled in California; and (4) It is not dominant in its field of operation(s), and (5) It is either: (A) A business that, together with all affiliates, has 100 or fewer employees, and annual gross receipts of fourteen million dollars ($14,000,000) or less as averaged for the previous three tax years, as adjusted by the Department pursuant to Government Code § 14837(d)(3); or (B) A manufacturer as defined herein that, together with all affiliates, has 100 or fewer employees. Microbusiness means a small business certified by OSDS, which meets all of the qualifying criteria as a small business, and is:(1) A business that, together with all affiliates, has annual gross receipts of three million, five hundred thousand dollars ($3,500,000) or less as averaged for the previous three tax years, as adjusted by the Department pursuant to Government Code §14837(d)(3); or (2) A manufacturer as defined herein that, together with all affiliates, has 25 or fewer employees. Non Profit Veteran Service Agency means an entity that:Is a community-based organization, Is a nonprofit corporation (under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), and Provides housing, substance abuse, case management, and employment training services (as its principal purpose) for:low income veterans, disabled veterans, or homeless veterans and their familiesCommercially Useful Function A certified small business or microbusiness shall provide goods or services that contribute to the fulfillment of the contract requirements by performing a “commercially useful function” defined as follows: (1) The Contractor or Subcontractor is responsible for the execution of a distinct element of the work of the contract; carrying out its obligation by actually performing, managing or supervising the work involved; and performing work that is normal for its business services and functions; (2) The Contractor or Subcontractor is not further subcontracting a greater portion of the work than would be expected by normal industry practices;(3) The Contractor or Subcontractor is responsible, with respect to materials and supplies provided on the subcontract, for negotiating price, determining quality and quantity, ordering the material, installing (when applicable), and paying for the material itself;(4) A Contractor or Subcontractor will not be considered as performing a commercially useful function if its role is limited to that of an extra participant in a transaction, contract, or project through which funds are passed in order to achieve the appearance of small business participation. Late Payment of InvoicesCertified small/microbusinesses are entitled to greater interest penalties paid by the state for late payment of invoices than for non-certified small business/microbusiness.Small Business / Microbusiness LawGovernment Code section 14835 et. seq. California Code of Regulations, Title 2 Section 1896 et. seq.Non-Small BusinessPreferenceThe preference to a non-small business Bidder that commits to small business or microbusiness Subcontractor participation of twenty-five percent (25%) of its net Bid price will receive five percent (5%) preference points based on the highest responsible bidder's total score, if the highest scored proposal is submitted by a business other than a certified small business. A non-small business that qualifies for this preference may not take an award away from a certified small business. Required FormsSubmit a copy of the Subcontractor’s Small Business CertificationContractor Status Form (Attachment 1)Complete the “Small Business/Non-Small Business Preference Claim” section Bidder Declaration Form GSPD-05-105 (Attachment 4)CertificationA Subcontractor business must be formally certified by the Department of General Services, Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS), in order to receive the Non-Small Business Preference.Non-Small Business LawGovernment Code section 14838 (b)California Code of Regulations, Title 2 Section 1896 et. seq.California Based Entities (CBE) Preference Points Projects that maximize the spending of CEC funds on California Based Entities will receive points as indicated in the table below (see Funds Spent in California and California-Based Entities section for more details). Projects that meet these requirements will receive preference points as indicated below:Percentage of PIER Natural Gas Funds Allocated to CBEs(derived from budget attachment “Category Budget”)Percentage of Possible Points> 60%20%> 70% 40%> 80% 60%> 90% 80%=100%100%Target Area Contract Preference ActNote on TACPA:The following preference will be granted for this solicitation. Bidders wishing to take advantage of this preference will need to review the website stated below and submit the appropriate response with their Bid.The TACPA program was established to stimulate economic growth and employment opportunities in designated Areas throughout the state of California. (GC4530)The Department of General Services (DGS), Procurement Division (PD), Dispute Resolution Unit (DRU) oversees the TACPA program and evaluates all TACPA applications.This solicitation contains (TACPA) preference request forms. Please carefully review the forms and requirements. Bidders are not required to apply for these preferences. Denial of the TACPA preference request is not a basis for rejection of the bid. The State as part of its evaluation process reserves the right to verify, validate, and clarify all information contained in the bid. This may include, but is not limited to, information from bidders, Subcontractors and any other sources available at the time of the bid evaluation. Bidder refusal to agree to and/or comply with these terms, or failure to provide additional supporting information at the State's request may result in denial of preference requested. Contracts awarded with applied preferences will be monitored throughout the life of the contract for compliance with statutory, regulatory, and contractual requirements. The State will take appropriate corrective action and apply sanctions as necessary to enforce preference programs.Any questions regarding the TACPA preference should be directed to the Department of General Services, Procurement Division at (916) 375-4609.TACPA Preference Request (STD 830): HYPERLINK ""STD 830 DocumentBidder’s Summary of Contract Activities and Labor Hours: Bidder's Summary DocumentVI.AdministrationRFP DefinedThe competitive method used for this procurement of services is a Request for Proposal (RFP). A Proposal submitted in response to this RFP will be scored and ranked based on the Evaluation Criteria. Every Proposal must establish in writing the Bidder’s ability to perform the RFP tasks. Definition of Key WordsImportant definitions for this RFP are presented below:Word/Term DefinitionBidder-Respondent to this RFPCAM-Commission Agreement ManagerDGS-Department of General ServicesDVBE-Disabled Veteran Business EnterprisesCEC-California Energy CommissionProposal-Formal written response to this document from BidderRFP-Request for Proposal, this entire documentState-State of CaliforniaCost of Developing ProposalThe Bidder is responsible for the cost of developing a proposal, and this cost cannot be charged to the State.Software Application DevelopmentIf this scope of work includes any software application development, including but not limited to databases, websites, models, or modeling tools, Contractor shall utilize the following standard Application Architecture components in compatible versions:Microsoft framework (version 3.5 and up) Recommend 4.0 Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS), (version 6 and up) Recommend 7.5Visual (version 2008 and up) Recommend 2010 C# Programming Language with Presentation (UI), Business Object and Data Layers SQL (Structured Query Language) Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Stored Procedures Recommend 2008 R2 Microsoft SQL Reporting Services Recommend 2008 R2 XML (external interfaces)Any exceptions to the Electronic File Format requirements above must be approved in writing by the Energy Commission Information Technology Services Branch.Printing ServicesPer Management Memo 07-06, State Agencies must procure printing services through the Office of State Publishing (OSP). Bidders shall not include printing services in their proposals.Confidential InformationThe Commission will not accept or retain any Proposals that have any portion marked confidential. Darfur Contracting Act of 2008Effective January 1, 2009, all solicitations must address the requirements of the Darfur Contracting Act of 2008 (Act). (Public Contract Code sections 10475, et seq.; Stats. 2008, Ch. 272). The Act was passed by the California Legislature and signed into law by the Governor to preclude State agencies generally from contracting with “scrutinized” companies that do business in the African nation of Sudan (of which the Darfur region is a part), for the reasons described in Public Contract Code section 10475.A scrutinized company is a company doing business in Sudan as defined in Public Contract Code section 10476. Scrutinized companies are ineligible to, and cannot, bid on or submit a proposal for a contract with a State agency for goods or services. (Public Contract Code section 10477(a)).Therefore, Public Contract Code section 10478 (a) requires a company that currently has (or within the previous three years has had) business activities or other operations outside of the United States to certify that it is not a “scrutinized” company when it submits a bid or proposal to a State agency. (See # 1 on Attachment 2)A scrutinized company may still, however, submit a bid or proposal for a contract with a State agency for goods or services if the company first obtains permission from the Department of General Services (DGS) according to the criteria set forth in Public Contract Code section 10477(b). (See # 2 on Attachment 2)California Civil Rights LawsPrior to bidding on, submitting a proposal or executing a contract or renewal for a State of California contract for goods or services of $100,000 or more, a bidder or proposer must certify that it is in compliance with the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) and the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code). Additionally, if a vendor has an internal policy against a sovereign nation or peoples recognized by the United States government, the Contractor must certify that such policies are not used in violation of the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) or the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code). See Attachment 9. RFP Cancellation and AmendmentsIf it is in the State’s best interest, the Energy Commission reserves the right to do any of the following:Cancel this RFP;Amend this RFP as needed; orReject any or all Proposals received in response to this RFPIf the RFP is amended, the Energy Commission will send an addendum to all parties who requested the RFP and will also post it on the Energy Commission’s Web Site (CEC Website) and Department of General Services’ Web Site (DGS Website).ErrorsIf a Bidder discovers any ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, omission, or other error in the RFP, the Bidder shall immediately notify the Commission of such error in writing and request modification or clarification of the document. Modifications or clarifications will be given by written notice of all parties who requested the RFP, without divulging the source of the request for clarification. The Commission shall not be responsible for failure to correct errors.Modifying or Withdrawal of ProposalA Bidder may, by letter to the Contact Person at the Energy Commission, withdraw or modify a submitted Proposal before the deadline to submit proposals. Proposals cannot be changed after that date and time. A Proposal cannot be “timed” to expire on a specific date. For example, a statement such as the following is non-responsive to the RFP: “This proposal and the cost estimate are valid for 60 days.”Immaterial DefectThe Energy Commission may waive any immaterial defect or deviation contained in a Bidder’s proposal. The Energy Commission’s waiver shall in no way modify the proposal or excuse the successful Bidder from full compliance.Disposition of Bidder’s DocumentsOn the Notice of Proposed Award posting date all proposals and related material submitted in response to this RFP become a part of the property of the State and public record. Bidders who want any work examples they submitted with their proposals returned to them shall make this request and provide either sufficient postage, or a Courier Charge Code to fund the cost of returning the examples.Bidders’ AdmonishmentThis RFP contains the instructions governing the requirements for a firm quotation to be submitted by interested Bidders, the format in which the technical information is to be submitted, the material to be included, the requirements which must be met to be eligible for consideration, and Bidder responsibilities. Bidders must take the responsibility to carefully read the entire RFP, ask appropriate questions in a timely manner, submit all required responses in a complete manner by the required date and time, make sure that all procedures and requirements of the RFP are followed and appropriately addressed, and carefully reread the entire RFP before submitting a proposal.Grounds to Reject a ProposalA Proposal shall be rejected if:It is received after the exact time and date set for receipt of Proposal’s pursuant to Public Contract Code, Section 10344.It is considered non-responsive to the California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise participation requirements.It is lacking a properly executed Certification Clauses.It is lacking a properly executed Darfur Contracting Act Form.It is lacking a properly executed California Civil Rights Law Certification Form. It contains false or intentionally misleading statements or references which do not support an attribute or condition contended by the Bidder.The Proposal is intended to erroneously and fallaciously mislead the State in its evaluation of the Proposal and the attribute, condition, or capability is a requirement of this RFP.There is a conflict of interest as contained in Public Contract Code Sections 10410-10412 and/or 10365.5.It contains confidential information, or it contains any portion marked confidential.The Bidder?does not agree to the terms and conditions as attached to the solicitation either by not signing the Contractor Status Form or by stating anywhere in the bid that acceptance is?based on modifications to those terms and conditions?or separate terms and conditions.The Proposal does not allocate at least 60% of funds to CBEs.The Proposal does not document how at least 60% of PIER funds will be spent in California.A Proposal may be rejected if:It is not prepared in the mandatory format described.It is unsigned.The firm or individual has submitted multiple proposals for each task.It does not literally comply or contains caveats that conflict with the RFP and the variation or deviation is not material, or it is otherwise non-responsive.The bidder has previously completed a PIER agreement, received the PIER Royalty Review letter, which the Commission annually sends out to remind past recipients of their obligations to pay royalties, and has not responded to the letter or is otherwise not in compliance with repaying royalties. The budget forms are not filled out completely.Protest ProceduresA Bidder may file a protest against the proposed awarding of a contract. Once a protest has been filed, contracts will not be awarded until either the protest is withdrawn, or the Commission cancels the RFP, or the Department of General Services decides the matter.Please note the following:Protests are limited to the grounds contained in the California Public Contract Code Section 10345.During the five working days that the Notice of Proposed Award (NOPA) is posted, protests must be filed with the DGS Legal Office and the Commission Contracts Office.Within five calendar days after filing the protest, the protesting Bidder must file with the DGS and the Commission Contracts Office a full and complete written statement specifying the grounds for the protest.If the protest is not withdrawn or the solicitation is not canceled, DGS will decide the?matter. There may be a formal hearing conducted by a DGS hearing officer or there may be briefs prepared by the Bidder and the Commission for the DGS hearing officer consideration.Agreement RequirementsThe content of this RFP shall be incorporated by reference into the final contract. See the sample Agreement terms and conditions included in this RFP.No Contract Until Signed & ApprovedNo agreement between the Commission and the successful Bidder is in effect until the contract is signed by the Contractor, approved at a Commission Business Meeting, and approved by the Department of General Services, if required. Contract AmendmentThe contract executed as a result of this RFP will be able to be amended by mutual consent of the Commission and the Contractor. The contract may require amendment as a result of project review, changes and additions, changes in project scope, or availability of funding. ................
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