(8) CO2 Backup Systems and Installation

This solicitation, numbered 1232SA26Q0651, is a Request for Quotation issued under FAR Part 12 as a combined synopsis and solicitation for the purchase and installation of eight CO2 backup systems to support ultra-low temperature freezers at the USDA ARS Beltsville Agricultural Research Center in Maryland. The acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside under NAICS code 333415 with a small business size standard of 1,250 employees, and it restricts participation to eligible small businesses including HUBZone and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. The systems must provide a minimum of eight hours of backup capacity during equipment failure, be configured for single CO2 dip tube liquid tanks, and be compatible with three existing Nuaire systems and five Panasonic systems. Installation must be performed by a licensed and trained technician following defrosting of the freezers, with all deliveries due by November 19, 2026, under F.O.B. Destination terms to the specified Beltsville address. Quotations must include pricing for all line items, detailed documentation proving compliance with specified technical characteristics, and the place of manufacture for each item. The evaluation methodology follows a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable approach, where only the lowest-priced technically acceptable offer will be considered for award after meeting mandatory pass/fail criteria related to technical acceptability and past performance. All proposals must be submitted by June 17, 2026, at 1600 CT, and offerors must be registered in SAM and provide required certifications including tax compliance, Buy American, trafficking in persons, and DEI anti-discrimination requirements. The contract will be awarded as a Firm Fixed Price agreement and includes clauses on whistleblower rights, accelerated payments to small business subcontractors, security prohibitions, and unenforceability of unauthorized obligations. Non-compliance with key terms such as the DEI certification or false statements regarding compliance may result in termination for default, liability under the False Claims Act, or suspension of payments. The contracting officer is Elizabeth R. Calhoun, and inquiries should be directed to Melissa Santos at the provided email address.