Advanced Distribution Management System Needs Assessment

Anaheim Public Utilities is seeking consulting services to assess and support the procurement of a next-generation Advanced Distribution Management System to replace its legacy Minsait ACS SCADA and Outage Management System, originally deployed in the early 2000s. The current system provides core functions for real-time monitoring, fault location, outage management, and distribution automation, but many advanced capabilities remain underutilized. The solicitation requires a consultant to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment across three phased phases: first, evaluating the existing system and identifying gaps between current operations and desired ADMS functionality; second, optionally developing and managing the RFP process for vendor selection, including conducting bidder conferences, scoring proposals, and performing due diligence; and third, optionally providing time-and-materials-based advisory support during implementation. All proposed solutions must align with NERC CIP cybersecurity standards and Anaheim’s internal security policies, with full attention to data management, system integration, migration, and compliance. The project is governed by strict independence requirements—the consultant must have no affiliation with any ADMS vendor—and must demonstrate proven experience in utility operational technology projects, with key personnel holding at least ten years of relevant experience and participation in at least three similar engagements. The solicitation employs a weighted evaluation model that prioritizes technical approach and methodology at 30%, followed by experience and past performance at 25%, and qualifications of key personnel at 20%. Cost is a minor factor at 10%, with additional points awarded for quality control, schedule adherence, and compliance with RFP terms. Proposals must be submitted electronically through Anaheim’s procurement portal by the deadline of July 25, 2026, and must include a detailed project plan, executive summary, organizational background, and certified disclosures regarding conflicts of interest under California’s Political Reform Act and Government Code Section 1090. The consultant must also provide a complete fee schedule with separately itemized fixed pricing for Phases I and II and a time-and-materials rate structure for Phase III, alongside travel cost estimates. Deliverables must be submitted in both source formats and official PDF versions, and any deficiencies identified by APU must be corrected at no additional cost. The agreement, if awarded, has an initial three-year term with the option for two one-year extensions, and the consultant is bound by stringent confidentiality and communication restrictions to prevent any improper influence during the procurement process. All subcontractors must comply with the agreement terms, with no further subcontracting permitted, and those performing 10% or more of the work must