COTP Series Capacitor Two-Phase Design Build

The California Oregon Transmission Project (COTP) Series Capacitor Bank Replacement is a firm-fixed-price, two-phase design-build construction project issued by the U.S. Department of Energy, Western Area Power Administration (WAPA). With an estimated magnitude exceeding $80 million, the project involves the engineering, procurement, and construction of four 525kV series capacitor banks at the Maxwell, Tracy, Olinda South, and Olinda North substations. The scope includes the installation of capacitor banks, live tank circuit breakers, disconnect switches, MOVs, and associated control systems, as well as the demolition and construction of foundations and platforms. The project is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2033, with a proposal deadline extended to November 13, 2026. The procurement follows a best-value source selection process divided into two phases. Phase I focuses on qualifications, evaluating corporate experience, technical competency, and past performance to shortlist up to five offerors. Phase II involves a detailed technical and price proposal, where factors such as organization, key personnel, technical solution, and price are assessed. Key contract requirements include strict adherence to Buy American standards, cybersecurity approvals for network-interfacing equipment, and compliance with prevailing wage determinations for Colusa, Shasta, and Alameda counties. Financial terms include progress payments for mobilization and preparatory work, while liquidated damages are established for delays in returning capacitor banks to service. Security protocols require comprehensive background checks for all personnel and specific data cards for foreign nationals.