OCS Aluminum Conductors

The California High-Speed Rail Authority is soliciting bids under solicitation HSR26-39 for the procurement of OCS Aluminum Conductors, specifically Aluminum-Steel 288mm2 auxiliary/feeder wire and 93.3mm2 static/ground/earth wire based on the SNCF S220 OCS system. The contract spans two to four years and is executed through three Notices to Proceed covering the First Construction Section, a northern extension from Merced to Madera, and a southern extension from Poplar Avenue to Bakersfield. Materials must be Buy America compliant per 49 U.S.C § 22905 and delivered to railheads in Wasco and Fresno. The award will be granted to the lowest responsible responsive bidder based on the total bid price. The contractor is required to maintain a quality control system and provide a detailed delivery plan within thirty days of the first Notice to Proceed. Quality assurance includes First Article Inspection per EN 13450, ongoing source inspections, and final acceptance at the destination. Each shipment must include a signed Certificate of Compliance detailing conductor type, length, weight, and batch numbers. Bidders must submit a bid bond equal to 10 percent of the total bid amount and provide various certifications, including those for equal employment, non-discrimination, and small business goals. Payments are processed electronically in accordance with the California Prompt Payment Act, with a general 45-day window for undisputed invoices.