Request For Proposals For Consulting Services Regarding Securitization For Recovery Of System Restoration Costs

The contract issued by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) seeks expert consulting services to evaluate and support the securitization financing of system restoration costs incurred by CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric LLC due to damages from Hurricane Beryl, Hurricane Francine, and Winter Storm Enzo. The scope involves analyzing whether securitization offers greater benefits to ratepayers compared to other financing options, requiring specialized expertise in capital markets, debt structuring, stakeholder engagement, and documentation preparation. The contract is valued between 500,000 and 2 million dollars, with an anticipated start in September 2025, and is governed by Texas state statutes, administrative codes, and specific provisions tailored to state procurement and consulting services. The agreement emphasizes compliance with Texas laws, confidentiality, conflict of interest disclosures, and detailed certifications, including HUB participation and E-Verify requirements. It does not specify federal FAR clauses, packaging, or shipping standards, as the scope is purely professional services. The procurement process involves a structured evaluation based on proposal substance and methodology (40%), competence and knowledge (40%), and price (20%), with awards made on a best value basis allowing trade-offs among technical merit and cost. Proposals must be submitted electronically in multiple formats by August 26, 2025, limited to 75 pages, and must include all certifications, disclosures, and attachments, notably a detailed cost proposal aligned with the scope of work. The contract stipulates standard clauses on termination, amendments, force majeure, and non-waiver, with specific provisions for confidentiality, personnel qualifications, conflict of interest disclosures, and contract modifications. Payment procedures require timely invoicing to designated addresses, with clear responsibilities for performance, acceptance, and record retention, all under the oversight of the PUCT’s designated contract administrator. Overall, the contract emphasizes compliance with Texas laws, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that the selected consultant provides expert analysis to facilitate the utility’s securitization efforts for disaster-related restoration costs.