RFQ-RS0721-2021 - A-E Services for PSPS Permanent Backup Power Supply Project

The Project includes backup power options. LBNL personnel seek the services of an A-E company that can present multiple options for backup power and determine the most effective option for switch station levels at 12kV. Of the planned upgrades to switch stations; A5 (SW-A5) and A6 (SW-A6) are the top priorities that are judged to be the best options for backup power. SW-A6 supplies power to a service area that covers nearly half of the Berkeley Lab campus and about two-thirds of the personnel. The peak power for SW-A6 is 5.4MW. In addition to powering research activities, it powers institutional information technology systems that allow personnel to work remotely. SW-A6 sits on an elevated platform surrounded by buildings/equipment on three sides and a hill on the other making space a premium. A 20-year old inoperable 2MW-, 12kV-generator (EG-107-64C) that is connected to SW-A6 and sits on the platform adjacent to it, will have to be demolished to make space for the new system. A 6,000-gallon Above Ground Fuel Tank on the same platform can be removed or repurposed. SW-A5 is smaller with a peak power of 2.1MW, but supplies power to many scientific user facilities that require continuous power. Although less congested than SW-A6, the terrain around SW-A5 is hilly. The specific location of the backup system will have to be evaluated. LBNL personnel are continuing to evaluate generator replacement options for increasing resiliency to Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) Public Safety Shutoff (PSPS) and other power disruptions. The University's primary purpose for this solicitation is to hire the best integrated and innovative design team that can demonstrate extensive experience in the design of power generation and medium voltage distribution systems.