Evaluation, Measurement and Verification of Energy Optimization Programs

The Board of Water and Light (BWL) is issuing this Request for Proposal (RFP 202607027702) to solicit sealed proposals from qualified firms to furnish evaluation, measurement, and verification (EM&V) services for the utility's energy optimization programs over a multi-year period. The scope of work includes designing and conducting rigorous EM&V activities to assess the energy savings, demand reductions, cost-effectiveness, and non-energy impacts of BWL's portfolio of energy efficiency and demand management initiatives. The successful proposer will be responsible for developing evaluation plans, performing data collection and analysis, calculating verified savings, and preparing comprehensive reports for regulatory compliance and program improvement.

The contract is anticipated to cover the period from award through 2029, with the work directly tied to BWL's Energy Optimization Plan for 2026-2029 (the "Plan"), which is attached to the RFP. The selected vendor must demonstrate experience with Michigan's energy optimization regulatory framework, including familiarity with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) reporting requirements and evaluation protocols. Key tasks include establishing baseline conditions, performing metering and monitoring, conducting participant surveys, completing process evaluations, and delivering impact evaluation results. The awarded contract will require a robust quality assurance and data management approach to ensure all reported savings are accurate and verifiable.

Proposals must be submitted electronically via the IonWave procurement portal by the close date of August 13, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. The question cut-off date is July 24, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. All submissions must be uploaded with all required attachments, including a sworn and notarized affidavit of compliance with the Iran Economic Sanctions Act (revised May 2018). The BWL reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive irregularities, and accept proposals in whole or in part as deemed in its best interest.

Interested firms should carefully review the attached scope of work document ("Energy Optimization Evaluation RFP_2026_2029_063026.docx") and the supporting "Instructions to Bidders" for complete submission requirements. The evaluation will consider factors including technical approach, staff qualifications, demonstrated experience, and pricing. This opportunity is critical to BWL's commitment to delivering cost-effective energy optimization programs and achieving the energy savings targets outlined in its integrated resource plan.