Request for Proposals: MASFA Decision-Support Provider

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is seeking a qualified entity to provide one-on-one decision support services to potential participants of the Massachusetts Solar for All (MASFA) small-residential financial assistance initiatives. The selected provider will serve as an unbiased resource for low-income and disadvantaged community residents, simplifying the solar project customer journey and offering comprehensive guidance on solar technology, available incentives, and ownership/financing options. The provider must develop deep expertise in MASFA program goals, eligibility requirements, and technical details to advise residents on the most appropriate financial assistance pathway for their specific circumstances.

MASFA is a five-year federally-funded program (EPA award of $156 million) designed to expand access to clean and affordable solar energy across Massachusetts from mid-2025 through mid-2029. The decision-support provider will coordinate with complementary MASFA partners including the MA Department of Energy Resources, Massachusetts Community Climate Bank, Boston Housing Authority, and other grantees and municipalities. Services will begin upon contract finalization, with an anticipated launch in late Summer 2025 to coincide with the opening of MASFA Small Residential Financial Assistance initiatives. The provider may offer limited services before reaching full capacity, with flexibility in the ramp-up timeline.

The scope includes core decision-support services (primary focus) and an optional alternate scope component for support of outreach and engagement efforts. Applicants should provide proposed approach to scope of work, anticipated timeline for capacity building, and three professional references. The provider must demonstrate capability to serve residents in multiple languages (English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, and Haitian Creole), though MassCEC will support translation and transcreation services if needed. Applicants are encouraged to propose alternative pricing structures (such as launch phase fees or retainer arrangements) itemized in the budget narrative.

Key dates: RFP released April 14, 2025; questions due April 25, 2025; answers posted May 9, 2025; proposals due May 23, 2025; interviews May-June 2025; award notification June 2025. Award potential is up to $2,700,000 for approximately four years of services with possible extension. All funding is federal and structured as a draw-down program. MassCEC reserves the right to delay, cancel, or adjust funding based on federal fund availability or program changes.