RFQ – UCS DOE GRIP Funding Opportunities

Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) is seeking consultant services to prepare a Department of Energy (DOE) SPARK grant application focused on reconductoring several circuits on LIPA's transmission system. The project aims to improve system reliability, resiliency, capacity, deliverability, and resource adequacy while assisting LIPA in meeting federal goals to eliminate transmission system constraints and improve existing infrastructure performance.

The selected consultant will work collaboratively with LIPA and its Service Provider (PSEG Long Island) to prepare a comprehensive grant application in accordance with DOE Federal Opportunity Announcement (FOA) DE-FOA-0003580. Key responsibilities include: developing a detailed project schedule and timeline; identifying subject matter experts (SMEs) for each task; conducting thorough review and quality checks of all application materials for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to DOE guidelines; drafting clear narratives, budget justifications, and other required sections; scheduling and conducting meetings with LIPA and the Service Provider; providing detailed feedback to strengthen application sections; and ensuring alignment of each section with SPARK Topic Areas outlined in the FOA. The consultant will lead drafting efforts for critical sections to meet standards required for successful grant award.

Key dates include: RFQ issue date April 1, 2026; written questions deadline April 6, 2026 by 3:00 PM; answers provided April 7, 2026; RFQ response due April 9, 2026 by 3:00 PM; anticipated award date April 15, 2026; anticipated consultant start date April 20, 2026; grant application due to DOE May 20, 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time. Project duration is estimated at approximately 4 weeks, though actual timeline is driven by DOE deadlines.

Compensation will be provided on a time and materials basis in accordance with the firm's existing Utility Consulting Services contract with LIPA, subject to an agreed-upon not-to-exceed cap based on hourly rates. LIPA reserves the right to select multiple consultants with complementary skills or reject all proposals if necessary. All submissions must be uploaded electronically to the LIPA Bonfire e-Procurement platform at https://lipower.bonfirehub.com. Late proposals will not be accepted.