How to bid on solar distribution panel replacement for US Fish and Wildlife Service

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service needs a contractor to replace a burned 400-amp solar electrical distribution panel, breakers, and related electrical equipment. This equipment serves a deep well and its solar power infrastructure at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge in Livingston, California. The existing equipment has failed, impacting the refuge's water management operations, which are crucial for maintaining wetland units and supporting wildlife habitat.

This project is estimated to cost between $15,000 and $25,000. The work is expected to be completed within 60 calendar days after the contract is awarded. This is a total small business set-aside opportunity, meaning only small businesses can bid.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

A site visit is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM PST. An RSVP is required to attend. Questions about the solicitation are due by Monday, August 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM PST. All questions must be submitted via email.

Proposals are due by Friday, August 28, 2026, at 12:00 PM PST (noon Pacific). Your proposal must be submitted by email to be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 238210, Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors. The small business size standard for this NAICS code is $19.0 million. This means the opportunity is specifically for small businesses specializing in electrical contracting and wiring installation.

The agency is looking for contractors with relevant knowledge of solar installation and experience with solar brands. You must also demonstrate the ability to comply with all state and local laws in California.

How to respond

To access the solicitation documents, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though for some bids this is not necessary.

Your bid should be submitted via email to [email protected]. It must include the solicitation number in your proposal and in the subject line of your email. Your bid should be on company letterhead and include the SF1449 solicitation document with unit and total prices, a pricing form, your SAM.gov UEI code, and a point of contact phone number and email address.

Ensure your quote follows the specified format: 8 ½ x 11 inch pages, 12-pitch font (Times New Roman/Arial/Etc.), and 1-inch borders. Elaborate formats or color presentations are not desired. You must also be registered as an active vendor in the System for Award Management (SAM) at sam.gov for your quote to be considered for award.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review all parts of the solicitation package, including the Statement of Work (SOW) and its four attachments, the SF1449, the pricing form, and the clauses and provisions. Your bid will be evaluated primarily on price and acceptability.

Since the project magnitude is between $15,000 and $25,000, both payment and performance bonds will be required. These bonds are due no later than 10 calendar days after the contract award. Be prepared to secure these bonds if you are awarded the contract.

Attend the site visit if possible, as it can provide valuable insights into the project scope and site conditions. If you have questions, submit them by the deadline to ensure you have all necessary information before preparing your final bid.