How to bid on Solar System Install on Existing Well for the Forest Service

What the Forest Service is buying

The Helena Lewis & Clark National Forest is seeking a contractor to install a solar system on an existing well. This project is located in Townsend, Montana. This is an opportunity for businesses specializing in solar installations and related construction work.

The work is scheduled to take place between September 1, 2026, and October 30, 2026. Detailed information about the project is provided in eight attachments within the solicitation.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Proposal (RFP) was published on July 24, 2026. The deadline for submitting your proposal is August 06, 2026, at 6:00 PM ET. All proposals must be submitted by this time.

A site visit is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 9:00 AM. Interested vendors should contact Tracey Schilling at 406-439-6219 for the exact meeting location near the carpool site. Attending the site visit can provide valuable insights for your proposal.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction firms with expertise in solar energy system installation, particularly those with experience working on well systems or in remote locations. Businesses with a background in renewable energy projects and general construction will find this relevant. The category for this work is construction.

How to respond

To access the solicitation documents, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all the documents, though this is not always required for every bid.

Review all eight attached documents carefully to understand the full scope of work, specifications, and submission requirements before preparing your proposal.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Thoroughly review all eight attachments to ensure your proposal addresses every requirement. Pay close attention to the technical specifications for the solar system and installation process. Clearly demonstrate your firm's experience with similar projects, especially those involving well systems or installations in potentially challenging environments.

Consider attending the scheduled site visit on July 29, 2026. This will allow you to assess the site conditions firsthand and ask any clarifying questions directly to the agency, which can significantly strengthen your understanding and proposal. Ensure your proposal clearly outlines your project plan, timeline, and how you will meet the performance period from September 1 to October 30, 2026.