Innovative procurement of a new central energy plant

Conference · Thu Aug 01 04:00:00 EDT 1996

OSTI ID:269647

Robertson, W ^[1]

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1. Heery International, Inc., Atlanta, GA (United States)

Clemson University (South Carolina) wanted to replace its 1948 central steam plant and, if possible, also replace 6,000 tons of centrifugal chillers. With a cost estimate of $45 million, state funding was not likely, so innovative financing was sought. A Procurement Consultant was engaged to prepare a business plan and RFP to solicit proposals for third-party financing with design-build. This paper describes the four-year process of developing and conducting a thorough procurement. The steps followed are generalized to apply to other capital projects. The points covered include the need for balance between allowing proposer flexibility and creativity while providing safeguards necessary to protect the university`s interests, and the need for a RFP that would be {open_quotes}efficient{close_quotes};that is, biddable, attractive, and result in easily evaluated proposals. The Proposers` Conference attracted over 60 firms nationwide, so these goals were met. The pros and cons of design-build are discussed and ways of overcoming disadvantages are outlined. The coming of competition to the electric utility industry and how this can impact college/university energy programs is considered. This presentation will conclude with an update on the final outcome of the project, lessons learned, and suggestions for others.

• OSTI ID: 269647
• Report Number(s): CONF-960213--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

20 FOSSIL-FUELED POWER PLANTS
32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
CONSTRUCTION
CONTRACT MANAGEMENT
CONTRACTS
DESALINATION
EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
PERFORMANCE
PROCUREMENT
REFRIGERATING MACHINERY
REFRIGERATION
STEAM SYSTEMS