Solar energy

Tender description

This tender is part of a European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) supported project to refurbish the authority’s main operational depot in Killingworth. The core philosophy and key output of the project is the plan to adopt, create and integrate a smart building and ‘intelligent” mini grid of innovative technology as part of a whole place solution approach. The solar PV element is one of several energy efficiency and generation measures to: • reduce the depots requirement for primary energy from the National Power Grid; • promote the generation, storage and distribution of energy derived from renewable sources; • reduce the depot’s carbon footprint. The Solar PV works are a key project element in delivering the ERDF outputs as outlined in our funding agreement and the works information is detailed on supplied drawings which outline a PV maximum generation target of 852 kWp. For the avoidance of doubt, a failure to comply with the Works Information could potentially result in funding clawback under the funding agreement. The authority will be undertaking separate procurement exercises for battery storage and electric vehicle charging solutions they do not form part of the requirements for this specific tender exercise. This works package is to be completed in phases between January and the end June 2021. This tender is part of a European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) supported project to refurbish the authority’s main operational depot in Killingworth. The core philosophy and key output of the project is the plan to adopt, create and integrate a smart building and ‘intelligent” mini grid of innovative technology as part of a whole place solution approach. The solar PV element is one of several energy efficiency and generation measures to: • reduce the depots requirement for primary energy from the National Power Grid; • promote the generation, storage and distribution of energy derived from renewable sources; • reduce the depot’s carbon footprint. The solar PV works are a key project element in delivering the ERDF outputs as outlined in our funding agreement and the works information is detailed on supplied drawings which outline a PV maximum generation target of 852 kWp. For the avoidance of doubt, a failure to comply with the Works Information could potentially result in funding clawback under the funding agreement. The authority will be undertaking separate procurement exercises for battery storage and electric vehicle charging solutions they do not form part of the requirements for this specific tender exercise. Tenderers are encouraged to submit a variant proposal as outlined in the Instructions for tendering but must be mindful of the maximum PV generation target stated above as the authority is unable to export to the National Grid and wants to ensure the optimum level of generation for use on site. We would advise tenderers to maximise the use of available roof space on Blocks A, B and F in that order (the number of panels on all blocks has been restricted by structural limitations and tenderers need to be mindful of panel numbers and locations when submitting their variant proposal). In maximising roof space output, it may allow the authority to reduce the number of solar canopy installations therefore offering a VFM solution in achieving the PV maximum generation target specified above. Variant solutions The authority will accept a variant proposal but you must in the first instance provide a submission based on the standard requirements as included in the authority requirements and complete a second submission for any variant proposed. Please refer to the instructions to tenderers clause 10 below which specifically details the elements of the authority’s requirements that may not be varied and the information that will be required at tender submission. Please note this does not apply to the terms and conditions of contract which cannot be amended. Climate emergency In July 2019, North Tyneside Council declared a climate emergency, reflecting its commitment to preserving the environment in North Tyneside and the target is for the authority and Borough to become carbon neutral by 2050. Achieving this target will require substantial transformation of the energy and waste management systems of all local businesses within our supply chain. As we move from the immediate Covid-19 emergency response, the authority recognise that our approach to the economic recovery that will follow provides us with a unique opportunity to sustainably rebuild our economy and make greener investments and climate positive decisions that set us on a pathway that aligns with the North Tyneside, UK and international climate targets. This works package is to be completed in phases between January and the end June 2021.