UL1023 - Multiple Operator Framework Agreement for Electrical Contractors for Small Capital Works Projects

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The University of Limerick seeks to establish a framework agreement with multiple electrical contractors for small capital works projects. The framework will facilitate the execution of various electrical installation tasks across the university's facilities. The anticipated volume of work includes both reactive and planned electrical works, with project values expected to range up to €2,000,000 excluding VAT.

Key activities under this framework include:

• Electrical Installations: Installation of electrical systems in new and existing buildings.
• Maintenance Services: Routine maintenance and emergency repairs of electrical systems.
• Upgrades: Upgrading existing electrical installations to meet current standards and regulations.
• Compliance Works: Ensuring all electrical works comply with relevant health and safety regulations and standards.
• Project Management: Managing the execution of works, including scheduling, resource allocation, and quality assurance.

The contractor will be required to work within the university's operational environment, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing activities. The framework may also involve collaboration with other contractors for multidisciplinary projects.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement aligns with the University of Limerick's strategic initiative to enhance its infrastructure and facilities. The decision to establish a framework agreement for electrical contractors is driven by the need for efficient and timely execution of small capital works projects, which are essential for maintaining and upgrading the university's facilities. The framework aims to streamline procurement processes and ensure that qualified contractors are readily available for various electrical projects. The university has previously engaged contractors for similar works, but this framework seeks to formalize and expand the pool of available service providers.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Minimum average annual turnover of €2.0 million in the area of electrical contracting.
• Insurance:
• Public Liability Insurance: Minimum €6.5 million per accident.
• Employer's Liability Insurance: Minimum €13.5 million per accident.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance: Minimum €1.5 million.
• Certifications: Bidders must hold relevant certifications, including ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 45001 (Health and Safety Management).
• Past experience: Evidence of satisfactory completion of at least one electrical project of comparable scale and complexity with a capital value in excess of €250,000.
• Personnel: Key personnel must have a minimum of 14 years of relevant industry experience.
• Geographic constraints: Bidders must be based within a reasonable distance from the University of Limerick to ensure timely response to service requests.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The evaluation will follow the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) principle, balancing price and quality. Bidders must achieve a minimum score of 50% in each criterion to be considered for the award.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents:

• Method statement: A detailed response document outlining the approach to the project, adhering to any specified templates and page limits.
• CVs: Curriculum Vitae for key personnel, limited to two pages each.
• Pricing schedule: A completed pricing template detailing costs associated with the services.
• Case studies: A minimum of three case studies of relevant projects, with values ranging from €250,000 to €2,000,000.
• Declarations: Completed declarations including ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest.
• Mandatory site visit: Attendance at a site visit is required; details will be provided upon request.
• Submission portal: All submissions must be made via the eTenders platform, following specified format rules.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term and extensions: The initial contract duration is two years, with options for extensions based on performance and mutual agreement.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made upon satisfactory completion of works, subject to agreed milestones.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Contractors must adhere to specified service level agreements, including response times for emergency works.
• Liquidated damages: Penalties may apply for failure to meet project deadlines.
• Termination clauses: The university reserves the right to terminate the contract for non-performance or breach of contract.
• IP ownership: All intellectual property developed during the contract will remain with the university.
• Sub-contracting rules: Sub-contracting is permitted but must be disclosed and approved by the university.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns for bidders include:

• Turnover threshold: The minimum turnover requirement of €2.0 million may limit participation from smaller firms.
• Geographic constraints: Bidders must be located within a specified distance from the university, potentially excluding capable firms from other regions.
• Tight timelines: The contract may require rapid mobilization and completion of works, which could pose challenges for resource allocation.
• Incumbent advantage: Existing contractors may have an advantage due to familiarity with the university's operations and standards.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is suitable for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with experience in electrical contracting. Viable bidders should have:

• A proven track record in completing electrical projects of similar scale and complexity.
• Relevant certifications and insurance coverage as specified.
• The capacity to mobilize quickly and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Consortium bids are allowed, which may enable smaller firms to collaborate and meet the requirements. Preparation for the bid may require several days of effort, including gathering documentation and formulating responses. The presence of an incumbent contractor may signal a competitive environment, but opportunities exist for well-prepared bidders.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: UL1023_RFT_Document.docx
• eTenders CFT ID: not specified
• Contact email: [email protected]
• Important attachments:
• Appendix B1 — List of Previous Works Projects
• Appendix D1 — Staff CV Template
• Appendix C — Bankers Letter Template