Provision of Expert Services in support of SEAI’s Research and Policy Insights Directorate

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

This tender seeks to establish a multi-supplier framework agreement for the provision of expert services to support the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) Research and Policy Insights Directorate. The framework will cover Lot 3: Research and Innovation Delivery Services.

The services will be procured through two mechanisms: Direct Draw Down and Mini-Competition.

• Direct Draw Down: This method is envisaged for service requirements with a lower size, value, and/or complexity, typically up to 10 days of work. SEAI will select a framework member based on a cascade system, starting with the highest-scoring member who demonstrates the required competency for the specific task. If the primary resource is unavailable, the work will be offered to the next highest-scoring member. Continuity of service provision and established working knowledge of SEAI programmes may be considered. Availability of the framework member will also be assessed, with preference given to those not already heavily committed. Performance to date, as evaluated by SEAI, will also be a factor.

• Mini-Competition: This method will be used for contracts likely to exceed 10 days of work. SEAI will invite all framework members capable of performing the contract to participate. A Request for Mini-Tender will be issued via email, detailing the scope of requirements, award criteria, and submission deadline. Proposed rates must not exceed the original rates quoted in the tender submission. SEAI will award the Call-Off Contract to the best tender based on the specified award criteria.

The scope includes providing expert services that align with SEAI's research and policy objectives. Specific tasks will be defined in individual Call-Off Contracts or Purchase Orders issued under the framework. The maximum value of funding by SEAI over the life of the agreement is €11,480,000 excluding VAT. This value is not a guarantee of spend.

3. Background & buyer context

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is procuring these expert services through an open procedure, as advertised on www.etenders.gov.ie and in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU). This procurement aligns with Directive 2014/24/EU and is transposed into national law by S.I. 284 of 2016. The establishment of this framework agreement is intended to provide SEAI with access to specialist expertise for its Research and Policy Insights Directorate. The framework agreement will govern the terms for awarding individual contracts (Call-Off Contracts) over its duration. The tender process aims to create a multi-supplier framework, indicating SEAI's intention to engage with several providers to meet its diverse expert service needs.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following criteria to be considered eligible:

• Turnover requirement: Not specified for this tender.
• Insurance: Not specified for this tender.
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Not specified for this tender.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

However, bidders must provide a Statement of Going Concern, supported by either a letter from their accountant or bank confirming financial standing and solvency, or audited/certified/management accounts, and a cash-flow forecast for the next 12 months.

5. Award criteria & scoring

The award of Call-Off Contracts under the Mini-Competition procedure will be based on the most economically advantageous tender (MEAT). The precise award criteria, scope, and weightings will be set out in each specific Request for Mini-Tender. For Direct Draw Down, selection will be based on a cascade system favouring the highest-scoring framework member with demonstrated competency for the specific task.

Criterion Weight (%) Sub-criteria