Opportunity
University of Akron Workday #RFP 202X-X-XXXX
University of Akron Solicits Proposals for 7 MW Onsite Battery Energy Storage System and Comprehensive Energy Services
Posted
March 30, 2026
Respond By
May 13, 2026
Identifier
RFP 202X-X-XXXX
NAICS
221118, 221121, 541330, 238210
The University of Akron is seeking proposals for a comprehensive onsite battery energy storage system (BESS) solution to reduce energy costs and optimize campus energy management. - Government Buyer: - University of Akron Department of Purchasing - Main campus locations: 146 Hill St, 302 E Buchtel Ave, and South Forge Street, Akron, OH - Products and Services Requested: - Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with a minimum 7 MW capacity - Includes all ancillary equipment, improvements, and design services required for regulatory approvals - Comprehensive services: design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance of the BESS - Proposals must include performance guarantees, operations and maintenance plans, and risk transfer mechanisms - Innovative solutions and integration of additional distributed energy resources are encouraged - Natural gas and electricity supply services for campus facilities (ongoing utility contracts) - Natural gas: monthly deliveries ranging from ~1,169 to 49,753 MCF/DTH - Electricity: monthly usage ranging from ~5.5 million to 8.6 million kWh - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Vendor-financed solutions are preferred, with options for installment payment contracts and alternative financing structures - Compliance with Ohio Revised Code 3345.63, .64, and .65 is mandatory - Contract cost must not exceed energy and operational savings over a 15-year period - Respondents must specify OEMs under consideration, warranties, technical approach, and leverage available incentives (e.g., Investment Tax Credit) - The BESS is intended to reduce transmission and capacity charges, lower Peak Load Contribution (PLC), and enable participation in PJM's synchronized reserve market - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs are named; respondents are to propose their own solutions and may suggest alternative configurations - Utility vendors referenced for current supply: Dominion Energy Ohio, Enbridge Gas Ohio, IGS Energy, WGL Energy Services, Inc. - Place of Performance and Delivery: - University of Akron main campus facilities in Akron, OH (146 Hill St, 302 E Buchtel Ave, South Forge Street, Forge Street) - All work and deliveries are to be performed onsite at University of Akron locations
Description
The University of Akron is seeking proposals for an onsite battery energy storage system aimed at achieving cost savings and cost avoidance related to energy consumption. The project involves design, building, financing, operations, and maintenance of the system, with a focus on reducing capacity and demand-related charges. The University is interested in vendor-financed solutions and encourages innovative approaches that may include additional distributed energy resources. Proposals must include pricing for a 7 MW battery storage solution and comply with Ohio Revised Code requirements.