Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure a service provider to supply, deliver, install, and commission an alternative power solution for the Genomics Lab and High-Performance Computing (HPC) at the ARC’s Biotechnology Platform. The solution aims to ensure continuous operation of critical equipment during power failures by implementing a grid-tied solar system with battery backups, load partitioning, and integration with existing power infrastructure.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Design, supply, installation, and commissioning of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system with battery backup.
• Provision of all accessories, wiring, breakers, and safety components required for a fully functional system.
• Implementation over two phases: Phase 1 involves the initial setup with PV panels and batteries; Phase 2 expands the system with additional PV panels and storage.
• Transfer of some standard circuits to emergency circuits to prioritize critical loads.
• Ensuring the system is grid-tied, accepts emergency generator supply, and supports load partitioning for normal and emergency circuits.
• Provision of monitoring, safety, and control systems, including online access and user training.
• Compliance with relevant standards, certifications, and safety regulations.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Solar PV modules must comply with IEC 61215 and IEC 61730, with a minimum 25-year warranty.
• Battery storage of 180 kWh (Phase 1) and an additional 22 kWh PV modules and batteries (Phase 2), using Li-Ion or LiFePO4 technology with a minimum of 10-year warranty.
• Use of hybrid inverters (preferably Victron, Deye, SunSynk or similar) with internal phase management, capable of converting DC to AC power, and supporting online system monitoring.
• Proper placement and mounting of PV panels to maximize efficiency and minimize shading, with compliance to building codes.
• Provision of a secure, ventilated, and cooled equipment room for inverters and batteries, with sufficient space for future expansion.
• System must include safety features such as fire extinguishers, safety signs, and compliance certificates.
• Electrical work must be performed under supervision of qualified electricians, with sign-off on compliance and as-built drawings.
• System must be capable of seamless future expansion, with online monitoring accessible via mobile and web platforms.
• Guarantees include 25-year power warranty on PV modules, 10-year warranties on inverters and batteries, and 12-month workmanship warranty.
• Downtime during installation should be scheduled outside normal working hours with prior approval.

Skills Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate:

• Licensed practitioners with relevant electrical and engineering certifications.
• Experience in designing and installing grid-tied solar PV systems with battery backup.
• Capability to provide detailed technical drawings, compliance certificates, and warranties.
• Proficiency in system monitoring, control, and integration with existing power infrastructure.
• Ability to perform system commissioning, testing, and training of ARC personnel.
• Knowledge of safety standards, electrical codes, and government regulations related to renewable energy installations.