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i RFP No. 2018-0090 Appendix 23 February 2018 EfficiencyOne First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot: Service Delivery Organizations Request for Proposals No. 2018-0090

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Page 1: First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot: Service

i

RFP No. 2018-0090

Appendix

23 February 2018

EfficiencyOne

First Nations Home Energy Efficiency

Pilot: Service Delivery Organizations

Request for Proposals No. 2018-0090

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ii RFP No. 2018-0090

EfficiencyOne reserves the right to reject any and all Proposals, with or without cause, and

accept Proposals that it considers most favourable to EfficiencyOne. Nothing in this Request

for Proposals (“RFP”), the Proposal submissions, nor EfficiencyOne’s acceptance of Proposal

submissions shall obligate EfficiencyOne to enter into or complete negotiations with

respondents. EfficiencyOne is not liable for any costs incurred by respondents in replying to

this RFP or in connection with any interviews or negotiations relating to this RFP.

EfficiencyOne recognizes the proprietary nature of the information that may be contained in

responses to this RFP. EfficiencyOne’s normal business practices will be observed in handling

Proposal materials. If a Proponent considers any information contained in its Proposal to be

confidential or proprietary, then each page of the Proposal containing such information must

be clearly marked "Confidential". EfficiencyOne shall make commercially reasonable efforts to

prevent the disclosure of a Proponent’s aggregated and personally identifiable information to

third parties, except as the Proponent permits, or as may be required by law or by

EfficiencyOne’s regulators or by EfficiencyOne’s contractual obligations to the Province of Nova

Scotia.

EfficiencyOne believes that this RFP document aligns with its underlying procurement

philosophies, which are based on demonstrating accountability to the organization’s

stakeholders and achieving Best Value for the organization. In so doing, EfficiencyOne’s

principles and values are designed to support the development of Nova Scotia’s economy and

capacity as well as to encourage a safe, energy efficient, sustainable, and transparent and open

culture. In this regard, EfficiencyOne values respectful, open, and transparent relationships

with its suppliers, aiming to create a partnering culture that is mutually beneficial to both

parties.

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iii RFP No. 2018-0090

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 EfficiencyOne Background ............................................................................................... 1

2 List of Terms, Symbols, and Acronyms ............................................................................. 1

3 Overview: First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot ...................................................... 3

3.1 Objective of the RFP.................................................................................................. 4

3.2 Delivery Agent Services ............................................................................................. 4

3.3 Upgrades and Home Eligibility .................................................................................. 5

3.4 Partnerships .............................................................................................................. 6

4 Scope of Work and Pilot Service Requirements ................................................................ 7

4.1 Scope of Work ........................................................................................................... 7

4.2 Deliverables ............................................................................................................... 7

4.2.1 Primary DA Responsibilities ................................................................................... 7

4.2.2 Secondary DA Responsibilities .............................................................................. 9

4.2.3 General Responsibilities ...................................................................................... 10

4.3 Governance Process, Reporting and Communications .......................................... 11

4.4 Regions of Work ...................................................................................................... 11

4.5 Third Party Contractors Will Perform Upgrades ..................................................... 12

4.6 Training Requirements ............................................................................................ 12

4.7 Customer Service .................................................................................................... 13

4.8 Delivery Agent Representation ............................................................................... 13

5 RFP Schedule & Project Schedule ................................................................................... 13

5.1 RFP Schedule ........................................................................................................... 13

5.2 Project Schedule ..................................................................................................... 14

6 General Information to Proponents ............................................................................... 14

6.1 Questions ................................................................................................................ 14

6.2 Information Session (Webinar/Teleconference) .................................................... 15

6.3 Intent to Respond Form .......................................................................................... 15

6.4 Amendments to This RFP ........................................................................................ 15

6.5 Proposal Submission Procedure ............................................................................. 16

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iv RFP No. 2018-0090

6.6 Withdrawal and modification ................................................................................. 16

7 Responses to Questions submitteed via Request for Needs process ............................... 16

8 Submission Content and Proposal Format ..................................................................... 18

8.1 Mandatory Requirements ....................................................................................... 18

8.2 Building the Energy Efficiency Industry and Local Economy .................................. 19

8.2.1 Building the Energy Efficiency Industry in Nova Scotia ....................................... 19

8.2.2 Promoting Economic Growth and Development within Nova Scotia ................. 20

8.3 Project Partners ...................................................................................................... 20

8.4 Schedule of Prices ................................................................................................... 20

9 Proposal Evaluation....................................................................................................... 21

9.1 Evaluation Criteria................................................................................................... 21

9.2 Evaluation Process .................................................................................................. 21

9.2.1 Interview Process ................................................................................................ 22

10 Contract Guidelines ....................................................................................................... 23

11 General Information and Conditions .............................................................................. 24

12 List of Appendicies and Attachemnts ............................................................................. 26

1. Appendix A: Intent to Respond Form ..................................................................... 26

2. Appendix B: First Nation Home Energy Efficiency Pilot Guidelines ........................ 26

3. Appendix C: Proposal Submission Template .......................................................... 26

4. Appendix D: Non-Disclosure Agreement ................................................................ 26

5. Appendix E: Schedule of Prices ............................................................................... 26

6. Attachment 1: Standard Terms and Conditions ..................................................... 26

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1 EFFICIENCYONE BACKGROUND

EfficiencyOne transforms how we use and save energy and other resources. The organization has

a public purpose: to contribute to economic prosperity and environmental sustainability through

the efficient use of resources. EfficiencyOne achieves this through partnership, innovation, and

its expertise in policy, regulatory processes, and the design and delivery of efficiency and

conservation services.

Led by an independent Board of Directors, EfficiencyOne is based in Nova Scotia, Canada.

In Nova Scotia, EfficiencyOne operates Canada’s first electricity efficiency utility as the franchise

holder of Efficiency Nova Scotia. Efficiency Nova Scotia also delivers non-electric efficiency and

conservation services through a contract with the Province of Nova Scotia. It operates on a not-

for-profit basis.

First and foremost, EfficiencyOne continues to deliver on the Efficiency Nova Scotia promise:

helping Nova Scotians save. It continues to meet energy savings targets, while working to make

energy efficient behavior the new normal and building a world-class energy efficiency industry in

Nova Scotia.

Additional information about EfficiencyOne can be found at http://www.efficiencyone.ca

Additional information about Efficiency Nova Scotia can be found on its website at

https://www.efficiencyns.ca/about-us

Please note: Activities under this First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot will occur publicly

under the “Efficiency Nova Scotia” name. However, contracted activities will be performed via

an agreement with EfficiencyOne, and as such this RFP references “EfficiencyOne”.

2 LIST OF TERMS, SYMBOLS, AND ACRONYMS

Terms, Symbols, Acronyms Definition / Description

AT Atlantic Time (standard/daylight savings time as applicable)

Best Value

This procurement will be based on “best value”, not just “best price”. EfficiencyOne will consider three attributes when assessing Best Value: the advancement of EfficiencyOne’s objectives (and those of the Efficiency Nova Scotia franchise); non-cost factors; and real-cost factors.

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Terms, Symbols, Acronyms Definition / Description

DA Delivery Agent - Successful Proponent of this RFP, having an agreement with EfficiencyOne to deliver the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot.

D Assessment Pre-Upgrade EnerGuide Energy Assessment for existing homes (performed in accordance with applicable Natural Resources Canada guidelines)

EA Natural Resources Canada Registered Energy Advisor

E Assessment Post-Upgrade EnerGuide Energy Assessment for existing homes (performed in accordance with applicable Natural Resources Canada guidelines)

Evaluation Committee The committee that will evaluate the Proposals received in response to this RFP. It will be comprised of EfficiencyOne employees.

Guidelines Draft Upgrade Guidelines for the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot (Appendix B)1

EnerGuide Home Evaluation

This service is designed to help homeowners increase the energy-efficiency and comfort of their homes.2 A registered Energy Advisor evaluates the home’s energy performance through a blower door test and identifies opportunities for energy efficient upgrades. The EnerGuide Home Evaluation includes the D Assessment and the E Assessment. This also includes providing high-level education to the occupant on energy efficiency.

First Nations

There are 13 Bands/First Nations in Nova Scotia. Included in these 13 First Nation communities are 42 reserve locations across Nova Scotia.

First Nation Housing Department Representative

The title may vary by First Nation (such as Housing Manager or Housing Director). They are responsible for all aspects of housing-related issues, from the planning to completion of individual projects, as it pertains to the First Nation Housing Department. This individual will work with the First Nation Social Department and the Finance Department.

1 Please note that Appendix B contains a set of definitions applicable to the Guidelines contained within.

2 NRCan website, http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/efficiency/housing/home-improvements/5005

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Terms, Symbols, Acronyms Definition / Description

Must or Mandatory Requirement

A requirement that must be met in order for a submitted response to receive full consideration. Failure to meet a mandatory requirement may result in the RFP submission not being considered.

NDA

Non-Disclosure Agreement - Proponent companies, their partnering companies and any subcontractor companies must sign an NDA with EfficiencyOne before they can receive these RFP documents Appendix B – Pilot Guidelines. An NDA template has been provided as Appendix D.

NRCan Natural Resources Canada

NS Nova Scotia

Participant(s) Eligible household(s) taking part in the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot

Partner Clothing Efficiency Nova Scotia branded partner clothing

Pilot The First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot

Proponent Each lead company submitting a Proposal in response to this RFP is referred to as a “Proponent”

Proposal A Proponent’s submission in response to this RFP is referred to as a “Proposal”

Purchaser EfficiencyOne (as the operator of the Efficiency Nova Scotia franchise and the administrator of the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot)

RFP Request for Proposals

Should A requirement having a significant degree of importance to the objectives of the RFP

WCB Nova Scotia Workers’ Compensation Board

3 OVERVIEW: FIRST NATIONS HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY PILOT

The First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot is funded by the Province of Nova Scotia and

electricity ratepayers. The purpose of this Pilot is to complete significant energy efficiency

upgrades to on-reserve, Band-owned homes, where the household is on a low income. This

segment of homes is the focus of this Pilot as these homes are currently ineligible for the

HomeWarming program (funded by the Province of Nova Scotia and Nova Scotia Power), which

is tailored specifically to Nova Scotians on low incomes whom own their homes.

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The Pilot has a target of completing EnerGuide home evaluations and energy efficiency upgrades

on 100 homes3 across all 13 First Nation communities, throughout the province of Nova Scotia.

These targets must be met, and all related documentation and reporting submitted, on or before

February 28, 2019.

An initial D Assessment will be conducted on each of the 100 homes to identify the opportunities

for energy efficiency improvements. Following which, purchaser-approved energy efficiency

upgrades will be conducted, at no cost to the First Nation or participants living in the home.

3.1 OBJECTIVE OF THE RFP

This RFP is being issued to select one or more Delivery Agents (DAs) that will manage and deliver

various aspects of the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot on behalf of EfficiencyOne (the

“Purchaser”). The Purchaser is seeking DAs that have the flexibility to change with the needs of

the Pilot as it evolves.

The total number of DAs selected will be at the sole discretion of the Purchaser. The Purchaser

reserves the right to award contracts to one or more Proponents in each region at its sole

discretion. Additionally, the Purchaser may procure the services of additional DAs throughout

the term of any initial agreements, or extensions/renewals thereafter.

3.2 DELIVERY AGENT SERVICES

The Purchaser is seeking a DA(s), who is able to perform both the Primary and Secondary

deliverables for the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot program. These deliverables are:

• Primary Deliverable: Perform EnerGuide home evaluations using Natural Resources Canada’s (NRCan) EnerGuide Rating System4, using an NRCan registered Energy Advisor, and provide project management of energy efficiency upgrades that will be performed by third-party contractors.

• Secondary Deliverable: Development and delivery of training on EnerGuide Home Evaluations for First Nation community members and/or contractors. (Additional detail is provided in Section 4.2.2.)

The main responsibilities of the DA(s) include conducting EnerGuide home evaluations and

working with the First Nations to recommend, arrange, and oversee Purchaser approved

upgrades, ensuring these upgrades are completed on time, and within budget. Energy efficient

3 The number may increase.

4 EnerGuide Rating System Version 15

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upgrades will be contracted out to third-parties by the First Nation, with preference being given

to First Nation-employed contractors or First Nation-preferred contractors. Other third-party

contractors may be considered to perform the energy efficiency upgrades as appropriate. The

First Nation Housing Department Representative, the Purchaser, and the DA will agree on the

third-party contractors that will be hired by the First Nations to complete the upgrades.

The Purchaser will remain the main point of contact for the participating First Nations.

3.3 UPGRADES AND HOME ELIGIBILITY

The number of homes scheduled to receive energy efficiency upgrades in each First Nation will

range from five to fourteen, depending on the size of the community. Figure 1, below, outlines

the anticipated number of homes to be completed in each participating First Nation.

Figure 1: Number of Homes to Receive Upgrades by Community

First Nation Community Pilot Homes to Receive Upgrades*

Acadia 5

Annapolis Valley 5

Bear River 5

Eskasoni 14

Glooscap 5

Membertou 11

Millbrook 11

Paq'tnkek 6

Pictou Landing 6

Potlotek 6

Sipekne'katik 11

Wagmatcook 6

Waycobah 9

Total 100

*Note: These numbers may increase

A variety of upgrades will be considered under this Pilot. Priority will be given to the upgrades

that result in the most significant energy savings. Upgrades may include draft-proofing,

insulation, space heating systems, appliances, water heating systems, in addition to other energy

efficiency measures. More information on potentially eligible energy efficient upgrade measures

is available in the Pilot Guidelines, located in Appendix B.

Selection of the eligible homes for participation in the Pilot will be determined by each

participating First Nation and the Purchaser. This Pilot program will include the following housing

types: single detached, mobile/mini homes, duplex and row houses, and will include all heating

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types. Of the 100 homes receiving upgrades, it is anticipated that 35 will be heated primarily with

electricity and 65 will be heated primarily with non-electric fuels.

3.4 PARTNERSHIPS

The Purchaser understands that delivering the full scope of the First Nations Home Energy

Efficiency Pilot requires a wide variety of skills, experience and qualifications. The Purchaser

encourages Proponents, where beneficial, to partner with and/or subcontract other

organizations to assist in service delivery.

Please note that the Purchaser will only enter into one contract with a single organization for

each individual Proposal submission that results in award, regardless of the number of partners

or subcontractors involved in that Proposal submission. Therefore, in each Proposal the lead

partner must be identified, and this company will be considered the primary contact and

“Proponent”. If successful, this Proponent would be considered the “DA”.

If a company is interested in a partnering/subcontractor role only,

they may send an email to [email protected] containing the following information:

• Organization name

• Contact name

• Contact information (email address, phone number)

• Desired roles within the Pilot

• Consent to distribute all the information above with interested parties

The deadline for submitting this information to the Purchaser is on or before 4:00 pm AT of

March 9 2018.

The Purchaser will issue a one-time addenda of this information on the EfficiencyOne website

where this RFP has been posted (https://www.efficiencyone.ca/opportunities/ and select “View

Current Opportunities” button).

This is the full extent of networking assistance that the Purchaser will be providing to potential

Proponents and interested partners/subcontractors for this procurement.

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4 SCOPE OF WORK AND PILOT SERVICE REQUIREMENTS

4.1 SCOPE OF WORK

The complete scope of work for the First Nations Home Energy Efficiency Pilot is provided in the

Pilot Guidelines in Appendix B. Proponents should use these Guidelines to inform their responses

to the questions in Appendix C.

Some key expectations are listed below for emphasis. Successful Proponents should be aware

that the Purchaser reserves the right to add, remove and test new energy efficient

measures/upgrades, and make changes to the Pilot throughout the course of the contract term.

Changes to the Pilot will be discussed with all DAs in advance and be reflected in updates to the

Guidelines.

4.2 DELIVERABLES

DA(s) will be required to work with participating First Nation communities to deliver the Pilot.

These communities will be defined in a subsequent contract between the DA and the Purchaser.

DA(s) will have primary and secondary deliverables, which will be further detailed in an

agreement between the DA and the Purchaser. More information on the primary and secondary

deliverables is provided below.

4.2.1 Primary DA Responsibilities

The DA must:

• Work with each First Nation to ensure that any First Nation-employed or First Nation-

preferred contractors can perform upgrades in a manner that will meet the Pilot

Guidelines in Appendix B. This must involve a pre-screening of any contractor to ensure

they are appropriately suited to perform upgrades under this Pilot.

• Work with the First Nation to select additional third-party contractors when additional

subcontractors are required to perform upgrades.

• In situations where the DA is not confident that the third-party contractor(s) will be able

to perform the upgrades to the Pilot Guidelines (Appendix B), the DA must notify the

Purchaser and the First Nation. Efforts must then be made by the DA and First Nation to

seek one or more other contractor(s).

• Complete D Assessments to the specified target number of participating homes in the

DA’s agreement with the Purchaser.

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• Complete “scope of work” templates for each home and submit to the Purchaser for

review and/or approval. These “scope of work” reports for recommended energy

efficiency upgrades must:

o Include cost estimates for the eligible upgrades being recommended; and

o Consider house-specific situations and building sciences principles.

• Provide projected energy savings, Participant information, notes on current conditions in

the home, and photos of the home and submit these items to the Purchaser along with

the completed “scope of work” for each home.

• After the Purchaser and the First Nation have reviewed the “scope of work”

recommendations and identified what energy efficiency upgrades are approved for the

home, the DA will work with the contractors performing the energy efficient upgrades to

ensure that they are completed in accordance with the Pilot Guidelines in Appendix B.

o Note: The First Nation will ultimately be responsible for entering into an

agreement with the contractors they have hired to perform the energy efficiency

upgrades. However, the role of the DA is to be engaged all along the way and help

ensure that quality upgrades are performed and completed on schedule.

• Complete quality assurance checks on upgrades during and after completion. This would

involve ensuring the upgrades meet the Pilot Guidelines in Appendix B. Work with

contractors to remedy any deficiency where upgrades are not completed to the required

standards or inadvertently lead to other issues. It will be the responsibility of the DA to

work with the First Nation to ensure that deficiencies are corrected when needed.

• Provide the Purchaser with notice(s) of approval to pay contractors for work completed,

following quality assurance visits where the DA has verified the approved upgrades have

been completed, are of an acceptable quality, and have been performed in accordance

with the Pilot Guidelines.

o Note: While the First Nations will have contracts with those completing the

upgrades, the Purchaser will pay these contractors directly upon their successful

completion of the eligible energy efficient upgrades (following quality assurance

performed by the DA). The DA’s notice of approval to pay the contractor will be

the Purchaser’s indication of a successful completion of the upgrades.

• Complete follow-up E Assessments to each of the homes, once all approved energy

efficiency upgrades have been completed to the satisfaction of the DA.

• Submit HOT2000 files to NRCan for every D Assessment and E Assessment completed

under this Pilot.

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• Within three (3) business days after the end of each month, submit to the Purchaser all

reporting information and required documentation for approval of DA payment for Pilot

activities. DAs are to use the Purchaser’s templates where provided.

• Obtain all required signatures and consent from Participants and/or the First Nations

Housing Representative (e.g. Housing Manager or equivalent), as directed in the Pilot

Guidelines (Appendix B). Submit to the Purchaser where requested.

• Keep the Purchaser informed of Participants who decline to participate in the Pilot, and

their stated reason(s) for non-participation.

• Keep the Purchaser informed of any issues that arise in service delivery.

• Provide support to Participants following the installation of upgrades where appropriate.

This includes but is not limited to answering questions about completed work and

working with the Purchaser to find solutions to issues that arise following the installation

of the energy efficient upgrades.

• Meet Participant targets as will be identified in their contracts.

• Meet the above indicated Participant targets in accordance with the agreed upon

timelines as will be identified in their contracts.

4.2.2 Secondary DA Responsibilities

• Potentially provide training to community members and/or contractors on EnerGuide

home evaluation practices. It is expected that Participants (home occupants) will be given

the same education and walk-though as per a normal EnerGuide home evaluation.

Additional efforts (options below) are dependant on program budget, with a final decision

from the Purchaser to occur following receipt of Proposals. Details on delivery of these

secondary responsibilities, if included, will be outlined in the agreement with the

Purchaser.

• Proponent should provide recommendations for training on EnerGuide home

evaluations. Potential options could include:

o Select community members (with permission of the home’s occupants) attend the

EnerGuide Home Evaluation. During assessments the Energy Advisor (EA) would

explain the process and details of any unique considerations with the home (e.g.

importance of regular heat recovery ventilator maintenance). It is expected that

this could add two hours to a standard EnerGuide home evaluation visit.

o Work with select First Nation members from each community to offer energy

advisor-type training, but not achieve EA registration with NRCan. Training could

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include HOT2000 modeling, blower door testing, energy assessment protocols,

building science and upgrade recommendations. It is expected that this could add

three hours to a standard EnerGuide home evaluation visit, and result in

community members attending more than one energy assessment to further their

knowledge.

o Work with a select number of First Nation members (not necessarily one from

each community), to offer EA training and have them participate in all EnerGuide

home evaluations (via training) in select communities identified in the contract.

The concept is that a small number of members would receive training and

participate in EnerGuide home evaluations. It may not be possible to have at least

one member from each community participate. Pre-requisites for those receiving

training would be required. The goal is to have a small number of First Nation

members achieve an EA designation (including successful completion of training

and exams) at the end of the Pilot.

• Proponents should include their planned approach to EA-type training options identified

above in their responses in Appendix C.

4.2.3 General Responsibilities

• DAs are not to represent themselves as employees of, or representatives of, the

Purchaser. They are to wear partner clothing and identification as described in Appendix

E of Attachment 1 to this RFP.

• DAs are not responsible for marketing or promoting the service. If DAs find opportunities

for marketing and promoting the service, they may bring these ideas to the Purchaser,

but the Purchaser will not offer the DA any additional payment.

• DAs are not to promote any non-Efficiency Nova Scotia service to Participants without

prior written permission from the Purchaser.

• DAs must collect and submit documentation of certifications and qualifications from

contractors (hired by First Nation) and products upon the Purchaser’s request.

• DAs must use the Purchaser’s templates where provided. Templates are usually in

Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Word format and are shared via an online application, as

directed by the Purchaser.

• DAs are to ensure that all products used are approved for use in Nova Scotia as specified

in the Nova Scotia Building Code and installed in a way that adheres to the Nova Scotia

Building Code.

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11 RFP No. 2018-0090

• DAs and their partners / subcontractors are expected to complete criminal background

checks on their employees. DAs must provide a copy of these checks to the Purchaser

upon request.

4.3 GOVERNANCE PROCESS, REPORTING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Please see the Pilot Guidelines in Appendix B for further details on some of the following topics.

• DAs will be required to attend all meetings and related events initiated by the Purchaser

as part of this Pilot.

• DAs are expected to report any issues that arise during the delivery of the Pilot to the

Purchaser within 2 (two) business days.

4.4 REGIONS OF WORK

• The intent of this RFP is to select one DA for each region indicated in the table below.

However, one DA may be awarded both regions.

• Participant targets are only estimates at this time and may change at the Purchaser’s sole

discretion. These estimates are shown in the table below.

Figure 2: Delivery Agent Regions

Region First Nations Communities Estimated Participating Homes

Region 1

Eskasoni Membertou Potlotek Wagmatcook Waycobah Paq'tnkek Pictou Landing

14 11 6 6 9 6 6

SUB-TOTAL 58

Region 2

Acadia Annapolis Valley Bear River Glooscap Millbrook Sipekne'katik

5 5 5 5

11 11

SUB-TOTAL 42

TOTAL 100

• For each region awarded, the DA must service each First Nation Community within the

awarded region.

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12 RFP No. 2018-0090

Figure 3, below, indicates general locations for each community. Please note that some

communities are not limited to the geographical areas on this map; this is for general

demonstration purposes only.

Figure 3: Map of First Nations Communities in Nova Scotia

Source: https://novascotia.ca/abor/aboriginal-people/community-info/

4.5 THIRD PARTY CONTRACTORS WILL PERFORM UPGRADES

First Nations will ultimately hire third-party contractors to perform the energy efficiency

upgrades.

Whenever possible, preference for completing the energy efficiency upgrades should be given to

First Nation-employed contractors or First Nation-preferred contractors. Additional third-party

contractors may be considered to complete the upgrades, as appropriate. These third-party

contractors may vary by First Nation. The DA, First Nation Housing Department Representative

and the Purchaser will agree on the contractors that will be utilized / hired to complete the

upgrades.

Please note that the Purchaser will not consider third-party contractors that have shared

ownership, or other pecuniary interest, with the successful Delivery Agent for the

performance of any home energy upgrades under this Pilot.

4.6 TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

DAs may be asked to participate in mandatory training related to this program and other

Purchaser programs/services, and security and safety training. This may take up to three (3)

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13 RFP No. 2018-0090

business days. The Purchaser would pay for the course itself, but not for any direct compensation

for employee time or expenses to take the training.

4.7 CUSTOMER SERVICE

DAs must provide professional, courteous, and ongoing customer service in accordance with the

Purchaser’s minimum Customer Service Standards, provided within the Pilot Guidelines in

Appendix B.

4.8 DELIVERY AGENT REPRESENTATION

DAs visiting homes are also required to have proper identification (provided by the Purchaser)

visible at all times during work in the Participants’ homes. DAs visiting homes must also wear, at

a minimum, one piece of outward facing clothing branded with the Efficiency Nova Scotia partner

logo. These clothing items must be purchased in accordance with the Efficiency Nova Scotia

Uniform Terms and Conditions, which can be found in Appendix E of Attachment 1 to this RFP.

The cost of Partner Clothing is to be included in the Proponent’s Program Delivery Costs in

Appendix E.

5 RFP SCHEDULE & PROJECT SCHEDULE

5.1 RFP SCHEDULE

The deadline for all submissions is 4:00 pm AT.

Milestone Date*

RFP date of issue February 23, 2018

Interest in subcontractor role only (information due)

March 9, 2018

Information Session (Webinar/Teleconference)

March 9, 2018

RFP “Intent to Respond” forms due (Appendix A)

March 16, 2018

Question period closes March 16, 2018

RFP responses due March 23, 2018

Interviews April 11 - 13, 2018

Notification to Proponents April 20 2018

Signing of Contracts April 30, 2018

*These dates may be subject to change at the Purchaser’s sole discretion

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14 RFP No. 2018-0090

5.2 PROJECT SCHEDULE

The Proposal must contain a statement confirming the Proponent’s ability to meet this schedule,

and Proponents should include their own detailed work plan over the course of this Pilot period

(encompassed within their responses to the questions contained in the “Proposal Submission

Template” - Appendix C). Proponents shall base their Proposal on providing sufficient resources

as may be required to ensure completion of the contract work on or before these times.

*These dates may be subject to change at the Purchaser’s sole discretion

6 GENERAL INFORMATION TO PROPONENTS

6.1 QUESTIONS

Inquiries, questions, and requests for clarification related to this RFP process, or specific Proposal

submissions, must be submitted via email to [email protected]. Please put “2018-

0090” in the email subject line of all communications.

Verbal communication shall not be binding unless formally confirmed via email by the designated

person responsible for receiving inquires pertaining to this RFP. In no case shall verbal

communication govern over written communication.

The Purchaser will make a good-faith effort to provide a written response to each question or

request for clarification within two (2) business days.

The Purchaser will not respond to any questions or requests for clarification received after 4:00

pm AT, March 16, 2018.

With respect to questions asked during this process, the Purchaser will determine whether a

single response is appropriate (relating to a Proponent’s specific approach) or a broader clarifying

communication to all Proponents is necessary.

No contact with any of the Purchaser’s Board Members, or staff, shall be made throughout this

entire process in relation to this RFP without express permission received via

Milestone Date*

Anticipated start date (initial meeting with EfficiencyOne) May 1, 2018

Anticipated start date for beginning work in the field May 8, 2018

Anticipated end date for final reporting to the Purchaser February 28, 2019

Anticipated end date of contracts (with the option for renewal or extension

at the Purchaser’s sole discretion) March 31, 2019

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[email protected]. Any unauthorized contact may result in immediate

disqualification.

6.2 INFORMATION SESSION (WEBINAR/TELECONFERENCE)

EfficiencyOne will hold an Information Session via Webinar/Teleconference. This meeting will

discuss the following:

1. Review of the Purchaser’s objectives as related to the RFP.

2. Discussion of the Scope of Work and Q&A.

3. Discussion of RFP process and timelines.

This meeting will be held at 2:00 pm AT on March 9, 2018. Information to access the

Webinar/Teleconference will be made available upon the submission of a fully completed Non-

Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to [email protected].

6.3 INTENT TO RESPOND FORM

Intent to Respond Form (Appendix A) should be completed and submitted via email to

[email protected], on or before 4:00 pm AT March 16, 2018. Please include “2018-

0090” in the email subject line.

6.4 AMENDMENTS TO THIS RFP

The Purchaser may modify solicitation documents by issuing addenda at any time prior to the

Proposal submission due date, for any reason, whether at its own initiative or in response to a

clarification requested by a prospective vendor.

All Proponents are urged to carefully examine the RFP immediately and, if a Proponent believes

there are any items that require clarification, the Proponent should contact the Purchaser in

accordance with section 6.1 “Questions” and the milestones indicated in section 5 “RFP

Schedule” above. Proponents are expected to be fully conversant with all clauses of the RFP

document before responding to it. All clarifications deemed by the Purchaser to be material, will

be issued as written addenda and sent to all Proponents that have submitted an NDA. Only

written addenda shall be effective to modify or clarify this RFP.

In the event of a conflict between the RFP and any addenda, later-issued addenda shall govern

the extent of any such conflict. All addenda shall be deemed to form part of the Proponent’s

submission.

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6.5 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION PROCEDURE

Proposals MUST be completed and submitted, on or before 4:00 pm AT March 23, 2018, via

email to [email protected]. Proposals can be submitted in MS Word, MS Excel or

PDF format. Please include “2018-0090” in the email subject line.

If the Proposal document(s) exceeds 10MB in size, the Proponent shall advise the Purchaser and

an alternative Proposal submission platform will be provided by the Purchaser.

Unsolicited Proposals that have been received by the Purchaser prior to the issuance of this RFP

may not be considered by the Purchaser under this process and should be resubmitted.

Proposals submitted after 4:00 pm AT March 23, 2018 will not be accepted.

6.6 WITHDRAWAL AND MODIFICATION

Proponents may revise and resubmit their Proposals prior to the Proposal due date. Proponents

may withdraw their submissions from consideration at any time prior to the Proposal due date.

Requests to do so must be submitted electronically to [email protected].

7 RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS SUBMITTEED VIA REQUEST FOR NEEDS PROCESS

A Request for Needs (RFN) preceded the issue of this RFP and was conducted to further inform

the development of the scope of work for this RFP. Responses to questions asked during the RFN

process are listed below.

Question 1: What is the full scope of home energy assessment procedures? i.e. What will the

additional investigation of energy usage in the home entail? Will it include, for

example, an electricity usage audit?

Response 1: Please note: Following the RFN, to avoid any confusion with EfficiencyOne’s Home

Energy Assessment program, this RFP uses the term EnerGuide home evaluation

to describe the combined D Assessment and E Assessment service.

The EnerGuide home evaluation will include a D Assessment. The following will

occur in conjunction with the D Assessment: identification of all upgrade

opportunities listed in Pilot Guidelines (Appendix B). This could potentially include

upgrade recommendations that may not be common recommendations during a

typical EnerGuide home evaluation (including appliances and moisture mitigation

/ air quality recommendations). DAs are also to install a CO detector, where

applicable. Following the completion of the approved upgrades performed by a

contractor, the DA will conduct an E Assessment. The EnerGuide home evaluation

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will not include an electricity usage audit. A full scope of the EnerGuide home

evaluation procedures is available in the Pilot Guidelines, located in Appendix B.

Question 2: Please provide additional details of contractor payment scheduling. i.e. Will

contractors be willing to wait until all upgrades are completed in the home, or

can they bill upon the successful completion of individual upgrades? This will

determine the number of times a Delivery Agent will have to return to the home.

Response 2: Contractors can bill upon completion of a specific upgrade provided the DA has

completed a quality assurance check on the completed upgrade and the upgrade

meets the Pilot Guidelines in Appendix B. DAs are expected to work with

contractors to maximize efficiency by reducing the overall visits required. For the

purpose of equal comparisons of Proposals, EfficiencyOne assumes that two visits

will occur at the home (in addition to the D and E Assessment). Proponents,

however, should address in their proposal how they plan to reduce these costs

and maximize efficiency in the delivery of the service to the communities.

Question 3: The roles and responsibilities of the Housing Manager need to be clearly

understood and agreed to in writing by all parties. For example, if an energy

assessment is scheduled and the homeowner is not present will the Housing

Manager have the authority to allow access to the home? If not, will the Housing

Manager be available to actively assist the Delivery Agent in scheduling an

alternative appointment?

Response 3: The contact person within the First Nation may vary by community. The Housing

Manager, or other identified representative, will work with the Delivery Agent to

identify contractors to perform the upgrades. This representative will also work

with EfficiencyOne to identify homes to participate in the Pilot.

The Housing Manager, or other representative, will contact the participants to

inform these participants of their eligibility in the Pilot. If these participants choose

to proceed with the Pilot, the DA will then contact the participants to schedule the

EnerGuide home evaluation. The Housing Manager will not be involved in

scheduling the appointments and is not required to be present during the

EnerGuide home evaluation. If the DA is unable to contact the participant, they

then must make additional attempts by contacting the First Nation Housing

Representative (Housing Manager), who will aid in arranging an appointment.

Additional information on this process is located in the Pilot Guidelines in

Appendix B.

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The role of the Housing Manager, or other representative from the First Nation

community, will be clearly defined in a Memorandum of Understanding between

EfficiencyOne, the Delivery Agent and each First Nation.

Question 4: Should the installation of energy saving measures such as light bulbs, aerators,

and tank wraps be included? If so, will the Delivery Agent be responsible for the

installation?

Response 4: If energy efficient products such as LEDs, aerators or tank wraps have been

identified as opportunities in the participating home, these participants will be

referred to Efficiency Nova Scotia’s Product Installation Service. DAs will not be

responsible for completing these upgrades in homes.

8 SUBMISSION CONTENT AND PROPOSAL FORMAT

Proponents are to use the Proposal Submission Template (Appendix C) and the Pricing Schedule

(Appendix E) to formulate their responses. In their Proposal submissions, Proponents are

expected to demonstrate their knowledge of delivering the services outlined in this RFP and

provide examples supporting their experience and performance outcomes in these areas.

8.1 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

To advance to the scoring stage of evaluation, Proponents must submit, at minimum, the

following Mandatory Requirements:

Mandatory Requirements - General

• Completed Proposal Submission Template (Appendix C) where at a minimum of all

questions in Part A, and Part B must be answered; and

• Completed Schedule of Prices (Appendix E) with all mandatory prices provided. (see

additional instructions in section 8.4 of this RFP).

Mandatory Requirements - Documentation of qualifications

• Documentation of Proponent (or partner/subcontractor) NRCan license to conduct

EnerGuide Home Evaluation for existing homes; and

• List of registered EAs.

Mandatory Requirements – Administration

• Proof of Commercial General Liability insurance (minimum $2 million per occurrence);

• Proof of automobile liability insurance for owned and non-owned vehicles (minimum $2

million per occurrence);

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• Proof of Worker’s Compensation Board coverage;

• Financial Statements5; and

• Indicate acceptance of the standard terms and conditions as stated Attachment 1 or

provide any/all requested changes (including suggested language) to the terms and

conditions that have been provided in Attachment 1.

8.2 BUILDING THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDUSTRY AND LOCAL ECONOMY

The Purchaser is looking to identify opportunities that are consistent with its commitment to

fostering a culture where energy efficiency is recognized by Nova Scotians as a meaningful

industry, customer demand for energy efficient products and services increases, and Nova Scotia

emerges as an exporter of energy efficiency expertise. As such, Proponents are to include with

their proposal submission a plan for how their company/organization will contribute to the

following goals:

8.2.1 Building the Energy Efficiency Industry in Nova Scotia

Proponents will be expected to describe how they are advancing Nova Scotia’s energy efficiency

industry. Some examples may include:

• Additional value the Proponent can provide to EfficiencyOne/Efficiency Nova Scotia

in relation to its business, outside of traditional services;

• An overview of the Proponent’s current practices, policies, initiatives and incentives

that encourage staff to reduce their energy and environmental footprints;

• Description of current energy efficiency and environmental policies and

commitments, and future expansion of these commitments;

• The promotion or delivery of energy efficiency education, training, knowledge

transfer, and/or research and development in Nova Scotia;

• Considerations that have been made regarding energy efficiency, as well as the life-

cycle impacts of products, processes, and service delivery and/or innovative ways that

the Proponent will reduce the life-cycle impact of the program/service/project

delivery; and

• Other highlights of the Proponent’s environmental stewardship. (e.g. the Proponent

may require a minimum efficiency or EnerGuide rating for equipment, vehicles, etc.).

5 Note: The Purchaser will accept the proponent’s most current financial statements, audited or unaudited. The Purchaser

reserves the right to ask additional questions and request additional information as related to the financial health of a proponent’s organization and that of their partner organizations and subcontractors.

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8.2.2 Promoting Economic Growth and Development within Nova Scotia

Proponents will be expected to describe how they are investing their revenue in the Nova Scotian

economy. Some examples may include:

• Description of how the proponent will provide employment for the labour force of

Nova Scotia;

• The number of fulltime and part-time Nova Scotian staff who will be employed directly

by the Service;

• The percentage of the cost for the service(s) being provided that will remain in Nova

Scotia (e.g. 80% of the $XX.00/unit fee will remain in Nova Scotia); and

• If not currently existing, the establishment of an office in the province with the

appropriate level of decision making, the promotion of education, training, research

and development in Nova Scotia.

8.3 PROJECT PARTNERS

EfficiencyOne acknowledges there may be mutually beneficial business reasons for Proponents

to partner with other companies in the submission of a joint RFP proposal. In such cases, all

parties shall be identified in the proposal and contractor assignment to specific tasks identified,

including distinct breakouts for key individual partnering consultants and summaries for each of

the partners.

EfficiencyOne encourages the use of Nova Scotia talent and expertise where feasible and cost-

effective. Proponents are encouraged to identify in their proposal any intent to collaborate with

or subcontract Nova Scotia content.

8.4 SCHEDULE OF PRICES

Proponents must complete and submit the Schedule of Prices in Appendix E as part of their

Proposal response. This pricing submission will then be used as the basis for negotiating final

pricing and payment schedules with the successful Proponent(s), and to inform the level of

additional training (Section 4.2.2) that can be made available to the First Nations communities

through this Pilot, if any. Note: the Purchaser plans to proceed with primarily deliverables.

Secondary deliverables will be dependent on submitted pricing and the available budget.

Proponents are asked to provide a work plan for the term of the Pilot (included in Appendix C).

However, proponents may submit a work plan in a different format, if preferred.

For the purposes of establishing pricing, Proponents should be aware that the Purchaser has

projected that the DA will need to visit each participating home as follows:

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• One (1) visit to complete a D Assessment and identify energy efficiency opportunities in

the home;

• An additional two (2) visits for project management and quality assurance; and

• One (1) final visit for the E Assessment.

Efforts should be made to minimize travel and visit as many houses as possible while in an

individual First Nation community. If the DA feels more than two visits are required for project

management and quality assurance checks on a given home, the DA will require approval from

the Purchaser for additional visits. The DA can then bill the purchaser for each incremental visit

at the rate outlined in Appendix E. These additional visits are not to be included in the proposed

project plan above.

Additional information on Billing/invoicing is providing in the Pilot Guidelines in Appendix B.

9 PROPOSAL EVALUATION

The Purchaser is seeking Proposals which provide the overall Best Value and level of service to

the organization. As the best interests of the Purchaser will be determinative, the below criteria

have been developed to inform Proponents of the primary areas of consideration for the

evaluation process. This will be a scored evaluation and as such, pricing shall not be the sole

determinative factor for award.

9.1 EVALUATION CRITERIA

Weighting for the RFP responses will be evaluated according to the following table:

Evaluation Category Weight

Mandatory Requirements Pass/Fail

Qualifications and General Experience 20%

Proposed Plan: Service Delivery and Project Management 20%

Building the Energy Efficiency Industry and Local Economy in Nova Scotia 20%

Pricing 25%

Interview 15%

TOTAL 100%

9.2 EVALUATION PROCESS

The Purchaser’s Evaluation Committee will first check all Proposals against Mandatory

Requirements as outlined in section 9.1 “MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS”. Proposals that do not

include these Mandatory Requirements may be rejected without further consideration at the

discretion of the Evaluation Committee. Proposals that include all the Mandatory Requirements

will then be scored.

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The Evaluation Committee will evaluate the information provided in the Proponent’s Proposal

and assign scores to each Proposal. It is anticipated that Proposals will be evaluated by the

Evaluation Committee March 26-April 4, 2018. If the Evaluation Committee requires clarification,

the Purchaser shall be free to contact the Proponent to ask questions and such discourse will not

be deemed unfair to the other Proponents.

The Purchaser intends to invite a short-listed group of Proponents for in-person interviews in

accordance with section 9.2.1 “Interview Process”. Information received during these interviews

will factor into Proposal scores. The Purchaser may determine at its sole discretion, the number

of Proponents to be interviewed, and reserves the right to award contracts without interviews.

9.2.1 Interview Process

Proponents advancing to the interview stage can expect to be invited to the Purchaser’s office

located in Dartmouth, NS between April 11-13, 2018.

The intent is to interview the key personnel from each short-listed Proponent’s project team,

who will be assigned to work with the Purchaser, the First Nations Communities, and third-party

contractors.

The interviews will be limited to the following project team roles outlined below, which are the

same individuals listed as the Project Team Appendix C. No other individuals will be allowed to

participate in the Interviews. The Purchaser may also request to interview additional personnel

at their sole discretion.

The following key personnel will be interviewed:

• Energy Advisor(s): Perform EnerGuide home evaluation using Natural Resources

Canada’s (NRCan) EnerGuide Rating System Version 15 and identify opportunities for

energy efficient upgrades;

• Project Manager: Individual that will be recommending and overseeing completion of

upgrades (if different than the Energy Advisor) and submitting scope of work documents

to the Purchaser;

• Quality Assurance: Individual performing quality assurance verification on the upgrades

(if different from the roles outlined above); and

• Main point of contact: Individual that acts as the main contact between the DA, the

Purchaser, First Nations, and the third-party contractors. This individual will also be

accountable for making decisions on behalf of the proponent.

The individuals that will be interviewed must be the same person that is identified in the

Proponents’ proposal submission. No substitutes, proxies, phone interviews, or electronic

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interviews will be allowed (special circumstances may be considered at the sole discretion of the

Purchaser – please notify the Purchaser with as much notice as possible). Individuals who fail to

attend the interview will be given a score of zero, which may jeopardize the Proponent’s

competitiveness.

Interviews are expected to last approximately 20-30 minutes per individual. The Purchaser will

interview individuals separately. No other individuals (from the Proponent’s organization) will

be allowed to sit in or participate during the interview session. Interviewees may not bring notes,

handouts, or other marketing materials unless specifically requested by the Purchaser.

An example of questions that could be asked during the interview may include but not be

limited to:

1. Why did your company select you for this project?

2. Describe a similar project you have delivered.

3. Draw out your project plan and major milestones.

a. Identify major risk items and where they occur on the project timeline?

b. How will you minimize the risks on this project?

c. Identify where critical decisions will need to be made.

d. Identify where any critical involvement will be needed from the Purchaser, and

other key project actors (i.e. EfficiencyOne, First Nations, third-party contractors,

etc.).

4. Additional: other project-specific questions.

10 CONTRACT GUIDELINES

The successful Proponent(s) shall be required to enter into an agreement setting forth terms

and conditions acceptable to the Purchaser. The Purchaser’s standard terms and conditions

have been provided for consideration as Attachment 1 hereto. As Indicated in section 9.1.

“Mandatory Requirements” of this RFP the Proponent must:

A. Indicate their acceptance of these standard terms and conditions as stated, or

B. provide any/all requested changes (including suggested language) to the terms and

conditions that have been provided in Attachment 1.

It is anticipated that the initial term of any subsequent agreement will end on or before March

31, 2019, with options for annual renewal or extensions for up to an additional three (3) years,

at the Purchaser’s discretion.

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11 GENERAL INFORMATION AND CONDITIONS

This RFP is subject to the following terms and conditions:

• This is an invitation for Proposals and not a tender call.

• The Purchaser at its sole discretion may reject any or all Proposals submitted in response

to this RFP. Further, the Purchaser may cancel this RFP at any time and may modify the

RFP without limitation.

• The Purchaser may select any Proposal considered by the Purchaser, at its sole discretion,

to be in its best interests or the most satisfactory.

• The Purchaser shall be entitled at its sole discretion to waive any irregularity, informality,

or any non-conformance with the requirements of this RFP whatsoever with respect to

any Proposal received by the Purchaser, or to reject any Proposal for any such irregularity,

informality, or non-conformance.

• The Purchaser may enter into post-submission negotiations and discussions with any one

or more Proponent(s) regarding price, scope of work, and/or any other term of a

Proponent’s submission, and such other terms as the Purchaser may require, at any time

prior to any execution of an agreement. The Purchaser may, at its sole election, enter into

simultaneous, competitive negotiations with multiple Proponents or negotiate with

individual Proponents. Negotiations with Proponents may result in the enlargement or

reduction of the scope of work, or changes in other terms that are material to the RFP

and the submitted Proposals. In such event, the Purchaser shall have no obligation to

inform other Proponents of the changes, or to permit them to revise their Proposals in

light thereof, although the Purchaser, at its sole discretion, may do so if the Purchaser

determines such is in the Purchaser’s best interest.

• The Purchaser may discontinue any negotiations at any time, enter into or continue

negotiations with firms that did not respond to this RFP and/or solicit new Proposals from

firms that did not respond to this RFP, including but not limited to negotiations or

Proposals for components of the scope, if any, that are not included in any successful

Proposal or any executed contract.

• Proponents shall be solely and fully responsible for all costs associated with the

development, preparation, transmittal, and submission of any Proposal or material

submitted in response to this RFP. The Purchaser may, in its sole discretion, ask

Proponents to present their Proposal in person to Purchaser representatives at the

Purchaser’s offices, and the costs of such presentations shall be solely the responsibility

of the Proponent. By submitting a Proposal, a Proponent agrees that there may be no

claims whatsoever for reimbursement from the Purchaser for any such costs. All costs

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incurred by the Proponent during the selection process and during any negotiations will

be solely the responsibility of the Proponent.

• The Purchaser assumes no contractual or other obligations as a result of the issuance of

this RFP, the preparation or submission of a Proposal by a Proponent, the evaluation of

Proposals, the Proponent’s conduct of presentations or the selection of any Proponent

for further negotiations, or on any other basis whatsoever.

• No Proponent shall have any claim for any compensation of any kind whatsoever, as a

result of participating in this RFP process, and by submitting a Proposal each Proponent

shall be deemed to have agreed that it has no claim.

• If the Purchaser chooses to enter into negotiations with a Proponent, the Proponent may

be asked to provide, at its own expense, a bond guaranteeing that it is prepared to enter

into a contractual agreement with the Purchaser.

• This RFP and its resulting submitted Proposals shall be deemed to have been made in the

Province of Nova Scotia and shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with the

laws of the Province of Nova Scotia.

• The Purchaser has the right to extend/renew the contracts into additional years without

issuing a new RFP.

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12 LIST OF APPENDICIES AND ATTACHEMNTS

1. APPENDIX A: INTENT TO RESPOND FORM

Provided as a separate electronic document.

2. APPENDIX B: FIRST NATION HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY PILOT GUIDELINES

Will be provided as a separate electronic document, subject to the Proponent’s

submission of a fully and accurately completed and signed Non-Disclosure Agreement

(see Appendix D) to [email protected]. Please indicate RFP No. 2018-0090 in

the subject line of the email.

3. APPENDIX C: PROPOSAL SUBMISSION TEMPLATE

Provided as a separate electronic document for proponents to complete and submit as

part of their RFP response.

4. APPENDIX D: NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT

Provided as a separate electronic document.

5. APPENDIX E: SCHEDULE OF PRICES

Provided as a separate electronic document for Proponents to complete and submit as

part of their RFP response.

6. ATTACHMENT 1: STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Provided as a separate electronic document.