Title
Resolution to Authorize a Purchase Order with Michigan Solar Solutions, Inc. for Solar Photovoltaic Equipment for the Sustainable Energy Utility ($500,000.00)
Memorandum
Enclosed for your review and action is a resolution to authorize a purchase order with Michigan Solar Solutions, Inc. (Michigan Solar Solutions) for the procurement of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules in an amount not to exceed $500,000.00.
In November 2024, Ann Arbor voters authorized the creation of the Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU). The SEU is preparing to implement its first pilot operations in the Bryant neighborhood with development of a “solar + storage” virtual power plant (VPP). With grant funding from the State of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the SEU is prepared to enroll its first approximately 100-150 customers, offering an integrated rooftop solar and battery storage solution.
To ensure system standardization, reduce long-term operations and maintenance cost, and simplify installation for the City’s contractors, the SEU elected to procure pilot equipment directly through a competitive Request for Proposals. RFP #26-13 invited proposals for solar modules (panels) and/or battery energy storage systems (BESS). 10 proposals were received and evaluated.
Michigan Solar Solutions was selected as the preferred vendor to provide the solar modules. The modules they offered, manufactured by REC, meet the SEU’s technical requirements. Michigan Solar Solutions has also committed to arranging manufacturer-provided training and certification for the City’s installation contractors. Michigan Solar Solutions offers convenient on-site equipment delivery that matches the SEU’s construction schedule.
Michigan Solar Solutions complies with the requirements of the City’s Non-discrimination ordinance.
Budget/Fiscal Impact: This purchase is fully funded by a grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) awarded to the City for the development of the VPP.
Staff
Prepared by: Shoshannah Lenski, SEU Executive Director
Reviewed by: Valerie Jackson, Assistant City Attorney
Reviewed by: Marti Praschan, Chief Financial Officer
Approved by: Milton Dohoney Jr., City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor has established the Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) to provide 100% renewable, reliable, and affordable energy to its residents;
Whereas, The SEU is launching its first operations with a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) pilot project anticipated to include an estimated 100-150 residential solar and battery energy storage systems;
Whereas, The City issued RFP #26-13 to solicit proposals for solar PV modules and battery energy storage system (BESS) equipment, and Michigan Solar Solutions, Inc. was identified as the successful bidder for the solar modules;
Whereas, The REC 450W Alpha Pure-RX solar modules provided by Michigan Solar Solutions, Inc. meet the SEU’s technical requirements;
Whereas, Michigan Solar Solutions, Inc. has committed to arranging installer certifications, and offering on-site delivery and customer service support to ensure the successful deployment of the pilot;
Whereas, The purchase of this equipment is fully funded by a grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO);
Whereas, Michigan Solar Solutions, Inc. complies with the requirements of the City’s Non-discrimination ordinance; and
Whereas, The total cost for the equipment shall not exceed $500,000.00;
RESOLVED, That City Council approve a purchase order with Michigan Solar Solutions, Inc. for solar PV equipment in an amount not to exceed $500,000.00 to be expended without regard to fiscal year;
RESOLVED, That the funds for this purchase be made available from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) grant funds; and
RESOLVED, That the City Administrator be authorized to take all necessary actions to implement this Resolution regardless of fiscal year, including the execution of the purchase order and any necessary amendments that do not exceed the total authorized amount.
Sponsored by: Mayor Taylor