Title
Resolution to Approve the Purchase of Solar Photovoltaic Modules from Global Solar Center LLC d/b/a Samba Energy ($914,865.84)
Memorandum
Attached for your review and consideration is a resolution to approve the purchase of 6,804 SunPro 440w solar photovoltaic (PV) modules from Global Solar Center LLC d/b/a Samba Energy (Samba Energy) along with associated shipping and temporary storage costs, for an amount not to exceed $914,865.84.
The City of Ann Arbor, through its Sustainable Energy Utility (A2SEU), is procuring these modules to support solar installations identified for construction in 2028.
The timing of this procurement is critical. The procurement is structured to meet the "beginning of construction" deadline of July 4, 2026 necessary to "safe harbor" projects that will be completed after December 31, 2027 to be eligible for a 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Under the terms of the invitation to bid (ITB), title transfer to the City will occur on or before July 3, 2026, to preserve the City's eligibility for the ITC. The current expenditure of under $1 million on these solar panels is anticipated to secure tax credits worth an estimated $3 million on 2028 installations.
The City issued ITB No. 4789 in May 2026 to solicit competitive pricing for solar modules. Samba Energy submitted the lowest responsive bid. The SunPro 440w solar PV module satisfies the technical requirements for the A2SEU's residential and commercial rooftop applications, including Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) compliance that is necessary for ITC eligibility and performance guarantees.
The total amount proposed for the purchase order includes $835,259.04 for 6,804 modules; $44,906.40 for shipping; and optional, month-to-month off-site storage for up to 6 months not to exceed $34,700.40 ($5,783.40 per month). The A2SEU intends to take physical delivery of the modules to a City site within 6 months of purchase, with the month-to-month off-site storage option offering...
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