Request for Proposal. Summary. RFP Release Date: 9/18/2015 Bidder Questions Due: 9/30/2015 Answers Posted: 10/7/2015 Proposals Due: 10/23/2015

Transcription

1 Request for Proposal Sub-Meter Data Import & Storage Platform RFP Release Date: 9/18/2015 Bidder Questions Due: 9/30/2015 Answers Posted: 10/7/2015 Proposals Due: 10/23/2015 Summary Vermont Energy Investment Corporation (VEIC) is seeking to license or purchase a platform for data acquisition and management of time-series and associated data (e.g. sub-meter energy use and weather data) and metadata (customer and measure information), referred to as the Sub-Metering Data Platform. The Sub-Metering Data Platform will integrate with other VEIC applications as a central component in VEIC s overall Sub-Metering strategy for data acquisition, analysis, and delivering recommendations of energy saving measures. The scope of work for the Sub-Metering Data Platform Project includes all planning, development, implementation, configuration, testing, and training for the Sub-Metering Data Platform. Responses to this Request for Proposals (RFP) must be delivered electronically to VEIC by 5p.m. EDT on Friday, October, 23, VEIC will not accept responses submitted after 5 p.m. EDT. Please submit your response electronically via to: Bryan Serinese at bserinese@veic.org with RFP Submittal for Sub-Meter Data Import & Storage Platform in the subject line. VEIC will respond to individual questions regarding this RFP only as follows: VEIC will receive questions regarding requirements and scope of work up to 5 p.m. EDT Wednesday, September, 30, 2015, via e- mail only, to Bryan Serinese at bserinese@veic.org with Sub-Meter Data Import & Storage Platform RFP Question in the subject line. When appropriate, please refer to the RFP page number and Section Heading for ease of navigation and response. VEIC will post answers on the VEIC website no later than 5 p.m. EDT, Wednesday, October, 7, VEIC will not address questions submitted after September 30, 2015.

2 Project Overview The Sub-Metering Data Platform project seeks to convert existing manual and standalone processes into a centralized Internet-enabled platform. The intent of the project is to reduce cost and increase effectiveness of Commercial & Industrial sub-metering activities to enhance value to customers and improve VEIC s ability to identify and recognize comprehensive energy savings measures. VEIC sees benefit in promoting sub-metering to our customers as a cost-effective solution for more effectively guiding decisions based on energy impacts. VEIC seeks to implement a complete solution for managing sub-meter programs by utilizing an integrated Sub-Metering Platform. Data acquisition and meter management are the primary priorities for the enhancement of VEIC s Sub-Metering program. Tools to supplement VEIC s existing meter project and inventory management are also desirable. Below is a conceptual diagram of the overall platform. VEIC seeks to procure the components highlighted in gray and integrate the existing components highlight in yellow into the overall system. Meter Hardware Inventory Management and Configuration tools (see ) Metering Project Planning Tools (see 5.3) API or part of the system Meter Meter Meter Adapters & Importers Sub-Metering Database System API API VEIC s Project Management and Savings Tracking System Other Data Systems (see task ) VEIC Analytics Applications (see 4.3.1) 2

3 Scope of Work By submitting a response to this RFP, the Bidder acknowledges understanding and acceptance of this Scope of Work. Upon awarding of contract, Contractor will be prepared to work with VEIC in drafting a finalized Scope of Work based on their RFP submission, including requirements for hosting of the system and databases, data structures, and any joint development efforts. Tasks The Sub-Meter Data Platform consists of five distinct components that the Contractor will develop or license to VEIC. The Contractor will be responsible for the code development of features and functionality based on the agreed upon Scope of Work. Each task will include: an agreed upon number of design sessions, development schedules, security plan, documentation, testing plans, and approval process. If the Contractor already has an existing product, VEIC will review the features to ensure it meets all of VEIC s requirements before providing approval. The Contractor will provide an overall project plan for the development of the complete Sub-Metering Data Platform. Task 1. Sub-Metering Data Storage The Contractor will provide a mechanism for data storage for the sub-metering data and its supporting metadata. Please describe the storage and security capabilities of your proposed solution Describe the data types that are currently supported. Examples include: Meter information Customer/project/site information Location information Time-series measurements Environmental or operational attributes, such as temperature and thermostat set-points 1.2. Discuss methods used to ensure that privacy and security of data are maintained and verified on an ongoing basis Discuss permissions model for control access by VEIC administrators, staff, and customers to read, write, and delete meter data and metadata Describe the process for adding new data fields, explaining whether that process can be completed by VEIC staff or if it requires custom development Describe process for annotating data with notes, comments, or tasks; address annotations both to specific timestamps or date ranges for time-series sub-metering data as well as for metadata entities Describe mechanisms for ensuring data quality, identifying, reporting, and rectifying errors with data; and handling revised or resubmitted data Describe mechanisms for ensuring data completeness and integrity, including backups, refetching missing data from APIs and other data sources, and alerting/alarming users and administrators on missing or questionable data. 3

4 1.7. Include any available documentation, integration guides, change logs, roadmaps, and other supplemental information that would be helpful for understanding the uses, capabilities, and potential of the proposed solution Describe if this is a hosted solution or if Contractor would be providing a database for VEIC to host. Task 2. Data Import Functionality The Contractor will provide a method to collect and import sub-metering configurations, datasets, and metadata that will accommodate a variety of meter types and data collection methodologies. The Sub- Metering Data Platform will integrate data collected from multiple sources. Automation of data collection is preferred when possible. Please describe how your proposed solution would support multiple types of data collection methods Describe formats and protocols for data import that are currently supported and the process for implementing new formats and protocols Describe the mechanism for collecting data via a remote connection to webservers, including those embedded in sub-meters and sensors. Examples include: egauge - multi-channel power meter Dent Elite Pro SP (WiFi 3-phase logging true power meter) SiteSage (was emonitor) - for residential, primarily Nest thermostats Describe the mechanism for collecting data via a download of device data by VEIC staff by manually connecting to devices in the field via a laptop and then importing into the database. Examples include: Onset Computers HOBO U12 series: temp, RH, external input (0-5V, 4-20mA, pipe temp, etc.) Pendant series (waterproof temp, light, tilt, etc.) Specialty loggers (waterproof, high temp, etc.) Energy Logger Pro (multiple inputs, "smart" sensors, battery-powered excitation voltage for pressure transducers) Obvius EMB - Modbus datalogger Dent MagLogger (Motor ON/OFF) Dent ElitePro SP (datalogging energy meter) Describe the mechanism for collecting data via an import of publicly and privately sourced metadata via published APIs or manual uploads. Examples include: Weather data Geolocation data Photos Describe additional data sources which have been previously integrated with your solution and any formats, protocols, or data collection systems which are currently supported by your solution, including mechanisms for collecting data via a download of device data by Customer staff by manually connecting to devices in the field and then electronically transferring datasets directly into the database or to VEIC for import into the database. 4

5 Task 3. Data Viewer The Contractor will provide a web-based tool to view the data in the Sub-Meter Data Platform. Please describe the types of data views and reports provided by the proposed solution Describe capabilities related to querying data in the Platform Describe data visualization mechanisms Describe functionality to navigate data sets, such as panning, zooming, and selecting specific date ranges Describe functionality to create custom charts with multiple meter data streams. Describe how custom charts can be saved, named, organized, and shared with other users of the system Describe functionality to up- and down-sample data sets to different time intervals, including available mechanisms for aggregating and interpolating values. Specifically address how this functionality could be applied to irregular-interval event-based data sets. Address how this functionality could be utilized both by data viewing and data export mechanisms Describe exporting functions Describe functionality to export data sets in csv, xls, tab-delimited, or other formats Describe functionality to export charts and other visualizations in jpg, png, pdf, or other formats Describe functionality to export metadata related to meters, projects, etc Describe reporting functions. Task 4. Application Programming Interface (API) The Sub-Metering Data Platform is one component of VEIC s overall Sub-Metering Platform. The Contractor will provide Application Programming Interfaces (API) for all connections to VEIC applications that need to exchange data with the Sub-Metering Data Platform. Please describe your approach for developing APIs that could integrate with VEIC s existing systems as well as external systems: 4.1. Please describe any existing APIs for connecting to your system as well as any APIs your platform has for connecting to external systems 4.2. VEIC Sub-Metering Project and Meter Management Describe mechanisms to create new sites and meter projects in a meter management system Describe mechanisms to add new meters and channels in a meter management system Describe mechanisms to query existing sites, meters, and channels in a meter management system 5

6 4.3. VEIC Analytics Describe mechanism to query and download time-series datasets and associated metadata between the Sub-Metering Data Platform and VEIC Analytics applications. Task 5. Meter, Project, and User Management The Contractor will provide a method to manage meter configurations and meter project information. Please describe how your proposed solution would support multiple types of data collection methods Describe the mechanisms for configuring sub-metering equipment for deployment in the field. Include the types of sub-meters supported. Please indicate whether it is an automated process or requires manual configuration by Contractor Include the types of sub-meters supported Describe whether meter configuration (e.g. CT sizes, channel names, etc.) can be automatically sent to web-connected devices Describe the process for re-deploying specific meters (i.e. with a unique serial number and/or web address) at a different site and/or with a different configuration such that it creates a separate data stream without deleting the previous data stream or corrupting its metadata Describe any mechanism for managing meter hardware inventory (meters, sensors, etc.) 5.3. Describe any mechanisms for planning and managing metering projects (data collection objectives, plans for where meters and sensors will be deployed on sites, site data, etc.) 5.4. Describe the mechanisms for adding users to the system and assigning and altering users rights to specific site, projects, or data sets. Transfer of services. Describe the process and artifacts involved with transfer and/or termination of service without disrupting data transfer processes in or out of the Sub-Meter Data Import & Storage Platform, losing data, or API and reporting functionality Describe the processes of conveying data, including documentation and/or custom code developed to accommodate custom formats and protocols used to receive and process data from the meters Describe how historical meter data and project configuration data, as well as other data and metadata stored in the Platform, would be delivered so that it could be loaded into a different warehouse (e.g. one hosted by another vendor) without losing relationships, lookup table values, and other key features necessary to maintain full functionality Describe how APIs and reports used by VEIC and external users and applications could be conveyed, including documentation and/or custom code needed to fully support such functionality Describe how all copies of VEIC-owned data, including meter data, project configuration data, aggregate data, and other proprietary data and intellectual property would be fully and permanently removed, deleted, and/or destroyed in the event of such a request. Describe how this action would apply to all backups of data and how the completion of this action would be communicated and verified to VEIC. 6

7 Schedule / Milestones RFP release 9/18/2015 Bidders Questions Due 9/30/2015 Answers posted 10/7/2015 RFP responses due to VEIC 10/23/2015 Selection review period ends 10/30/2015 Selection and contract negotiations 11/13/2015 Performance period begins 11/16/2015 Performance period ends 12/31/2016 Proposal Requirements Responses to this RFP must be delivered electronically to VEIC by 5:00 p.m. EDT on Friday, October 23, Responses submitted after 5:00 p.m. EDT will not be accepted. Responses must be submitted electronically via to: Bryan Serinese at bserinese@veic.org with RFP Submittal for Sub-Metering Data Import & Storage Platform in the subject line. All responses must be no more than twenty five (25) pages in length, be formatted to standard letter paper size (8.5 x 11 ) with 1-inch margins all around and a common font set to 11-point or larger. All responses must include a cover letter with the primary person s contact information. responses must have all the required information assembled into one (1) PDF file. Multiple files and/or file formats will not be accepted. Please include the following information in your response to this bid request: A brief description of your firm s structure and capabilities, including resumes of key personnel; A description of your approach, methodology, and process for completing the work; A price quote and proposed fee structure; Examples or case studies of similar work your firm provided to other clients; At least two (2) references that have used your professional services for a similar project. Include contact name, address and a contact phone number. A signed copy of the Contractor Certificate of Compliance document. 7

8 Pricing VEIC seeks a Sub-Metering Data Platform to support its current Sub-Metering program, but plans on growing the program to reach more customers. When proposing your pricing, consider the current parameters of VEIC s sub-metering program and discuss how pricing might change with future growth. VEIC typically manages approximately 200 Sub-meter deployments a year. Each deployment lasts from 2 to 8 weeks and consists of 1 to 20 meters per deployment (5 meters on average). VEIC has a stock of 150 web connected meters and 450 non-web connected meters to support the deployments. The meter s data is written in 1-15 minute intervals and the new system should collect data at least daily and retain the data for at least 3 years. VEIC will have approximately 50 named internal users. Please provide pricing breakdowns based on the description of VEIC s Sub-Metering program above. Pricing should reflect both setup and configuration costs as well as licensing through the end of Fixed Costs should include any costs that will be charged regardless of the number of meters, deployments, or users. (e.g. set up fees, maintenance fees) Fixed Costs Description Cost Variable Costs include costs that will change if VEIC alters any of the parameters of the program described above. (e.g. number of meters deployed, number of deployments, number of users) Where applicable, please include pricing for minimum units and for blocks of additional units. Variable Costs Description Cost 8

9 Evaluation Criteria Proposal selection will be qualifications-based. Proposals will be evaluated based on the written submission and the following criteria: Response to Tasks listed in RFP 55 Cost of solution 25 Experience in type of work 15 Completed Contract Compliance document 5 Total points available (100) Questions Questions regarding requirements and scope of work will be received up to 5 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, September 30, 2015 via only at Bryan Serinese at bserinese@veic.org and answers will be posted on the VEIC website ( no later than 5 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, October 7, Questions submitted after October 7, 2015 will not be responded to. Limitation This RFP does not commit VEIC to award a contract or to pay any costs incurred in the preparation or submission of proposals. VEIC reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received in response to this RFP, to negotiate with any qualified bidder or to cancel in part or in its entirety the RFP, if any of these actions is deemed by VEIC in its sole discretion to be in VEIC s best interest. Insurance Requirements Before commencing work, the Contractor shall provide Certificates of Insurance to show that the following minimum coverages are in effect. Where applicable the Certificates of Insurance shall name VEIC as an Additionally Insured party. All policies shall be non-cancelable without 30 days prior written notice from the insurance carrier to VEIC. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to maintain current Certificates of Insurance on file with VEIC throughout the term of this Contract. Workers Compensation: With respect to all operations performed under this Contract, the Contractor shall carry, if applicable, workers compensation insurance in accordance with the laws of the State and any other state in which it is performing the Contract Scope of Work. General Liability and Property Insurance: With respect to all operations performed under this Contract, the Contractor shall carry general liability insurance having all major divisions of coverage including, but not limited to: 9

10 Premises Operations Independent Contractors Protective Products and Completed Operations (where appropriate) Personal Injury Liability Contractual Liability The policy shall be on an occurrence form and limits shall not be less than: $1,000,000 per Occurrence $1,000,000 General Aggregate $1,000,000 Products / Completed Products Aggregate (where appropriate) $50,000 Fire Legal Liability Automotive Liability: The Contractor shall carry automotive liability insurance covering all motor vehicles, no matter the ownership status, used in connection with this Contract. Limits of coverage shall not be less the amount required by any applicable state law. 10

11 Vermont Energy Investment Corporation Vermont Energy Investment Corporation (VEIC) is a mission-driven, nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the economic and environmental costs of energy use. It carries out its mission, in part, by designing and implementing innovative energy efficiency and renewable energy programs. Founded in 1986, VEIC is nationally and internationally recognized for advancing energy efficiency, energy conservation, and renewable energy programs and projects across the United States, Canada, and Europe. VEIC employs 320 professionals and is headquartered in Burlington, Vermont. It has offices also in Washington, DC, New Jersey and Ohio. VEIC gained national prominence as the Contractor for the nation s first statewide energy efficiency utility, Efficiency Vermont. The company also designed and operates utility scale contracts for energy efficiency service delivery with municipal utilities in the Midwest (American Municipal Power), known as Efficiency Smart, and with the District of Columbia, known as the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU). The majority of the staff works for these VEIC divisions. For additional information, please see: VEIC Website: Efficiency Vermont Launched January 1, 2000, Efficiency Vermont helps ratepayers reduce energy costs, strengthen the local economy, and protect the environment by making homes and business energy efficient. Efficiency Vermont provides technical assistance, rebates, and other financial incentives to help Vermont households, businesses and other institutions such as K-12 schools reduce their energy costs with energy-efficient equipment, lighting, and approaches to construction and major renovation. Efficiency Vermont partners extensively with Contractors, suppliers, and retailers of efficient products and services throughout the state. VEIC operates Efficiency Vermont under an Order of Appointment issued by the Vermont Public Service Board. For additional information, please see the Efficiency Vermont website: 11