The information below outlines flexible procurement pathways that help public agencies streamline energy projects. No matter which you choose, these strategies can save you time, reduce administrative burden, and ensure compliance.
GC 4217 is a government code that was created to help public agencies complete energy efficiency projects more quickly and easily. Government Code (GC) 4217 allows public agencies to enter into construction contracts to increase energy efficiency at public buildings without a formal bid process, provided that the anticipated cost for the proposed energy efficiency upgrades is less than the anticipated annual energy cost savings. This exemption from the formal bid process streamlines procurement, reducing administrative burdens and expediting energy conservation projects. To enact GC 4217, your public agency’s board, city council, or other governing body must approve a resolution during a regularly scheduled public meeting, following a two-week public notice. CC-LEAP can assist your agency with compiling all documentation required to prepare for this public meeting and successfully enact GC 4217.
Sole source procurement is a process public agencies can utilize when competitive bidding isn't feasible. It's essentially an exception to the standard practice of seeking multiple bids, and it comes in two main flavors. A "sole source" situation arises when only one vendor is uniquely capable of providing equipment or specialized installation – this is quite uncommon, especially for energy projects. Conversely, a "single source" process is used when, although other options might exist, one particular vendor is the most highly recommended due to unique technical expertise or other compelling factors. In both scenarios, CC-LEAP can help provide thorough documentation to justify your vendor selection and demonstrate that the proposed pricing is fair and reasonable.
Cooperative procurement is when public agencies team up to combine their purchasing power, allowing them to collectively buy goods and services through pre-existing contracts. This collaboration helps agencies save money, time, and resources by leveraging bulk discounts and avoiding redundant bidding processes. CC-LEAP provides cooperative procurement support from start to finish, bringing speed and efficiency to construction procurement. One option we support is Sourcewell’s (formerly NJPA) ezIQC®, which reduces the time it takes to get to construction and avoids the red tape of traditional procurement.
Piggybacking is a procurement technique that uses an existing contract from a public agency to purchase the same or similar products or services at the same or lower price. This can save time and money while benefiting from the competitive bidding and standardized terms of the original contract.
CC-LEAP can support agencies in leveraging piggybacking opportunities by identifying eligible contracts, coordinating with procurement teams, and streamlining the process for energy efficiency and electrification projects.
CUPCCAA (California Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act) allows public agencies to use alternative, more streamlined bidding procedures for public works projects. This means agencies can award projects up to $75,000 without formal bidding or use informal bidding for projects up to $220,000, making smaller projects quicker and more efficient.
CC-LEAP can help agencies navigate these provisions by providing guidance and procurement support to streamline energy efficiency and electrification project delivery while ensuring compliance.