HomeMy WebLinkAboutA017 - Resolution awarding a contract to Electrorep Energy Products of St. Louis, MO, for Unit 8 Battery Replacement at the Power Plant in the amount of $145,111.07 (inclusive of Iowa sales tax)ITEM #:21
DATE:05-12-26
DEPT:ELEC
SUBJECT:ELECTRIC POWER PLANT UNIT 8 BATTERY REPLACEMENT
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
The Power Plant battery system provides reliable backup power for critical plant operations,
ensuring functionality during a loss of normal power. The battery system supplies energy to
plant control systems, protection relays, breaker trip and control circuits, instrumentation, and
emergency shutdown systems, allowing the plant to safely respond to plant power outages
and maintain control under all conditions.
Over time, these backup batteries deteriorate due to normal chemical aging, leading to
decreased capacity, higher internal resistance, and an increased likelihood of failure when
placed under load. Because these issues are often not evident during routine operation,
continued use of aging batteries poses significant operational and safety risks. The batteries
used to back up Unit 8's systems have reached the end of their lifespan and need to be
replaced.
On March 4, 2026, an Invitation to Bid was posted to AmesBids by Purchasing. On April 1,
2026, three bids were received as shown in the table below.
BIDDER BASE BID ADD ALTERNATE
#1
ADD ALTERNATE
#2
Electrorep Energy Products
St. Louis, MO $130,785.81 $9,184.76 $14,325.26
American Power Systems, LLC
Kent, WA $152,172.69 No Bid $8,397.46
PWR Storage Solutions LLC
Dallas, TX $159,138.73 No Bid $4,280.00
The base bid includes the supply and installation of replacement batteries, battery
accessories, and disposal of the existing batteries. Alternate #1 included the removal and
disposal of the existing battery support racking, and installation of replacement battery
racking. Alternate #2 included the supply and installation of battery spill containment systems,
including containment beds, and absorption and neutralizing pillows.
After evaluating the bids, staff determined that the existing racking system was in good
condition. Add Alternate #1 is therefore not recommended for award. Staff determined
that the containment systems add an important layer of protection against battery
electrolyte leaks or spills, and therefore, staff is recommending awarding Add Alternate
#2. The low base bid, together with Add Alternate #2, from Electrorep Energy Products,
of St. Louis, MO, is acceptable. The total award amount is $145,111.07.
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There is $80,000 budgeted for this project. The $65,111.07 shortfall will be covered
from the Unit 8 Equipment Parts and Supplies account where there is savings available
due to needing to purchase fewer spare parts than anticipated.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to Electrorep Energy Products, of St. Louis, MO, for Unit 8 Battery
Replacement at the Power Plant, including the base bid and add alternate #2, in the
amount of $145,111.07 (inclusive of sales tax).
2. Award a contract to another bidder.
3. Do not approve the contract and delay the project.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The backup battery system is critical to safe and reliable power plant operation. Over
time, batteries naturally degrade, resulting in reduced capacity, increased internal
resistance, and a higher risk of failure under load. Because these failures are often not
apparent during normal conditions, reliance on aged batteries introduces significant
operational and safety risk, including the potential inability to maintain control during
an emergency. Proactive replacement ensures the system will perform as required
during critical events, maintaining system reliability, protecting equipment, and
supporting overall plant safety. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager
that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as described above.
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