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Hi Brittany. NovaTech's engineering team has a few questions, listed below: 1. How many substations are on the City's system? 2. How many electrical field devices (IEDs) are present per substation, on average? 3. What is the physical medium for connecting to electrical field devices? (Example: RS-232, ST Fiber, Copper Ethernet, etc.) 4. Do all substations have access to a fiber network for communication from Substation RTUs to front end processor? 5. Where would Substation RTUs be installed? 6. Do all substations have control buildings? If yes, do all control buildings have available rack space? 7. Is there space at the city utility office for the front end processor? 8. Do all substation RTUs need to be redundant, or does only the front end processor need redundancy?
Posted by:
Brad Morse
10/31/2024 11:05:54 AM EST
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1. We have 18 showing in Icon system, 19 if counting System Control. 2. 10-25 (Relays, Metering devices, RTU’s, Tapchanger controllers). 3. Fiber, RS-232, Ethernet, Copper. 4. Yes 5. At the substation 6. Yes and Yes 7. It depends on how many U’s the server/device will take up, (have 6 U left currently) 2 max per each. 8. RTU redundancy would be a bonus (There is an RTAC configuration that would allow for that) Front end processor/SCADA Server – redundancy would be a requirement.
Posted by:
Brittany Craven 11/4/2024 3:33:05 PM
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1) Can you please confirm if Ocala is looking for system software that is capable of accommodating in its database an unlimited quantity of points without any additional licenses or cost for point increase?
2) Could you please provide the following details: b) Total number of feeders
3) Please clarify on the level of redundancy required. Dual, Triple or Quad system? 4) Please clarify the number of direct users with access to the SCADA operations?
5) Is the current environment using virtual servers or physical servers? If virtual servers, is Ocala looking for Disaster recovery solution?
6) At the bottom of page 14, TAB 3 – PRICE PROPOSAL, it states that hardware costs should be included. Does the scope of work for this request include providing hardware? While we can supply servers and workstation hardware, we encourage the customers to purchase hardware as this is often the most cost-effective approach, many utilities receive discounted pricing when purchasing directly from hardware manufacturers—would it be acceptable to provide only hardware recommendations?
Additionally, is Ocala looking to deploy the system on physical servers, or is virtualization preferred? If hardware is required, could you clarify the following specifications:
a. Are dual networks needed? b. Should we include Ethernet switches, and if so, should they be gigabit? Any minimum of ports? Any additional requirements? c. Are there any serial communications or requirements for terminal servers? d. Do servers need to meet specific requirements, such as dual power supplies, dual network cards, SSDs in high-availability configurations like RAID 1 or RAID 5, or any particular support packages? e. Is a time server necessary for synchronization? f. Should we include racks, UPS, organizers, KVM switches, and monitor for the Servers? g. Are any workstations required? If so, how many?
7) Does Ocala require that the SCADA software run on Windows Server and be compatible with the latest available Microsoft Server version (currently Windows Server 2022)? 8) Does Ocala require that the SCADA GUI be natively compatible with Windows, specifically supporting the latest two versions, such as Windows 10 Pro and Windows 11 Pro, and that non-native solutions like X-Windows or similar alternatives be avoided? 9) Does Ocala vision the use of offline environments listed below: Please advise which should be included in the base scope: a) QA (Quality Assurance)/Test environment for example to replicate the entire system within an offline environment to test OS patches, software patches and updates, etc. b) Or OTS (Operator Training Simulator) to train operators in the exact environment used for real-time operations. c) Or PDS (Project Development System) to provide a sandbox for the SCADA/ADMS administrators to develop and test updates to the database and graphics, interfaces and commission new substations without affecting the production system.
10) Does Ocala require that SCADA editing be performed on the fly, without impacting the production environment or needing to compile or restart it? If a sandbox is used for edits, should modifications be published to the production environment with a single click, seamlessly merging changes?
11) (SCADA Functionality) is it important for Ocala that the system should have the capability to notify alarms over email and SMS outside the control room?
12) Does Ocala require the SCADA system to be designed for electric distribution and include features such as Electric Network Topology to visually represent the network's status, including at a minimum: energized, de-energized, parallel, and grounded?
13) Is Ocala interested in a SCADA vendor with capabilities to expand functionality to advanced distribution applications, such as optimizing power flow and enhancing operational efficiency? For example, would the system need to support future upgrades for applications like Volt-VAR Optimization (VVO), Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR), or Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) to improve network reliability and energy efficiency?
14) In Table 1, "Communication Protocols Required," Ocala lists a requirement for "mirror bits." This protocol is designed for device-to-device (IED-to-IED) interlocking communication, rather than for SCADA applications, and it is also proprietary to SEL and only available in SEL relays. We’re concerned this requirement might restrict options to a single-source vendor for SEL. Could you clarify the purpose of this protocol in your SCADA system?
15) In Table 1, "Communication Protocols Required," Ocala specified "SEL-Protocols." Could you clarify which specific SEL protocols your current SCADA uses, such as SEL Fast Message, SEL ASCII, etc.? Additionally, could you explain the communication path for these protocols, given that they rely on serial/telnet communication? How many communication lines and IEDs are needed with these protocols? If SEL relays are being connected to the SCADA system, are they not compatible with standard SCADA protocols like DNP3, Modbus, or IEC-61850?
16) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala mentions that an interface to “Elster MAS – Automatic Meter Reading”, since there are no OMS functions in the requirements can you clarify what is the end use case of this interface and data collected form the AMI into the SCADA? Is the direction from the SCADA to the AMI or from the AMI to SCADA?
17) Are you planning to implement a DVR or VVO DMS application in the future that will require AMI voltage feedback? If so, does this mean that vendors should have a DVR or VVO application available for licensing, even if it is not included in the current scope of work?
18) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala mentions an interface to "Exceleron MDM – Meter Data Management." Since there is no OMS mentioned in the requirements, could you clarify the intended use case for this interface and how AMI data will be utilized in the SCADA system? Is the data flow from the SCADA to the AMI or from the AMI to the SCADA?
19) If you have two Meter Data repositories (Elster MAS and Exceleron MDM), could you explain the need for an interface to both form the SCADA? Most utilities typically use only one interface with their MDM.
20) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala refers to an interface with "Milsoft WindMil – Engineering Analysis System." Can you confirm which version of MultiSpeak is required for this interface?
21) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala states an interface with "Milsoft OMS – Outage Management System." Can you confirm what version of MultiSpeak is necessary for this interface?
22) Does Ocala require that the vendor ensure compliance with at least MultiSpeak versions 3, 4, and 5 to provide a future-proof connection to other third-party systems?
23) Is it mandatory for the MultiSpeak module to be developed natively by the same vendor, rather than provided through a third party??
24) For reporting, does Ocala expect the vendor to provide a web dashboard platform that displays real-time information, historical tables, trend analysis, and archived data accessible from outside the control room? 25) For reporting, does Ocala expects the vendors to provide tools to export reports to PDF, or create reports directly from Excel? 26) In the training requirements, Ocala states that it is seeking training for a team of fifteen to twenty individuals in all aspects of the product. Based on our experience, most utilities of Ocala's size typically have only two to three SCADA administrators or personnel with the necessary skills to learn about the deployment, administration, and maintenance of an SCADA system. The majority of the personnel needing training are often operators or staff outside the control room. Could you clarify how many of the fifteen to twenty individuals should be included in the SCADA administrator training? How much will operator training require? How many will participate in MultiSpeak interface training? And how many will be involved in the Operator Training System (simulator) for the offline environment? 27) Are the training sessions required to be conducted on-site, or can they be delivered remotely? Alternatively, would a combination of on-site and remote training proposed by the vendor be acceptable? If so, does Ocala have a preferred format? 28) Are the commissioning services required to be conducted on-site, or can they be delivered remotely? Alternatively, would a combination of on-site and remote training proposed by the vendor be acceptable? If so, does Ocala have a preferred format? 29) Provided the importance to cybersecurity, is the interest of Ocala that the vendors comply with ISO 27001 as a minimum? 30) With the final date for questions scheduled for November 12, any answers provided on that day could influence pricing. Considering that a Bid Bond is now required, which generally takes a minimum of 5 days to process after pricing is confirmed, could the submission deadline be extended by at least 10 days following the final responses to clarifications? 31) Is it important for Ocala that the Support & Maintenance fee includes not just the updates and patches to the system, but also include the option to upgrade to the latest version of the product to take advantage of any product enhancement and new releases for the licenses acquire? If there is a cost for upgrading to the latest version, either for software or services should it be highlighted?
Posted by:
Jim Lawton
11/5/2024 9:35:39 AM EST
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1) Can you please confirm if Ocala is looking for system software that is capable of accommodating in its database an unlimited quantity of points without any additional licenses or cost for point increase? Yes.
2) Could you please provide the following details: b) Total number of feeders: 75 with future growth approximately: 85 feeders, 20 69kv segments. 3 230kv segments.
3) Please clarify on the level of redundancy required. Dual, Triple or Quad system? Dual is required, but quad would be preferred. 4) Please clarify the number of direct users with access to the SCADA operations? 15 Users.
5) Is the current environment using virtual servers or physical servers? If virtual servers, is Ocala looking for Disaster recovery solution? Virtual Servers Currently. It would be preferred to have disaster recovery solution. We currently use a substation as warm site.
6) At the bottom of page 14, TAB 3 – PRICE PROPOSAL, it states that hardware costs should be included. Does the scope of work for this request include providing hardware? While we can supply servers and workstation hardware, we encourage the customers to purchase hardware as this is often the most cost-effective approach, many utilities receive discounted pricing when purchasing directly from hardware manufacturers—would it be acceptable to provide only hardware recommendations? No, we would need turnkey solution.
Additionally, is Ocala looking to deploy the system on physical servers, or is virtualization preferred? If hardware is required, could you clarify the following specifications: We require a system to be brought up alongside our current SCADA system. Can be physical servers with RAID or virtual solution.
a. Are dual networks needed? No. b. Should we include Ethernet switches, and if so, should they be gigabit? Any minimum of ports? Any additional requirements? Only if needed for testing/cutover to the new SCADA system. (We have existing ethernet infrastructure but is in use). c. Are there any serial communications or requirements for terminal servers? Yes, several IEDS connect our relays to our rtac’s and com-processors using serial connections. d. Do servers need to meet specific requirements, such as dual power supplies, dual network cards, SSDs in high-availability configurations like RAID 1 or RAID 5, or any particular support packages? Yes, all redundant solutions are preferred. e. Is a time server necessary for synchronization? Yes, We currently poll time from SEL-2407 devices over ICON ring. f. Should we include racks, UPS, organizers, KVM switches, and monitor for the Servers? We have 10 U of available of rack space, current UPS being used with current SCADA system. g. Are any workstations required? If so, how many? No, we currently have 4 operator workstations on Windows.
7) Does Ocala require that the SCADA software run on Windows Server and be compatible with the latest available Microsoft Server version (currently Windows Server 2022)? Yes, this would be preferred. 8) Does Ocala require that the SCADA GUI be natively compatible with Windows, specifically supporting the latest two versions, such as Windows 10 Pro and Windows 11 Pro, and that non-native solutions like X-Windows or similar alternatives be avoided? Yes, our current operators workstations are Windows based. 9) Does Ocala vision the use of offline environments listed below: Please advise which should be included in the base scope: a) QA (Quality Assurance)/Test environment for example to replicate the entire system within an offline environment to test OS patches, software patches and updates, etc. Yes. b) Or OTS (Operator Training Simulator) to train operators in the exact environment used for real-time operations. Yes. c) Or PDS (Project Development System) to provide a sandbox for the SCADA/ADMS administrators to develop and test updates to the database and graphics, interfaces and commission new substations without affecting the production system. Yes.
10) Does Ocala require that SCADA editing be performed on the fly, without impacting the production environment or needing to compile or restart it? If a sandbox is used for edits, should modifications be published to the production environment with a single click, seamlessly merging changes? This would be preferred.
11) (SCADA Functionality) is it important for Ocala that the system should have the capability to notify alarms over email and SMS outside the control room? This is not a requirement but would be nice to have this functionality.
12) Does Ocala require the SCADA system to be designed for electric distribution and include features such as Electric Network Topology to visually represent the network's status, including at a minimum: energized, de-energized, parallel, and grounded? Yes.
13) Is Ocala interested in a SCADA vendor with capabilities to expand functionality to advanced distribution applications, such as optimizing power flow and enhancing operational efficiency? For example, would the system need to support future upgrades for applications like Volt-VAR Optimization (VVO), Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR), or Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) to improve network reliability and energy efficiency? Yes.
14) In Table 1, "Communication Protocols Required," Ocala lists a requirement for "mirror bits." This protocol is designed for device-to-device (IED-to-IED) interlocking communication, rather than for SCADA applications, and it is also proprietary to SEL and only available in SEL relays. We’re concerned this requirement might restrict options to a single-source vendor for SEL. Could you clarify the purpose of this protocol in your SCADA system? Majority of our IED components are SEL based. If replacing current RTACS this requirement was listed. (DNP3 is our current protocol communication method with our SCADA servers.)
15) In Table 1, "Communication Protocols Required," Ocala specified "SEL-Protocols." Could you clarify which specific SEL protocols your current SCADA uses, such as SEL Fast Message, SEL ASCII, etc.? Additionally, could you explain the communication path for these protocols, given that they rely on serial/telnet communication? How many communication lines and IEDs are needed with these protocols? If SEL relays are being connected to the SCADA system, are they not compatible with standard SCADA protocols like DNP3, Modbus, or IEC-61850? SEL-protocols are being used internally at the substations. This serial data is sent from each IED to the master RTAC or Communication Processor. Which converts the data to DNP3.
16) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala mentions that an interface to “Elster MAS – Automatic Meter Reading”, since there are no OMS functions in the requirements can you clarify what is the end use case of this interface and data collected form the AMI into the SCADA? Is the direction from the SCADA to the AMI or from the AMI to SCADA? We would prefer from SCADA to AMI. We use Milsoft OMS currently.
17) Are you planning to implement a DVR or VVO DMS application in the future that will require AMI voltage feedback? If so, does this mean that vendors should have a DVR or VVO application available for licensing, even if it is not included in the current scope of work? We would like to have the option available.
18) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala mentions an interface to "Exceleron MDM – Meter Data Management." Since there is no OMS mentioned in the requirements, could you clarify the intended use case for this interface and how AMI data will be utilized in the SCADA system? Is the data flow from the SCADA to the AMI or from the AMI to the SCADA? Potential of having the data flow both directions.
19) If you have two Meter Data repositories (Elster MAS and Exceleron MDM), could you explain the need for an interface to both form the SCADA? Most utilities typically use only one interface with their MDM. This would likely only be used for one or the other.
20) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala refers to an interface with "Milsoft WindMil – Engineering Analysis System." Can you confirm which version of MultiSpeak is required for this interface? MultiSpeak 4.1.6 for our current vendor. (This depends on the system being used).
21) In Table 2, "Interfaces Definition," Ocala states an interface with "Milsoft OMS – Outage Management System." Can you confirm what version of MultiSpeak is necessary for this interface? MultiSpeak 3.0.
22) Does Ocala require that the vendor ensure compliance with at least MultiSpeak versions 3, 4, and 5 to provide a future-proof connection to other third-party systems? Yes.
23) Is it mandatory for the MultiSpeak module to be developed natively by the same vendor, rather than provided through a third party?? No.
24) For reporting, does Ocala expect the vendor to provide a web dashboard platform that displays real-time information, historical tables, trend analysis, and archived data accessible from outside the control room? This would be preferred in a read only format. 25) For reporting, does Ocala expects the vendors to provide tools to export reports to PDF, or create reports directly from Excel? Yes. Preferably Excel format. 26) In the training requirements, Ocala states that it is seeking training for a team of fifteen to twenty individuals in all aspects of the product. Based on our experience, most utilities of Ocala's size typically have only two to three SCADA administrators or personnel with the necessary skills to learn about the deployment, administration, and maintenance of an SCADA system. The majority of the personnel needing training are often operators or staff outside the control room. Could you clarify how many of the fifteen to twenty individuals should be included in the SCADA administrator training? How much will operator training require? How many will participate in MultiSpeak interface training? And how many will be involved in the Operator Training System (simulator) for the offline environment? There is only 1 SCADA administrator at the City of Ocala, they would need training on the admin side. Remaining user are operators, but training needed for screen building/switching orders/reporting would be required. 27) Are the training sessions required to be conducted on-site, or can they be delivered remotely? Alternatively, would a combination of on-site and remote training proposed by the vendor be acceptable? If so, does Ocala have a preferred format? Onsite format would be preferred. 28) Are the commissioning services required to be conducted on-site, or can they be delivered remotely? Alternatively, would a combination of on-site and remote training proposed by the vendor be acceptable? If so, does Ocala have a preferred format? Onsite format would be preferred. 29) Provided the importance to cybersecurity, is the interest of Ocala that the vendors comply with ISO 27001 as a minimum? Yes, that would be preferred. 30) With the final date for questions scheduled for November 12, any answers provided on that day could influence pricing. Considering that a Bid Bond is now required, which generally takes a minimum of 5 days to process after pricing is confirmed, could the submission deadline be extended by at least 10 days following the final responses to clarifications? Yes. 31) Is it important for Ocala that the Support & Maintenance fee includes not just the updates and patches to the system, but also include the option to upgrade to the latest version of the product to take advantage of any product enhancement and new releases for the licenses acquire? If there is a cost for upgrading to the latest version, either for software or services should it be highlighted? Yes, all components should be included in the pricing.
Posted by:
Brittany Craven 11/6/2024 10:50:23 AM
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If available as an existing list, please provide a count of SCADA-connected devices for each substation, including (if possible) a count for each physical connection medium (Example: XYZ Sub, 14 devices: 8-RS-232; 4-RJ45 Ethernet; 2-ST Fiber).
Posted by:
Brad Morse
11/5/2024 10:42:45 AM EST
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1st substation: 8 IED Devices [RS-232, D-B9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 2nd substation: 9 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 3rd substation: 9 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 4th substation: 7 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 5th substation: 10 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 6th substation: 9 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 7th substation: 22 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 8th substation: 8 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 9th substation: 8 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 10th substation: 13 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 11th substation: 12 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 12th Substation: 11 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 13th substation: 16 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 14th substation: 17 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 15th substation: 14 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 16th substation: 9 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 17th substation: 8 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6] 18th substation: 13 IED Devices [RS-232, DB-9 Fiber Transceivers to Serial, Cat 6]
Posted by:
Brittany Craven 11/7/2024 7:59:54 AM
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Hi Brittany. Previously, Question 30 asks for an extra 10 days based upon Q/A period and additional Bid Bond requirement. The response says - Yes. We are assuming the response due date will be moved out 10 days. Will you confirm that by changing the RFP Due date in the RFP and portal?
Posted by:
Jim Lawton
11/6/2024 1:50:46 PM EST
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The due date has been extended.
Posted by:
Brittany Craven 11/6/2024 2:38:16 PM
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Hi Brittany, The RFP Decision Timeline is set to occur in 2024. Can you advise when City of Ocala will actually issue a PO for the purchase?
Posted by:
Jim Lawton
11/13/2024 2:19:59 PM EST
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The City is unable to provide a specific date at this time.
Posted by:
Brittany Craven 11/13/2024 4:43:22 PM
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· Brittany,
The bid package mentioned that the project System supplier is the one to do the project. Please clarify if our company is allowed to bid the job · Please provide knowledge of the existing SCADA equipment . o Will the existing equipment be demo by contractor o Existing equipment type/model · Quantity of field stations that will be integrated to the NEW SCADA system · A list of signals per station (analogs & digital) · What is the current communication type with the MASTER (Central/Main station) o Is there an internal SCADA/IT department in charge of establish and verify communication between remote station and CENTRAL o Any existing Cybersecurity protocol in place · What are the existing relay types (E/M, Solid state or Microprocessor based) that will need to extract data from ( Analog/digital) · Is there Specification for NEW communication equipment or is it open to the contractor offer. · Testing: o Specify existing testing protocol, including down time, stand by time, switching time…etc o Will the contractor be able or have someone from the utility to operate the equipment as needed o Will the contractor be required to have on-site personnel 24 hrs during the SCADA system migration? · What is the work shift restriction: o Can this job be schedule in regular 8 or 12 hrs shift? - Is there a list of acceptable system providers?
Posted by:
Sarah Watson
11/19/2024 11:32:37 AM EST
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• Will the existing equipment be demo by contractor Existing equipment for the SCADA system is running within a virtual hypervisor. We are still using the virtual hypervisors for additional functions besides SCADA inputs and outputs. This equipment should not be removed by new vendor. We have additional rack space for a new system. The systems need to run concurrently until final migration. • Existing equipment type/model 8 Dell Vxrail P570F Hypervisors that collectively use Vcenter (4 nodes at primary control center and 4 at backup location). • Quantity of field stations that will be integrated to the NEW SCADA system 19 substations • A list of signals per station (analogs & digital) SCADA Points per station approximately: Metrics Points (130-300 points) | Status Points (40-90 points) • What is the current communication type with the MASTER (Central/Main station) Communication with Main SCADA server is DNP3 protocol. • Is there an internal SCADA/IT department in charge of establish and verify communication between remote station and CENTRAL There is one IT professional that does both SCADA administration and IT infrastructure for the OT/Electric environment. • Any existing Cybersecurity protocol in place IPsec AES tunnels from substation to primary and backup control centers. • What are the existing relay types (E/M, Solid state or Microprocessor based) that will need to extract data from ( Analog/digital) We utilize SEL relays. Distribution relays are mostly SEL-351’s and SEL 351A’s. Also utilize Differential relays over fiber. (ICON ring) Sonnet. The relay information is pulled into an SEL RTAC, SEL Communications Processor, or Siemens RTU. Then over DNP3 protocol over ethernet to destination primary SCADA server. • Is there Specification for NEW communication equipment or is it open to the contractor offer. · Testing: Would be helpful utilize same SEL-Protocol devices. Makes communication from our RTACs to the control center more efficient. • Specify existing testing protocol, including down time, stand by time, switching time…etc Substation typically required onsite if possibility of losing remote visibility of IED devices. • Will the contractor be able or have someone from the utility to operate the equipment as needed Operators are onsite 24/7 for our control center. Substation hours are 7am to 5pm Mon-Thur. • Will the contractor be required to have on-site personnel 24 hrs during the SCADA system migration? Only during working hours, unless emergency occurs. • What is the work shift restriction: Normal business hours are Monday through Friday, 07:00 – 17:00. • Can this job be schedule in regular 8 or 12 hrs shift? For most circumstances, yes. • Is there a list of acceptable system providers? If the providers meet the requirements laid out in the RFP document.
Posted by:
Brittany Craven 11/20/2024 9:37:22 AM
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