Upgrade of Programable Logic Computer (PLC) based Auto Throw Over (ATO) switches

A market survey is being conducted to determine if there are adequate sources to perform the upgrade of Square D/Schneider Electric manufactured programable logic computer (PLC) based auto throw over (ATO) switches. The US Department of Agriculture has two buildings fitted with Schneider Electric/Square D manufactured 2000A SED Low Voltage Circuit Breakers with programmable logic computer (PLC) based auto throw over (ATO) switches that are 24-years old and is currently nor functioning properly.

This is not a Solicitation Announcement or Request for Quotes. It does not constitute any commitment by the Government. No award will result from this notice. The purpose is to conduct market research to gain knowledge of potentially qualified sources. Responses to this Sources Sought Notice will be used by the Government to make an appropriate acquisition decision. The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) will not award a contract based on responses or pay for the preparation of any information submitted. Respondents will not be notified of the results of this notice. After completing an analysis of the responses, the Government will determine whether there are adequate sources for unrestricted competition or to proceed with issuing a sole source solicitation.

The government is looking for a Contractor that is capable to modify the existing Square D Schneider Electric Power Style QED Switchboard FO# 14811994-122 and Factory Order Number 14811994-124 Schneider Electric Modicon Auto Throw Over control system and perform the following:

• Modernize the existing End Of Production Modicon Premium CPU, IO, Power supply and rack equipment with the Manufacturers recommended replacement equipment.


• New 15” Human Interface Machine (HMI) with software that is compatible with new Schneider Electric Modicon Controller. HMI shall utilize existing controls compartment within PZ4 switchgear.


• Update the End-of-Life Crompton voltage and frequency sensing relays with New Basler “E” series relays equivalent to the Crompton Relays


• Update the control power UPS circuit with new APC model equivalent to existing MGE unit.


• Evaluate existing control power system and replace components if necessary


• Modifications to the existing Square D PZ4 switchgear must be performed only by a manufacturer’s certified representative, to include all modifications of equipment, any required program modifications and any supporting any required external commissioning.


• Contractor shall be Schneider Electric/Square D manufacturer certified representative and licensed provider in the state of Maryland.

Companies who meet the stated capability requirements, as well as an interest in doing business with USDA Agricultural Research Services, should submit the following:

1. A capabilities statement for this notice,which is not expected to be a quote.

2. Companies should also indicate whether they are a Small Business, SBA-certified HUBZone, SBA-certified 8(a), SDVOSB, or Women-Owned Small Business.

3. Responses should be submitted by December 10, 2024, at 4:00 PM EST to the attention of Mary Belcher at the following email address: mary-o.belcher@usda.gov.

4. Questions should be directed to Mary Belcher, mary-o.belcher@usda.gov no later than 4 December 2024 at 4:00 PM EST