2026-09 Smart Meter Installation Only Project

Background
The City of Acworth, Georgia, is issuing this Invitation for Bids (IFB) to solicit competitive bids from qualified contractors for smart meter installation services as part of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) deployment. The existing Itron drive-by meter reading system is nearing its end-of-life, prompting the City to transition to a modern AMI platform aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and customer service.

The deployment will facilitate improved load analysis, proactive outage management, and enhanced customer engagement through better visibility of usage. The service territory includes parts of Cobb and Bartow Counties, covering approximately 101 miles of distribution lines serving around 7,200 electric meters across various customer classes.

Work Details
The contractor will provide comprehensive smart meter installation services for approximately 7,100 electric AMI meters and associated network infrastructure. Key tasks include:

1. **Meter Installation Services**: Remove existing Itron AMR meters and install new AMI meters at all active service locations. Meter counts by class are approximately 6,500 residential and 710 commercial meters. Specific meter types include Form 2S (Class 200), Form 2S (Class 320), and Form 9S (Instrument-Rated).

2. **Network Infrastructure Installation**: Install all necessary AMI network equipment including collectors, gateways, routers, and repeaters as specified by the selected AMI vendor.

3. **Project Management**: Provide a dedicated Project Manager to oversee operations from planning through final commissioning.

4. **Work Order Management**: Utilize a work order management system accessible by City staff for real-time status updates.

5. **Inventory Management**: Manage inventory received from the AMI vendor and ensure proper storage and accounting.

6. **Customer Communication**: Coordinate with the City on customer notifications regarding installations.

Period of Performance
The anticipated period of performance begins in Q3 2026 with a full transition of approximately 7,200 electric meters to be completed within a six-month deployment window.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed across the City of Acworth's service territory, which includes portions of Cobb and Bartow Counties.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must demonstrate experience in electric meter installation and AMI infrastructure deployment. They must also comply with E-Verify requirements as per O.C.G.A § 13-10-91. Insurance requirements include commercial general liability insurance with coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence, automobile liability insurance, workers' compensation insurance as required by Georgia law, and additional insured status for the City on relevant policies.