#30506 RFP for Decarbonization Finance and Climate Utility Strategy Consultancy

Background
The City of Cambridge is seeking proposals for a consultancy to assist in the development of a Decarbonization Finance and Climate Utility Strategy as part of its Net Zero Action Plan (NZAP). The goal is to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions for all buildings by 2050. This initiative includes recent amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) and aims to address the challenges of decarbonizing existing buildings while ensuring equitable access to clean energy solutions.

Work Details
The consultancy will be responsible for creating a comprehensive strategy that includes:
- A timeline for a 12-month strategy creation process.
- Deliverables such as monthly updates, key presentations, and a final report summarizing the strategy process and recommendations.
- Engaging internal and external stakeholders, including city staff and external experts.
- Researching existing models for decarbonization finance and assessing their feasibility for Cambridge.
- Evaluating challenges such as investment priorities, landlord/tenant incentives, and access to financing.

The work will be conducted in multiple phases, with Phase 1 focusing on strategy creation, followed by optional phases that may include investigating statutory authority and funding streams.

Period of Performance
The contract is anticipated to take approximately 12 months for Phase 1, with options for renewal for subsequent phases based on performance and funding availability.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must demonstrate previous experience in developing strategic plans related to climate and energy programs within the last five years. They should have knowledge of Massachusetts climate policy, decarbonization technologies, and community-owned energy projects. The project team must include professionals with expertise in legal frameworks relevant to Massachusetts municipal operations and financial products applicable to municipal finance.