Assessment Of Thermal Energy Assets And Thermal Energy Network Preliminary Feasibility Study

Background
The Town of Royalton has received grant funding from the Vermont Public Service Department through an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant to conduct a preliminary feasibility study on town-wide thermal energy assets. The goal is to develop efficient, low-carbon thermal energy systems, including a potential geothermal energy network for the Village of South Royalton. The Town seeks proposals from qualified consultants to conduct an integrated thermal energy asset assessment and develop a thermal energy plan aimed at reducing thermal energy consumption and transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Work Details
The preliminary feasibility study will include a technical and economic analysis of existing and potential thermal energy assets, including building loads, distribution systems, and local thermal resources. It will also assess a district thermal energy network serving municipal buildings in South Royalton with potential extensions to other local institutions.

The expected outcomes include:
1) A summary report analyzing shifts in thermal energy fuel sources and consumption reduction;
2) A town-scale thermal energy asset map;
3) Conceptual designs for priority clean thermal projects;
4) A comprehensive thermal energy plan with an implementation roadmap focusing on reducing consumption, peak demand, greenhouse gas emissions, lifecycle costs, and promoting equitable participation among building owners.

Specific tasks include geotechnical assessments for geothermal potential, detailed assessments of municipal buildings (e.g., Royalton Memorial Library and South Royalton Fire Department), high-level assessments of commercial and residential buildings, conceptual designs for the thermal network, public engagement sessions, and preparation of a final report synthesizing all findings.

Period of Performance
The project is expected to be completed within approximately 12 weeks from the kickoff meeting with a desired final report submission date of May 15, 2026.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed in the Town of Royalton, Vermont, specifically focusing on the Village of South Royalton and surrounding areas as indicated in the project map included in Appendix A.

Bidder Requirements
Consultants must demonstrate relevant experience in thermal energy planning and asset assessment at community or campus scales. They should have expertise in geothermal and district energy feasibility studies as well as clean thermal system design in Vermont or similar New England communities.

Proposals must include qualifications of key personnel, acknowledgment of responsibilities regarding project timelines and budget constraints (fixed at $25,000), references from previous relevant projects, and compliance with conflict-of-interest standards.