Hydrogen Mobility Network Plan and Feasibility Assessment

Background
Washington State University (WSU) is initiating a Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit proposals from qualified consulting firms to lead and execute a comprehensive six-month work plan. The project aims to develop a detailed hydrogen mobility network plan and feasibility assessment for the Pacific Northwest (PNW), focusing on medium- and heavy-duty trucking, which is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative aligns with broader regional efforts to decarbonize transportation through hydrogen fuel technology.

Work Details
The selected firm will work closely with CHARGE and H2MI stakeholders to deliver the following work products over the course of the engagement:

1) A thorough survey of past and current hydrogen mobility efforts, particularly in California and British Columbia.

2) An end-user needs assessment capturing fleet operator perspectives regarding hydrogen fuel for medium/heavy-duty vehicles.

3) A conceptual design for a 'minimum viable' hydrogen fueling network along the I-5 corridor in the PNW.

4) A technical design and technology plan detailing required infrastructure, optimal technologies, and key trade-offs.

5) A robust economic analysis including levelized cost of driving comparisons.

6) A blueprint for the hydrogen corridor with an initial digital twin simulation of network operations.

7) Support for a final go/no-go recommendation based on prior findings.

Period of Performance
The contract is expected to begin immediately upon signature of the Agreement and continue for approximately six months.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed primarily in Washington State, focusing on infrastructure planning in Washington and Oregon. Coordination efforts will extend to Montana, California, Texas, and British Columbia.

Bidder Requirements
Respondents must demonstrate familiarity with or experience supporting hydrogen infrastructure or clean energy initiatives of comparable scale. They should have a proven track record in strategic analysis, modeling techniques, and planning frameworks relevant to clean fuels or mobility ecosystems. Additionally, they must provide evidence of their capability to manage complex projects collaboratively within the defined six-month timeline.