RFI 22122 - Ammoniacal Copper Arsenate(ACA)Wood Poles Replacement Province-Wide Design Build delivery model

BC Hydro and TELUS are undertaking a major infrastructure renewal initiative to address safety and reliability concerns associated with Ammoniacal Copper Arsenate (ACA)-treated wood poles. These poles, installed between 1974 and 1984, have experienced significant corrosion of hardware due to the ammonia in the treatment solution. The ACA Pole Replacement Project targets approximately 15,000 poles located in high-density areas of the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. The project aims to proactively replace these poles over the next 3-7 years, with a focus on improving safety, enhancing quality, and achieving cost efficiencies.

To maximize value and streamline execution, the Utilities are pursuing a Design-Build delivery model. This approach will bundle large volumes of work and integrate design and construction responsibilities under a single contract. The model requires coordination to transfer both the electrical and telecom plant, further improving efficiency and reducing administrative overhead.

The Utilities may issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the design and construction of ACA pole replacements in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island.

Purpose of this RFI The Utilities invite responses to this RFI (each a “Response”) from capable suppliers (the “Respondents”). The purpose of this RFI is to:
(a) determine the level of interest and capacity in the market to perform the scope of work as described in the RFI;
(b) draw industry’s attention to a potential RFP;
(c) engage with potential proponents to increase the chance of receiving more competitive proposals should an RFP be issued;
(d) seek feedback on the Utilities’ commercial and technical requirements, as well as schedule for the work, to assist in project planning and development;
(e) obtain information to inform technical and commercial considerations regarding project alternatives for planning purposes.