OCA Issues Two Requests for Proposals

The Office of the Consumer Advocate today issued two requests for proposals (RFPs), seeking help from consulting experts in connection with various proceedings before the Public Utilities Commission during the upcoming biennium that begins with the new fiscal year on July 1.

"As an independent state agency of just six people -- including one vacant position that we are presently unable to fill in light of the statewide hiring freeze -- we cannot, without outside help, fully defend and promote the interests of residential utility customers in all of the proceedings before the Public Utilities Commission in which we must participate," said Consumer Advocate Donald Kreis.  "We have a long tradition of employing outside consultants to serve as expert witnesses in specialized aspects of utility regulation, and I am eager to see that tradition continue."

The two RFPs -- which are available here -- are designed to complement each other by covering distinct subject areas.  RFP 2025-01 relies on the litigation services funds that we expect to be available to us via the biannual budget now pending in the New Hampshire Legislature.  The other RFP will rely on for its funding on the "special assessment" process in the OCA's enabling statute, RSA 363:28, VII.  Contracts entered into via this second RFP will ultimately require the approval of the Legislature's Joint Fiscal Committee.  As to both RFPs, contracts will require the approval of the Governor and Executive Council.

In issuing RFPs, reviewing proposals, and ultimately entering into contracts with successful bidders, the OCA faithfully complies with the strict rules that govern procurement by state agencies in New Hampshire.  Any questions about the RFP's must be sent via e-mail to the OCA's designated point of contract, Legal Assistant Lesley LaPerle (lesley.j.laperle@oca.nh.gov).   We cannot accept telephone calls about the RFPs and contact with any other OCA employees is prohibited.  Please consult the relevant provisions of each RFP for details on how the procurement process works.

Proposals are due at the OCA (and must be transmitted electronically to our designated Point of Contact) by 2:30 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025.