Upgrade of Programable Logic Computer (PLC) based Auto Throw Over (ATO) switches

A market survey is being conducted to determine if there are adequate sources to perform the upgrade of Square D/Schneider Electric manufactured programable logic computer (PLC) based auto throw over (ATO) switches. The US Department of Agriculture has two buildings fitted with Square D/Schneider Electric manufactured 2000A SED Low Voltage Circuit Breakers with programmable logic computer (PLC) based auto throw over (ATO) switches that are 24-years old and is currently nor functioning properly.

This is not a Solicitation Announcement or Request for Quotes. It does not constitute any commitment by the Government. No award will result from this notice. The purpose is to conduct market research to gain knowledge of potentially qualified sources. Responses to this Sources Sought Notice will be used by the Government to make an appropriate acquisition decision. The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) will not award a contract based on responses or pay for the preparation of any information submitted. Respondents will not be notified of the results of this notice. After completing an analysis of the responses, the Government will determine whether there are adequate sources for unrestricted competition.

The government intend to buy a brand name only switch to fit with our existing Square D Schneider Electric Power Style QED Switchboard FO# 14811994-122 and Factory Order Number 14811994-124 Schneider Electric Modicon Auto Throw Over control system, but is open to responses from any contractor who can provide a fully compatible part of the system that can perform the same as this specific name brand that is capable to perform the following:

1. Modernize the existing End of Production Modicon Premium CPU, IO, Power supply and rack equipment with the Manufacturer recommended replacement equipment.


2. New 15” Human Interface Machine (HMI) with software that is compatible with new Schneider Electric Modicon Controller. HMI shall utilize existing controls compartment within PZ4 switchgear.


3. Update the End-of-Life Crompton voltage and frequency sensing relays with New Basler “E” series relays equivalent to the Crompton Relays


4. Update the control power UPS circuit with new APC model equivalent to existing MGE unit.


5. Evaluate existing control power system and replace components if necessary


6. Modifications to the existing Square D PZ4 switchgear must be performed only by a manufacturer’s certified representative and a licensed provided in the State of Maryland.


7. Modification will include modernization of all equipment, any required program modifications and support of any required external commissioning with warranty.

The whole Schneider Electric/Square D system that is existing will not be replaced but only to retrofit the part that needs modernization.

Companies who meet the stated capability requirements, as well as an interest in doing business with USDA Agricultural Research Services, should submit the following:

1. A capabilities statement for this notice, which is not expected to be a quote.

2. Companies should also indicate whether they are a Small Business, SBA-certified HUBZone, SBA-certified 8(a), SDVOSB, or Women-Owned Small Business.

3. Responses should be submitted by April 14, 2024, at 10:00 AM CDT to the following email addresses: mary-o.belcher@usda.gov and jason.robbins@usda.gov

4. Questions should be directed to Mary Belcher, mary-o.belcher@usda.gov no later than April 9, 2025, 3:00 PM CDT