date: november 15, 2019 e- tender no. smart metering ... · including smart meters (with/without...
TRANSCRIPT
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
Page 1 of 84
Date: November 15, 2019
E- Tender No. Smart_Metering/Himachal_Pradesh/A136 Date: 20.9.2019
Clarifications to Queries
with respect to
Request for Proposal (RfP)
for
Selection of AMI Implementing Agency
for
Implementation of Smart Metering
in
Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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Clarifications with respect to RfP (Volume – I)
S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
1. Volume-I
Important Dates and
Amounts
Pre-bid meeting - If meeting required, the
same would be intimated to bidders
It is requested to have a Pre-Bid Meeting to clarify queries.
Pre-Bid Meeting already
held on 24.10.2019.
2. Last date and time for online bidding – 21.11.2019 upto 15:00 hrs Last date and time for receipt of RFP - 21.11.2019 upto 15:00 hrs Technical Bid Opening - 21.11.2019 at
15:30 hrs
To prepare an exact estimation as per the requirement of RfP and to make our best competitive offer, the last date of bid submission may be further extended by at least 3 weeks
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
3. Please extend the Bid submission date to 4 weeks’ time from the date of issuance of clarifications
4. Transaction Fee (Non- Refundable) - Rs.
15,000 plus GST @18%
As per Annexure 16 of the RfP, we understand that the Transaction fee to be paid online. However, it is requested to clarify whether to Pay online or a Demand Draft is to be submitted along with the Bid.
Please refer S.No. 12 of
Annexure 16 of the RfP
which states the following:
“……A bidder can deposit
the transaction fee through
Debit Card/Credit card/Net
Banking by selecting the
online payment option or
through NETF/ RTGS.
Payment through online
mode is authorized
immediately while through
NEFT/RTGS is authorized
by the system upon receipt
of payment (this can take
approx. 1 working day)”
5. Bid Security as Demand Draft or Bank
Guarantee, valid for a period of 1 year
(Refundable) - Rs. 50,00,000
In this clause, the validity of Bid Security has been mentioned as 1 Year whereas in Clause 4.17 it has been mentioned that the bid security shall be valid for 120 days beyond the end of validity period of the bid. As the bid validity is for 6 Months from the submission of the Bid, the
The Bid Security would be
valid for a period of 120
days beyond the end of
validity period of the bid.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
validity of Bid Security would 10 Months from the date of submission of the Bid. It is requested to clarify the Bid Security validity period.
6. Please provide the estimated value of the RfP.
The Bidder to ascertain the
same on its own.
7. Volume-I
Clause 3.2 (About this
Request for Proposal)
HPSEB Ltd. proposes to implement Smart
Metering/ AMI Project in Shimla and
Dhramsala towns of Himachal Pradesh for
around 1.50 lakh consumers
Please clarify whether the quantity mentioned in this RfP will be scattered in entire Shimla and Dharamsala Cities or it will be specific to any Sub-division. Kindly provide Consumer list/ index as this will help Bidders in assessing precise Resource requirements and Costing. Please clarify whether these are
replacement Meters or New
connections.
The meters have to be
installed in Shimla and
Dharamshala.
Further, all existing meters
are to be replaced and any
new connection will also be
on Smart Meter.
8. Volume-I
Clause 3.3 (About the
AMI Project)
This Request for Proposal (this “RFP”) is
issued by PFCCL on behalf of HPSEB Ltd.
for selecting a Consortium or a Contractor
for supply, installation, testing,
commissioning and maintenance of
Advanced Metering Infrastructure,
including smart meters (with/without net-
metering) with Pre-paid configuration,
communication infrastructure along with
applications for Head End System (HES),
Meter Data Management (MDM) System
for rolling out around 1,35,000 Smart
Metering (plus additional installation of
smart meters as per new connection
requirement in Operation and
As per BOQ and RFP Vol-I, section 3.2, the total no. of smart meter is 1.50 Lakh. But as per the clause in RFP Vol-I Section 3.3, Annexure G and RFP Vol-II Section 1.2 the total no. of smart meter is 1.35 Lakh. Please confirm the numbers of smart meters/ nodes and amend the clause appropriately.
The no. of nodes would be
as per Price Bid Format
(Annexure 17) with 20%
expansion for future
requirement.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
Maintenance (O&M) period)……
9. Volume-I
Clause 4.2.6 (General
Terms for Bidding)
PFCCL may, at its sole discretion, ask for
additional information/ document and/ or
seek clarifications from a Bidder after the
Bid Submission Deadline, inter alia, for the
purposes of removal of inconsistencies or
infirmities in its Bid. However, no change
in the substance of the Financial Bid shall
be permitted by PFCCL, unless
specifically sought by PFCCL as per
Clause 4.15.9
Clause No. 4.15.9 is not available in this RfP. Please clarify.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
10. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1 (Qualifying
Requirement)
…………… Bidder must meet the following
minimum eligibility requirements
individually and in case of a consortium,
collectively by the members of
Consortium, except where specifically
mentioned………….
Please allow EPC Mode for participation
in the bid process in a manner similar to
the tender issued by Jammu & Kashmir
Power Development Department.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
11. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1 (Qualifying
Requirement)
….. The Bidder would be required to furnish along with the bid, a letter of undertaking from the Holding Company/ Subsidiary Company/ Sub-Contractors supported by Board resolution, extending support for execution of the contract by the bidder in case of award. Bidders can use credentials of the Sub-Contractors for meeting the Qualifying Requirement. However, multiple bidders can use credentials of the same Sub-Contractors subject to the condition that a Sub-Contractor cannot participate as Bidder/ Consortium Member in the bid process. The bidder has to submit detailed roles & responsibilities of the Consortium
Please confirm whether the
requirement of submission of a letter
of undertaking supported by Board
resolution, extending support for
execution of the contract by the bidder
in case of award can be fulfilled with
MAF in case of subcontractors. If not,
please specify a format for the same.
The Bidder can submit the
Manufacturer Authorization
for sub-contractors as per
their own format. But, it
must fulfil the requirement
of the RfP to meet the
Qualification Requirement
12. Please share the Manufacturer
Authorization Format
13. Please clarify whether a System
Integrator can bring in Sub
Contractors who meet the Qualification
Criteria as mentioned in 4.3.1 A) Meter
Manufacturer, B) Communication
Network and D) Meter Data
The Meter Manufacturer/
Supplier has to be part of
the Consortium (not
necessarily as a Lead
Bidder).
The bidder can bring in
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
Members/ Sub-Contractor partners to PFCCL along with the bid……….. In case Bidder does not manufacture or produce any major equipment or component of the overall Solution to be provided as the Scope of Work, then the Bidder is required to submit the Manufacturer’s /OEM’s Authorization stating the required support from the Manufacturer/OEM with respect to supply, support, etc for a period of seven (7) years from the date of operational acceptance of the system by PFCCL/ HPSEB Ltd…… Basis the Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) Order by GoI dated March 23, 2012, it has been decided to give opportunity to Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs) registered with National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) (under Single Point Registration Scheme) through NSIC-Consortium route. In light of this, the Bidder shall source meters (as bought out) or downstream components of the meters from MSEs of value greater than or equal to 20% of the metering component of the contract price. Out of this requirement of minimum 20% procurement from MSEs, 4% is earmarked for units owned by Schedule Caste /Schedule Tribes…. For startup firms, gazette notification dated 17 Feb 2016, G.S.R. 180(E) and policy circular No. 1(2)(1)/2016-MA dated 10 March 2016, and the subsequently issued guidelines shall be considered for waiving off respective qualifying requirements for
Management. It is requested to allow the
same as this would increase the
competition.
other agencies as sub-
contractors in line with the
RfP.
14. Lead bidder should be in the business
of manufacturing and supplying (OEM)
digital electricity pre-paid meter/
electricity smart meters in the
preceding three (3) completed Financial
Years.
15. We understand that Communication
service provider can also participate
as Sub Contractor and provide
solution to multiple bidders.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
16. We understand that System Integrator
and Meter data Management provider
can participate as sub-contractors
17. Distribution Licensee may be allowed
to participate in the bid
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail. Please also
refer Amendment No. 2
regarding Modified
Qualification Requirement
18. Please clarify whether a Distribution
Licensee can participate as a Lead
Bidder and have eligible Meter
Suppliers/ System Integrators as sub-
contractors
19. Global experience of Bidders may be
accepted
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
20. All PSUs and Govt. department should
be exempted from purchase fee for the
RFP, tender fee & Bid security/EMD.
As per GFR 2017, all MSEs, should be
exempted from purchase fee, Tender
Fee & Bid security/EMD.
For claiming this exemption, MSE must
provide proof of being registered as MSE
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
sourcing of meters subject to mandatorily meeting quality and technical specifications as specified in Volume-1 and Volume-2 of this RFP….
with any agency mentioned in the
notification of Ministry of MSME indicated
below:
a. Khadi and Village Industries
Commission.
b. Khadi and Village Industries Board
c. Coir Board
d. National Small Industries Corporation
e. Directorate of handcraft and handloom
f. Udyog Aadhar Memorandum issued
by Ministry of MSF or any other body
specified by Ministry of MSME
21. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(A)(1)(a)
(Qualifying Requirement-
QR For Meter
Manufacturing -
Technical Experience)
The Bidder/ consortium member must have i. Manufactured and supplied minimum
40,000 nos. of Meters for AMI (cumulative) with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP
Or
ii. Manufactured and supplied minimum 10,000 nos. of Pre-paid Meters with cellular/ RF communication with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP
The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“The Bidder/ consortium member must
have
i. Manufactured and supplied minimum 40,000 nos. of Meters for AMI (cumulative) out of which 50% should be installed with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. by the
Bidder/ consortium member in
Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP
Or ii. Manufactured and supplied minimum
10,000 nos. of Pre-paid Meters with cellular/ RF communication out of which 50% should be installed with required hardware, software/ Cloud services and other associated
accessories etc. by the Bidder/ consortium member in Indian
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP
22. Please reduce the minimum quantity to
30,000 no. of meters. Markings under
Tender Evaluations methodology
should be changed accordingly.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
23. As smart meters have been very recently introduced in Indian Power utilities, please also consider experience of digital electricity meters/ unidirectional static energy meters.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
24. The quantum of meters for AMI to 10000
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
25. The clause may be modified as per the
following:
i. “Manufactured and supplied minimum
40,000 nos. of Meters for AMI/ AMR (cumulative) with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP
Or
ii. Manufactured and supplied minimum 10,000 nos. of Pre-paid Meters with cellular/ RF communication with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
26. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(A)(1)(b)
The Bidder/ consortium member must have manufacturing facility in India with an in-house NABL accredited lab since last two years (i.e. FY 2017-18 onwards)
Please consider the manufacturer which has testing & calibration equipment traceable to NABL accredited laboratory to ensure accurate testing calibration as
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
(Qualifying Requirement-
QR For Meter
Manufacturing -
Technical Experience)
per IS 16444/13779 for acceptance test.
27. The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“The Bidder/ consortium member must have manufacturing facility in India with an in-house NABL accredited lab or equivalent certification before commencement of supply since last two years (i.e. FY 2017-18 onwards)”
28. The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“The Bidder/ consortium member must
have manufacturing facility in India with
an in-house NABL accredited lab since
last two years (i.e. FY 2017-18
onwards) life time membership of
NABL accredited lab/Valid certificate
of in house accredited LAB.
or
Self-declaration of submission of In
house NABL certified lab certificate
within 3 months from date of award of
contract, failing which Performance
Security shall be forfeited.”
29. The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“The Bidder/ consortium member must
have manufacturing facility in India with
an in-house NABL accredited lab or a tie
up with a NABL Lab”
30. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(B)
(Qualifying Requirement-
In case of a consortium, this requirement
has to be met individually by one of the
consortium members in its entirety
In Qualifying Requirement as well as the Tender Evaluation Methodology, the Bidder/ Consortium member should fulfil the Qualifying Requirement.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
QR For Communications
Network)
Accordingly, it would be the
Communication Service Provider
which has to fulfil the Qualifying
Requirement.
31. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(B)(1)
(Qualifying Requirement-
QR For Communications
Network)
1.
a) The Bidder/ consortium member should
have implemented project(s) with at
least 40,000 (cumulatively)
communication module/ endpoints
(manufacturing, supply, installation,
integration, maintenance &
management) involving Radio
Frequency (RF) mesh in Licensed
frequency band as permitted by WPC
or in Unlicensed frequency band in
India in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13
onwards) till the date of issuance of this
RfP.
b) The Bidder/ consortium member must
have successfully integrated their NIC/
Communication module with meters of
at least 3 manufacturers in India till
HES and/or MDMS.
2.
a) Bidder/ consortium member should be
ISO 9001:2008 certified or Bidder
should have CMMI Level 3 (minimum)
certification.
b) Bidder/ consortium member should
have ISO 14001 and ISO 27001
certifications
As implementation of only limited projects of Smart Grid with RF Communication has taken place in India, please accept the vendors who have experience in successfully implementing RF communication with 40,000 end points in India or abroad.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
32. The clause may be modified as per the
following:
a) “The Bidder/ consortium member
should have implemented project(s)
with at least 40,000 (cumulatively)
communication module/ endpoints
(manufacturing, supply, installation,
integration, maintenance &
management) involving GPRS or
Radio Frequency (RF) mesh in
Licensed frequency band as permitted
by WPC or in Unlicensed frequency
band in India in the last 7 years (i.e.
FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of
issuance of this RfP.
b) The Bidder/ consortium member must
have successfully integrated their
GPRS/ NIC/ Communication module
with meters of at least 3 manufacturers
in India till HES and/or MDMS.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
33. Please reduce the minimum quantity to
30,000 no. communication module/
endpoints. Markings under Tender
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
Evaluations methodology should be
changed accordingly.
34. Please reduce the minimum quantity to
10,000 no. communication module/
endpoints. Markings under Tender
Evaluations methodology should be
changed accordingly.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
35. Please allow integration of NIC/
Communication module with meters of at
least 2 manufacturers in India till HES
and/or MDMS instead of 3
manufacturers
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
36. Please change the scope of RF solution provider to Supply & Integration since in all the previous AMR tenders, the scope for RF supplier was only manufacturing and Supply whereas from installation to management was taken care by meter supplier. Alternatively, we would suggest to make it valid cumulatively for all consortium partners
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
37. Please accept ISO 9001:2015 instead of ISO 9001:2008 since 2015 is an upgradation to 2008
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
38. The Bidder should be allowed to have a valid ISO/CMMi certificate on or before the date of bid instead of date of publication of RfP.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
39. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(C)(1)
(Qualifying Requirement-
QR For System
Integration - Technical
a) The Bidder/ consortium member must
have experience of integration of HES
with MDM on standard interfaces and
data exchange models (CIM/XML) for
at least 40,000 consumers
(cumulatively) in Indian Power
As this RFP involves implementation of core AMI applications (HES and MDMS) on the cloud, bidders’ credentials in supply, installation, testing and commissioning of control centre hardware may not be relevant. Seeking credentials of bidders who have implemented the proposed solutions (HES, MDMS) on
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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Experience of Integration
with MDM)
Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years
(i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date
of issuance of this RfP.
b) The Bidder/ consortium member should
have supplied, installed, tested and
commissioned Control Centre
hardware and application software for
at least 40,000 end points
(cumulatively) in Indian Power
Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years
(i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date
of issuance of RfP which are in
successful operation for at least One
(1) year.
Evaluation Document Required:
i. Contract/ Purchase Order (PO)/ Work
Order (WO) indicating client name,
scope of work, period of work etc.
ii. Certificate from the client on successful
implementation and operation of the
project.
cloud may ensure to get bidders who have requisite experience involving cloud. We believe that testing the “implementation” experience (and not just integration experience) on proposed product will ensure that PFCCL gets the bidders with required competence to ensure project success. Please relax the “operational for 1 year” part as well. Accordingly, the clause may be amended as per the following: “The Bidder/ consortium member should have supplied, installed, tested and commissioned proposed HES and MDMS on cloud Control Centre hardware and application software for at least 40,000 end points (cumulatively) in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of RfP which are in successful operation for at least One (1) year.”
40. As implementation of only limited projects of Smart Grid has taken place in India, requirement of 40000 end points/ consumers may be reduced to 20000. Markings under Tender Evaluations methodology should be changed accordingly.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
41. Experience to be sought till the date of submission of bid instead of date of issuance of RfP
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
42. Please amend Sub-Clause (b) as per the following: “The Bidder/ consortium member should have supplied, installed, tested and
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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commissioned Control Centre hardware and application software for at least 40,000 end points (cumulatively) in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of RfP which are in successful operation for at least One (1) year.”
43. Following additional evaluation
Document may be sought:
i. In case the System Integrator is a
Power Distribution Utility which is
having an in house experience,
self-certification from authorized
signatory of the System Integrator
shall be acceptable.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
44. Please reduce the minimum quantity to
30,000 no. of consumers. Markings
under Tender Evaluations
methodology should be changed
accordingly.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
45. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(C)(2)
(Qualifying Requirement-
QR For System
Integration - Technical
Experience as Cloud
Service Provider and
Quality Certification)
a) Bidder/ consortium member must be
Empaneled Cloud Service Provider by
DEITY (Department of Electronics and
Information Technology) for Public
cloud, Virtual Private Cloud and
Community Government Cloud
b) Bidder/ consortium member must have
at least 3 Data Centers in at least two
different seismic zones in India
c) Bidder/ consortium member should have
at least 5 different Internet Carrier
Terminating
d) Bidder/ consortium member should be
As the experience can be met by a cloud
service provider, kindly make this as a
separate Qualification Requirement for
“Cloud Service Provider” and the
bidder may be allowed to propose
“Cloud Service Provider” as Sub
Contractor who meets the Qualification
Requirement.
It is suggested that the following
Qualification Requirement can be
mentioned:
“Bidder/ Consortium member should
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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having the capability to provide Hybrid
Cloud services, i.e. a combination of
Bare Metal/ Private Cloud and Public
Cloud infrastructure from each
availability zone.
e) Cloud services should be supported with
committed performance driven storage
offering (Committed Storage on cloud)
f) Bidder/ consortium member should have
at least two (2) Work Orders from
Central Government/ State Government/
PSU /Semi- Government of India in the
last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards)
till the date of issuance of this RfP.
Bidder/ consortium member should have
the following Quality Certifications:
i. ISO/IEC 27001certified for Information Security with well-planned and structured escalation procedures
ii. Certified ISO/IEC 20000-1 for DC service quality and delivery
iii. Certified for minimum of Tier III level against TIA-942 specifications
iv. Must have Government Community Cloud running audited and successfully audited by STQC.
have experience of executing
AMI/AMR/RMS projects on Cloud/ On
premises DC, DR similar to that
proposed in RFP in Indian Power
Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7
years”
46. It is suggested that bidder’s credentials in
implementation of HES, MDM on cloud
should be verified while the cloud
services are procured from a sub-
contractor. As a cloud vendor is generally
not a System Integrator, please remove
this clause from QR for System Integrator
criteria.
47. Please confirm whether CSP should be MEITY Empanelled
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
48. The documents from clients may not be insisted upon as arranging documents for old projects would be difficult
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
49. Please consider at least 2 Data Centers (instead of 3) in at least two different seismic zones in India
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
50. Since the Telecom market has undergone consolidation (for e.g. Idea and Vodafone have merged), very few ISPs are left in the market. We request to please reduce the number of ISP from 5 to 4 different ISP
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
51. Please clarify whether the clause “Cloud services should be supported with committed performance driven storage offering (Committed Storage on cloud)” means committed IOPS
Understanding of bidder is
correct
52. Please remove the requirement of the
Quality Certifications mentioned in The provisions of the RfP
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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the RfP. shall prevail.
53. Please remove S.No. (b) to (f) and S.No. (iv)
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
54. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(D)(1)
(Qualifying Requirement-
QR For Meter Data
Management Provider -
Data Handling
Capability)
The Bidder/ consortium member should
have successfully implemented/ under
implementation and integrated with HES
for at-least 40,000 numbers of smart
meter/ AMI system with connect/
disconnect features with two-way
communication in a single project in any
Indian Power Distribution Utility in the last
7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the
date of issuance of this RfP.
Evaluation Document Required:
i. Contract/ Purchase Order (PO)/
Work Order (WO) indicating client
name, scope of work, period of work
etc.
ii. Certificate from the client on
successful implementation on and
operation of the project.
It may be appreciated that the core
functionalities of Meter Data Management
(MDM) are not Data Acquisition as the
same is handled by HES. All the meters
installed for high value consumers like
LTCT, HT and whole current meters also
have 15 minutes interval data. The
capabilities of MDM are to store and
process the meter data and not
communication which is handled by HES
etc.
Accordingly, the clause may be amended
as per the following:
“The Bidder/ consortium member should
have successfully implemented/ under
implementation and integrated with HES
for at-least 40,000 numbers of smart
meter/ AMI system/ LTCT/HTCT Meters
with connect/ disconnect features with
two-way communication in a single
project or cumulatively in any Indian
Power Distribution Utility in the last 7
years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the
date of issuance of this RfP.”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
55. The clause may be amended as per the
following:
“The Bidder/ consortium member should have successfully implemented/ under implementation and integrated with HES for at-least 40,000 numbers of smart
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meter/ AMI/ AMR system with connect/ disconnect features with two-way communication in a single project in any Indian Power Distribution Utility in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP.”
56. As MDM is the critical component of the project and the success of the entire project depends on its success, it is essential to ensure that MDM provided is having proven implementation experience on proposed product. Accordingly, the clause may be amended as per the following: “The Bidder/ consortium member should
have successfully implemented the
proposed MDM/ under implementation
and integrated with HES for at-least
40,000 numbers of smart meter/ AMI
system with connect/ disconnect features
with two-way communication in a single
project in any Indian Power Distribution
Utility in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13
onwards) till the date of issuance of this
RFP.”
57. As implementation of only limited projects of Smart Grid has taken place in India, requirement of 40000 number of meters may be reduced to 20000
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
58. Please make this as part of Qualifying Requirement of System Integrator and remove from Qualifying Requirement of MDM Provider
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
59. Following additional evaluation
Document may be sought:
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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In case the System Integrator is a Power Distribution Utility which is having an in house experience, self-certification from authorized signatory of the System Integrator shall be acceptable.
60. Please reduce the minimum quantity to 30,000 no. of meters. Markings under Tender Evaluations methodology should be changed accordingly.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
61. The Proposed MDM should have been
Integrated with minimum 3 different Head
End Systems / MDAS system and 2
different billing system in any Indian Power
Distribution Utility in the last 7 years (i.e.
FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of
issuance of this RfP
The clause may be amended as per the following: “The Proposed MDM should have been Integrated with minimum 2 3 different Head End Systems / MDAS system and 1 2 different billing system in any Indian Power Distribution Utility in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
62. a) The Bidder/ consortium member
should be an ISO
9001:2008 certified.
b) Bidder should have CMMI Level 3
(minimum) certification.
c) Bidder should have ISO 14001 and ISO 27001 certification
As ISO 14001 is an environmental certification which is relevant for manufacturing companies and not for IT product/services companies, please remove it. Instead ISO 20000 can be used as ISO 20000 checks for IT competency and ensures that MDM provider has strong support mechanism. Further, please consider CMMi Level 5. Accordingly, the clause may be amended as per the following: “ a) The Bidder/ consortium member
should be an ISO
9001:2008 certified.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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b) Bidder should have CMMI Level 5 3
(minimum) certification.
c) Bidder should have ISO 20000 ISO
14001 and ISO 27001 certification”
63. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(E)(a)
(Qualifying Requirement-
Financial Requirement)
Net Worth in best Three Financial Years
out of the last five years (i.e. FY 2014-15
onwards) should be positive. Net worth
shall be as defined under the Companies
Act, 2013
The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“Net Worth for the last three financial
years should be positive. Net worth
means sum total of the paid up capital
and free reserves (excluding reserves
created out of revaluation) reduced by
aggregate value of accumulated
losses (including debit balance in
profit and loss account for current
year) and intangible assets.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
64. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.1(E)(b)
(Qualifying Requirement-
Financial Requirement)
Minimum Average Annual Turnover
(MAAT) of the bidder (Average of best
Three Financial Years out of the Last Five
Financial Years i.e. FY 2014- 15 onwards)
should not be less than INR 100 Cr. MAAT
means annual total income as
incorporated in the profit & loss account
except non-recurring income e.g. sale of
fixed assets
The MAAT requirement may be INR 80
Cr as MAAT instead of 100 Cr
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
65. The MAAT requirement may be INR
150 Cr as MAAT instead of 100 Cr
66. The MAAT requirement may be INR
400 Cr as MAAT instead of 100 Cr
67. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.2.1
(Consortium Bids)
In case a bid is submitted by a consortium
of two or more firms (No. of members shall
not be more than 3) as consortium
members, the members of consortium
shall meet the following requirements:
a. All the members of the consortium shall
meet individually the financial
requirement criteria given at 4.3.1.D.1
(a) above.
It seems there is a typographical error in mentioning clause nos. 4.3.1.D.1 (a) and 4.3.1.D.1 (b) instead of 4.3.1.E.1 (a) and 4.3.1.E.1 (b). Please amend the clause.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
68. Please amend the clause as per the following: “In case a bid is submitted by a
consortium of two or more firms (No. of
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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b. The Lead Consortium Member shall
meet not less than 50% of the
minimum financial requirement criteria
given at clause no. 4.3.1.D.1 (b) above.
c. Each of the other Consortium
Member(s) individually shall meet not
less than 25% of the minimum financial
requirement criteria given at clause no.
4.3.1.D.1 (b) above.
members shall not be more than 3) as
consortium members, the members of
consortium shall meet the following
requirements:
a. All the members of the consortium
shall meet individually the financial
requirement criteria given at 4.3.1.E.1
(a) above.
b. The Lead Consortium Member shall
meet not less than 50% (in case of
MSE 20%) of the minimum financial
requirement criteria given at clause
no. 4.3.1.E.1 (b) above.
c. Each of the other Consortium
Member(s) individually shall meet not
less than 20% 25% of the minimum
financial requirement criteria given at
clause no. 4.3.1.E.1 (b) above.”
69. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.2.7
(Consortium Bids)
Each member of the consortium shall have
a registered office (under the Companies
Act 1956 with Registrar of Companies) and
operations in India
Please amend the clause as per the following: “Each member of the consortium shall have a registered office (under partnership firm / under the Companies Act 1956 with Registrar of Companies) and operations in India” Self-attested copies of Certificate of incorporation /Self attested copies of Partnership Deed should be accepted.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
70. Volume-I
Clause 4.3.2.9
(Consortium Bids)
Bidder/ member of consortium should not
be blacklisted/ barred by any Govt.
Organization or Regulatory Agencies or
Govt. Undertaking. Bidder should submit a
self- undertaking signed by its Authorized
Signatories for same as per format
This clause may be restricted to HPSEB only i.e. Bidder/Member of consortium should not be blacklisted/ debarred by HPSEB, as sometimes blacklisting is done on frivolous grounds without going into the merits of the case.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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prescribed in Annexure 3. It is important to mention that most of the States mention a condition in their RfPs that the bidder should not be blacklisted/ debarred from the Discoms/ associated Discoms of the State issuing the RfP.
71. Volume-I
Clause 4.7.8
(Compliance)
….. Bidders are free to list more than one
Subcontractor against each item of the
facilities except for core components of
AMI like RF Communication, MDM, HES,
Cloud.
Please allow multiple subcontractors for Cloud Service Provider Package
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
72. Volume-I
Clause 4.7.9
(Compliance)
PFCCL reserves the right to remove any
proposed subcontractor of the Bidder prior
to award of any work related to either the
Bidding or Project, or during the work,
without assigning any reason thereof
Please remove the clause The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
73. Volume-I
Clause 4.12.3 (Method of
Submission of Bid)
In addition to the electronic submission, the
Bidder shall also provide 1 no. of hard
copy/(ies) of the Technical Bid to PFCCL in
a sealed envelope before the Bid
Submission Deadline at PFC Consulting
Ltd. 9th Floor, A-Wing, Statesman House,
Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110 001
Please remove requirement of Hardcopy Submission.
The bidder is also required
to submit a Hard Copy of
the bid along with
submission of the same on
the e-bidding portal as
mentioned in the RfP.
74. Volume-I
Clause 4.9.3
(Clarifications)
Any such clarifications issued shall be sent
to all the Bidders to whom the RFP has
been issued
As per Clause B of Notice Inviting Tender, the RFP can be directly downloaded free of cost from www.pfcclindia.com and Tender fee can be submitted along with Bid document. However, Clause 4.9.3 (Page No. 36) states that PFCCL will issue RFP. Please clarify whether PFCCL will issue RFP document’s hard copy in advance.
The RfP has already been
issued by PFCCL and
uploaded on PFCC’s
website
www.pfcclindia.com and e-
bidding portal
www.mstcecommerce.com/
eprochome/pfccl.
75. Volume-I
The Financial Bid shall clearly indicate the
cost of all hardware, software, services,
Please clarify whether Bidder can quote for any one of the selected cities i.e.
The Bidders have to quote
for the entire quantity for
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Clause 4.15.2 (Financial
Bid)
operation, maintenance, recurring costs,
taxes, duties, levies, cess and all other
costs that contribute to the installation,
operation and maintenance of the
Project…..
either Shimla or Dharamsala or Partial quantity.
both the cities.
76. Volume-I
Clause 4.15.9 (Financial
Bid)
Reverse Auction: PFCCL reserves the
right to conduct the reverse auction (if
required) for the products/ services being
asked in the tender. The terms and
conditions for such reverse auction event
shall be as per the Acceptance Form
attached as Annexure - B of this document.
The bidders shall mandatorily submit a
duly signed copy of the Acceptance Form
along with the tender document as a token
of acceptance
Please remove the Reverse Auction Clause
The will be no reverse
auction.
77. Volume-I
Clause 5.1.2 (Overview
Bid Evaluation Process)
The Bid submitted by the Bidder shall
consist of a Technical Bid and a Financial
Bid. The Technical Bid shall be submitted
as a hard and soft copy to PFCCL, while
the Financial Bid shall only be submitted
electronically.
As this is e-tender, kindly confirm whether
the hard copy is also to be submitted.
The bidder is also required
to submit a Hard Copy of
the bid along with
submission of the same on
the e-bidding portal as
mentioned in the RfP.
78. Volume-I
Clause 5.1.4.1 (Overview
Bid Evaluation Process -
Second Stage-Technical
Evaluation for Project
Implementing
Consortium)
The Technical Bids of all Bidders
qualifying the Eligibility Criteria shall be
scored based on the criteria including but
not limited to volume, reliability and timely
delivery of similar work done, as outlined
in Clause 4.3.1. The bidders scoring more
than 70 marks out of 100 as described in
technical bid evaluation (Annexure A) shall
qualify for the next stage of evaluation
Please reduce the qualifying marks to
60
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
79. Please reduce the qualifying marks to
50
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
80. Volume-I
At the time the Contract is awarded, the
quantity indicated in the BoQ of the
Negative Quantity variation is not possible after execution of project. Please remove the word "Decrease"
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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Clause 5.9.2 (Award of
Contract)
Financial Bid shall not be modified.
However, PFCCL reserves the right to
increase or decrease the number of items
under this contract upto 1 year after
project implementation i.e. till completion
of first year of FMS period, subject to the
limit of 20% of the existing number of
items, covered under the Contract, without
any change in the unit prices or other
terms and conditions of the RFP and the
Bid
from this clause.
81. Volume-I
Clause 5.9.7 (Award of
Contract)
The successful Bidder shall provide an
undertaking that the key staff identified for
the project (as submitted in its Technical
Bid) shall be available for the respective
proposed work requirement, anytime
during the duration of the Project, till its
successful completion.
Please amend the clause as per the following: “The successful Bidder shall provide an
undertaking that the key staff identified
for the project (as submitted in its
Technical Bid) shall be available for the
respective proposed work requirement,
anytime during the duration of the
Project, till its successful completion. If
due to any circumstances the key staff
is not available for the project, a
similar experienced key staff will be
replaced with approval of PFCCL.”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
82. Volume-I
Clause 6.2.9 (General
Conditions of Contract -
Interpretation)
In the event of an inconsistency between
the terms of the RFP, Bid document and
the subsequent Contract, the terms of this
RFP hereof shall prevail
Please amend the clause as per the following: “In the event of an inconsistency between the terms of the RFP, Bid document and the subsequent Contract, the terms of Contract RFP shall prevail.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
83. Volume-I
Clause 6.16(h)
(HPSEB’s
Provide necessary support to Contractor,
as may be required, in relation to
(amongst others) access to HPSEB’s/
consumers premises, installation of AMI
We understand that PFCCL/ HPSEBL will arrange Consumer approvals and Power Supply arrangement (including Power consumption) to install and operate DCU/ Router (AMI
HPSEB would provide all
necessary support to the
Contractor in line with the
RfP.
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Responsibilities) infrastructure, repair and maintenance
services, signing of ownership and license
agreements with the HPSEB’s/ consumers
Infrastructure).
84. Volume-I
Clause 6.16(l) (HPSEB’s
Responsibilities)
Allow Contractor to use existing power and
water supply and necessary equipment
required for civil construction (if applicable)
We understand there is no Civil work in the scope of Bidder.
There is no civil work
involved in the scope of
Bidder. However, minor
Civil works associated with
the installation of the smart
meters such as pointing,
grouting, mortar touch-ups,
carpentry, etc., are to be
done by the Bidder, if
required.
85. Volume-I
Clause 6.18.6 (Terms of
Payment)
Payments shall be made promptly by
PFCCL, no later than fifty (50) days after
submission of an invoice or request for
payment by Lead Consortium Member,
and PFCCL has accepted it. No interest
shall be paid by PFCCL on delayed
payments
Please amend the clause as per the following: “Payments shall be made promptly by PFCCL, no later than fifty (50) thirty (30) days after submission of an invoice or request for payment by Lead Consortium Member, and PFCCL has accepted it. No interest shall be paid by PFCCL on delayed payments.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
86. Volume-I
Clause 6.19 (Payment
Schedule)
Payment Schedule There is no provision for quoting the
FMS charges during the Installation
and Commissioning period (first 24
months of Project) for the meters that
have been successfully installed and
commissioned.
The Milestone “2” can only be achieved
after successful commissioning of the all
the IT infrastructure and 5% of Smart
Meters and once the Cloud Infrastructure
is commissioned there would be recurring
charges for the IT infrastructure and FMS
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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charges for the metes installed, as these
need to be maintained until the project
achieves “Go Live”.
It is requested to consider and issue the
clarification/ amendment.
87. Please changes the lot size to 28 lots of 5000 smart meters instead of 14 lots of 10000 smart meters
88. The Payment terms are stringent. For healthy cash flow and timely completion of the Project, it is requested to keep the following payment terms: i. Advance Payment: 10% of total
value of contract including GST (Supply & Installation) as “Mobilization Advance” after signing the contract with PFCCL / HPSEBL.
ii. Supply Payment: Balance 90%
including GST against delivery of material in HPSEBL Stores.
iii. Installation & Commissioning
Payment: Balance 90% including GST on Prorata basis against Installation and Commissioning.
iv. FMS: 100% including GST on Monthly
basis against submission of bills.
89. It may be appreciated that manufacturers make advance payment to their suppliers and as per payment schedule of the RfP, it would have huge cost impact on project and will increase the bid price.
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Hence, the payment schedule may be modified as per the following to make the bid more competitive: “Supply: (a) 60% supply + 100% taxes against the supply of the material on pro-rata basis. (b) 30% of supply payment shall be released along with installation on pro-rata basis. (c) 10% payment on completion of installation and integration. Installation: (a) 90% of supply payment shall be released along with installation on pro-rata basis. (b) 10% payment on completion of installation and integration. Operation & Maintenance payment: FMS charges will be paid quarterly on pro rata basis against invoice and successful operation.”
90. Please modify the clause as per the following:
S.
No
Milestone Payment (%of
Contract Value
Excluding FMS
Charges)
1 Acceptance of Letter of Award (LoA), submission of Performance Security for project implementation as per clause 6.21.1.1, execution of Agreement between PFCCL and the Contractor and updation of PFC web portal regarding award details by PFCCL and approval of survey
2%
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reports of the entire project area.
2 Delivery, site installation and integration of first lot of 5% smart meters with related hardware, software and equipment and successful completion Field Installation and Integration Test (FIIT
20%
3 Delivery of smart meters along with related hardware, software and equipment at Project site after Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). This payment shall be released on pro-rata basis against successful delivery for each of the 14 lots of 10000 smart meters
48%
4 Against successful completion of Field Installation and Integration Test (FIIT) of each of the 14 lots of 10000 smart meters
10%
5 Installation, commissioning and integration of all AMI Hardware, Software, field material in Project Area and Site Acceptance test (SAT)
5%
6 3 months of Successful operation of AMI System as per SLA/ Guaranteed Performance Test (GPT) and operational acceptance.
5%
7 Completion of 7 years Facility Management Services (FMS) period
Yearly payments for FMS Period Year 1 to Year 7 (Total 10%) as per below: 2%,2%, 2%, 1%, 1%, 1% & 1%
Total 100%
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8 Charges towards FMS during FMS period of 7 years (to be initiated only after submission of Performance Security for FMS as per clause 6.21.1.2) (Total FMS charges for the period of 7 years should be minimum 20% of the Contract Value Excluding FMS Charges
On Quarterly basis on satisfactory completion of FMS.
91. Please modify the clause as per the following:
S.
No
Milestone Payment (%of
Contract Value
Excluding FMS
Charges)
1 Acceptance of Letter of Award (LoA), submission of Performance Security for project implementation as per clause 6.21.1.1, execution of Agreement between PFCCL and the Contractor and updation of PFC web portal regarding award details by PFCCL and approval of survey reports of the entire project area.
10% of contract value along with 100% GST
2 Delivery, site installation and integration of first lot of 5% smart meters with related hardware, software and equipment and successful completion Field Installation and Integration Test (FIIT).
50% of contract value along with 100% GST
3 Delivery of smart meters along with related hardware, software and equipment at Project site after Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). This payment shall be released on pro-rata basis considering delivery, site installation and integration of 14 lots of 10000 smart meters each with related
20% of contract value along with 100% GST
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hardware, software & equipment after successful completion Field Installation and Integration Test (FIIT) of each lot.
4 Installation, commissioning and integration of all AMI Hardware, Software, field material in Project Area and Site Acceptance test (SAT)
10% of contract value along with 100% GST
5 3 months of Successful operation of AMI System as per SLA/ Guaranteed Performance Test (GPT) and operational acceptance.
-
6 Completion of 1st year FMS
2.5% every quarter along with 100% GST or PFCCL can pay 10% of retention value on submission of 10% BG of Retention value valid thru 1 year
7 Completion of balance 6 years Facility Management Services (FMS) period
Total 100%
8 Charges towards FMS during FMS period of 7 years (to be initiated only after submission of Performance Security for FMS as per clause 6.21.1.2) (Total FMS charges for the period of 7 years should be minimum 20% of the Contract Value Excluding FMS Charges
On Quarterly basis on satisfactory completion of FMS.
In case delay occurs due to Utility issues, Site readiness, Local body issues, Weather conditions, Political changes, Public disturbances, Customer shall make upfront payment against milestone immediately. In case of delay in payment, Customer shall make interest bearing payment to contractor
92. Please modify the clause as per the
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following: S.
No
Milestone Payment (%of
Contract Value
Excluding FMS
Charges)
1 Acceptance of Letter of Award (LoA), submission of Performance Security for project implementation as per clause 6.21.1.1, execution of Agreement between PFCCL and the Contractor and updation of PFC web portal regarding award details by PFCCL and approval of survey reports of the entire project area.
10%
2 Delivery, site installation and integration of first lot of 5% smart meters with related hardware, software and equipment and successful completion Field Installation and Integration Test (FIIT).
10%
3 Delivery of smart meters along with related hardware, software and equipment at Project site after Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). This payment shall be released on pro-rata basis considering delivery, site installation and integration of 14 lots of 10000 smart meters each with related hardware, software & equipment after successful completion Field Installation and Integration Test (FIIT) of each lot.
40%
4 Installation, commissioning and integration of all AMI Hardware, Software, field material in Project Area and Site Acceptance test (SAT)
10%
5 3 months of Successful 10%
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operation of AMI System as per SLA/ Guaranteed Performance Test (GPT) and operational acceptance.
6 Completion of 1st year FMS
10%
7 Completion of balance 6 years Facility Management Services (FMS) period
10%
Total 100%
8 Charges towards FMS during FMS period of 7 years (to be initiated only after submission of Performance Security for FMS as per clause 6.21.1.2) (Total FMS charges for the period of 7 years should be minimum 20% of the Contract Value Excluding FMS Charges
On Quarterly basis on satisfactory completion of FMS.
In case delay occurs due to Utility issues, Site readiness, Local body issues, Weather conditions, Political changes, Public disturbances, Customer shall make upfront payment against milestone immediately. In case of delay in payment, Customer shall make interest bearing payment to contractor
93. The clause may be amended as per the following: “Supply of Equipment
Sixty Percent (60%) against receipt of Materials including 100% taxes (as applicable)
Thirty Percent (30%) – Lot wise installation and one (1) month meter reading data with minimum 95% availability in MDMs.
Ten Percent (10%) – Completion of next three (3) continuous month with at least 98%-meter reading data availability in MDMS & acceptance
Supply of Application License
Hundred(100%) against supply of
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license of Software Application(HES, MDM, Mobile App and Web portal) along with grant of End User License for software applications
Implementation
Ninety Percent (90%) including 100% Taxes (as applicable) against installation and 95% data availability for one month.
Ten Percent (10%) against Completion of next three (3) continuous monthly billing cycle with at least 98%-meter reading data availability
Erection & Integration
Thirty percent (30%) - against setting up of Application environment consist of HES & MDM in cloud infra and application demonstration to utility.
Forty Percent (40%) – Meters installed under one feeder are connected to application environment and receipt of three (3) months meter reading data with at least 95% availability at MDMs
Twenty Percent (20%) – All smart Meters as per BOQ are installed, commissioned and connected to HES, MDM Application over and Integrated with Existing Applications.
Ten Percent (10%) – Completion of next three (3) continuous monthly billing cycle with at least
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98%-meter reading data availability & user acceptance to the satisfaction/ approval of the Employee”
94. Volume-I
Clause 6.20 (Taxes &
Duties)
For goods supplied from outside India,
Contractor shall be entirely responsible for
all taxes, duties ……. Income tax at
source will be deducted by PFCCL as per
the applicable law and regulation and TDS
certificate shall be issued to the
Successful Bidder by PFCCL
For the Goods supplied, the vendor has
to submit the Invoice for the Full Value of
Goods, whereas he will receive payments
as per the milestones specified over the
project period.
It is requested to make “Full GST”
payments against the respective
Invoices submitted for Goods
Supplied and the Goods Cost
(excluding GST) can be paid on
milestone basis as specified. As per
the current clauses in the RfP, it would
inflate the costs and affect Cash Flow
and compliances.
In the tender issued by Jammu &
Kashmir Power Development
Department, the same has been
considered.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
95. General It is requested to confirm the applicability
of BOCW cess for this project.
If it is applicable, please clarify whether it
is 1% or 2% of Contract Value (including
GST). Accordingly, please make the
provision in price schedule to quote the
same.
Taxes & Duties would be as
per clause 6.20 of the RfP
96. Volume-I
Clause 6.21.1.1
Within fourteen (14) days of the
notification of Contract award, provide a
Performance Security for project
The validity of this BG should only be upto six months from the date of Operational Acceptance as the one
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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(Performance Security) implementation in the form of an
irrevocable Bank Guarantee valid up to a
period of six months after one (1) year
from the date of Operational Acceptance
of the project, or extended thereafter…..
year after that is already been covered in FMS period and would unnecessary increase the financial burden on the Bid.
97. Volume-I
Clause 6.21.1.2
(Performance Security)
Also submit a separate Performance
Security for FMS in form of an irrevocable
Bank Guarantee with value of 10%
Contract Value excluding FMS Cost plus
10% of FMS cost, valid for period of 6
months from date of completion of seven
year FMS or extended thereafter…...
The period of 7 years is too long. Accordingly, it is requested that Performance security may be accepted on yearly renewal basis.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
98. Please amend the clause as per the following: “Also submit a separate Performance Security for FMS in form of an irrevocable Bank Guarantee with value of 10% Contract Value excluding FMS Cost plus 10% of FMS cost, valid for period of 6 months from date of completion of seven year FMS or extended thereafter…...”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
99. Volume-I
Clause 6.28.1
(Insurance)
The Goods supplied under the Contract
shall be fully insured by the Contractor, in
INR, against loss or damage incidental to
manufacture or acquisition, transportation,
storage, and delivery, in the manner
specified in the RFP
We understand that once the material is delivered in HPSEB’s Stores, HPSEB’s standard Insurance Polices shall be applicable. It is requested to accept the same and amend the clause as once meters are installed in Consumer Premises, the Contractor does not have any control on the installed material.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
100. Volume-I
Clause 6.30.2
(Inspection and Tests)
The inspections and tests may be
conducted on the premises of the
Contractor, at point of delivery, and/or at
the final destination of the Goods, or in
another place in India as per the
requirement. Subject to Clause 6.30.3, if
conducted on the premises of the
Please note that Inspection and tests will be conducted at the Smart Meter factory only. Testing at site or outside premises is not possible. Accordingly, please remove this requirement.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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Contractor or its Subcontractor, all
reasonable facilities and assistance,
including access to drawings and
production data, shall be furnished to the
inspectors at no charge to PFCCL/
HPSEB
101. Volume-I
Clause 6.31.1
(Liquidated Damages
and Penalty)
…if the Contractor fails to deliver any or all
of the Goods or perform the Related
Services within the period specified in the
Contract, PFCCL shall without prejudice to
all its other remedies under the Contract,
deduct from the Contract Price, as
liquidated damages, a sum equivalent to
0.5% of the value of the Goods or Related
Services of contract value for each week
or part thereof of delay until actual delivery
or performance, subject to a maximum of
10% of contract value, cumulatively for
entire sum of Liquidated Damages across
entire contract
In case of delay, LD shall be applicable only on undelivered/ delayed portion instead of on whole Contract Value. It is requested to amend the clause accordingly.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
102. It should be ensured that bidder will be obliged to pay LD only for his delay in work. Any delay caused due to PFCCL/ HPSEB shall not hamper the bidder. In case there is delay in project completion due to reasons not attributable to the contractor (eg. Delay in drawing approval, documentation, Site fronts availability, regulatory and statutory approvals, Certifications etc.), then the project completion date will be extended suitably without levy of liquidated damages/ penalties and additional cost incurred by the contractor on account of such delays shall be paid by PFCCL.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
103. Volume-I
Clause 6.32 (Warranty)
General As per this clause, warranty shall remain valid for 5 years after operational acceptance of the AMI system and for balance 2 years contractor to provide AMC. However, as per clause 9.3 of Volume 2, the period of maintenance support shall be seven (7) years from Operational Acceptance by PFCCL/ HPSEB. The period of maintenance support shall
The period of maintenance support shall include
Five years of Warranty (Defect Liability) period commencing from the date of Operational Acceptance; and
Annual Maintenance Support for two years
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include five years Warranty (Defect Liability) period commencing from Operational Acceptance and Seven (7) years thereafter. Please confirm that for the last two years, no product warranty is required and any defect in the product will be addressed on additional cost
thereafter at no extra cost.
104. Volume-I
Clause 6.40
(Termination)
General In the event of early termination, there is no mention of Early Termination Payments. Please consider the same.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
105. New Clause to be added Termination of contract by Contractor: Contractor shall be entitle to terminate the contract for below mentioned reasons, a. If Contractor does not receive the
reasonable response within 42 days after giving notice.
b. If Owner is unable to provide site front as per agreed schedule
c. If Owner is unable to make the payment within the agreed time period
d. If the Owner substantially fails to perform his obligation under the contract
e. If the prolonged suspension affects the whole of the work.
f. o If the Owner become bankrupt or insolvent goes into liquidation has a receiving or administration order made against him. Compounds with his creditors or carries on business under a receiver trustee or manager for the benefit of his creditors or if any act is done or event occurs which has a similar effect to any of these acts or events."
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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106. Volume-I
Clause 6.40.3(a)
(Termination for
Convenience)
PFCCL, by Notice of 30 (thirty) days sent
to Contractor, may terminate the Contract,
in whole or in part, at any time for its
convenience. The Notice of termination
shall specify that termination is for
PFCCL’s convenience, the extent to which
performance of the Contractor under the
Contract is terminated, and the date upon
which such termination becomes effective
As any contract is a Legal agreement between the Purchaser and Vendor, termination cannot be done as per convenience of the Purchaser.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
107. Volume-I
Clause 6.40.4
(Consequences of
Termination)
Upon Termination of the Contract, the
Contractor shall:
a. Prepare and present a detailed exit
plan within five (5) calendar days of
termination notice receipt to the CEO,
PFCCL (“Exit Plan”).
b. CEO, PFCCL and along with
designated team will review the Exit
plan. If approved, Contractor shall
start working on the same
immediately. If the plan is rejected,
Contractor shall prepare alternate
plan within two (2) calendar days. If
the second plan is also rejected,
PFCCL will provide a plan for
Contractor and it should be adhered
by in totality…………………………
The clause may be amended as per the following: “Upon Termination of the Contract, the
Contractor shall:
a. Prepare and present a detailed exit
plan within five (5) Ten (10)
calendar days of termination notice
receipt to the CEO, PFCCL (“Exit
Plan”).
b. CEO, PFCCL and along with
designated team will review the Exit
plan. If approved, Contractor shall
start working on the same
immediately. If the plan is rejected,
Contractor shall prepare alternate
plan within two (2) seven (7)
calendar days. If the second plan is
also rejected, PFCCL will provide a
plan for Contractor and it should be
adhered by in totality………..”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
108. Volume-I
Annexure A (Tender
Evaluation Methodology)
General Please clarify whether credentials of sub-
contractor can be used as the same is
allowed for QR criteria.
The understanding of the
Bidder is correct
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109. Volume-I
Annexure A (Tender
Evaluation Methodology)
S.
No Description Qualifying Criteria
Max
Score
1 Manpower
Experience
Strength of the team
proposed for
undertaking the
assignment including
the qualification,
experience and time
proposed on field as
well as on support &
maintenance
20
2 Meter
Manufacturing
Experience
The Bidder/
consortium member
have
1. Manufactured
and supplied
minimum 40,000
nos. of Meters for
AMI (cumulative)
with required
hardware,
software and
other associated
accessories etc.
in Indian Power
Distribution
Utility(s) in the
last 7 years (i.e.
FY 2012-13
onwards) till the
date of issuance
of this RfP
Or
2. Manufactured and supplied minimum 10,000 nos. of Pre-paid Meters with cellular/ RF communication with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. in Indian Power Distribution
15
A bidder who might clear the minimum
Qualifying Requirement as specified in
the Clause 4.3.1 of the RfP, will not be
able to score the minimum marks. It is
requested to kindly amend the Tender
Evaluation Methodology.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail. 110.
111. Please amend the clause as per the
following: S.
No Description Qualifying Criteria
Max
Score
1 Manpower
Experience
Strength of the team proposed for undertaking the assignment including the qualification, experience and time proposed on field as well as on support & maintenance
20
2 Meter
Manufacturi
ng
Experience
The Lead Bidder Bidder/ consortium member have 1. Manufactured and supplied minimum 40,000 nos. of Meters for AMI (cumulative) as per IS16444 with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP Or 2. Manufactured and supplied minimum 10,000 nos. of Pre-paid Meters with cellular/ RF
15
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP
3 Experience in
Integration
with MDM
The Bidder/
consortium member
must have
experience of
integration of HES
with MDM on
standard interfaces
and data exchange
models (CIM/XML)
for at least 40,000
consumers
(cumulatively) in
Indian Power
Distribution Utility(s)
in the last 7 years
(i.e. FY 2012-13
onwards) till the date
of issuance of this
RfP.
10
4 Experience as
Cloud Service
Provider
Bidder/ consortium
member should have
at least two (2) work
orders from Central
Government / State
Government/ PSU
/Semi- Government
of India in last 7
years (i.e. FY 2012-
13 onwards)
10
5 Experience in
Communicatio
n
The Bidder/
consortium member
should have
implemented
project(s) with at
least 40,000
(cumulatively)
communication
module/ endpoints
(manufacturing,
supply, installation,
10
communication with required hardware, software and other associated accessories etc. in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP
3 Experience
in
Integration
with MDM
The Lead Bidder Bidder/ consortium must have experience of integration of HES with MDM on standard interfaces and data exchange models (CIM/XML) for at least 40,000 consumers (cumulatively) in Indian Power Distribution Utility(s) in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP.
10
4 Experience
as Cloud
Service
Provider
Bidder/ consortium The Lead Bidder should have an experience of Implementing atleast one AMI Project with Indian utility on Cloud Service successfully in last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards)
10
5 Experience
in
Communica
tion
The Lead Bidder Bidder/ consortium member should have implemented project(s) with at least 40,000 Smart Meter (cumulatively) communication module/ endpoints (manufacturing, supply, installation, integration, maintenance & management) involving Radio
10
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integration,
maintenance &
management)
involving Radio
Frequency (RF)
mesh in Licensed
frequency band as
permitted by WPC or
in Unlicensed
frequency band in
India in the last 7
years (i.e. FY 2012-
13 onwards) till the
date of issuance of
this RfP.
6 Experience as
Meter Data
Management
(MDM)
Provider
The Bidder/
consortium member
should have
successfully
implemented/ under
implementation and
integrated with HES
for at-least 40,000
numbers of smart
meter/ AMI system
with connect/
disconnect features
with two-way
communication in a
single project in any
Indian Power
Distribution Utility in
the last 7 years (i.e.
FY 2012-13 onwards)
till the date of
issuance of this RfP.
10
7 Approach &
Methodology
Bidder to submit a
brief on Approach &
Methodology for
executing the Project
10
8 Financial
Criteria
Minimum Average
Annual Turnover
(MAAT) of the bidder
(Average of best
Three Financial
Years out of the Last
15
Frequency (RF) mesh in Licensed frequency band as permitted by WPC or in Unlicensed frequency band in India in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP.
6 Experience
as Meter
Data
Managemen
t (MDM)
Provider
The Lead Bidder Bidder/ consortium member should have successfully implemented/ under implementation and integrated with HES for at-least 40,000 numbers of smart meter/ AMI system with connect/ disconnect features with two-way communication in a single project in any Indian Power Distribution Utility in the last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-13 onwards) till the date of issuance of this RfP.
10
7 Approach &
Methodolog
y
The Lead Bidder to submit a brief on Approach & Methodology for executing the Project
10
8 Financial
Criteria
Minimum Average Annual Turnover (MAAT) of the Lead bidder (Average of best Three Financial Years out of the Last Five Financial Years i.e. FY 2014- 15 onwards) should not be less than INR 150 Cr
15
Total 100
112. Marking criteria for Cloud Service
Provider should be deleted and another
marking criteria should be added for
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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Five Financial Years
i.e. FY 2014- 15
onwards) should not
be less than INR 100
Cr
Total 100
Meter Manufacturer as per the following: S.
No Description Qualifying Criteria
Max
Score
1 Meter
Manufacturing
Experience
The Bidder must
have a IS16444
Certificate for at least
one (1) type of meter
that is to be supplied
before submission of
bid
10
113. Volume-I
Annexure A(A.2) (Tender
Evaluation Methodology -
Meter Manufacturing
Experience - Pre-Paid/ AMI
Experience)
Requirement Criteria Score
Bidder/ consortium
member must have
manufactured and
supplied minimum 10,000
nos. of Pre-paid Meters
with cellular/ RF
communication with
required hardware,
software and other
associated accessories
etc. in Indian Power
Distribution Utility(s) in the
last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-
13 onwards) till the date of
issuance of this RfP
>=40,000 15
>=20,000 and <40,000
10
>=10,000 and <20,000
5
The requirement of 40,000 Pre-Paid
Meter is big. It is requested to amend the
clause as per the following: Requirement Criteria Score
Bidder/ consortium
member must have
manufactured and
supplied minimum 10,000
nos. of Pre-paid Meters
with cellular/ RF
communication with
required hardware,
software and other
associated accessories
etc. in Indian Power
Distribution Utility(s) in the
last 7 years (i.e. FY 2012-
13 onwards) till the date of
issuance of this RfP
>=10,000 15
>=7,000 and <10,000 10
>=5,000 and <7,000
5
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
114. Volume-I
Annexure C (Format of
Deviation Sheet)
Deleted Since the tender is for Turnkey Project, it is requested to allow & accept Bid with few minor technical deviations if any and provide Technical Deviation Annexure Sheet to fill and submit the same along with the Bid.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
115. Volume-I
Annexure D (Use Cases
for Demonstration of
Interoperability
Solutions)
…… All use cases shall be tested for each
meter make
As the Bidder needs to showcase demo setup from meter to MDM and end to end integration needs lots of efforts & cost, please amend the clause as per the following: “All use cases shall be tested for atleast two make of Indian Meter each meter
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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make”.
116. Volume-I
Annexure D(S.No.1)
(Use Cases for
Demonstration of
Interoperability Solutions
- Read Demand &
Energy Data
Automatically from
Customer Premises)
……..At scheduled freq meter sends data
to HES (thru DCU/ACP). Consumption
details will be 15 min block data, and data
could be incremental to what was sent by
meter in preceding instance
At scheduled freq meter sends billing data
to HES (thru DCU/ACP).
As ACP is not part of the RFP, please amend as per the following: “Read Demand & Energy Data Automatically from Customer Premises: ……At scheduled freq meter sends data to HES (thru DCU/ACP). Consumption details will be 15 min block data, and data could be incremental to what was sent by meter in preceding instance. At scheduled freq meter sends billing data to HES (thru DCU/ACP).”
“ACP” may be read as
“Access Points”
117. Volume-I
Annexure D(S.No.3)
(Use Cases for
Demonstration of
Interoperability Solutions
- Utility detects
tampering or theft at
customer site)
….. HES sends disconnect command to
meter (thru DCU/ACP)……
As ACP is not part of the RFP, please amend as per the following: “…..HES sends disconnect command to meter (thru DCU/ACP)……”
“ACP” may be read as
“Access Points”
118. Volume-I
Annexure D(S.No.10) (Use Cases for Demonstration of Interoperability Solutions – Time Synchronization)
Sync up of meters / DCUs/ master data
and Network Hierarchy in case of
installation of new meters / DCUs
We understand that this functionality is for addition of new meters/ DCU into the AMI communication hierarchy with time synchronisation in place. Accordingly, please amend as per the following: “Sync up time for of meters / DCUs/ master data and Network Hierarchy in case of installation of new meters / DCUs”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
119. Volume-I
Annexure E (Project
Implementation
Schedule)
General Please mention Execution Period and
FMS period categorically as the same
is not mentioned presently.
The Project has to be
implemented within 24
months.
The FMS period for a
particular lot of meters
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would commence from the
date of Operational
Acceptance of that lot and
would continue for a period
of 84 months from that
date.
120. FMS Period – 7 Years from Operational
Acceptance
The maximum project time line should be
2 years for implementation and 5 years
for warranty cum FMS because guaranty/
warranty and life cycle of imported
components in smart meters are provided
only for 5 years. None of the suppliers
provide any support beyond this period.
In addition, technology transition takes
place at every 5 years.
Accordingly, the project time line
should be 2 + 5 years i.e. total 7 years.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
121. Volume-I
Annexure 10 (Format of
Bill of Quantities)
SNo Item
Description
Unit Quantity
Shimla Dharamsala
1. Single Phase
Whole current
Smart Meter
10-60 A with
Box
Nos. 112934 31844
2. Three Phase
whole current
Smart Meter
10-60 A with
Box
Nos. 1383 390
As per this clause, the rating of Single Phase Whole current Smart Meter with Box would be 10-60 A. However, as per Volume II (Technical Specifications), the Single Phase Smart Meter Current Rating is 5-30Amp / 10-60Amp. The standard Current Ratings in India for Single Phase Smart Meter is 5-30 A. Further, here it has been mentioned that the rating of Three Phase Whole current Smart Meter with Box would be 10-60 A. However, as per Volume II (Technical
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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Specifications), the Three Phase Smart Meter Current Rating is 10-60 A/ 20-100 A. Further, in Annexure 17 of RfP, it has been mentioned as 10-40 A. The standard Current Ratings in India for Three Phase Smart Meter is 10-60 A. Hence, it is requested to clarify the actual
Current Rating of Single Phase &
Three Phase Smart Meters and their
split up quantity (if any).
122. Bidder may be allowed to quote for
any type of smart meter.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
123. Volume-I
Annexure 17 (Price Bid
Format)
Supply and FMS price schedule of Shimla
and Dharamshala
Please provide a single BOQ for Software, Cloud DC and Control Centre as License would be common for entire scope of project. The Supply and FMS should be common for Common Data Centre, Software License and Control Centre. Only Field Equipment can be distinguished.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
124. The Price for IT Infrastructure over cloud & Connectivity for applications has been requested for Shimla and Dharamsala separately. Please confirm if we need to propose different cloud environment for Shimla and Dharamsala. If single cloud environment is required, please amend the price schedule in supply and FMS accordingly.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
125. In Price schedule, application (HES, MDM & Mobile APP & web portal) License + Implementation + System Integration+ Advisory services cost has been sought for Shimla and Dharamsala separately. Please confirm if different
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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logical instances are to be created for Shimla and Dharamsala in different cloud environment. If not required, kindly amend the price schedule in supply and FMS accordingly.
126. S.No. 7 of the Price Schedule (Supply Schedule) has many items from different vendors which will get commenced and commissioned at different stages of supply and implementation Hence, it is request to segregate the line items as 1. Head End System (HES) licenses (1
Lumpsum) 2. Meter Data management System and
Android &/ IOS Mobile App and web portal (1 Lumpsum)
3. IT Infrastructure over cloud & Connectivity
4. System Implementation and Advisory Services
The above changes are mandatory for billing perspective because S.No. 1 to 2 are supply items and will be supplied from different vendors. Further, S.No. 4 is services item and cannot be clubbed along with the Supply item.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
127. We understand that training is to be provided 2 times a year during first 3 years for HPSEB and PFCCL. In Price Schedule, price for training has been sought for Shimla and Dharamsala differently. Please confirm if we need to provide training 2 times a year for Shimla and Dharamsala separately.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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128. We understand that Advisory service is not a separate scope of work and is part of hand holding work. Bidder shall not consider any separate cost of Advisory services. Please clarify
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
129. There is an error in formula of column "N" where "Addition" is required in place of "Multiplication".
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
130. General Performance Security, Liquidated Damages and Penalty
Please amend the respective clauses with “Ex-work” instead of “contract value” as the tax part goes to Government & it will impose additional burden on the financial bid.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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Clarifications with respect to RfP (Volume – II)
S.No Reference Clause Existing Provision Queries raised by Bidders Reply/Clarification
131. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(i) (Scope of
Work)
Single phase whole current Smart Meter
(with/without net-metering) with Pre-paid
configuration and with suitable
communication technology (Smart Meters
proposed shall be able to work in pre-paid
as well as post-paid configuration as per
the HPSEB’s Needs. There should not be
restriction in case HPSEB wants to use
some Smart Meters in Pre-Paid and some
in Post-Paid mode)
As the configuration of Pre-paid
functionality would be available on the
HES, please amend the clause
accordingly.
The Pre-paid functionality
is to be provided on HES/
MDM.
132. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(iii) (Scope
of Work)
CT operated three phase Smart Meter
(with/without net-metering) with Pre-paid
configuration and with suitable
communication technology (Smart Meters
proposed shall be able to work in pre-paid
as well as post-paid configuration as per
the HPSEB’s Needs. There should not be
restriction in case HPSEB wants to use
some Smart Meters in Pre-Paid and some
in Post-Paid mode)
CT Operated smart meters do not
support pre-payment configuration by
design. So please amend the clause
suitably.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
133. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(iv) (Scope
of Work)
RF canopy or GPRS based
communication………..
We understand that the RF requirement
is for “RF Canopy” and for some
points where RF might not be possible
then the bidder can install GPRS
based Smart Meters. Kindly clarify if our
understanding is correct.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
134. As per RfP, wherever RF is not feasible
GPRS based communication shall be
established. Please consider only one
technology either RF or GPRS. So
please remove the clause “wherever
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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RF is not feasible GPRS based
communication shall be established”
135. As per RfP, the Contractor has to assess
and maintain buffer so that in case of new
installation, smart meters are installed by
the Contractor without any delay. In this
regard, please indicate quantity to be
kept as buffer for immediate
installation.
The bidder has to ascertain
the requirement of buffer
on its own
136. Please confirm that the data regarding
boundary of Sub-Divisions for
conducting the site survey would be
provided to the contractor on project
initiation.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
137. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(v) (Scope
of Work)
Integration of Network Integration Card
(NIC)/ Communication Module with meters
of at least 3 manufacturers in India, to
enable the respective meters to
seamlessly integrate with proposed HES
and MDMS thus enabling interoperability
of the system. In future, it would be
bidders’ responsibility to integrate new
meter or any other application/ equipment
as decided by HPSEB.
We understand that the RFP is for smart meters and any new meters to be integrated will be complying to IS 16444 and IS 15959. Please confirm. Please provide clarity on the new
application/ equipment which need to be
integrated
Any new meters to be
integrated will be complying
to latest version of IS 16444
and IS 15959.
Bidder would have to
facilitate HPSEB in
integration of future
technologies/ new
application/ equipment by
providing whatever data
required by HPSEB at that
time.
138. In case of NIC module being integral part of the meter, its integration with any other make of meters may not be possible. Scope of the bidder shall be limited to the quantities and necessary services defined in this tender.
Communication module
has to be modular and plug
& play type for all meter
types
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Accordingly, remove this clause
139. We understand that the bidder would be responsible to integrate with the 3rd party meters which are already declared integrated by the bidder. Any other meter manufacturer apart from the one mentioned by the bidder if introduced by HPSEB shall be done on mutual agreeable terms and conditions and additional cost. Please confirm.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
140. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(viii) (Scope
of Work)
Integration of HES with MDMS & MDMS
with existing applications of HPSEB……
Please provide details of the existing
applications of HPSEB.
The integration requirement
would include integration
with
i. R-APDRP modules like
MDM, Energy Audit etc.
ii. ISU-Billing like CRM,
Billing, Consumer
Portal etc.
iii. Integration with
Payment Gateway
Service Provider and
ISU-Billing for prepaid
functionality.
141. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(viii) (Scope
of Work)
IT System - Design, procure, supply,
installation, testing, Cyber Security,
commission and operation & maintenance
of complete IT System. IT Infrastructure
shall be on cloud to host the HES, MDM
and Web Applications. Security of data
hosted on cloud shall also be the
responsibility of the Contractor. System
Security and access with due
consideration of data privacy,
confidentiality cyber security guidelines
Please confirm hosting that needs to be proposed on GCC, VPC, Public cloud
Hosting of both DC and DR
should be on GCC
142. Please define the Cyber Security Type and authorized lab if any.
The same would be as per
MEITY Guidelines
143. Volume-II Mobile app (Android and iOS based) for We understand that Mobile App is The understanding of the
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Clause 1.4.1(xi) (Scope
of Work)
consumers required for iOS & Android and not for
Windows platform
bidder is correct.
144. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(xviii)
(Scope of Work)
Develop an overall AMI Architecture
capable of upgrades and scaling out as
per future requirements
We understand from Annexure G that
only HES and MDM shall be developed
keeping in mind 20% expansion in the
no of nodes in future. Also the additional
end points that shall come in project area
will only be considered to be integrated in
system in future
The bidder has to develop
the overall AMI architecture
in such a manner that it
meets the scaling up
requirements of HPSEB in
future to the extent
mentioned in the RfP.
145. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(xxi) (Scope
of Work)
Baseline Study and formulation of DPR We presume that this is not part of the scope of this RFP. Please remove this clause
Baseline Study and
formulation of DPR is in the
scope of RfP.
146. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(xxv)(c)
(Scope of Work)
Business Process Re-engineering:
Contractor shall do an in depth study of
commercial processes of HPSEB to form
an understanding of “As-Is” processes
being carried out. Based on this
understanding a gap analysis shall be
done with respect to requirements post
deployment of new AMI systems &
necessary recommendations for making
suitable changes in processes shall be
made to HPSEB
We presume that this is not part of the scope of this RFP. Please confirm
The same is in the scope of
RfP.
147. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(xxv)(d)
(Scope of Work)
Integration Services: Smooth operations
of AMI and usage of full functionalities
offered by AMI shall require its integration
with many existing systems as well as
planned future technology deployments.
The Contractor shall assist HPSEB
engineers in identification of use cases for
integration of AMI with other systems. The
Please confirm whether for all integrations with legacy or any other third party applications, the integration points required from these applications shall be established by the respective application owners.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
Bidder would have to
facilitate HPSEB in
integration of future
technologies/ new
application/ equipment by
providing whatever data
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Contractor will integrate AMI system with
existing application/systems of HPSEB as
per HPSEB’s requirement and also
facilitate for integration of AMI system with
future system/applications of HPSEB
required by HPSEB at that
time.
148. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(xxvii)
(Scope of Work)
The Contractor shall establish the Back-
End IT system with scalability features to
handle all HPSEB consumers i.e.
consumers of HPSEB in entire State of
H.P. for next 15 years.
We understand that cloud services shall
provide flexibility to handle all future AMI
consumers of HPSEB for next 15 years.
However, the cost of cloud and
associated services for additional
quantities beyond this tender shall be
borne by HPSEB. Please clarify.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct. As per
clause 1.4.1 (viii), IT
Infrastructure shall be on
cloud to host the HES, MDM
and Web Applications
149. Please amend the clause as per the
following:
“The Contractor shall handle the project
till its contract period and train HPSEB
employees to independently handle
the system for upcoming years
establish the Back-End IT system with
scalability features to handle all
HPSEB consumers i.e. consumers of
HPSEB in entire State of H.P. for next
15 years.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
150. Please confirm the projected growth for sizing to be factored.
As per clause 1.4.1 (viii), IT
Infrastructure shall be on
cloud to host the HES, MDM
and Web Applications to
provide flexibility to handle
all future AMI consumers of
HPSEB for next 15 years
151. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.1(xxviii)
Smart Meters proposed should have the
provision of Pre-paid mode ….. Integration
for pre-payment recharge coupon with
Please clarify that system based
Prepayment is to be provided through
MDM. There will be no prepayment
The Pre-paid functionality
is to be provided on HES/
MDM.
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(Scope of Work) existing billing application of HPSEB intelligence in the smart meter as all
calculations shall be done by prepayment
module at the system level. Coupon
insertion can be availed via Mobile
application. All transaction by the
consumer will be done via electronic
media.
It is requested to accept the pre-paid
metering facilities IS 16444 / IS 15959
Standard.
152. Volume-II
Clause 1.4.3 (Scope of
Work)
….The Contractor shall also bear the cost
of recurring charges for GPRS/3G/4G,
static ISP connection and any license fee
for operating RF in licensed frequency
band till completion of maintenance period
Please modify the clause as per the
following:
“….The Contractor shall also bear the
cost of recurring charges for
GPRS/3G/4G, static ISP connection
and any license fee for operating RF in
licensed frequency band till completion of
maintenance period. For GPRS/3G/4G
and static ISP connection, tripartite
agreement will be signed between
HPSEB, the contractor and the service
provider wherein the contractor shall
facilitate the services for HPSEB, and
HPSEB shall directly pay the charges
to the service provider.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
153. Volume-II
Clause 2.2.1 (Access to
Utility Facilities)
PFCCL to facilitate through HPSEB
management, safe and reasonable access
to utility premises for contractor’s
personnel and third party vendors. This
facilitation shall include, space for data
centers, working space including air
conditioning, light, ventilation, electric
power and outlets. The contractor’s
For storage of meters, DCU, IT
hardware and their accessories, we
understand HPSEB shall provide
proper and secured storage facility
during the implementation period and
storage of spares and accessories
during O&M period.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
Utility shall provide the
storage space, however,
the safety and security of
the stored items shall be
the responsibility of the
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Page 51 of 84
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personnel shall comply with all applicable
rules, regulations and requirements
relating to visitors on the premises of
HPSEB
bidder
154. Volume-II
Clause 2.4.1.21
(Contractor’s
Responsibilities and
Obligations)
To provide storing, maintenance of storing
area and security including full
responsibility for protection from theft and
fire for all the items to be supplied. The
warehouse may be a temporary storage
area to be constructed by contractor.
Space for material storage would be
provided by HPSEB at no extra cost for
storing the supplied equipment in
respective areas where project work is in
progress
We understand that utility shall provide
storage facility in its premise and the
Contractor shall deploy its manpower for
storing, maintenance & security.
155. Volume-II
Clause 2.4.1.26
(Contractor’s
Responsibilities and
Obligations)
To provide full backup of all installed
software applications and data
Please confirm backup that needs to be provisioned at DR site.
Please refer Clause 3.8.8
and 3.8.10 of RfP (Vol-II)
156. Volume-II
Clause 2.4.1.27
(Contractor’s
Responsibilities and
Obligations)
To test restoration of the system from the
backup provided
-
157. Volume-II
Clause 2.4, 2.5 and 2.6
(Contractor’s
Responsibilities and
Obligations, Exclusion
If any Cable/ Service cable is required,
the same to be in scope of consumer
only.
Any Cable/ Service cable
required for the project
would be provided by
HPSEB. 158. We understand that cable will be
provided & installed by HPSEB for all
kind of connections (new connection/
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from Contractor’s Scope,
Employer/ Utility’s
Responsibilities and
Obligations)
replacement) under the Routine
cabling work.
159. Volume-II
Clause 3.1.2 (AMI
Functional Requirement)
The main objective of AMI is to enable two
way communication between smart energy
meter and Head End System (HES) to
enable remote reading, monitoring &
control of electrical energy meters
(consumer, feeder, DT meters etc.) to
serve as repository of record for all raw,
validated and edited data. The sanitized
data may be subscribed by other utility
function for higher order analysis and
billing and collection engine etc.
Please amend the clause as per the
following:
“The main objective of AMI is to enable
two way communication between smart
energy meter and Head End System
(HES) to enable remote reading,
monitoring & control of electrical energy
meters (consumer, feeder, DT meters
etc.) to serve as repository of record for
all raw, validated and edited data. The
sanitized data may be subscribed by
other utility function for higher order
analysis and billing and collection engine
etc.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
160. Volume-II
Clause 3.1.3.(ix) (AMI
Functional Requirement)
Import of legacy data from existing
modules/ MDAS of RAPDRP wherever
possible. The extent and modalities of
integration with the existing system
including RAPDRP has to be worked out
by the bidder
We understand that the bidder shall
integrate with the existing MDAS of
RAPDRP over interface which is capable
of CIM/Multispeak/xtract. Please clarify
if the bidder is required to migrate all
the legacy data from existing module
to cloud as it will lead to additional
cost and size of the cloud
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
161. Volume-II
Clause 3.1.3.(xii) (AMI
Functional Requirement)
The System will accurately maintain
system time synchronization across all
devices to ensure accuracy of data. The
system should support the interfacing with
the future Smart Grid functionalities like
peak load management, outage
management system, distribution
We understand that time synchronization
shall be done though NTP server at
system level so as to ensure accuracy of
data throughout the system.
We also understand that the utility shall
ensure that future smart grid
functionalities like peak load
The clause is self-
explanatory. The bidder has
to design a system that will
accurately maintain system
time synchronization
across all devices to ensure
accuracy of data.
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automation including self-healing system,
GIS, distribution transformer monitoring
units, Electric vehicle, distributed energy
resources etc
management, outage management
system, distribution automation including
self-healing system, GIS, distribution
transformer monitoring units, Electric
vehicle, distributed energy resources etc
will be integrated with system at
additional cost and time
Further, the bidder needs to
build in a system that
would support the future
Smart Grid functionalities.
Bidder would have to
facilitate HPSEB in
integration of future
technologies/ new
application/ equipment by
providing whatever data
required by HPSEB at that
time
162. Please amend the clause as per the
following:
“The System will accurately maintain
system time synchronization across all
devices to ensure accuracy of data. The
system should support upon
upgradation as part of future projects ,
the interfacing with the future Smart
Grid functionalities like peak load
management, outage management
system, distribution automation
including self- healing system, GIS,
distribution transformer monitoring
units, Electric vehicle, distributed
energy resources etc.”
163. Volume-II
Clause 3.1.3(xiii) (AMI
Functional Requirement)
Communication network shall preferably
be able to support multiple applications
Please provide the details of Applications The Bidder needs to
ascertain the applications
that would be required and
submit the bid accordingly.
164. Volume-II
Clause 3.2.1 (General
AMI System
Requirement)
Smart Meter (Single phase whole current,
Three phase whole current, CT & PT
operated three phase meters and CT
operated three phase meters) …... Smart
meter, router/ access points/ DCU, MDM,
HES and other operational/requisite
software as part of fully functional AMI
CT & PT Operated Three Phase Meter
specification is not provided in this
document. Please provide the same
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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system
165. Volume-II
Clause 3.2.2 (General
AMI System
Requirement)
Contractor shall adhere with appropriate
security algorithm for encryption &
decryption. For smooth functioning of
entire system, it is essential that the
details of such algorithm including the
mechanism of security key generation be
kept in a secured escrow account which
shall be used by the utility only in case of
termination of the contract for reasons
whatsoever
Security Algorithm and Encryption should be driven by standards as applicable and manufacture specific driven logic should be discouraged. Please amend the clause as per the following: “Contractor shall adhere with appropriate standards based security algorithm for encryption & decryption. For smooth functioning of operations it should be hardware based key storage and not manufacture specific algorithm entire system, it is essential that the details of such algorithm including the mechanism of security key generation be kept in a secured escrow account which shall be used by the utility only in case of termination of the contract for reasons whatsoever.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
166. Volume-II
Clause 3.3.4.1.1 (Type
tests and test
certificates)
Single phase and three phase whole
current Smart meter shall be type tested
for all the type tests as per IS: 16444
(latest version) and three phase CT
operated Smart Meter shall be type tested
for all the type tests as per IS: 16444 Part-
2 (latest version) in a government
approved laboratory. The number of
sampling for testing of meters and criteria
for conformity would be as per IS 16444
and IS 16444 Part-2. The supplier shall
have to submit all type test certificates
along with the bid.
As IS:16444 Standard is quite recent, there are not many Meter variants which are type tested as per IS: 16444. It is requested to allow Bidders to submit Single Phase & Three Phase Smart Whole Current Meter Type Test Reports along with the Bid and to submit the Type Test Reports of other variant meters before the commencement of Supply in line with your specifications clause No. 3.3 of Volume II
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
167. Bidder may be allowed to submit all type test certificates before supply of meters.
As clarified above
168. Volume-II Type test should not be older than 3 years. The Bidder should be allowed to submit As clarified above
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Clause 3.3.4.1.2 (Type
tests and test
certificates)
Without above type test certificate the offer
shall not be considered. Employer
reserves right to select randomly one
meter from offered lots for inspection for
its type test and if meter during type test is
found failed then either the order placed
shall be cancelled with Contractor to
collect all meters at its cost for the
supplied meters or Contractor shall have
to replace all supplied meters at their cost
after manufactured and successful type
test within time frame given by the
Employer.
its bid with a valid copy of BIS Certificate (IS-16444) of at least one type of whole current smart meter required in the RfP & self-declaration undertaking for submission of BIS Certificate for the offered Product as per IS 16444 before delivery of Smart Meter failing which Performance Security shall be forfeited. Without above BIS Certificate, the offer shall not be considered.
169. Volume-II
Clause 3.3.5(c) (General
and Constructional
Requirements for
Meters)
In Home Display (IHD) shall be optional
and the specifications of the same would
be as per agreement between the bidder
and the utility
We understand that IHD is not required as Mobile app shall be provided to consumers
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
170. Volume-II
Clause 3.3.5.9.1 (Meter
Box)
The Meter Box would be provided as per
latest standards and requirement of
HPSEB
Please clarify whether supply of Meter Box is in the Bid’s Scope. Since Technical Specification of the Box have not been provided, in case if Boxes are required then please provide the detailed Technical Specification of:
1. Single Smart Meter Box 2. Three Phase Meter Box 3. LT CT Operated Meter Box. 4. CT Ratio & its Technical
Specification
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
171. Volume-II
Clause 3.4(g)(xi)
(Communication
The equipment shall be weatherproof,
dustproof and constructed for outdoor
installation on poles (minimum rating: IP-
55). A suitable mounting provision shall be
We understand that DCU is usually mounted in external environment and needs to be protected with corresponding grade of environmental protection. Hence minimum rating of IP65 is required.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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Infrastructure) made for the equipment
172. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.2.1(g) (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
Network)
New Clause proposed Downstream Message and Application Authentication: Application white labelling and digital signatures should be employed to ensure that only approved applications can run within network equipment. All downstream commands should be signed using standards-based approaches based on the utility private key. Endpoints should enforce signature validation before acting on any command to prevent rogue commands or man-in-the-middle vulnerabilities.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
173. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.2.1(h) (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
Network)
New Clause proposed The network should employ encryption key segmentations at the individual and group levels, with a minimum of AES 256-bit encryption keys. Certified Root of Trust: The solution should support a root of trust where the private key is vaulted (hardware based). This vault should be FIPS validated to ensure strong protection of keys.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
174. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.2.1(i) (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
Network)
New Clause proposed Secure Key Storage and Lifecycle Management: Secure storage of device-specific keys should be protected via encryption to protect key storage at rest and during system use. Device-specific keys and network-specific keys should be configurable and support mature key rolling and lifecycle management processes
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
175. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.3.1 (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
The Data Concentrator Unit is a gateway
for communication of data between the
Smart Meters and the HES. The Data
Concentrator Unit receives information
from the Smart Meter on a scheduled/
As per AMI standards, data storage shall not reside anywhere in the communication network and will merely act as communication channel to pass on the data from meter to HES.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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Network) need basis and stores the data, which can
be accessed by HES for onward transfer
to MDM.
The DCU provides the central link
between Smart Meters and HES, enabling
continuous/periodic meter read and
control. DCU shall exchange data from
smart meters on RF / PLC communication
and with HES on WAN.
Please amend the clause as per the following: “The Data Concentrator Unit is a gateway for communication of data between the Smart Meters and the HES. The Data Concentrator Unit receives supports information from the Smart Meter on a scheduled / need basis and stores the data, which can be accessed by, to HES for onward transfer to MDM.”
176. We understand DCU shall exchange data from smart meter on RF and with HES on WAN. PLC Is not required in this tender.
177. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.3.1.1 (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
Network - Hardware &
Power Supply of DCU)
Enclosure/box of DCU shall be
minimum IP55 or better compliant. A
suitable mounting arrangement
required for DCU installation shall also
be provided.
A suitable and optimum power supply
shall be provided keeping in view that
even in case of outage in one or two
phases, DCU can be powered. DCU
should be capable of withstanding
surges & voltage spikes of 6KV as per
IEC 61000-4-5 standards. Power
supply shall be terminated on suitable
sized MCB to facilitate isolation during
on-site maintenance.
DCU shall have battery with backup for
5 hour for normal meter reading, to
push tamper event, carry out on
demand reading and the network
health status/ connectivity continuity &
check. DCU should have the suitable
We understand that DCU is usually mounted in external environment and needs to be protected with corresponding grade of environmental protection. Hence minimum rating of IP65 is required
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
178. DCU should have battery with backup for 8 hour
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feature to send power outage and
restoration message to the HES. The
battery shall have a guaranteed life of 5
years…..
179. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.3.1.2 (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
Network - Configuration,
Functionality & Interface
of DCU)
DCU shall have following configuration
functionalities:
It shall be able to configure the
communication with underlying nodes/
meters.
It shall pull data from the field devices
and push the data at configured
intervals to the HES. It should also
support the HES in pulling data from the
field devises/meters. The data
acquisition (Push/Pull) frequency shall
be programmable. DCU shall be
capable to prioritize control commands.
DCU shall ensure a secure
communication to HES and shall have
internal memory for storing interval data
for at least 5 days.
DCU shall support on demand read and
ping of individual/group of meters.
It shall support IPv4 and IPv6 network
addressing.
DCU shall push events like tamper,
power off etc. to HES immediately on
occurrence/receipt from field
devices/meters.
The equipment shall be weatherproof,
dustproof and constructed for outdoor
installation on poles (minimum rating:
IP-55). A suitable mounting provision
Please amend the clause as per the following: “It pull data shall support data transportation from the field devices and push the data at configured intervals to the HES as part of push data mechanism. It should also support the HES in pulling data from the field devises/meters. The data acquisition (Push/Pull) frequency shall be programmable. DCU shall be capable to prioritize data.”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
180. Security Standards Applicable for AMI does not allow data to be stored in DCU. Data shall be stored in Meter as per ISI5959 part 2 and 3. Please clarify.
There is no restriction as
per standard
181. Please amend the clause as per the following: “The equipment shall be weatherproof, dustproof and constructed for outdoor installation on poles (minimum rating: IP-55 65). A suitable mounting provision shall be made for the equipment.”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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shall be made for the equipment.
Enclosure: Provision for security sealing
shall be provided and in case the
gasket of the cover is used for
protection against moisture, dust and
insects, the gasket shall be made of
weather and aging resistant material.
The list of standards followed in all the
devices/equipment used in
communication network shall be
furnished
182. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.3.2.1(j) (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
Network - Router based
RF Mesh Network -
General Requirement of
Router based RF Mesh
Network)
The equipment shall be weatherproof,
dustproof and constructed for outdoor
installation on poles (minimum rating: IP-
55). A suitable mounting provision shall be
made for the equipment
Please amend the clause as per the following: “The equipment shall be weatherproof, dustproof and constructed for outdoor installation on poles (minimum rating: IP-55 65). A suitable mounting provision shall be made for the equipment”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
183. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.3.2.1(m)
(Data Concentrator Unit
(DCU) based
Communication Network
- Router based RF Mesh
Network - General
Requirement of Router
based RF Mesh
Network)
Routers / Access Points shall have
suitable power supply arrangements.
Provision of battery backup for at least 5
hour shall be there to continue operation in
case of power supply failure. The life
expectancy of battery shall be 5 years or
more
Please amend the clause as per the following: “Routers / Access Points shall have suitable power supply arrangements. Provision of battery backup for at least 5 8 hour shall be there to continue operation in case of power supply failure. The life expectancy of battery shall be 5 years or more”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
184. Volume-II It shall periodically monitor meter reads/ DCU/ Access Point is a RF communication element and failed reads
Please refer Amendment
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Clause 3.4.3.2.2.1(f)
(Data Concentrator Unit
(DCU) based
Communication Network
- Router based RF Mesh
Network - Configuration,
Functionality & Interface)
downstream commands and shall retry
and reconnect in case of failed events/
reads
and events are managed by HES as all the data packets are encrypted at any time in the RF communication network. Please amend the clause as per the following: “It shall periodically monitor communication network downstream and shall retry and reconnect in case of communication failure to any node in the network meter reads/ downstream commands and shall retry and reconnect in case of failed events/ reads”
No. 2 to RfP.
185. Volume-II
Clause 3.4.3.2.3 (Data
Concentrator Unit (DCU)
based Communication
Network - Router based
RF Mesh Network -
Testing of the DCU
/Access Point)
…….
(f) Resistance to heat and fire….
Specific Test for the Equipment is not available for such equipment therefore it is requested to delete or make self-declaration acceptable
Suggestion accepted as no
standard is mentioned
186. ….The bidder shall provide IP-55
compliance test certificate for DCU/Access
Point.
Please amend the clause as per the following: “…..The bidder shall provide IP-55 65 compliance test certificate for DCU/Access Point.”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
187. Volume-II
Clause 3.5(d) (Head End
System (HES))
… HES shall support storage of raw meter
data, alarms and alerts for minimum 3
days….
HES should store data for at least 45 days so that if there is any failure in MDM, the data from HES can be recovered for last 45 days. Please amend the clause accordingly.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
188. Volume-II
Clause 3.5(e)(xii) (Head
End System (HES))
Network information in case more than
one technology is deployed in field
between the two devices
HES can support network information of other technology only if the technology provider shares the network information Please confirm that the technology provider will provide all network information.
Suggestion accepted.
189. Volume-II
HES shall export all meter data (as per IS
15959) to MDM via CIM/XML. In addition,
Please keep the technology open for integration of HES with MDM. Even in
The export of all data would
be as per Clause 6.2 of
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Clause 3.5(e)(xiii) (Head
End System (HES))
it should conform to IEC 61968-9 as well
as MultiSpeak v3.0 standards to interface
with pre-existing MDM solution. In case,
Discom has implemented any SOA/ ESB
architecture, the data exchange to and
from HES shall be through this ESB
RFP's released by other utilities the integration preference has been kept open as per CEA Guidelines. HES shall be Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) enabled with well documented standard interfaces to support integration through web-services/ APIs to exchange data with upstream systems like MDMs. HES shall exchange all meter data (as per IS 15959) to MDM complying CIM/XML/JSON*/ IEC61968 or any other open standard. The Integration approach shall follow the general principles outlined in IEC 61968-9/ MultiSpeak v3.0 standards for Interface architecture with pre-existing MDM solution. In case, utility has implemented any SOA/ ESB architecture, the data exchange to and from HES shall be through this ESB. *More recent technology than XML is JavaScript Object Notation (JSON). Support for JSON is now found in many modeling and integration tools. JSON is widely used for CIM based information exchanges. JSON is currently defined by IETF RFC 7159
CEA’s “Functional
Requirements of Advanced
Metering Infrastructure
(AMI) In India” which states
the following:
“HES shall preferably
interface with MDM on
standard interfaces and the
data exchange models and
interfaces shall comply with
CIM / XML / IEC 61968 or
any other open standard.
The solution shall be
Service Oriented
Architecture (SOA)
enabled.”
190. Volume-II
Clause 3.5.4 (Head End
System (HES) -
Integration)
HES shall export all meter data (as per IS
15959) to MDM via CIM/XML. In addition,
it should conform to IEC 61968-9 as well
as MultiSpeak v3.0 standards to interface
with pre-existing MDM solution. In case,
utility has implemented any SOA/ ESB
architecture, the data exchange to and
from HES shall be through this ESB
191. Volume-II
Clause 3.5.1.1(c) (Head
End System (HES) -
Configuration)
HES shall facilitate programming of
following meter parameters:…….
Setting of parameters for time of day
(TOD/ TOU) billing
TOD Recording Parameters cannot be changed, however, TOD Timings can be reprogrammed. Please consider the same
The same would be as
defined for meter in IS16444
192. Volume-II
Clause 3.5.1.1(p) (Head
End System (HES) -
HES shall facilitate programming of
following meter parameters:…….
Setting threshold limits for monitored
parameters
Please provide the list of Parameters for which threshold limit is to be set.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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Configuration)
193. Volume-II
Clause 3.5.1.1(q) (Head
End System (HES) -
Configuration)
HES shall facilitate programming of
following meter parameters:…….
Provision for adding more programming
features in future (The bidder may suggest
more parameters as per the requirement)
Please provide the list of features which you may add in future
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
194. Volume-II
Clause 3.5.3.2.2 (Head
End System (HES) -
Monitoring and Reporting
Capability - Non Critical
Reporting)
…… HES shall have feature to send
email/SMS notification of configured
alarms & events to selected users.
Interface of highly secure data from multiple point to multiple application may cause security concerns. It is recommended that only one interface for HES i.e. MDMS should be allowed and rest of the integration should be through MDMS. The clause may be amended as per the
following:
"…..HES shall send all notification to
MDM and MDM should have feature to
send email/SMS notification of configured
alarms & events to selected users.”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
195. Volume-II
Clause 3.6.5.1
(Customer Service
Support)
The MDM Shall allow configuring multiple
TOU/TOD options (e.g. the number and
duration of TOU rate periods) by customer
type, tariffs and day type (weekend,
weekdays, and holidays) and by season
We understand that this requirement is applicable only if Meter is in Prepaid Functionality.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
196. Volume-II
Clause 3.6.5.5
(Customer Service
Support)
MDM shall have the ability to properly
account for special metering situations
such as check metering, sub metering,
prepaid metering and net metering when
calculating billing determinants and
sending them to billing and other systems
Please delete the requirement of check Metering and Sub Metering or elaborate the requirements clearly.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
197. Volume-II
Clause 3.6.8.3
(Customer Service
MDM shall support the web portal or shall
have the ability to interface with the 3rd
party portal/ utility portal to provide the
consumer near real time online views of
Please confirm whether the portal for providing consumer related data can be an extension of MDM or the bidder needs to provide a separate web application.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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Support) both usage and cost and helping
consumers to understand electricity usage
and cost information, alerts and
notifications and energy savings tips with
different levels of detail. The portal should
support the view for past electricity usage,
last week’s, yesterday’s, current days or
other period etc. as per selection. The
portal should provide user friendly access
to consumer for their data via colorful
graphs and charts and can download the
data into a spreadsheet.
198. Volume-II
Clause 3.6.14.3
(Integration with other
Systems)
MDM integration with other systems shall include but not be limited to the following: b. Utility Administration……..
Please elaborate the requirement. The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
199. Volume-II
Clause 3.8 (Cloud
Service Provider (CSP)
Requirements)
General IT Infra for hosting HES and MDM for both Shimla and Dharamsala locations should be on same cloud
Suggestion accepted
200. Please specify whether IT infra on cloud is to be hosted on public cloud or Government Community Cloud (GCC)
Hosting of both DC and DR
should be on GCC along
with latest generation of
servers 2.4 Ghz and above
201. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.3(e) (Cloud
Network Requirement)
CSP should ensure that Internet vNIC card is having minimum 1 Gbps network connectivity and service NIC card is on 10 Gbps for better internal communication
Please elaborate the requirement of vNIC in Cloud
The same to be as per
MEITY Guidelines
202. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.3(g) (Cloud
Network Requirement)
Must ensure that public IP address of cloud VMs remains same even if cloud VM gets migrated to another data center due to any incident
Since the Internet subnets are different at all Datacenters (multiple DC of same CSP or Multiple DC of Multiple CSP), it is technically impossible to keep the public IP same during the VM movement. Please clarify
Clause Deleted
203. Volume-II
CSP must ensure that public IP address of cloud VMs remains same even if cloud VM
Clause Deleted
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Clause 3.8.3(h) (Cloud
Network Requirement)
network is being served from multiple CSP datacenters.
204. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.5(c) (Cloud
Storage Service
Requirements)
CSP should clearly differentiate its storage offering based on IOPS. There should be standards IOPS offering per GB and high-performance disk offering for OLTP kind of workload. CSP should delivery minimum 8000 IOPS per TB for OLTP load. The IOPS for
The clause may be amended as per the following: “CSP should clearly differentiate its storage offering based on IOPS. There should be standards IOPS offering per GB and high-performance disk offering for OLTP kind of workload. CSP should delivery minimum 3000 8000 IOPS per TB for OLTP load. The IOPS for”
CSP should delivery
minimum 3000 IOPS per TB
for OLTP load.
However IOPS should be
sufficient to cater to the
performance requirement of
the project during its entire
life cycle.
205. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.7(a) (Data
Management)
CSP should clearly define policies to handle data in transit and at rest.
Please share the details of the policies.
The same to be as per
MEITY Guidelines
206. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.8(b) (Disaster
Recovery Management)
RPO should be less than or equal to 2 hours and RTO shall be less than or equal to 12 hours
As per this clause, the required RPO is 2 Hours. However, as Clause 4.4.16 (Service Level Agreements), the required RPO is 4 Hours. Please clarify
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP (SLA Part).
RPO and RTO shall strictly
be as per MEITY Guidelines
207. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.8(e) (Disaster
Recovery Management)
In the event of a site failover or switchover, DR site will take over the active role, and all requests should be routed through that site. The pre-requisite to route request to DR should be articulated properly and shared by CSP
Please confirm whether HPSEB is looking for Active or Passive DR.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
208. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.8(f) (Disaster
Recovery Management)
Whenever there is failover from primary to secondary, compute environment for the application at DR site shall be equivalent to DC
Please confirm about the security
component redundancy at DR site that
needs to be considered.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
209. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.8(i) (Disaster
Recovery Management)
The CSP shall clearly define the procedure for announcing DR based on the proposed DR solution. The CSP shall also clearly specify the situations in which disaster shall be announced along with the
Please confirm the number of mock DR Drill required in a year in order to check business continuity.
The number of mock DR
Drill required in a year
would be at least 2
210. Announcing the DR cannot be a sole The same shall be as per
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implications of disaster and the time frame required for migrating to DR. The CSP shall plan all the activities to be carried out during the Disaster Drill and issue a notice to the Department at least two weeks before such drill
responsibility of CSP. It should be a joint responsibility of Bidder/ consortium member and Customer. A Disaster Recovery Committee/ Panel must be formed including members from all stakeholders to decide and announce the DR.
the DR Implementation Plan
to be finalised post Award
of Contract
211. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.11(c) (Web
Application Firewall as
Service)
CSP WAF should be able to perform packet inspection on every request covering all 7 layers
As WAF works on 7th layer of OSI, please amend the clause as per the following: "CSP WAF should be able to perform packet inspection on 7 7th (Application layer of OSI) layers.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP
212. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.12(i)
(Database support
service)
Configuration, installation & maintenance of Automatic Storage Management (ASM), capacity planning/sizing estimation of the Database setup have to be taken care by the vendor.
As ASM is a part of Oracle database, please remove this clause.
The same shall be as per
provisioned database
requirements
213. Volume-II
Clause 3.8.13 (Cyber
Security)
General As per RFP, required security components are Firewall, IPS/IDS, Antivirus, SIEM, DDoS, HIPS, WAF. Please confirm whether the bidder needs to provide the above security devise as a cyber-security.
Please also confirm whether the security Firewall, IPS/ IDS, Antivirus, SIEM, DDoS, HIPS, and WAF can be proposed on software/ Virtual/ hardware instance.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
214. Volume-II
Clause 4.4 (Service
Level Agreements)
General Please amend as per Annexure-I Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
215. Availability of GPRS services is on
best-effort basis as none of the
network service providers (Airtel,
Vodafone Idea, etc.) commit to any
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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kind of SLA. Therefore, downtime
occurred because of non-availability
of network shall not be factored while
calculating SLA and no penalty should
be levied from the contractor because
of this issue.
216. Volume-II
Clause 4 (Service Level
Agreements - Scheduled
Interval data readings at
a fixed periodicity during
the day as decided by
utility)
Periodic collection of the 15/30 minute
interval load profile data after every
15/30/60/120 minutes
i. From 95% of meters within 5 minutes
ii. From 98% of meters before next
periodic packet is scheduled
The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“Periodic collection of the 15/30 minute
interval load profile data after every
15/30/60/120 minutes
i. From 95% 90% of meters within 5 10
minutes
ii. From 98% 95% of meters before next
periodic packet is scheduled”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
217. The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“Periodic collection of the 15/30 minute
interval load profile data after every
15/30/60/120 minutes
i. From 95% of meters within 5 60
minutes
ii. From 98% of meters before next
periodic packet is scheduled
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
218. Volume-II
Clause 4 (Service Level
Agreements - Remote
load control commands
for selected meters with
acknowledgement/
response for selected
meters)
The clause specifies SLAs for a group of
maximum of 5000 AMI meters
In all other Parameters in SLA like Ping Response and Remotely Read events, a group of 1000 meters are considered. Please amend these clauses as 1000 meters to maintain the consistency.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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219. Volume-II
Clause 4 (Service Level
Agreements - For remote
connect/disconnect with
acknowledgement/
response for selected
meters)
220. Volume-II
Clause 4 (Service Level
Agreements - Remotely
altering settings in meter/
firmware upgrade with
acknowledgement/
response for selected
meters)
For a group of 1000 AMI meters:
Action performed at 99% of meters
within 30 minutes; and
Action performed at 99.5% of meters
within 1 hour
Remote firmware upgrade depends on size of firmware image which varies with meter type, works on multicasting principle. HES always try to upgrade the firmware during low traffic of the day. Hence, for firmware upgrade, it is advisable to follow the CEA guidelines which is globally accepted and implemented across Indian Utilities. As per CEA guidelines the SLA is
Action performed at 99% of meters within 24 hours; and
Action performed at 99.9% of meters within 36 hours.
Please amend the clause accordingly
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
221. Volume-II
Clause 4 (Service Level
Agreements - AMI
Network (all hardware,
software, smart meters,
Cloud Infrastructure and
field equipment) Uptime)
99% on Monthly basis.
Penalty will be 1% of the FMS Charges
per month for every 1% or part there of
decrease in availability under 99%).
Penalty will be calculated separately for
Hardware and Software Availability. The
maximum deduction shall be limited to
FMS charges paid for that particular
period.
The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“Penalty will be 1% of the FMS Charges
of non-read Meters per month for every
1% or part there of decrease in
availability under 99% 95%). Penalty will
be calculated separately for Hardware
and Software Availability. The maximum
deduction shall be limited to FMS
charges paid for that particular period.”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
222. Volume-II
General Since bidder is supposed to quote
lumpsum charges for Training in price bid
Training would have to be
provided to the identified
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Clause 5.1 (Training
Requirements – General)
format, please give details about no. of
person attending the training, no of
days for each training etc.
personnel of PFCCL and
HPSEB on operation and
maintenance of AMI
Infrastructure (at least 2
times a year during first 3
years for 6 persons per
batch)
223. Volume-II
Clause 5.1.4 (Training
Requirements – General)
In addition two Engineer’s from utility and/
or PFCCL shall be stationed at the
contractor’s works during development/
customization of solution as per tender.
The deputed utility/ PFCCL engineers
shall be involved with the project till its
completion
We understand that the expenses of
those engineers like Lodging,
Boarding, travel etc. will be borne by
the customer.
The understanding of the
bidder is correct.
224. Volume-II
Clause 6 (System
Hardware Requirements)
System Hardware Requirements We understand that the requirements
are in generic for the control center
hardware that are to be deployed at
DISCOM and are generic guidelines for
the cloud infrastructure. Kindly clarify.
The System Hardware
Requirements shall be as
per MEITY guidelines for
cloud
225. We understand that this section was
prepared considering the entire IT
infrastructure to be at HPSEB
premises. However as IT hardware
setup will be hosted on cloud for
which specifications & requirements
are already mentioned in the tender
document, this section should be
removed from tender document.
226. Volume-II
Clause 6.2 (System
Hardware Requirements
- Hardware
General Please confirm whether the specification is for onsite.
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Configuration)
227. Volume-II
Clause 6.3.2 (System
Hardware Requirements
- Router)
General As infrastructure is proposed on Government community cloud and perimeter router cannot be configured as per specific client requirement, it has to be setup as per the standard data centre rule. Please confirm that the router will be in shared mode.
228. Volume-II
Clause 7.1.1 (System
Software Requirements -
Software Standards -
Design and Coding
Standards for AMI
Applications and Utilities)
General As standard products will be offered
as software solutions, these standards
will not be applicable.
Standard products offered
should meet the
requirements of the project.
The licenses for infra
should be genuine.
229. Volume-II
Clause 7.1.2(b) (System
Software Requirements -
Software Standards -
Applications)
Modularity: Software shall be modular i.e. functionally partitioned into discrete, scalable, reusable modules consisting of isolated self-contained functional elements & designed for ease of change. The system shall make maximum use of common industry standards for interfaces
As standard products will be offered
as software solutions, these standards
will not be applicable.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
230. Volume-II
Clause 7.1.2(d) (System
Software Requirements -
Software Standards -
Applications)
Portability & Interoperability: The system shall be designed for hardware independence and operation in a network environment that facilitates interoperability and integration of third party applications. AMI applications should support multiple RDBMS systems including Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server and MySQL
The HES solution to be provided by us
supports only MySQL and MDM
solution supports only MS-SQL. These
are not interoperable with other
RDBMS. Kindly clarify whether this is
acceptable.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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231. Volume-II
Clause 7.1.3 (System
Software Requirements -
Software Standards -
Operating System)
The operating system of all the equipment
of AMI application system including
network equipment shall be latest version
released up to six months prior to FAT.
The operating system shall be hardened to
provide robust security. The operating
system and data file shall be placed in
different disk partitions…..
The operating system for running AMI
applications should be selected on the
basis of best compatibility with
application software, selected at the
time of bidding. However, the
contractor shall ensure all the
functionalities and efficiency as
expected by HPSEB/ PFCCL in this
tender.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
232. Volume-II
Clause 7.2.3 (System
Software Requirements -
Network Software -
Network Management
System (NMS))
….. The network management software
shall be based on the latest secured
version of Simple Network Management
Protocol ver. 3.0 (SNMPv3)….
Please delete ver. 3.0 (SNMPv3) The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
233. ……. Apart from real-time monitoring of
critical network devices, the above
information shall be collected and stored
at user configurable periodicities i.e. 5
minutes to 60 minutes. The Network
Management System (NMS) shall be
capable of storing the above data for a
period of one (1) year at an interval of 5
minutes….
The clause may be modified as per the
following:
“…. Apart from real-time monitoring of
critical network devices, it should also
be capable of supporting historical
data… the above information shall be
collected and stored at user
configurable periodicities i.e. 5
minutes to 60 minutes. The Network
Management System (NMS) shall be
capable of storing the above data for a
period of one (1) year at an interval of
5 minutes”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
234. …. In case more than one technology of
AMI (example PLC and RF between Smart
Meter & DCU) deployed in the field. It shall
maintain statistics on the performance and
availability of data being delivered per AMI
technology
Please delete as PLC would not be
applicable
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
235. Volume-II General
As standard products will be offered Please refer Amendment
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Clause 7.3.2 (System
Software Requirements -
Database –
Development Tools)
as software solutions, no development
tool is required & will not be supplied.
Please confirm.
No. 2 to RfP.
236. Volume-II
Clause 7.4 (System
Software Requirements -
Display Generation,
Management and
Integration (Display
Management and
Reporting))
The Contractor shall provide necessary
software tools preferably browser based
for the generation, management and
Integration of AMI application displays.
Displays shall be generated and edited
interactively using this display generation
software delivered with the system. All
displays, symbols, segments, and user
interaction fields shall be maintained in
libraries. The size of any library and the
number of libraries shall not be
constrained by software. The display
generator shall support the creation,
editing, and deletion of libraries, including
copying of elements within a library and
copying of similar elements across
libraries. Execution of the display
generator functions shall not interfere with
the on-line AMI application functions…..
Request to remove this entire clause
as the specifications are similar to
SCADA system and not required in
AMI package.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
237. Volume-II
Clause 9.13.2
(Maintenance - Payment
of FMS Charges)
Availability
of AMI
System per
Month
% Deduction
> 99% NIL
Less than
99%
Penalty will be 1% of the FMS
Charges per month for every 1% or
part there of decrease in availability
under 99%). Penalty will be calculated
separately for Hardware and Software
Please maintain SLA @ 97% below
which penalty should be applicable.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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Availability. The maximum deduction
shall be limited to FMS charges paid
for that particular period.
238. Volume-II
Annexure A (A2) (Whole
Current A.C. Single
Phase Two Wire Smart
Energy Meter Of
Accuracy Class 1.0 (with/
without net-metering) -
Communication)
………..In case of GPRS/3G/4G based
meter, the meter shall accommodate SIM
card of any service provider………..
It is requested to amend the clause as
per the following:
“In case of GPRS/3G/4G based meter or
NBIoT with fall back to GPRS, the
meter shall accommodate SIM card of
any service provider”
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
239. Volume-II
Annexure A (A3) (Whole
Current A.C. Single
Phase Two Wire Smart
Energy Meter Of
Accuracy Class 1.0 (with/
without net-metering) –
Other Specifications -
Current Rating)
5-30A / 10-60A We understand the current rating shall be
10-60 A as per BOQ
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP (BoQ Part).
240. Volume-II
Annexure A (A3) (Whole
Current A.C. Single
Phase Two Wire Smart
Energy Meter Of
Accuracy Class 1.0 (with/
without net-metering) –
Other Specifications -
Real Time Clock(RTC))
As per IS 16444/ IS 15884
The clock day/ date setting and
synchronization shall only be possible
through password/ Key code command
from one of the following:
From remote server through
suitable communication network.
Hand Held Unit (HHU) or Meter testing
work bench and this shall need
password enabling for meter;
The methodology for the
synchronization would be as per
In AMI, RTC is kept in sync by the
system. RTC updation through HHU
with the help of optical port is not
recommended due to security
concerns.
Hence, programming in AMI will be done
Over the air.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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requirement of Utility
241. Volume-II
Annexure A (A3) (Whole
Current A.C. Single
Phase Two Wire Smart
Energy Meter Of
Accuracy Class 1.0 (with/
without net-metering) –
Other Specifications -
Anti-Tamper Features)
….. Meter shall be tested for high voltage
discharge (Spark) up to 35 KV as per
CBIP 325.
We understand that Meter would be
tested as per the field condition. Please
define the testing method.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
242. Volume-II
Annexure B (B3) (Whole
Current A.C. Three
Phase Four Wire Smart
Energy Meter Of
Accuracy Class 1.0 (with/
without net-metering) –
Other Specifications -
Current Rating)
10-60 A / 20-100 A We understand the current rating shall
be 20-100A as the consumer
requirements are increasing every year
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP (BoQ Part).
243. We understand that 10-100A rating will
also be acceptable against 20-100A as it
provides extended range of energy
measurement
244. Volume-II
Annexure B (B3) (Whole
Current A.C. Three
Phase Four Wire Smart
Energy Meter Of
Accuracy Class 1.0 (with/
without net-metering) –
Other Specifications -
Real Time Clock(RTC))
As per IS 16444/ IS 15884
The clock day/ date setting and
synchronization shall only be possible
through password/ Key code command
from one of the following:
From remote server through
suitable communication network.
Hand Held Unit (HHU) or Meter testing
work bench and this shall need
password enabling for meter;
The methodology for the
synchronization would be as per
In AMI, RTC is kept in sync by the
system. RTC updation through HHU
with the help of optical port is not
recommended due to security
concerns.
Hence, programming in AMI will be done
Over the air. Please clarify.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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requirement of Utility
245. Volume-II
Annexure B (B3) (Whole
Current A.C. Three
Phase Four Wire Smart
Energy Meter Of
Accuracy Class 1.0 (with/
without net-metering) –
Other Specifications -
Data Display Facility
(Manual/ Automatic))
… Current month MD in kVAh… It seems there is a typographical error in mentioning 'kVAh' instead of 'kVA' for MD at different places in specifications. We request you to kindly amend the
clause
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
246. Volume-II
Annexure C (C1) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – General
Standards Applicable for
Meter
IS 15959 Part 1 & Part 2 with latest
amendments
For LTCT Operated Meters the applicable DMLS Standard is IS 15959 Part 3. You are requested to replace 'IS 15959 Part 2' with the prevailing DMLS 'IS 15959 Part 3 Standard'
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
247. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications – Time of
Use (In case of net-
meter both export &
Should support at least eight (8) Time of
day tariff registers with programmable
time zones and storage of billing
parameters (kW, kVA, kWh & kVAh)
As per IS 15959 Part 2 and 3, TOD
parameters are defined for import
energy and import demand only.
Please clarify.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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import parameters to be
measured))
248. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications -
Parameters With net-
metering)
Instantaneous parameters: As per category
C1 meters according to IS 15959: Part-3:
2017.
Billing parameters: As per category B
meters according to IS 15959: Part-3:
2017
Load survey / Interval data parameters:
As per category B meters according to IS
15959: Part-3: 2017. 35 (Power ON) days
data to be recorded with 15 minutes
integration period. The register shall
automatically rollover the data after 35
days based on first in first out (FIFO).
Instantaneous Voltage, Instantaneous
Current and Instantaneous Power Factor
have to read for every 15 minutes as
part of Interval data. The billing
parameters shall be retained in the meter
for 6 months and should automatically
rollover.
Category defined for LTCT smart
meters as per IS 15959 part 3 is D3 and
profiles parameters are defined in
standard for same.
Suggestion accepted
249. Category B’ is not applicable for Smart LT CT Operated Meters and not available in DLMS IS 15959 Part 3 Standard. This seems to be typographical error.
Please replace the 'Category B' with
'Category D3' in the specification.
250. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications - Power
Quality Information)
Logging of quality of supply events like
power on/off, over/under voltage, over
current ( 50 events)
Setting of Under/ Over Voltage and Over
current shall be configurable.
The Tamper Events shall be provided as per the Event Compartments defined in DMS IS 15959 Part 3 Standard. You are requested to accept the same.
The same would be as per
IS
251. The OBIS Codes are not available for Over Voltage, Under Voltage & Over Current Events in dlms IS 15959 Part 3 Standard. You are requested to provide the same
Suggestion accepted
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or accept the OBIS codes provided by us.
252. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications - Load
Survey/Interval Data)
…..Instantaneous Voltage, Instantaneous
Current and Instantaneous Power Factor
have to read for every 15 minutes as
part of Interval data.
Load survey is average value of
Interval period as per DLMS, so
average values for every 15 minutes
will be read. Please clarify
The same would be as per
IS
253. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three phase CT operated alternating current smart meter Of Accuracy Class 0.5S (with/ without net-metering) – Other Specifications - LED/ LCD Indicators)
LED indicator for pulse/kWh. LED/ LCD
indicator for tamper, disconnection, current
reversal (not for net-metering).
'Disconnection' is not applicable for LT CT Operated Smart Meter. You are requested to remove this
requirement from the specification.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
254. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications -
Tamper/Event recording)
As per IS 15959 Part-I. 200 events shall
be stored in local memory of meters
For Smart LT CT Operated Meters applicable standard is IS 15959 Part 3. This seems to be typographical error
and you are requested to replace 'IS
15959 Part 1' with 'IS 15959 Part 3'.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
255. Volume-II
Alarm for power on/ off (on restoration
of power), Under Voltage, Over Voltage,
As per IS 15959 part 2 and part 3,
diagnostic are not part of any event
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
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Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications - Alarm)
Over Current, malfunctioning of
diagnostic events shall be generated and
communicated to the HES immediately
profile
256. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications -
Measuring Elements)
Meter should have four measuring
elements - three in phases and one in
neutral path.
Please amend the clause as per the
following:
“Meter should have three measuring
element - one in each phase and also
shall have neutral sensing element for
detection and analysis purpose.”
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
257. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications - Anti-
Tamper features)
The meter shall continue recording
energy under any tamper condition and
would log the event and send alarm at
Head End System after detection of the
defined theft features as per IS 15959
Part 2.
Optional test as per requirement of utility:
The Meter shall be immune under external
magnetic influences as per CBIP 325.
Meter shall be tested for high voltage
discharge (Spark) up to 35 KV as per
CBIP 325.
For LT CT Operated Smart Meters the applicable dlms Standard is IS 15959 Part 3. You are requested to kindly replace IS
15959 Part 2 with IS 15959 Part 3.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
258. Volume-II
Annexure C (C3) (Three
The port for local communication and
baud rate shall be as per IS 15959. In
addition to this the meter will have a
We recommend only plug and play
modular design. Field replaceable
communication module will help the Utility
Communication module
has to be modular and plug
& play type for all meter
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phase CT operated
alternating current smart
meter Of Accuracy Class
0.5S (with/ without net-
metering) – Other
Specifications -
Communication)
provision for an Integral modular plug in
type OR built in type Communication
Module for NAN (Neighbourhood Area
Network) i.e. from Meter to router/ access
points/ data collector or directly for WAN
(Wide Area Network).
in field analysis and solutions. types
259. Volume-II
Annexure F (F2) (Data
Requirement Sheet -
Three Phase Whole
Current Smart Meter -
Data Display Facility
(Manual/ Automatic))
… Current month MD in kVAh… It has been mentioned 'kVAh' instead of 'kVA' for Maximum Demand at different places in specifications. This seems to be typographical error
and we request you to kindly amend
as KVA Maximum Demand (MD)
accordingly.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
260. Volume-II
Annexure F (F3) (Data
Requirement Sheet -
Three Phase CT
Operated Smart Meter -
Parameters With net-
metering))
Instantaneous parameters: As per
category C1 meters according to IS
15959: Part-3: 2017
Billing parameters: As per category B
meters according to IS 15959: Part-3:
2017.….
Category shall be D3 for Smart LT CT Operated Meter. This seems to be typographical error and you are requested to replace 'C1' with 'D3'.
Suggestion accepted
261. ‘Category B’ is not applicable for Smart LT CT Operated Meters and not available in IS 15959 Part 3. This seems to be typographical error and you are requested to replace 'Category B' with 'Category D3' in the specification.
262. Volume-II
Annexure F (F3) (Data
Requirement Sheet -
Three Phase CT
Operated Smart Meter -
Logging of quality of supply events like
power on/off, over/under voltage, over
current (50 events)….
Events shall be provided as per Event
Compartments defined in IS 15959
Part 3. Please clarify
The OBIS Codes are not available for Over Voltage, Under Voltage & Over Current Events in dlms IS 15959 Part 3
The events would be as per
IS.
However, the suggestion on
OBIS codes accepted
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Power Quality
Information)
Standards. You are requested to provide the same
OR accept the OBIS codes provided
by us.
263. Volume-II
Annexure F (F3) (Data
Requirement Sheet -
Three Phase CT
Operated Smart Meter -
LED/LCD Indicators)
LED indicator for pulse/kWh. LED/LCD
indicator for tamper, disconnection,
current reversal (not for net-metering).
The 'Disconnection' feature is not applicable for LT CT Operated Smart Meter. You are requested to remove this
requirement of Disconnection from the
LT CT Operated Meter Technical
Specification.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
264. Volume-II
Annexure F (F3) (Data
Requirement Sheet -
Three Phase CT
Operated Smart Meter -
Tamper/Event recording)
As per IS 15959 Part-I. 200 events shall
be stored in local memory of meters
For Smart LT CT Operated Meters applicable Standard is IS 15959 Part 3. This seems to be typographical error and you are requested to replace 'IS 15959 Part 1' with 'IS 15959 Part 3' and amend the clause.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
265. Volume-II
Annexure F (F3) (Data
Requirement Sheet -
Three Phase CT
Operated Smart Meter -
Tamper/Event recording)
The meter shall continue recording
energy under any tamper condition and
would log the event and send alarm at
Head End System after detection of the
defined theft features as per IS 15959
Part 2…
For LT CT Operated Smart Meters the applicable dlms Standard is IS 15959 Part 3. So, we request you to kindly replace IS
15959 Part 2 with IS 15959 Part 3 and
amend the clause.
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP.
266. Volume-II
Annexure F (F6) (Data
Requirement Sheet -
Data Concentrator Unit
(DCU) (If Applicable))
…… The DCU shall ensure the appropriate
backhaul for secure transfer of data to
HES either via GPRS 3G/4G or Fiber
Optic communication. In case of
GPRS/3G/4G backhaul, it shall support
SIM card with dynamic IP from any
service provider. It shall have Wide Area
Please amend the clause as per the
following:
“… The DCU shall ensure the appropriate
backhaul for secure transfer of data to
HES either via GPRS 3G/4G or Fiber
Optic communication. In case of
GPRS/3G/4G backhaul, it shall support
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP
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Network (WAN) connectivity to the HES
through suitable means
APN based SIM card with dynamic IP
from any service provider. It shall have
Wide Area Network (WAN) connectivity to
the HES through suitable means.”
267. ….. DCU shall be able to communicate
with meters either on RF mesh
(Unlicensed or Licensed frequency band
as permitted by WPC) or PLC
Please remove PLC as the same is not
applicable
Please refer Amendment
No. 2 to RfP
268. Volume-II
Annexure G (G1)
(System Sizing
Requirement – Sizing
Parameter)
…. The system shall be suitably sized
based on data to be captured from
1,35,000 nodes with 20% expansion….
Please amend the Scope of Licence as
current scope is 1.5 Lakh Meters.
The system shall be
suitably sized based on
data to be captured from
the no. of nodes as per
Price Bid Format (Annexure
17) with 20% expansion for
project area. However, the
bidder has to develop the
overall AMI architecture in
such a manner that it meets
the scaling up requirements
of entire HPSEB in future to
the extent mentioned in the
RfP.
269. Volume-II
Annexure G (G2)
(System Sizing
Requirement –
Configuration
requirement for
Hardware & Software)
S. No.
Description No of Nodes Future
requirement
1 Head End System (HES)*
1,35,000 20% Expansion
2 Meter Data Management System (MDM)*
1,35,000 20% Expansion
Please clarify the Quantity of Meters for
sizing of Cloud.
The no. of nodes would be
as per Price Bid Format
(Annexure 17) with 20%
expansion for future
requirement for project
area. However, the bidder
has to develop the overall
AMI architecture in such a
manner that it meets the
scaling up requirements of
entire HPSEB in future to
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the extent mentioned in the
RfP.
270. Volume-II
Annexure H (Display
Parameters for 3-Phase
CT Operated Smart
Meters)
In the RfP, Auto Scroll mode as well as
manual push mode scroll parameters list
given separately
Under Auto mode i.e. Mode 1, two
separate display list cannot be given for
auto as well as manual with press of push
button.
For manual push mode parameters,
separate mode is given as mentioned in
mode 2.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
271. Volume-II
Annexure H (Display
Parameters for 3-Phase
CT Operated Smart
Meters - Parameters of
this mode should display
manually on up & down
scrolling using push
button)
Sr. No. of Meters - UTP The requirement of 'UTP' is not clear. The numeric Meter Serial Number can be provided on Meter Display in line with the number of Display Digit requirement. We request you to kindly accept the
Meter Serial number.
Suggestion accepted
272. 24 hrs apparent energy derived from
Vectorial summation of total (fund+
Harm.) active energy and reactive (lag
only) energy
As meters record energy as a cumulative
parameter, the requirement for 24 hrs
should be deleted.
Same shall be applicable for all energy
mentioned in Annexure H.
For consumption of last 24 hrs, utility
can refer daily survey/ profile and
consumer can get last 24 hours
apparent energy in Mobile App.
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
273. Volume-II
Annexure H (Display
Parameters for 3-Phase
CT Operated Smart
Meters - Parameters of
this mode should
MD Kvar after last billing – (24 Hrs)
Cumm KVARH-lag for (Zone-upto 8)
The OBIS Codes are not available for
'MD kVAr' and Zone wise kVArh Lag in
dlms IS 15959 Part 3 Standard.
Please remove these lines as Reactive
MD and Reactive energy TOD zone wise
is not a requirement as per IS15959 part
The provisions of the RfP
shall prevail.
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display manually up &
down scrolling using
push button under
Mode-2)
3.
274. - - The requirement of external CT and its
Ratio has not been defined in the RfP.
Please define the CT ratio & accessories
to be supplied with Box.
The CT operated meters
have to be supplied and
installed by replacing the
existing meters and there is
no requirement of supply of
CT and box.
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
Page 83 of 84
Annexure-I
Data Type Changes Suggested by Bidder for Performance Requirement Reply/ Clarification
1. Scheduled Interval data readings at a fixed periodicity during the day as decided by utility Please refer Amendment No. 2 to RfP
Periodic collection of the 30 minute interval load profile data after 4 hours / 8 hours / 12 hours
From 90% of meters within next periodic packet is scheduled.
From 95% of meters before next consecutive periodic packet is scheduled.
2. Scheduled daily meter readings (as per IS 16444/15959)
Daily collection of the previous day’s interval energy data and total accumulated energy
From 90% of meters within 8 hours after midnight; and
From 95% of meters within 24 hours after midnight
3. Scheduled billing/ load profile data for bill period
Collection of billing/load profile data for the bill period for entire installed population
From 90% of meters within 24 hours after midnight; and
From 95% of meters within 48 hours after midnight
4. On-Demand Remote reads of meters
Collection of 7 days of interval energy data and the current total accumulated energy from a group of 1000 AMI meters
Action performed at 85% of meters within 1 Hour; and
Action performed at 90% of meters within 2 hours; and
Action performed at 95% of meters within 6 hours
Collection of 7 days of interval energy data & current total accumulated energy from a selected individual meter
Action performed within 10 mins
5. Updating of data on consumer portal/ app
Updating of individual consumer data on portal/ app after receiving the data in MDM
Action performed for active consumers within 5 minutes after receiving the data in MDM
Action performed at 99.5% of meters within 2 hours after receiving the data in MDM.
6. Ping Response with acknowledgement/ response for selected meters
For a group of 1000 communicating meters Action performed at 90% of meters within 5 minute; and
For an individual communicating meter Action performed within 5 seconds
7. Remote load control commands for selected meters with acknowledgement/ response for selected meters
For a group of maximum of 5000 AMI meters Action performed at 85% of meters within 5 minutes; and
Action performed at 90% of meters within 10 Minutes
For an individual meter Action performed within 1 mins
8. For remote connect/disconnect with acknowledgement/ response for selected meters
For a group of maximum of 5000 communicating Action performed at 85% of meters within 5 minutes; and
Clarifications to Queries against the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Selection of AMI Implementing Agency for implementation of Smart Metering in Shimla and Dharamsala City in Himachal Pradesh
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AMI meters Action performed at 90% of meters within 10 minutes; and
Action performed 95% of meters within 20 minutes
For an individual communicating meter Action performed within 1 minute
9. Meter loss and restoration of supply
Receiving of alert for all affected AMI meters spread across the project area
Alert to be received within 5 minutes for 60% of meters
10. Meter Tamper Alerts
Receiving of alert for an individual meter Alert to be received within 5 minutes
11. Power Quality Alerts
Receiving of alert for an individual meter Alert to be received within 5 minutes
12. Remotely altering settings in meter/ firmware upgrade with acknowledgement/ response for selected meters
For a group of 1000 AMI meters Action performed at 90% of meters within 15 days; and
Action performed at 95% of meters within 30 days
13. Remotely read events logs
For reading the full event log for a group of 1000 AMI meters
Action performed at 85% of meters within 30 minutes; and
Action performed at 90% of meters within 1 hour; and
Action performed at 95% of meters within 6 hours.
14. AMI Network (all hardware, software, smart meters, Cloud Infrastructure and field equipment) Uptime
95% on Monthly basis. Penalty will be 1% of the FMS Charges per month for every 1% or part there of decrease in availability under 95%). Penalty will be calculated separately for Hardware and Software Availability. The maximum deduction shall be limited to FMS charges paid for that particular period.
15. Cloud Infrastructure uptime 99%
16. Recovery Point Objective for AMI MDM and HES System
4 Hours
17. Recovery Time Objective for AMI MDM and HES System
12 Hours