Weatherization Assistance Program

The Washington Department of Commerce issued a Request for Proposals to identify a qualified organization to deliver training and technical assistance services for the state’s Weatherization Assistance Program. This program supports low-income energy efficiency initiatives and is funded through federal sources, specifically aligned with requirements from the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The selected contractor is responsible for ensuring that all training and technical assistance activities meet or exceed federal standards, including the Department of Energy Quality Work Plan and applicable federal regulations governing weatherization services. The purpose of this opportunity was to strengthen the capacity, compliance, and technical proficiency of Washington’s weatherization network by providing structured training, workforce development, and technical support. The contractor was expected to operate an accredited training center and deliver a wide range of instructional services, including building science fundamentals, energy auditing, health and safety protocols, installation practices, and quality control certification preparation. Additional responsibilities included developing training materials, maintaining a training website, providing translation services, and conducting evaluations of training effectiveness. Funding for this opportunity was capped at a maximum of 407,678 dollars for the contract period, with reimbursement-based payments tied to accepted deliverables and allowable expenses. The contract period was expected to run from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of extension at the discretion of the Department of Commerce. While additional funding could be added through contract amendments, such increases were not guaranteed. The contractor could also request reimbursement for certain activities such as professional development and training-related travel within defined limits. Eligibility for this opportunity was restricted to organizations that met specific technical and operational qualifications. Applicants were required to be licensed to do business in Washington or commit to obtaining licensure within thirty days of selection. They also needed at least five years of experience delivering training within the Weatherization Assistance Program network, accreditation from the Interstate Renewable Energy Council, and access to a physical training facility within Washington state capable of supporting in-person instruction and field training. Proposals that did not meet all minimum qualifications were not considered. The application process required submission of a mandatory Statement of Intent prior to submitting a full proposal. Applicants were required to submit proposals electronically by email, including a letter of submittal, certifications and assurances, technical and management proposals, cost proposal, and additional required forms. Submissions needed to include authorized signatures and adhere strictly to formatting and submission requirements. Proposals were evaluated based on technical quality, management approach, and cost, with the Department of Commerce reserving the right to request presentations from top-ranked applicants. Key deadlines for this opportunity included a Statement of Intent due on May 6, 2026 and a final proposal submission deadline of May 13, 2026. A pre-proposal conference was held on April 16, 2026 to provide additional guidance to prospective applicants. Following submission, proposals were evaluated in late May, with the selected contractor expected to be announced in mid-June and the contract executed by July 1, 2026. The opportunity followed a structured procurement timeline and was not described as a recurring funding opportunity.

Ensure full compliance with minimum qualifications and provide detailed technical and management proposals demonstrating experience in weatherization training and program delivery