Generation of electricity using wind turbines for federal energy programs. Find active federal and state wind electric power generation contracts — AI-scored against your profile across SAM.gov and 200+ portals.
Annual federal spend under NAICS 221115 is moderate, estimated at $200–400 million, primarily for power purchase agreements (PPAs) and on-site wind turbine installations. Demand is driven by agency renewable energy mandates under the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and Executive Order 14057, which require agencies to procure increasing percentages of clean electricity. Contracts are typically long-term (10–20 year) PPAs, often structured as fixed-price or fixed-price with economic price adjustment. Competition is moderate, with a mix of large utilities and specialized small businesses. The market is not saturated; many agencies still seek to add wind capacity to meet 100% carbon-free electricity goals by 2030. Key buyers include the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DoD), and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for land-based projects.
These agencies are the largest buyers of wind electric power generation services and products in the federal government. Each awards contracts under NAICS 221115 regularly — build relationships with their small business offices first.
To win wind power contracts, focus on offering competitive pricing for long-term PPAs, as agencies prioritize cost certainty. The most common set-aside is the 8(a) program for small businesses, but HUBZone and SDVOSB set-asides also appear. The single highest-leverage move is to partner with a qualified wind turbine manufacturer or developer early, as agencies often require proven technology and performance guarantees. Register in SAM and DSBS, but more importantly, target agency-specific renewable energy RFPs on GSA eBuy and FedBizOpps (SAM.gov). Tailor your proposal to highlight your track record in delivering wind power under similar PPA structures.
Wind power PPAs are typically awarded via best-value tradeoff, emphasizing price and technical feasibility. Common vehicles include GSA's Areawide Energy PPA contracts, DOE's IDIQs for renewable energy, and agency-specific IDIQs. For smaller projects, BPAs under GSA Schedule 84 (Total Solutions for Energy) are used. Evaluation often focuses on levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and project maturity.
Contractors need a valid SAM registration and may need state-level permits for turbine installation. No specific federal license is required, but certifications like ISO 14001 (environmental management) can be advantageous. For PPAs, financial certifications may be needed.
Yes, for construction-related wind projects over $150,000, Miller Act bonds (payment and performance) are typically required. For PPAs, bonding is less common; instead, agencies may require financial guarantees or letters of credit.
Moderately competitive. While large utilities dominate, small businesses can win through set-asides like 8(a) and HUBZone. The key is to offer a competitive PPA price and demonstrate experience with similar projects.
Awards vary widely, from $1 million for small on-site turbines to over $50 million for large, long-term PPAs. The median is around $10–20 million over the contract term.
Yes, subcontracting is common, especially for construction and maintenance. However, the prime contractor must demonstrate control over the project. Small businesses often partner with larger turbine manufacturers as subcontractors.