Question:
1. Could you explain why optimisers are required for this system?



2. The title states that no battery is included. However, there is also a requirement that contractors provide a quote including a compatible battery. Could you clarify the expected battery scope, including the approximate size, if one is needed?

Answered on 27/Mar/2026 01:20 PM:


1. Optimisers are preferred as they will allow Council to identify faults, degradation or monitor underperforming panels without accessing the roof, subsequently reducing investigation time and improving efficiency.

2. Contractors may submit a separate optional quote for the battery only if they believe that battery will provide operational or financial benefit. If the contractor is providing the optional battery quote, the contractor may recommend size and configuration based on their professional judgement, site and compatibility factors.

Question:
26/03/2026

Questions from the site inspection

- Is there a chance that the tender could be broken into the 3 separate tenders?

Contractor is to basically engage an Structural Engineer and also an Electrical Engineer to be able to process the job. If found that the structure is sound for the installation, then the contractor under phase 2 is required then to engage a contractor to make and repairs to the roof. The cost of which almost unknow until a contractor can inspect and provide a cost for the repairs / replacement of the roof.

- What Level of reports and or Approvals is SDRC looking to receive back from the initial inspections? ie. Form 15?

- Is there a dedicated site laydown area for the Project? (Can a section of carpark be taken up?)

- Could an Asbestos register be provided to be able to give an better estimation?

- Will the Art Gallery be closed during the installation of the Solar system?

- Do you have intended location for the Inverters and isolation points?

Answered on 27/Mar/2026 01:25 PM:


- No. The reason for the structure of this request is to improve the efficiency of this proposal. The additional time requirements for SDRC to split this into multiple RFQ processes extends the time for delivery and increases the investment considerably.

- For the same reasons that the RFQ is not split into three portions, SDRC are looking to confirm the suitability of the installation and surface preparation is completed before the main portion of the job (ie the solar panel installation).

- SDRC expect the installation to be certified to the appropriate levels.

- Council may allow small section of carpark for temporary laydown only if there is minimal disruption to vehicular, pedestrian movement and safe access is provided to staff and community.

- Yes, will be provided as an addendum in due course.

- No. however, short (few hours) and controlled shutdowns are permitted if scheduled in advance.

- Council has not predetermined the location. As contractors propose suitable location in design, they must consider compliance and regulatory requirement, safe access for maintenance, ventilation proximity of switchboard and cable pathways and safety requirement, aesthetics of art gallery. Council will review and approve the proposed location.