Electrical Works Framework
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real opportunity isn't just electrical work
When I first look at a framework like this, I think about what the buyer really wants.
Yes, it's about electrical works.
But it's also about reliability, compliance and trust across the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority's estate.
The key here is that you're not bidding for a single project.
You're competing for a place on a framework that could keep you busy until 2031.
The framework is split into two lots: Minor Electrical Works and Major Electrical Works.
Lot 1 will see one supplier awarded, while Lot 2 will have five.
That's what you're aiming for.
Think about what the authority values
The Authority has been quite clear about what it values.
For Lot 1, the focus is on your LV Maintenance Programme, making up 60% of the Stage 1 criteria.
This means they're looking for a supplier who can demonstrate a robust and effective maintenance plan.
For Lot 2, it's all about relevant experience.
Part A of your experience is weighted at 60%, so this is where you need to shine.
I'd make sure to highlight past projects that align with the type of work they're expecting.
Remember the two-stage process
This isn't just a one-off bid.
It's a two-stage competition.
Stage 1 is about getting your credentials right.
Only the highest-scoring suppliers get through to Stage 2, where the detailed submissions are evaluated.
For Lot 1, five suppliers move to Stage 2, but only one wins the spot.
For Lot 2, ten move forward, but just five secure a place.
So, your initial submission needs to be spot on.
Pay attention to what they say
There's a lot of focus on operational capacity and relevant experience.
For both lots, operational capacity is weighted at 40%.
This suggests that the Authority wants to know that you can handle the work, no matter the scale.
And don't overlook the debarment list check. It's crucial that your company and associates are in good standing.
These are the things you'll need to address clearly.
Evidence always beats promises
If there's one thing I learned in the public sector, it's that evidence carries more weight than promises.
Show them real projects you've completed.
Use evidence like:
- Case studies that mirror the framework's demands
- Client testimonials praising your reliability and expertise
- Performance metrics from past contracts
- Examples of successful subcontractor management
- Proof of financial stability
This is how you convince them you can deliver.
Don't underestimate the power of a clear LV Maintenance Programme
For Lot 1, the LV Maintenance Programme is key.
With 60% of the weight on this criterion, your plan needs to be detailed and convincing.
Explain how you'll keep systems running smoothly and prevent downtime.
I'd focus on how your maintenance strategies have previously benefited similar clients.
Give them peace of mind that you can protect their infrastructure.
Major works need major experience
For Lot 2, it's all about your experience.
Particularly in handling major projects.
Highlight your experience in design coordination and pre-construction assurance.
Show them you can manage complex tasks like planned LV switchgear replacements within live operational assets.
The more you can demonstrate your ability to handle major works, the better.
Consistency is crucial
Frameworks last years.
Showing you can maintain consistent standards over time is vital.
Talk about your recruitment and training processes.
Explain how you manage annual leave and unexpected absences.
Tell them about your performance reviews and how you hold your team accountable.
Consistency is the hardest thing to deliver, and buyers know it.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Ignore the importance of operational capacity
- Fail to demonstrate robust financial and operational capacity
- Overlook the need for a solid LV Maintenance Programme for Lot 1
- Lack specific examples of relevant experience for Lot 2
- Fail to address the debarment list check
- Offer unsupported promises without evidence
- Underestimate the weight of health and safety measures
- Miss the chance to highlight social value contributions
My Final Thoughts
What Liverpool City Region Combined Authority really wants is a partner they can trust.
A partner who'll deliver reliable electrical work across their estate until 2031.
The framework is valued at £35,000,000 over four years, which means they're looking for suppliers who can deliver real value.
The emphasis on quality over price in the Stage 2 criteria — with price weighted at only 30% — means your written submission needs to be strong.
Focus on demonstrating your operational capacity, experience and how you'll maintain standards over the long term.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.