Ofgem has published a procurement opportunity for 2024-133 riio-3 independent technical adviser with an estimated value of £20,833,333. The submission deadline is 20 April 2026, giving eligible UK suppliers a limited window to prepare and submit bids through the official Find a Tender portal.

Published on 2026-04-09, this contract is open to suitably qualified suppliers across the United Kingdom. All businesses interested in bidding should review the full tender documentation and confirm they meet all eligibility requirements before the closing date.

Contract overview

Ofgem is seeking to appoint up to three organisations to fulfil the role of Independent Technical Adviser (ITA) as part of a framework agreement. The ITA will be an independent body responsible for providing assurance to Ofgem on the design, procurement, cost and overall delivery of selected load‑related projects across all electricity Transmission Owners (TOs). The objective of ITA assurance is to support enhanced and accelerated regulatory decision‑making and processes. Further information can be found in the attached ITT document.

Ofgem is the contracting authority. The estimated value is £20,833,333 and the deadline is 20 April 2026. Download the full specification from the official portal before preparing a bid.

Is your business eligible?

This contract is most relevant to transport operators, logistics companies, courier services. Suppliers typically need to demonstrate experience delivering similar contracts, appropriate financial standing, and hold operator licences, vehicle compliance certificates.

Under the Procurement Act 2023, Ofgem must actively consider SME participation. Check whether this contract has been structured into lots.

• Proven track record in transport & logistics contracts of comparable scope
• Financial standing appropriate for a £20,833,333 contract
• Relevant certifications: operator licences, vehicle compliance certificates
• Capacity to mobilise within Ofgem’s required timeframe
• Ability to meet the 20 April 2026 submission deadline

How to submit a bid

• Step 1 — Access the notice: Visit Find a Tender at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032595-2026
• Step 2 — Register free: Create or log in to your supplier account
• Step 3 — Download documents: Read the full ITT before preparing your response
• Step 4 — Raise clarifications: Submit questions early — Q&A typically closes 1–2 weeks before the deadline
• Step 5 — Submit before 20 April 2026: Late submissions are not accepted

What the buyer will evaluate

Ofgem will assess all compliant bids against published criteria. Buyers typically apply a 60% quality and 40% price weighting. Under the Procurement Act 2023, social value is a mandatory evaluation criterion.

Writing a winning bid

• Lead with an executive summary addressing Ofgem’s objectives directly
• Provide two or more case studies with measurable outcomes from comparable contracts
• Include specific, costed social value commitments
• Price to win but ensure your margin covers full delivery
• Submit at least 24 hours before 20 April 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can SMEs bid for this contract?

Yes. The Procurement Act 2023 requires Ofgem to consider SME suitability and remove unnecessary barriers.

Is registration on the portal free?

Yes. Registering as a supplier on Find a Tender is completely free.

What happens if I miss the 20 April 2026 deadline?

Late submissions are not accepted. The deadline is absolute. Submit at least 24 hours early.

Where are the full tender documents?

All documents are on the official Find a Tender listing at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032595-2026.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify all details on the official procurement portal before submitting a bid. Kael Tripton is not affiliated with or endorsed by Ofgem or the UK government.