Consulting services for technical assistance and support in conducting public communication and workshops

Project: P500560 - Sustainable Transition through Energy Efficiency in Moldova Project (STEEM) Reference: RFP NO. 9696-E2.5.1/2 Procurement method: Consultant Qualification Selection Financing: World Bank REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES - FIRMS SELECTION) Country: Republic of Moldova Project: Sustainable Transition through Energy Efficiency in Moldova Project (STEEM) Grant No.: TF-C4723 Assignment Title: Consulting Services for technical assistance and support in conducting public communication and workshops Reference No. (as per Procurement Plan): RFP No. 9696 - E2.5.1/2 Market approach: Open / National The Republic of Moldova has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Sustainable Transition through Energy Efficiency in Moldova Project (STEEM), and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. The objective of the project is to increase the energy efficiency (EE) in public buildings in Moldova and in Chisinau District Heating System. The consulting services (“the Services”) include the provision, to the Client (MEPIU) of acting as Implementation Support Consultant for preparation and implementation of the activities/contracts that cover the scope of Project. The Consultant will be responsible for: technical assistance for effective public communication to ensure transparency and visibility of the Project. Also, the assignment covers the development and execution of a Communication Plan, social surveys, awareness campaigns, and organization of related events. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be found on MEPIU’s official web-site (ucipe.gov.md). The Moldova Energy Projects Implementation Unit (MEPIU) now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are: Minimum 5 years of proven experience in communication services. Experience in Europe and Central Asia is required. Experience in the Republic of Moldova will be considered a strong advantage. Proven in-house capacity to design and implement opinion surveys, including questionnaire development, data collection, data processing, and analytical reporting. This capacity may be demonstrated either in-house or through a Joint Venture/Consortium arrangement. In case of a Joint Venture/Consortium, the proposal shall clearly indicate the partner responsible for research activities, including a description of its relevant experience and role in the assignment. Availability of internal resources for conducting research activities, including fieldwork, data management, and data analysis. ESOMAR certification (or equivalent) will be considered an advantage. Demonstrated experience in implementing at least three (3) similar contracts involving communication strategies and public awareness campaigns in sectors such as energy, construction, regional development, or related fields. Demonstrated in-house capacity to design, produce, and deliver a wide range of communication outputs and activities, including: communication content, graphic design (print and digital), video and multimedia production, online and campaign materials, as well as the planning and organization of events and workshops (including concept development, logistical arrangements, and on-site coordination). Availability of a qualified in-house team and adequate technical equipment and software required for high-quality content production, event implementation, and research-related activities. The Consultant shall submit a portfolio of relevant assignments, including for each: client name, brief description of services, role performed, implementation period, and contact details for reference. The portfolio shall also include examples of communication campaigns and materials developed, such as visual assets, videos, digital content, and other relevant communication products demonstrating the Consultant’s creative capacity. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers “dated September, 2023, setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications, but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. At this stage of the procurement procedure, the identification and nomination of Key Experts will not form part of the evaluation criteria and, as such, will not be subject to assessment or scoring, furthermore, the submission of a financial proposal is not required at this stage. A Consultant