Overview
This section outlines the General Services Administration's (GSA) role in supporting Federal agencies and other government entities through technical guidance, acquisition assistance, or the formal delegation of contracting authority for utility services.
Key Rules
- Scope of Assistance: GSA provides both technical expertise and acquisition support for utility services upon request.
- Delegation of Authority: GSA has the power to delegate its specific contracting authority for utilities to the requesting agency or entity.
- Eligible Entities: Assistance is available to Federal agencies, mixed-ownership Government corporations, the District of Columbia, the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Architect of the Capitol.
- Information Requirements: Agencies requesting GSA support must provide specific data and documentation as prescribed in FAR 41.301 (Requirements for for-utility-services).
Practical Implications
- Agencies lacking the specialized technical expertise required to negotiate or manage complex utility contracts can leverage GSA’s centralized resources to ensure regulatory compliance and cost-effectiveness.
- The provision ensures that even legislative branch entities and specific government corporations have a standardized pathway to access GSA's procurement power for essential utility services.