Students may submit Requests For Information (RFI) to obtain clarifications or resolve any ambiguities. RFIs and the answers from the competition committee will be posted as they are received.

Student teams, who directly contact the owner and/or occupants of the building, will be disqualified from the competition.

Submit your RFIs to Catherine Tehan, AEI Director.

Q: It has been brought to my attention that the VA OMAHA codes, under section one listed applicable codes and standards, are older than the current code. Are we allowed to use the most recent versions of these codes instead? Our team and advisors see this as an opportunity to apply the versions we have been learning in our classes.
A: Teams are allowed to use newer code versions. Teams should provide explanation for following different/newer codes.

Q: For electrical, are there any electrical documents that come with the project that weren't included in the original package of files? If not, are there any specifications for the utility power coming into the site and any information on any utility equipment that would be on site?
A: Design teams should assume that the utility provider is able to provide any voltage that is needed for the building. Teams should provide justification for their voltage selection. Utility transformer location(s) should be determined by the team and should follow the NEC and OPPD (Omaha Public Power District) requirements.

Q: Please provide information on how many hours the generators need to run in the event of normal power failure.
A: Design teams should determine an appropriate level of emergency power (magnitude, connection/usage, and duration) given the usage of the building. Teams should justify their decisions.

Q: Please provide information on the location, voltage levels, available capacity, and other nameplate data (such as impedances) of the utility transformer.
A: Design teams should assume that the utility provider is able to provide any voltage that is needed for the building. Teams should provide justification for their voltage selection. Utility transformer location(s) should be determined by the team and should follow the NEC and OPPD (Omaha Public Power District) requirements.