Norway Prepares to Source Tech for Airport e-Gates

A new tender notice from Norway’s Norwegian Police Shared Services (NPSS) outlines plans for the procurement of Automated Border Control (ABC) e-Gates, aimed at enhancing security and efficiency at Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL). The acquisition serves as a proactive step by NPSS to replace outdated equipment.

The ABC e-Gates will allow eligible travelers to complete automated self-checks through facial recognition and other biometric verification methods, thereby accelerating border crossings while maintaining security standards. NPSS’s procurement announcement, classified as a Prior Information Notice (PIN), invites the interest of potential suppliers in preparation for a formal tender expected in early 2025.

The acquisition is valued at approximately NOK 50 million (excluding VAT). While the current scope centers on replacing 21 existing e-Gates at Oslo Airport, the PIN emphasizes the potential for scaling the project. NPSS recognizes the critical role of e-Gates in the border control process, which might prompt an increase in the number of e-Gates or additional installations at other Norwegian airports.

The project falls under various CPV (Common Procurement Vocabulary) classifications, indicating its multidisciplinary requirements. Besides the primary CPV for airport control and safety equipment (34997000), the procurement includes optical readers, airport equipment, surveillance systems, and biometric sensors.

Software-related CPVs include programming and consultancy, industry-specific software development, software support, implementation, and maintenance of information technology software. By highlighting these diverse classifications, NPSS appears to be signaling that it is looking for an integrated solution comprising hardware, biometric technology, and software services that meet airport-specific requirements.

NPSS has indicated a willingness to develop certain elements of the controlling software for the e-Gates in-house, suggesting a desire for customized software solutions that align closely with Norway’s security protocols and operational needs. Integrating proprietary software may also grant NPSS more control over system updates and future improvements, allowing the agency to refine the functionality of the e-Gates as security requirements evolve.

The procurement is informed by Directive 2014/24/EU, which governs public procurement within the European Union, setting guidelines for transparency, fairness, and competitiveness. Although Norway is not a member of the EU, it is part of the European Economic Area (EEA) and thus aligns with EU procurement standards.

The notice specifies that NPSS will not restrict the contract to sheltered employment programs, suggesting that the opportunity is open to all qualified providers. For dispute resolution or further mediation, Oslo tingrett has been designated as the review organization, ensuring due process in the tender process.

Source: TED

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October 28, 2024 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team