Consultant - Procurement and Deployment of Low-Cost Air Quality Sensors at World Resources Institute (WRI)

Objectives of this Assignment

The main objective of this assignment is to procure, deploy, and operationalize a network of low-cost air quality sensors (LCS) in Kilifi, Kajiado, and Kiambu Counties to enhance spatial coverage, data access, and evidence-based air quality management. Specifically, the assignment aims to:


Expand Monitoring Coverage: Establish a network of reliable, calibrated low-cost sensors to complement reference-grade stations and fill existing monitoring gaps in the selected counties.
Generate Hyperlocal Air Quality Data: Provide data to identify pollution hotspots, analyze trends, and inform county-level air quality management and mitigation measures.
Support Evidence-Based Policy and Planning: Enable County governments and WRI partners to use air quality data for policy formulation, enforcement of the Environmental Management and Coordination (Air Quality) Regulations, 2024, and development of county clean air action plans.
Enhance Community and Institutional Engagement: Increase public awareness and participation in air quality management through deployment in institutions such as schools, hospitals, and local government offices.
Strengthen Technical Capacity and Data Systems: Build local capacity in sensor installation, calibration, data interpretation, and maintenance; and ensure integration with an online data platform for visualization and public access.


Scope of Work

The vendor will be responsible for the procurement, deployment, and operationalization of approximately 20 low-cost air quality sensors (LCS) across Kiambu, Kajiado, and Kilifi Counties, under the guidance of the WRI Air Quality Team and in close collaboration with county governments and other knowledge

Procurement and Technical Demonstration


Supply approximately 20 calibrated and warranty-backed low-cost air quality sensors within a hardware budget ceiling of USD 10,000.
The final number and distribution of sensors may vary based on findings from preliminary site visits and assessments.
Each sensor should include measurement capability for PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, temperature, and humidity.
Demonstrate technical capability in manufacturing, calibration, and quality assurance, including co-location or certification data.
Provide a detailed specification sheet, warranty terms, and a plan for sensor maintenance and reliability assurance.


Site Selection and Deployment


Conduct preliminary scoping to understand urban, peri-urban, and rural dynamics in each county.
Identify emission hotspots (e.g., transport corridors, industrial zones, waste burning sites, densely populated estates).


Apply agreed site selection criteria, emphasizing:


Population exposure and pollution source proximity.
Representativeness of contrasting contexts (urban core, peri-urban, rural).
Security, accessibility, and availability of stable power and connectivity.
Institutional readiness of hosting partners (schools, health facilities, local offices).
Work with WRI and county partners to validate and finalize monitoring locations.


Installation and Operationalization


Oversee installation, ensuring all devices are properly mounted, powered, and transmitting data to the central platform.
Configure sensors for real-time data transfer, with backup storage capability.
Provide maps and reports of all deployed sites, including GPS coordinates, justification for each site, and photos.
Integrate the network into an existing or vendor-provided cloud-based dashboard compatible with WRI data systems.


Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer


Develop and deliver training for county officials and technical staff on sensor operation, calibration, maintenance, and data interpretation.
Prepare user manuals, quick guides, and maintenance protocols.
Facilitate awareness sessions with local institutions and communities to strengthen ownership and understanding of air quality data applications.


After-Sales Support and Maintenance


Provide a comprehensive maintenance and warranty plan covering calibration checks, firmware updates, and replacement of faulty units.
Offer remote and on-site technical support throughout the project duration (2025 - 2029).
Ensure data reliability through periodic audits and quality-control mechanisms.


Qualifications of Vendor


Demonstrated experience in manufacturing and deploying low-cost air quality sensors.
Proven track record in site selection and deployment in Kenya/ Region.
Ability to work with subnational governments and communities.
Capacity to provide technical support and training within Kenya.