Cal. Pub. Util. Code § 120224.2

Notwithstanding Section 120222 and upon a finding by two-thirds of all members of the board that a purchase in compliance with Sections 120222 and 120223 does not constitute a method of procurement adequate for the operation of board facilities or equipment, the board may direct the procurement of prototype equipment or modifications in an amount sufficient to conduct and evaluate operational testing without further observance of any provisions requiring contracts, bids, or advertisements.