US operator Appalachian Power has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for up to 1000MW of wind and/or 100MW of solar generation resources with optional battery energy-storage systems.
The proposals will help the company, a subsidiary of American Electric Power, meet the renewable energy requirements established by Virginia’s Clean Economy Act (VCEA).
Under the VCEA, Appalachian Power must meet annual targets as it works toward 100% carbon-free energy in its Virginia service territory by 2050.
The company seeks to acquire the completed wind and/or solar projects through one or more purchase and sale agreements.
Facilities must be at least 50MW in size and achieve a commercial operation date of no later than 15 December 2025.
Bidders of solar projects may also include proposals with an option for a battery-energy storage system.
To qualify for consideration, solar projects must be located within Virginia; wind projects may be located outside of the commonwealth.
All projects must be interconnected to PJM, the independent regional transmission organisation that manages the electric grid in 13 states, including Virginia.
Under the RFP, Appalachian Power may acquire a single or multiple wind and/or solar facilities from winning bidders who meet certain economic and operational criteria.
Appalachian Power president and chief operating officer Chris Beam said: “We’ve made significant progress in establishing our renewables portfolio over the past two years.
“This is the largest RFP we’ve issued for wind to date, and we intend to issue additional requests for proposals this year as we work to provide more clean energy options for our customers.”
The RFP’s issued later this year will be for energy storage and solar power purchase agreements.
Businesses seeking to submit a proposal can access criteria, required forms, and other specifics online at www.appalachianpower.com/rfp.
Proposals must be submitted by 8 March 2022. Any project selected by Appalachian Power through the RFP process is conditional upon and subject to approval by the required regulatory authorities.
Appalachian Power produces nearly 2000GWh of energy annually from wind, solar and hydropower.