US energy supplier Appalachian Power has issued a request for proposals for up to 300MW of solar and wind generation resources.
Appalachian Power is seeking facilities that are at least 50MW in size and commercially operational by mid-December 2023, though proposals with an operational date of no later than 15 December 2024 will be considered.
Bidders may also include proposals with an option for a battery storage system.
The bids request is the first in a series of RfPs Appalachian Power will issue this year to comply with provisions of the Virginia 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.
Appalachian Power president and chief operating officer Chris Beam said: “This is Appalachian Power’s largest request yet in a single year for renewable energy bids.
“We look forward to reviewing the proposals and issuing more requests for bids later this year as we expand our portfolio and reliance on clean energy.”
Under the RFP, Appalachian Power may acquire a single or multiple solar as well as wind facilities from winning bidders who meet certain economic and operational criteria.
Proposals that qualify for federal tax credits are preferred, but not required.
To qualify for consideration, solar projects must be located in Virginia.
Wind projects located in Virginia are preferred, but not required.
All projects must be interconnected to PJM, the independent regional transmission organisation that manages the electric grid in several states, including Virginia.
Proposals must be submitted by 31 March 2021.
Any project selected by Appalachian Power through the RFP process is conditional upon and subject to approval by the required regulatory authorities.