Dairyland Power issues RFP for 25 MW from PV sources

Dairyland Power Cooperative has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for up to 25 MW of renewable energy from one or more new utility-scale photovoltaic solar facilities.

“This RFP is a critical component of Dairyland’s strategic direction to diversify our generation portfolio. I like to say that it is finally solar energy’s ‘day in the sun.’ Technology is improving, costs are decreasing and customer interest continues to grow,” said Barbara Nick, Dairyland President and CEO.

The RFP seeks proposals from qualified bidders for up to 25 MW of capacity with commercial operation to begin by July 1, 2016. Dairyland is receptive to a variety of proposal options, including Dairyland ownership of new facilities, power purchase agreements (PPAs) or other arrangements, single or multiple sites.

Qualification criteria for the proposals are detailed in the RFP, which is posted on Dairyland’s website at www.dairynet.com. Inquiries can be sent to solarrfp@dairynet.com. Responses to the RFP are due by 2 p.m. CDT on Aug. 31, 2015. A non-binding Notice of Intent to Bid is requested to be returned by July 15, 2015.

With headquarters in La Crosse, Wis., Dairyland provides wholesale electricity to 25 member distribution cooperatives and 17 municipal utilities. A Touchstone Energy Cooperative, Dairyland’s service area encompasses 62 counties in four states (Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois). Dairyland’s generation resources include coal, natural gas, hydro, solar, wind, biomass, landfill gas and animal waste.

— Solar Builder magazine

[source: http://solarbuildermag.com/news/dairyland-power-issues-rfp-for-25-mw-from-pv-sources/]