Duke Energy seeks RFPs for two major solar projects

DUKE ENERGY

Duke Energy issued a request for proposals (RFP) for about 53 megawatts (AC) of utility-scale solar capacity to be in-service in its South Carolina service areas by the end of 2016.

The development is part of Duke Energy’s Distributed Energy Resource Program, which was approved by the Public Service Commission on July 15.

The RFP allows bidders to offer a power-purchase agreement to the company, and/or to provide a proposal through which Duke Energy would take ownership of the proposed project.

Utility-scale projects should be greater than 1 and no more than 10 megawatts in capacity.

Duke Energy has also sought an RFP for up to 5 megawatts of solar capacity for its Shared Solar Program, which allows multiple customers to subscribe to the output of a specific solar facility and share in the economic benefits of the power produced.

Projects should be greater than 250 kilowatts and no more than 1 megawatt of capacity.

Shared Solar Program will benefit customers who want to receive the benefits of renewable energy but may not be able to install solar on their premises, such as renters or those who live in multi-family housing.

“The collaborative vision to bring solar to South Carolina is now becoming a reality to the benefit of our customers, communities and the state,” said Clark Gillespy, Duke Energy president — South Carolina. “We see South Carolina becoming a leader in the adoption of new solar.”

The deadline for both RFPs is mid-October.