Duke Energy issues RFP for new US solar power projects

US-based renewable power projects developer Duke Energy has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for setting up of the new solar power projects totaling 300MW in its Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress territories.

The company would purchase electricity along with associated renewable energy certificates and/or take ownership of new projects that would become operational by the end of 2015.

According to Duke Energy, the RFPs will be helpful in diversifying the company’s energy portfolio while meeting the North Carolina’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standards (REPS).

Duke Energy renewable generation development vice president Rob Caldwell said the new proposal would double the company’s current solar energy capacity for customers in the Carolinas.

"It gives developers the opportunity to pursue projects for the long term, or to negotiate for Duke Energy to acquire ownership of the new facilities once they are operational," Caldwell added.

"Our mission is to bring more renewable generation onto the Duke Energy system in the most cost-effective manner possible.

"This RFP allows the company to take advantage of projects already in the planning stages."

With the issuance of RFP, the company aims at solar power projects greater than 5MW limited to projects that are in its current transmission and distribution queue.

According to the company, Duke Energy affiliates will not be allowed to participate in the RFP.

Negotiations in relation to the new solar power projects are slated to be completed by 1 October 2014.

Facilities located in South Carolina are eligible to submit proposals for the power and associated renewable energy certificates, if they meet other criteria in the RFP, said the company.