Xcel Energy is seeking proposals for solar projects that would generate a combined 100MW of power in Minnesota, US.
The request for proposals (RFP) is part of Xcel Energy’s plan to meet a solar-energy mandate passed by the Minnesota Legislature in 2013.
The RFP calls for the selected large-scale solar projects to be installed by the end of 2016, prior to a reduction in the federal Investment Tax Credit for solar.
Developers are required to submit their proposals by 20 June 2014 and Xcel Energy will evaluate the proposals through mid-August, followed by contract negotiations.
Xcel Energy noted that any resulting power purchase agreements will be submitted to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission for approval in late October 2014.
Construction work is planned to start soon after commission approval, which is anticipated by early 2015.
Northern States Power Co.-Minnesota, an Xcel Energy company, president and CEO Dave Sparby said the firm is committed to providing solar power to customers in the most reliable, cost-effective way possible.
"As the nation’s No. 1 wind provider, we know the importance of renewable energy as part of a diversified energy portfolio," Sparby said.