NorthWestern Energy has issued a request for proposals (RFP) seeking additional renewable generation in Montana.
Montana’s renewable portfolio standard (RPS) requires NorthWestern to procure energy from community renewable energy projects (CREPs) that meet certain criteria. NorthWestern, which provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serves approximately 726,400 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska.
Based on the utility’s current projected need, the RFP seeks proposals with targeted commercial operation dates (CODs) in 2020, although projects with later or earlier CODs will be considered.
Proposals must meet all CREP criteria established by Montana statutes and administered by the Montana Public Service Commission. The criteria include limitations on project size and specific ownership structures, as well as required renewable energy attributes. Selected proposals must also deliver a resource that complies with NorthWestern’s cost cap as set forth in Montana law.
Responses are requested from developers, Montana landowners, energy companies and businesses, Montana municipal governments and tribal authorities, and/or other Montana businesses. With this RFP, NorthWestern is not seeking proposals for non-CREP projects, unbundled renewable energy credits or non-renewable resources.
Proposals are due on June 13. Finalists are expected to be selected in August. Sapere Consulting will administer the RFP and serve as a point of contact for those submitting proposals. More information can be found here.
