Rhode Island's Department of Administration has issued a request for proposals (RFP) from private companies to construct and operate an offshore wind farm capable of generating 1.3 million MWh of energy per year. The wind farm would be located in an area just south of Block Island.
Under a plan established by Gov. Donald L. Carcieri, R-R.I., the state would review bids on the basis of total cost to Rhode Island ratepayers, the qualification and experience of the bidder in constructing wind projects, and the number of jobs and the amount of tax dollars to be created.
As part of the RFP, the state is also asking bidders to ensure that the town of New Shoreham on Block Island benefits from the use of the electrical cable to the mainland that will be built to transmit the power being generated.
The Carcieri administration is also considering means to establish and administer long-term contracts with the wind farm owners to purchase the renewable energy being generated.
Deadline: May 16
For more information: governor.ri.gov
