Appalachian Power issues RFP for solar, wind projects

Company seeks projects to help it comply with Virginia Clean Economy Act

Published February 15, 2021 by Sydney Lake

Appalachian Power Co. on Monday issued a request for proposals (RFPs) for up to 300 megawatts of solar and/or wind generation resources.

This is the first in a string of RFPs that the company will issue this year to comply with the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which requires that the company achieve 100% carbon-free energy generation in its Virginia service territory by 2050.

“This is Appalachian Power’s largest request yet in a single year for renewable energy bids,” Appalachian Power President and Chief Operating Officer Chris Beam said in a statement. “We look forward to reviewing the proposals and issuing more requests for bids later this year as we expand our portfolio and reliance on clean energy.”

Under the RFP, Appalachian Power may consider a single project or multiple facilities. Solar projects must be located in Virginia, while wind projects don’t have to be located in Virginia, but it is preferred.

Appalachian Power is seeking facilities of at least 50 megawatts that can be commercially operational by mid-December 2023. Proposals with an operational date by Dec. 15, 2024, will still be considered, however.

Proposals must be submitted by March 31.

Appalachian Power has more 1 million customers in Virginia, West Virginia and Tennessee. Last year, the company sought a rate increase from the State Corporation Commission, which was denied in November 2020. The company was seeking to increase rates by approximately $10 per month for a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity.