Xcel Energy is soliciting proposals for around 500 MW solar PV capacity to be installed near its coal powered Sherburne County or Sherco Generating Station in Becker, Minnesota, US. The electricity utility says the addition of solar power at the site is part of Northern States Power Company's (NSPM) proposal to 'jump-start the economy' as it would create jobs and accelerate clean energy transition in Minnesota, amid its plans to close coal fired generating capacity.
While Xcel Energy says it has a target to procure close to 500 MW from one or more solar projects, it is open to exceeding this target depending on the proposals received.
Eligible projects will generate solar power to be procured by NSPM through build and transfer agreements. To participate in this request for proposals (RFP) round, projects must achieve commercial operation before December 31, 2023. Xcel Energy said it will accept proposals that provide the opportunity to acquire projects of at least 75 MW capacity to be interconnected to the transmission infrastructure here.
According to the timeline shared, bids must be submitted by February 2, 2021. All contract negotiations are aimed at completion by March 15, 2021. Detailed bidding documents are available on Xcel Energy's website.