I&M requests proposals for 1,300 MW of solar, wind energy facilities

Indiana Michigan Power extended a request for proposals (RFP) this week to private sector developers interested in providing facilities capable of generating approximately 800 MW of wind energy and 500 MW of solar power.

“This RFP is designed to provide qualified developers the opportunity to bring forward wind and solar projects that can be used to serve Indiana Michigan Power customers,” Dave Lucas, I&M vice president for Regulatory and Finance, said. “These new resources will combine with I&M’s existing generation to provide an even more diversified and flexible generation portfolio that will stabilize energy costs over time, stimulate economic growth, reduce emissions and take advantage of new technologies.”

Currently, the company offers five solar farms and purchases its wind power from four farms in Indiana. This has helped I&M generate more than 80 percent of its energy emissions-free, but it expects some of these new renewable resources to be online as early as 2024. All power provided under the RFP is desired by the end of 2025.

Bidders can weave in battery storage, emerging technologies, and other resources as they desire to supplement any portfolio offerings, so long as they emphasize performance and affordability. While solar projects must be located within either Indiana or Michigan, wind projects can also be located in Illinois or Ohio. Preference will be given to those projects that provide potential economic benefit to Indiana or Michigan, utilize local resources where possible, and make reasonable efforts to use small and diverse suppliers as subcontractors.

All bids are due by April 21. Awarding of contracts should follow by the end of the year if approved by regulatory commissions in Indiana and Michigan.