Request for Proposals: Grow Solar Central Wisconsin 4.0

Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) is seeking qualified firms to submit proposals for the design, procurement, and installation of new, residential and small commercial, direct-owned photovoltaic (PV) systems at a per-watt price lower than the typical, single solar electric installation.  

The solar group buy is being led by the MREA. The goal of the program is to increase consumer education and PV installations in Marathon, Lincoln, Portage, and Wood Counties through a group purchase involving free, public information sessions and a competitive contractor selection process.  

Between 2013 and 2019, the MREA facilitated thirty-four Solar Group Buy programs around the Midwest, reaching over 8,400 individuals with our Solar Power Hour information sessions, and leading to more than 11,000 kW on over 1,500 properties. Among those property owners who received proposals from partnering contractors, an average 42% purchased a PV system. To date, the average system size is 7.5 kW.  

The Grow Solar Central Wisconsin program is being conducted with the leadership of MREA and support from Mid-State Technical College and partners in Portage, Wood, Marathon, and Lincoln counties with wide publicity and awareness in the area. MREA will coordinate and deliver approximately 12-15 free, virtual Solar Power Hour information sessions and market them widely with digital marketing, email blasts, paid social media promotion, yard signs, through promotional partners, and in the press.  

In light of the recent Covid-19 outbreak, we are re-doubling our efforts with the Grow Solar programs and have made strategic adjustments based on the new market realities. We anticipate contraction in the solar market if we enter an extended recession, but we also see the very significant benefits in household expense reduction, local economic development, job creation, and resiliency of solar energy investments. Strong consumer education that emphasizes the potential for solar will be critical to help people pursue appropriate investments in solar energy and contribute to widespread economic recovery. 

RFP Announced: May 27, 2020
RFP Questions Due/Posted: June 2, 2020
RFP Proposals Due: June 11, 2020
Firm(s) Selected: June 18, 2020