Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) is seeking qualified firms (“Proposing firms” or “Proposers”) to submit proposals for the provision of estimates and the design, procurement, and installation of new residential and commercial photovoltaic (PV) systems at a per-watt price lower than the prevailing single system market rate.
The “group buy” program is being led by Midwest Renewable Energy Association. The goal of the program is to increase consumer education and PV installations in Jackson County, Iowa, through a group purchase involving a competitive contractor selection process, an advantageous pricing and rebate structure, and free information sessions.
Between 2013 and 2020, the MREA facilitated forty-two Solar Group Buy programs around the Midwest, reaching over 10,000 individuals with our Solar Power Hour information sessions, and leading to more than 14,000 kW on over 1,900 properties. Among those property owners who received proposals from partnering contractors, an average 40% purchased a PV system. To date, the average system size is 7.15 kW.
The group buy program for 2021 is offered with support from MREA and visibility and awareness generated by Jackson County Energy District (lead partner), The Nature Conservancy in Iowa (TNC), City of Bellevue, City of Preston, City of Springbrook, Jackson County Board of Supervisors, Jackson County Conservation Board, Friends of Jackson County Conservation, Jackson County Economic Alliance, and Community Foundation of Jackson County. MREA will coordinate and deliver a minimum of 12 free, public Solar Power Hour information sessions and market them widely with physical posters, email blasts, paid social media promotion, in the press, and more.
IMPORTANT: Proposers for the Jackson County Grow Solar program are encouraged, though not required, to include a bid for the Jackson County Conservation Board’s Hurstville Interpretive Center ground mounted solar array. Please see the requirements of the County Conservation Board’s RFP and, as appropriate, include your proposal for that project along with your response to the Grow Solar RFP. The County’s RFP can be found here: https://www.mycountyparks.com/county/Jackson/Park/News/1458/Solar-Array-at-the-Hurstville-Interpretive-Center.aspx
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE RFP
RFP Announced February 18, 2021
RFP Questions Due/Posted March 12, 2021
RFP Proposals Due March 19, 2021
Firm(s) Selected March 31, 2021
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS