Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) is seeking qualified firms to submit proposals for 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 Rice County, MN (and immediately adjacent municipalities), 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 who attended our presentations, an average 19.28% purchased a PV system. To date, the average system size is 7.24 kW. 

The group buy program is offered with support from MREA, City of Northfield and the City of Faribault. MREA will coordinate and deliver a minimum of 12 free, public Solar Power Hour information sessions and market them widely with email blasts, paid social media promotion, promotional partnerships, in the press, and more. Please note: as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we plan to offer all public presentations via webinar until it is safe to offer them in person again. Across all programs in 2020, we averaged 11 attendees per webinar presentation; in 2019, we averaged 12 attendees per in-person presentation. 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE RFP

RFP Announced: February 26, 2021
RFP Questions Due/Posted: March 12, 2021
RFP Proposals Due: March 19, 2021
Firm(s) Selected: April 2, 2021

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