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 the Twin Cities and five-county metro area, Minnesota, 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, Pale Blue Dot, the City of Brooklyn Park, Oakdale Environmental Management Commission, and Resilient Cities and Communities. 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.

This program will also include paid internships for participants in a solar workforce development partnership between MREA and Renewable Energy Partners, Inc. The selected installer will accept 2-3 interns for on-the-job training. In addition, the selected installer will be hired for a solar installation per specifications in this RFP for Avenues for Youth.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE RFP

RFP Announced May 20, 2021
RFP Questions Due/Posted June 3, 2021
RFP Proposals Due June 10, 2021
Firm(s) Selected June 24, 2021