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 MREA. The goal of the program is to increase consumer education and PV installations in the Minnesota counties of Hennepin, Ramsey, Washington, Dakota, and Anoka, through a group purchase involving a competitive contractor selection process, an advantageous pricing and rebate structure, and free information sessions.
Between 2013 and 2021, MREA facilitated more than 50 Solar Group Buy programs around the Midwest, reaching over 11,600 individuals with our Solar Power Hour information sessions, and leading to more than 17,400 kW on over 2,300 properties. Among those who attended our presentations, an average of 20% purchased a PV system. To date, the average system size is 7.3 kW. Similar programs in the Twin Cities in 2021, 2019, and 2018 resulted in 85, 47, and 35 solar installations, respectively.
The group buy program is offered with support from MREA, Pale Blue Dot, Resilient Cities and Communities, the Cities of Burnsville, Inver Grove Heights, Maplewood, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, New Brighton, Roseville, Stillwater, White Bear Lake, and Woodbury. MREA and Pale Blue Dot 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. Depending on local public health conditions, presentations may be webinars or in person.
Click here to download Request for Proposals (deadline extended).
RFP Announced: March 25, 2022
RFP Questions Due/Posted: April 7, 2022 April 22, 2022
RFP Proposals Due: April 14, 2022 May 2, 2022
Firm(s) Selected: May 12, 2022
First public presentation: May 17, 2022 (in person)
Participant List Available to Contractor: Ongoing
Site Assessments Provided to Participants: May through September, 2022
Participants Make “Go” or “No Go” Decision: May through September 30, 2022
Installations Begin: Upon first customer contract signature
Installations Completed: December 31, 2022 unless extension is granted
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Forthcoming as received.