College Photovoltaic Support Bidding

Do solar power purchase agreements make economic sense for campus solar deployment?

Solar power purchase agreements (PPAs) have facilitated more than 100 megawatts (MW) of solar deployment on campuses around the country. This brochure provides guidance to universities on the process of using PPAs and how PPAs can make economic sense for campus solar deployment.

Can PPAs make economic sense for campus solar?

This brochure provides guidance to universities on the process of using PPAs and how PPAs can make economic sense for campus solar deployment. This document can support university stakeholders charged with the financial planning of campus solar projects.

Should colleges buy solar panels?

This group purchasing structure will allow the colleges to negotiate better prices for their panels, which will save them money from the get-go. Colleges can expect the savings to continue, too—each of the planned solar installations will help reduce campus operating costs while carrying other economic and environmental benefits.

What is a solar RFP?

But first a few key definitions: A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a formal bid document to ask vendors to provide proposals for desired projects, as required by many public agencies (federal, state, local). A solar RFP outlines the photovoltaic (PV) product or service requirements, the contract terms, and bidding process.

Can a university claim solar power?

In order to claim to be using solar power, make environmental claims, and credit the renewable attributes towards one’s greenhouse gas reporting, the university (offtaker) must receive and retain the associated RECs from the project.

Does NREL offer solar photovoltaic implementation assistance?

In addition, NREL will provide short-term solar photovoltaic implementation assistance to several universities that submit qualifying applications. These SunShot-powered programs will help universities explore the benefits of using renewable energy to power their campuses.