NY state issues RFQ for solar developers

On 4 Sep., New York Power Authority (NYPA) issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) from developers who would install solar panels on school buildings.

The deadline for responding to the solicitation is October 9. The solicitation can be accessed on NYPA’s Procurement webpage.

On the same date, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the rollout of K-Solar, a landmark program under the $1 billion NY-Sun Initiative, to help public school districts throughout New York State lower their energy costs with clean, local power.

The program will provide schools with the tools, technical expertise and access to financing to make solar a realistic and affordable option for K-12 schools. To date, a total of 40 school districts have registered to participate in the program, representing nearly 200 schools in communities across the state.

Governor Cuomo stated:

New York is becoming a national leader in the solar industry, and today we’re taking another major step forward by giving schools across the state the resources they need to tap into this innovative technology. Increasing the use of renewable energy at our schools will both protect the environment and modernize our electrical grid. I encourage all school districts to apply for this assistance today.

K-Solar is a joint partnership between the NYPA and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), working with the New York State Education Department. NYPA is offering every New York State school district free energy advisory services and expertise to collaborate with school personnel in determining if solar energy is suitable and cost-effective for their district.

The Authority will work closely with the districts and the solar industry to secure the most attractive solar financing. These services will be free to schools, with the only costs being from the clean electricity generated from the installed solar panels. There is no limit to the number of public school districts that can participate in the program.

To date 40 school districts have registered, representing nearly 200 schools across 24 counties.