· 

December 1, 2014

The Honorable Gina McCarthy 

Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency 

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 

Washington, DC 20460 

To Be Submitted via: A-and-R-Docket@epa.gov

RE: Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2013-0602

Comments to the EPA and States on the Proposed Clean Power Plan Regulating Existing Power Plants 

Under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act 

Dear Administrator McCarthy:

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and its 1,000 members would like to express our 

appreciation for the opportunity to provide input on the proposed Clean Power Plan regulating existing 

power plants under section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act (hereafter referred to as 111(d)). 

Solar energy reduces carbon pollutants and offers a positive economic return while generating 

affordable and reliable energy. As a cost-effective clean energy source, solar avoids a number of costs 

associated with fossil fuel resources. Further, solar enjoys widespread bi-partisan support from 

policymakers and the general public throughout the United States. As fossil energy production declines, 

solar energy will be available to help meet energy demands in a clean and sustainable manner. 

Therefore, SEIA respectfully requests that the EPA adopt an approach to regulating carbon emissions 

under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act that recognizes the ability of solar to reduce carbon emissions 

from existing power plants and that promotes the increased deployment and use of solar energy.

The comments contained herein reflect the views of SEIA and not the views of any individual member 

company. The following is an outline of SEIA’s comments to the EPA. 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The United States has some of the richest solar resources in the world. The U.S. solar industry grew by 

53% from 2012 to 2013, accounting for nearly 30% of all new electric generating capacity added to the 

U.S. grid in 2013.1 An additional 7.3 GW of solar capacity are expected to be added in 2014, brining the 

cumulative U.S. total to over 20 GW- enough to power more than 4 million homes. The U.S. solar 

 

1

SEIA/GTM U.S. Solar Market InsightTM Year in Review 2013 Report. All U.S. Solar Market Insight Reports are 

available here: http://www.seia.org/research-resources/us-solar-market-insight
2

industry now supports 143,000 employees at more than 6,100 companies spread across all 50 states. 

This phenomenal growth is the result of private investment, technological innovation, a maturing 

industry, customer demand, and smart federal and state policies.

The steady decline in solar energy costs makes it a cost-effective solution to reducing greenhouse gas 

emissions, modernizing grid operations, increasing energy independence, addressing water supply 

challenges, while simultaneously lowering long-term electricity supply costs and providing significant 

economic benefits. Solar contributes to a balanced portfolio of energy resources, and can help achieve 

an optimal long-term strategy for the economy and the environment.

The EPA’s Clean Power Plan recognizes and bolsters the current opportunity to reduce carbon emissions 

by transitioning the United States electric grid from a fossil fuel dominant fuel mix to a balanced energy 

portfolio that includes a higher penetration of renewable energy resources. The Clean Power Plan will 

require affected electric generating units (affected EGUs) within each state to reduce their carbon 

emissions, thus presenting the opportunity for utilities and states to shift towards sources that generate 

energy with little or no carbon emissions such as solar energy. The EPA has already recognized the 

importance of renewable energy and the role for renewable energy to play in this transition, and has 

included renewable energy as a part of the best system of emission reduction (BSER) that has been 

adequately demonstrated to reduce emissions from affected EGUs. 

Solar energy measures are part of the BSER because solar energy is technologically feasible, reasonable 

cost, reduces carbon emissions while providing other health and environmental benefits, and promotes 

technological development without negatively impacting the electric grid. Further, solar energy has 

been adequately demonstrated, as owners of affected EGUs are shifting generation away from dirty 

fossil fuels and turn to solar for a source of clean dependable energy. 

SEIA supports the EPA and the Clean Power Plan, and agrees with EPA that solar energy measures are 

part of the BSER. However, SEIA is also concerned that building block 3 (renewable energy measures) as 

it is currently calculated is incomplete because it does not contain current solar market data on cost and 

penetration rates, and it does not include distributed PV, which represents about 50% of the total U.S. 

solar market. Therefore, as it is currently written, EPA’s proposal does not accurately reflect the 

emissions reductions achievable through application of the BSER. 

To ensure that EPA’s final emissions goals accurately reflect application of the BSER to affected EGUs, 

the EPA should make the following changes: 

1. Include Distributed PV in Building Block 3: Distributed PV is one of the largest and fastest 

growing segments of the renewable energy market, and is currently procured by entities that 

own and operate affected EGUs. Therefore, under EPA’s system wide approach, distributed PV is 
3

necessarily part of the BSER and failure to include it in EPA’s final rule would be arbitrary and 

capricious. 

2. Use Accurate Cost and Penetration Data for Solar: The data used by EPA for calculating solar 

energy potential as part of the building block 3 is out of date and incomplete. Therefore, the 

EPA’s current proposal does not reflect the BSER. The EPA should update its cost and 

penetration data for solar when determining state emission reduction targets to ensure that the 

BSER is correctly reflected in state goals. 

3. Use the Alternative Approach for Determining State Goals: The EPA should use the Alternative 

Approach when determining state emission reduction targets because the Alternative Approach 

more accurately reflects the emission reduction and deployment potential of renewable energy 

than the RPS Approach. 

4. Make the Following Adjustments When Determining State Goals: To ensure that the EPA’s 

state emission reduction targets reflect application of the BSER to affected EGUs, the EPA should 

make the following adjustments when determining state goals. 

1. The EPA should exclude the technical potential benchmark from the alternative 

approach and rely on the IPM model results with modifications.

2. The EPA should use the Sunshot -62.5% cost scenario as the cost input for utility PV in 

the IPM model and as the cost input for distributed PV from the SolarDS model. 

3. The EPA should use the Sunshot -62.5% scenario distributed PV solar capacity 

projections to hard-wire distributed PV into the IPM model to include distributed 

PV. 

4. The EPA should update the current generation data for solar from EIA data with SEIA’s 

recommended outlined approach. 

5. The EPA should update the performance estimates used in the IPM model for solar. 

6. The EPA should use a 2012 or higher baseline year. 

These changes will ensure that the EPA’s emission reduction targets accurately reflect application of the 

BSER to affected EGUs. In fact, with these adjustments in building block 3, the EPA will find that 

renewable energy potential is nearly double what EPA originally calculated, increasing from roughly 530 

TWh to 973 TWh.

Finally, while natural gas will play an important role in the transition to a clean energy future, SEIA urges 

the EPA to ensure that its final rule does not require or incentivize states to over-rely on natural gas. An 

over-reliance on natural gas in the near term will incentivize significant natural gas infrastructure buildout over the next few years that will undermine the EPA’s long term carbon reduction goals. Once the 

infrastructure is built, it will be more difficult and expensive for states to switch to lower and nonemitting sources like renewable energy in the future. Further, natural gas is subject to extreme price 

volatility, such as was experienced by ratepayers during the 2014 polar vortex. Thus, the EPA should 
4

craft a final rule that allows states to avoid unnecessary costs by encouraging energy diversity and 

recognizing the long term price certainty and emission reduction value provided by renewable energy. 

The solar industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States and a proven technology 

to help reduce carbon emissions. We encourage the EPA to adopt a final rule that recognizes the value 

of solar energy as part of a balanced energy portfolio. 

The following is an outline of SEIA’s comments to the EPA.

Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..................................................................................................................................1

1. Introduction ..........................................................................................................................................7

1A. About SEIA ..........................................................................................................................................7

1B. Introduction to Solar Energy...............................................................................................................7

1B1. Photovoltaics (PV).........................................................................................................................7

1B2. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP)..................................................................................................9

1B3. Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC).................................................................................................10

1C. The EPA’s Authority to Regulate Carbon Emissions from the Electric Sector ..................................10

2. SEIA Comments on the EPA’s Proposal for Regulating Carbon Emissions from Existing Sources under 

Section 111(d).............................................................................................................................................11

2A. Determination of the Best System of Emission Reduction...............................................................11

2A1. Determining the Best System of Emission Reduction as Adequately Demonstrated ................12

2A2. Solar Energy Measures are Part of the Best System of Emission Reduction and are Adequately 

Demonstrated.....................................................................................................................................13

2A3. Solar Energy Measures are a System of Emission Reduction.....................................................13

2B. Solar Energy Measures are Part of the Best System of Emission Reduction....................................13

2B1. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included as Part of the BSER Because Solar Energy Measures 

are Technically Feasible ......................................................................................................................14

2B2. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They are a Reasonable Cost 

System to Reduce Emissions from Affected EGUs..............................................................................24

2B3. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They Reduce Carbon Emissions 

from Affected EGUs ............................................................................................................................40
5

2B4. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They Promote Technological 

Development.......................................................................................................................................44

2B5. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They Can be Reliably 

Integrated into the Electric Grid .........................................................................................................46

2B6. Solar Energy Measures are Adequately Demonstrated Because They are Currently Being Used 

by Utilities and Other Owners of Affected EGUs................................................................................51

2B7. Solar Energy Measures Avoid Health and Environmental Concerns Associated with Dirtier 

Sources of Energy................................................................................................................................57

3. Determination of State Goals .............................................................................................................58

3A. The Proposed State Goals do not Reflect Emissions Limitations Achievable through Application of 

the BSER to Affected EGUs. ....................................................................................................................58

3B. The EPA Should Use the Alternative Approach with Modifications to Determine the State Goals. 59

3B1. Exclude the Technical Potential Benchmark from the Alternative Approach and Rely on the 

IPM Model Results with Modifications...............................................................................................60

3B2. Use Sunshot -62.5% Scenario Distributed PV Solar Capacity Projections to Hard-wire 

Distributed PV into the IPM Model.....................................................................................................61

3B3. Use the Sunshot -62.5% Cost Scenario as the Cost Input for Utility PV in the IPM Model and as 

the Cost Input for Distributed PV from the SolarDS Model................................................................63

3B4. Update the Capital Cost Adders for CSP. ....................................................................................65

3B5. Update the Current Generation Data for Solar from EIA Data with the Below Outlined 

Approach.............................................................................................................................................66

3B6. Update the Performance Estimates used in the IPM Model for Solar. ......................................69

3B7. SEIA Does Not Take a Position on the NODA Regionalized Approach for RE Target Setting .....69

3B8. SEIA supports the changing the goal setting equation for calculating building block 3 as 

mentioned in the NODA to reflect the reduced utilization of affected EGUs from displacement by 

renewable energy. ..............................................................................................................................70

3B9. SEIA Supports a 2012 or Higher Baseline Year ...........................................................................70

3C. As an Example, Other Approaches to Setting the Renewables Portion to the State Targets Show 

Double the Amount of Renewable Energy Potential using the Correct Data for Renewable Energy. ...71

3D. Should the EPA Default to the Current Approach (RPS approach) in Setting State Targets, Several 

Key Changes Must be Made as Noted Below. ........................................................................................72

4. Compliance Comments.......................................................................................................................74
6

4A. Existing Measures and Early Action..................................................................................................74

4A1. SEIA Supports the EPA Proposal to Allow Existing Measures to Count Towards Compliance 

After the Date of the Proposed Rule, But Requests that EPA Provide Clearer Guidance in the Final 

Rule .....................................................................................................................................................74

4A2. EPA Proposal to Allow Pre-2020 Emissions Reductions to Count Towards Overall State Goals 75

4B. Interstate Emissions Effects..............................................................................................................76

4B1. The EPA Should Credit States that Invest in Renewable Energy ................................................76

4C. Federal Enforceability: The EPA Should Implement Enforceable Emissions Targets but Allow 

Programmatic Flexibility .........................................................................................................................79

4D. Evaluation, Measurement and Verification: The EPA Should Provide Guidance for Evaluation, 

Measurement and Verification of Solar..................................................................................................80

4E. Periodic Review of the Best System of Emissions Reductions: The EPA Should Review the BSER 

Every 8 Years...........................................................................................................................................80

4F. Post-2030 Emissions Reduction Requirements: The EPA Should Require State Emission Levels to be 

Maintained After the Compliance Period has Ended .............................................................................81

4G. Concerns with Natural Gas...............................................................................................................81

4H. Recognize Each Solar Technology as a Compliance Option and Specifically Mention these 

Technologies May be Eligible within State Compliance Plans................................................................83

5. Conclusion...........................................................................................................................................83

APPENDIX A – SEIA Calculation of the Technical Potential Benchmark......................................................84

APPENDIX B- Evaluation, Measurement & Verification..............................................................................88

APPENDIX C- DOE Sunshot Capacity Projections with -62.5% Cost Reduction Scenario............................90

APPENDIX D- TMY3 Solar PV System Performance ....................................................................................93

APPENDIX E- Solar Procurement.................................................................................................................98
7

1. Introduction

1A. About SEIA

Established in 1974, the Solar Energy Industries Association is the national trade association of the U.S. 

solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA and its member companies are building a 

strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works to make solar a 

mainstream and significant energy source by expanding markets, removing market barriers, 

strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. SEIA represents the 

entire solar industry, encompassing all major solar technologies (photovoltaics, concentrating solar 

power and solar heating and cooling) and all points in the value chain, including financiers, project 

developers, component manufacturers and solar installers.2

The United States has some of the richest solar resources in the world; the U.S. solar industry grew by 

53% from 2012 to 2013.

3 This phenomenal growth is the result of private investment, technological 

innovation, a maturing industry, customer demand, and smart federal and state policies.

1B. Introduction to Solar Energy 

There are multiple forms of solar energy technologies, each with its own unique performance 

capabilities and benefits. Below is a description of the primary types of solar energy technologies:

1B1. Photovoltaics (PV) 

Photovoltaic (PV) devices generate electricity directly from sunlight via an electronic process that occurs 

naturally in certain types of material, called semiconductors. Electrons in these materials are freed by 

solar energy and can be induced to travel through an electrical circuit, powering electrical devices or 

sending electricity to the grid. PV devices can be used to power anything from small electronics such as 

calculators and road signs up to homes and large commercial businesses.

PV technology can be applied in a number of different ways. The primary applications of PV solar are, 

distributed PV, utility PV and off-grid distributed PV. These applications are discussed in further detail 

below. 

 

2 The views expressed herein are the views of SEIA and not the views of any individual member company 

3 U.S. Solar Market InsightTM Year in Review 2013 report.
8

Applications of PV Solar

Distributed PV

Distributed PV refers to solar electricity that is produced at or near the point where it is used.4 

Distributed PV can be located on rooftops or ground-mounted, and is typically connected to the local 

utility distribution grid. Distributed PV installations tend to be smaller than utility-scale arrays.5 Due to 

the nature of proposed regulations, in these comments, distributed PV only refers to solar that is 

connected to the grid and thus can lower carbon emission from affected EGUs.

Distributed PV is one of the fast growing applications of PV technology in the United States. As of the 

end of 2013, the total U.S. cumulative installed capacity of distributed PV was 6.3 GWdc.

6

In addition to 

reducing carbon emissions, distributed PV can provide wholesale ancillary services in the same fashion 

as utility-scale assets and can also provide local ancillary services beyond what utility-scale assets are 

capable of providing. These services include but are not limited to frequency regulation, frequency 

response, spinning and non-spinning reserves, voltage and reactive power support. Distributed PV can 

also provide incremental ancillary services on the local or distribution level. Local voltage support is 

critical to operating the distribution system within system constraints, and distribution system operators 

rely on a distributed set of voltage regulating equipment to provide that support. Distributed PV can 

augment and sometimes replace this equipment, providing real and reactive power support as identified 

by the distribution operator. 

Utility PV 

Utility-scale PV, or utility scale solar, refers to PV technology applied to the grid on a large-scale 

centralized basis. The defining features of utility-scale PV is that it is constructed as a centralized power 

plant, it is larger in size than distributed PV (generally larger than 10 MW), it is not generally located 

near the source of consumption, and the electricity generated by utility-scale PV is usually sold to 

wholesale utility buyers rather than retail consumers. There are a number of characteristics unique to 

large-scale installations that make them attractive to utilities, including advanced operational 

characteristics, low cost, and long-term fixed pricing. In addition, utility-scale PV can provide a variety of 

ancillary services associated with traditional fossil sources including frequency regulation, dynamic 

 

4 Distributed PV is a type of distributed generation. Distributed generation refers to electricity that is generated at 

or near the point where it is used. There are several types of distributed generation, including distributed PV, solar 

heating and cooling, distributed wind, and combined heat and cooling. 

5 DG solar is also sometimes referred to as “behind the meter”, although it does not have to be behind a meter. 

Different entities also classify the size of DG systems in various ways; for example, the EIA classifies DG solar as 

anything below 1 MW in size. The PURPA classification for DG solar classifies small DG as anything under or equal 

to 10 MW. SEIA/GTM Research classify DG solar as solar located on-site, or at the customer’s end location.

6 U.S. Solar Market InsightTM Q2 2014 report.
9

voltage and power factor regulation, and ramp rate controls. Thus, when included as part of a balanced 

energy portfolio, utility-scale PV contributes to the stability and reliability of the grid. Further, utilityscale PV reduces carbon emissions from fossil units by reducing the amount of conventional generation 

that must be dispatched to meet electricity demand. As of the end of Q2 2014, the total U.S. cumulative 

installed capacity of utility-scale PV was 7.3 GWdc.

7

Off-Grid Distributed PV

Off-grid distributed PV systems route electrons through a solar regulator which charges a battery. From 

the battery, the power can be directly utilized by appliances that require 12 volts, or via an inverter for 

appliances that require 240 volts. These systems are not connected to the grid, but can be used to 

reduce the need for production from the grid. 

While not SEIA does not advocate for off-grid distributed PV to be a part of the Best System of Emission 

Reductions, the EPA should encourage states to use off-grid distributed PV systems for compliance, as 

these technologies avoid the need for electricity from the grid. For example, off-grid distributed PV 

systems placed on roadside assistance emergency phone boxes, wireless security and surveillance 

cameras, communication towers, and street lighting systems all can be used to avoid the use of 

electricity from the grid. 

1B2. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP)

CSP uses mirrors to concentrate the sun’s thermal energy to produce steam and drive a conventional 

steam turbine to produce electricity. This solar generated electricity is then sold to wholesale utility 

buyers. CSP can be integrated with thermal energy storage, which allows energy to be stored for later 

use. In this way, CSP with thermal energy storage provides flexibility to grid operators, offering power 

that can be dispatched as needed, day or night. These large-scale installations are attractive to utilities 

because they include advanced operational characteristics, delivering large quantities of solar power at 

a low cost and long-term fixed pricing that provides a hedge against fuel volatility.

CSP plants utilize conventional steam turbine generators, like those of conventional plants, but use the 

sun as the source of heat instead of fossil fuels. This allows CSP plants to provide the ancillary services 

historically offered by conventional plants, such as frequency response, load following, spinning and 

non-spinning reserves as well as ramping. CSP reduces carbon emissions from affected EGUs by reducing 

the amount of conventional generation that must be dispatched to meet electricity demand and provide 

the aforementioned ancillary services. As of the end of Q2 2014, there are 1.47 GWac of CSP facilities 

operating in the U.S.

8

 

7 U.S. Solar Market InsightTM 2013 Year in Review Report. 

8 U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2014 report. 
10

1B3. Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC)

SHC technologies collect thermal energy from the sun and use this heat to provide hot water, space 

heating and cooling and pool heating for residential, commercial and industrial applications. These 

technologies displace the need to use electricity or natural gas.9 The SHC industry currently has a goal of 

300 GWth of SHC by 2050. Deployment at this scale would provide enormous benefits for homeowners, 

businesses and taxpayers, and generate nearly 8 percent of the total heating and cooling needs in the 

U.S., resulting in nearly $100 billion annually in positive economic impacts.10

1C. The EPA’s Authority to Regulate Carbon Emissions from the Electric Sector 

The EPA has authority to regulate air pollution, including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, under the 

Clean Air Act. The EPA regulates criteria air pollutants, such as smog pollutants, through the National 

Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) established under §110 of the Clean Air Act.11 For air pollutants 

not covered by NAAQS, the EPA may control emissions through §111. To employ this authority, the EPA 

is required to take a number of procedural steps. The EPA must first make an endangerment finding that 

an air pollutant causes harm to health and the environment.12 Next, the EPA must identify the 

categories of stationary sources that cause or contribute significantly to air pollution that endangers the 

public health and welfare.13 The EPA must then control air pollution for new sources in the identified 

categories under §111(b).14 Once new sources in the identified categories are controlled, the EPA must 

establish emission guidelines by which states regulate emissions from existing sources under §111(d). 

The EPA has authority to regulate carbon emissions from EGUs under §111(d). In 2007, the U.S. 

Supreme Court in Massachusetts v. EPA, 549 U.S. 497 (2007) held that greenhouse gases (GHG), 

including carbon, are an air pollutant under the Clean Air Act. The EPA then conducted an 

endangerment finding and declared that GHG emissions, including carbon, endanger public health and 

welfare as a significant contributor to climate change. The EPA’s finding was then confirmed in the 

Court’s holding in American Electric Power Co. v. Connecticut, 131 S. Ct. 2527, 2537-2538 (2011), which 

held that a common law right to seek abatement of carbon-dioxide emissions from fossil fuel-fired 

plants was displaced by the EPA’s authority to regulate carbon emissions under §111. The EPA then 

identified large coal and natural gas plants (hereinafter referred to as “affected EGUs”) as stationary 

 

9

For more information: http://www.seia.org/policy/solar-technology/solar-heating-cooling

10 Solar Heating and Cooling: Energy for a Secure Future. Full report available here: www.seia.org/shca

11 NAAQS standards have been set for sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, ozone, lead, carbon monoxide, and 

nitrogen dioxide. (http://www.epa.gov/air/criteria.html) 

12 This finding is available at: http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/endangerment/ 

13 CAA Section 111(b)(1)(A) 

14 42 U.S.C. §7411(b)(1)(B). EPA Standards of Performance for Greenhouse Gas Emissions for New Stationary 

Sources: Electric Utility Generating Units, 77 FR 22392 (April 13, 2012) and 79 FR 1430 (January 8, 2014) 
11

source categories which contributed significantly to carbon pollution and should be controlled.15 The 

EPA then properly proposed carbon emissions standards from new affected EGUs.16 

Upon proposing emissions standards for carbon from new affected EGUs under §111(b), the EPA must 

issue emissions guidelines for states to reduce carbon emissions from existing sources under §111(d).17 

The emissions guidelines must be based on the best system of emission reduction (BSER) that the EPA 

determines has been adequately demonstrated for the affected EGUs.18 Each state must then create an 

implementation plan that includes a standard of performance for carbon emissions from existing 

sources in compliance with the EPA’s emissions guidelines.19

2. SEIA Comments on the EPA’s Proposal for Regulating Carbon 

Emissions from Existing Sources under Section 111(d)20

The EPA issued a proposal for regulating carbon emissions from existing sources under §111(d) on June 

15, 2014. The EPA issued its proposal after unprecedented public outreach. SEIA applauds the EPA for 

its outreach efforts and supports the approach put forth in its proposal. Specifically, SEIA supports the 

“outside the fence” approach taken by EPA for determining the BSER, and the broad compliance options 

made available to the states. The EPA’s “outside the fence” approach follows the statutory scheme set 

forth in the Clean Air Act, and reflects current and widely anticipated regulatory and market 

developments. 

While SEIA supports the framework put forth by EPA, SEIA believes that there are necessary adjustments 

to be made before the rule is finalized to ensure that the required carbon reductions are reflective of 

the application of the best system of emission reduction to affected EGUs. The following are SEIA’s 

recommendations for improving the proposal to most effectively reduce carbon emissions from existing 

sources in compliance with §111(d) of the Clean Air Act. 

2A. Determination of the Best System of Emission Reduction 

EPA proposes that the best system for reducing carbon emissions from existing power plants is a 

system-wide approach based on the application of four building blocks that include on-site measures 

and measures taken to shift generation away from carbon intensive units. These building blocks are: 

 

15 TTTT Sources 

16 40 CFR Part 60.

17 40 CFR 60.22(a) 

18 40 CFR 60.21(e); CAA Section 111(a)(1) 

19 CAA Section 111(d)(1)

20 The EPA is offering the opportunity to comment on the proposed BSER, the proposed methodology for 

computing state goals based on application of the BSER, and the state-specific data used in computations (34835).
12

heat rate improvements; natural gas switching; renewable energy measures; and energy efficiency.21 

SEIA agrees with EPA’s approach for determining the BSER.22 Specifically, SEIA agrees with EPA that 

renewable energy measures, and solar measures especially, are necessarily part of the BSER. However, 

SEIA is also concerned that building block 3 (renewable energy measures) as it is currently calculated is 

incomplete because it does not contain current solar market data on cost and penetration rates, and it 

does not include distributed PV, which represents about 50% of the total U.S. solar market. Therefore, 

as it is currently written, EPA’s proposal does not accurately reflect the emissions reductions achievable 

through application of the BSER. 

2A1. Determining the Best System of Emission Reduction as Adequately Demonstrated 

To determine the BSER, the EPA must identify the “system of emission reduction” that is the “best” and 

that is “adequately demonstrated” to reduce carbon emissions from the affected EGUs.23

 

First, EPA identifies systems of emission reduction. Once it has identified systems of emission reduction, 

the EPA is required to identify the “best” system of emissions reduction that has been “adequately 

demonstrated” for the affected EGUs.24

 

The EPA’s inquiry into the “best” system of emission reduction has been established through substantial 

case law. To determine the best system, the EPA looks at the following factors: the system’s technical 

feasibility; emissions reductions expected from the system; whether the costs of the system are 

reasonable; whether the system will promote technological development; and the energy impacts of the 

system.25 The EPA has significant discretion in weighing the factors to determine the best system of 

emission reduction.26

 

Once the EPA has identified the best system of emission reduction, it must determine whether that 

system has been adequately demonstrated. The BSER is adequately demonstrated if it is fairly 

 

21 79 FR 34855 

22 The EPA proposes two alternatives to the four building blocks of the BSER. SEIA does not take a position on 

those two different approaches, but rather supports the use of measures taken at the plant as well as measures 

taken on the system to reduce carbon emissions from existing sources. 

23 42 U.S. C. §7411(a)(1); 40 CFR 60.22(a) 

24 Id. 

25 Portland Cement Ass’n v. Ruckleshaus, 486 F.2d 375 (D.C. Cir. 1973); Essex Chemical Corp. v. Ruckelhaus, 486 

F.2d 427 (D.C. Cir. 1973); Appalachain Power Co. v. EPA,416 U.S. 969 (1974); Sierra Club v. Costle, 675 F.2d 298 

(D.C. Cir. 1981) 

26 EPA v. EME Homer City Generation, L.P. No. 12-1182, slip op. at 22 (U.S. April 29, 2014) citing Chevron U.S.A., 

Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. 467 U.S. 831 (1984) 
13

projected into the regulatory future. Therefore, the system may be achieved by some, but not 

necessarily all, affected EGUs. This test is aligned with the technology forcing intent of §111.27 

2A2. Solar Energy Measures are Part of the Best System of Emission Reduction and are 

Adequately Demonstrated 

Solar energy measures are part of the BSER because they represent a system for reducing emissions 

from affected EGUs that is technically feasible, done at reasonable cost, promotes technological 

development, and does not negatively impact the electric system.28 Solar energy measures are measures 

taken by states to reduce emissions from affected EGUs through the deployment of solar energy. 

2A3. Solar Energy Measures are a System of Emission Reduction 

The EPA proposes that a system of emission reduction can include anything that reduces emissions from 

affected EGUs, ranging from add-on controls applied to affected sources’ smokestacks to control 

emissions, to measures that replace production or generation at the affected sources thereby reducing 

emissions from those sources.29 The EPA’s definition is based in part on the broad definition of the term 

“system,” which is defined as “a set of things working together as parts of a mechanism or 

interconnecting network; a complex whole”30 and the interconnected nature of the electric grid. 

SEIA agrees with EPA’s proposal that a system of emission reduction can be a number of different 

measures, ranging from controls at the smokestack to measures that shift generation away from carbon 

intensive sources. Solar energy measures are one such system, as solar energy measures are used by 

states and EGUs to reduce carbon emissions by increasing the amount of solar deployed on the grid and 

shifting generation away from carbon intensive EGUs. 

2B. Solar Energy Measures are Part of the Best System of Emission Reduction 

As stated above, solar energy measures are part of the BSER because they represent a system for 

reducing emissions from affected EGUs that is technically feasible, done at reasonable cost, promotes 

technological development, and does not negatively impact the electric system.

 

27 Portland Cement Ass’n v. Ruckleshaus, 486 F.2d 375 (D.C. Cir. 1973); Essex Chemical Corp. v. Ruckelhaus, 486 

F.2d 427 (D.C. Cir. 1973); Appalachain Power Co. v. EPA,416 U.S. 969 (1974); Sierra Club v. Costle, 675 F.2d 298 

(D.C. Cir. 1981) 

28 Portland Cement Ass’n v. Ruckleshaus, 486 F.2d 375 (D.C. Cir. 1973)

29 Clean Power Plan, Legal Memo at 51-52.

30 SEIA agrees with the EPA that because the term “system” is not defined in statute or regulation, it is appropriate 

to take the ordinary meaning of the term. 
14

2B1. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included as Part of the BSER Because Solar Energy 

Measures are Technically Feasible 

A variety of solar technologies have been successfully deployed in the United States and around the 

world. From the first commercial solar projects installed in the 1980s, to the rapidly-increasing fleet of 

distributed and utility-scale solar assets providing a significant and growing percentage of the nation’s 

power today, solar has demonstrated its capabilities and contributions to a cost-effective, reliable 

power supply.

1. Utility Scale and Distributed PV Should be Included in Building Block 3 Because Both Applications 

of PV are Technically Feasible 

PV technology is being installed on a utility scale and distributed basis at an increasing rate throughout 

the country. The following chart shows the total installed solar PV capacity by state from 2006-2013. 

The chart includes both distributed PV and utility-scale PV installations. 

Solar Photovoltaic Installations 2006-2013 and Cumulative (MWdc)

31

State 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Cumulative 

(through 

2013)

Alabama <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.2 <0.1 0.6 0.8 1.9

Alaska <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 0.2

Arizona 2.1 2.8 6.4 23.2 63.6 287.8 708.8 423.7 1,563.1

Arkansas <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.6 <0.1 0.6 0.2 1.8

California 69.5 91.8 178.7 210.3 255.6 537.8 983.2 2,607.7 5,183.4

Colorado 1.0 11.5 21.7 22.9 62.0 75.5 102.9 58.0 360.4

Connecticut 0.7 2.5 5.3 8.7 5.6 4.5 7.5 37.5 77.1

Delaware 0.3 0.4 0.6 0.7 2.4 20.9 19.7 16.7 62.8

Florida 0.2 1.0 0.9 35.9 34.8 21.5 21.9 20.4 137.3

Georgia <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 1.6 5.1 8.2 88.5 109.9

Hawaii 0.7 2.9 8.6 11.5 18.5 40.5 114.3 153.0 358.2

Idaho <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 <0.1 0.7 0.7 1.8

Illinois 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 11.0 0.7 26.7 0.5 43.4

Indiana <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 3.0 0.9 45.0 49.4

Iowa <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 1.1 3.4 4.6

Kansas <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 <0.1 0.3 0.6 1.1

Kentucky <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 3.0 1.5 3.2 7.9

 

31 Compiled from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight 2012 and 2013 and IREC U.S. Solar Market Trends 

2012 and 2013.
15

Louisiana <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.2 2.4 10.8 11.9 28.0 53.4

Maine 0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 0.6 1.7 2.5 5.3

Maryland 0.1 0.3 2.2 2.5 5.3 24.3 79.7 58.7 175.4

Massachusetts 1.5 1.4 2.9 9.5 20.4 36.4 123.2 222.6 445.0

Michigan <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.3 1.9 6.2 11.1 2.3 22.2

Minnesota 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.9 1.7 1.2 6.5 3.8 15.1

Mississippi <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.3 1.0

Missouri <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.5 1.3 16.6 30.4 48.9

Montana <0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 <0.1 <0.1 1.4 0.9 3.0

Nebraska <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.6

Nevada 3.2 15.9 14.9 2.5 68.3 19.4 225.6 46.9 424.0

New 

Hampshire <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 1.3 1.0 2.3 4.1 9.6

New Jersey 17.9 20.4 22.5 57.3 132.4 306.1 390.7 202.3 1,184.6

New Mexico 0.2 0.2 0.6 1.4 40.9 122.1 37.9 49.1 256.6

New York 3.0 3.8 7.0 12.1 21.6 68.3 55.6 61.1 240.5

North Carolina 0.1 0.4 4.0 7.9 28.7 45.5 122.4 261.1 470.1

North Dakota <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.2

Ohio 0.1 0.1 0.4 0.5 18.7 10.9 48.3 18.5 98.4

Oklahoma <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.7

Oregon 0.5 1.1 4.8 6.3 9.9 11.9 20.6 6.4 62.8

Pennsylvania 0.2 0.1 3.0 3.4 46.5 78.2 31.3 15.9 180.2

Rhode Island 0.2 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.6 0.7 5.7 7.6

South Carolina <0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.3 3.2 0.5 3.5 8.0

South Dakota <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

Tennessee 0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.5 4.8 16.3 23.0 19.8 64.8

Texas 0.7 0.6 1.2 3.8 25.9 51.5 54.7 75.6 215.9

Utah <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 1.4 2.3 5.6 6.0 16.0

Vermont 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 2.2 7.8 16.3 13.6 41.5

Virginia <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.3 1.9 1.8 5.2 2.2 12.6

Washington 0.4 1.2 0.8 1.8 2.9 4.2 7.2 7.9 27.4

Washington 

DC <0.1 <0.1 0.2 0.3 3.5 7.2 2.3 2.6 16.5

West Virginia <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.6 1.1 0.5 2.2

Wisconsin 0.3 0.6 1.7 2.2 3.5 4.2 8.2 1.4 22.5

Wyoming <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 <0.1 0.4 0.4 1.0
16

The below graph shows the yearly U.S. solar PV installations by market segment, showing that both 

utility scale PV and distributed PV should be included in building block 3 because both applications are 

technically feasible.32

The following chart breaks out distributed PV and utility PV and shows installed capacity for all 50 states 

cumulative through 2013.33 

Cumulative Solar Photovoltaic Installations 

through 2013 (MWdc)

34

State Distributed PV Utility PV

Alabama 1.4 0.5

Alaska 0.2 0.0

 

32 SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight 

33 Note that these cumulative numbers from the U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2014 report will differ from the 

numbers presented in Section 3B5 from the EIA. This is because the EIA data does not accurately capture all solar 

industry generation. See Section 3B5 for a further description of this. 

34 Compiled from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight 2012 and 2013 and IREC U.S. Solar Market Trends 

2012 and 2013.
17

Arizona 485.4 1,077.7

Arkansas 1.8 0.0

California 2,438.7 2,744.7

Colorado 253.8 106.6

Connecticut 69.7 7.4

Delaware 29.7 33.1

Florida 69.7 67.6

Georgia 20.4 89.5

Hawaii 330.8 27.4

Idaho 1.8 0.0

Illinois 7.3 36.1

Indiana 5.6 43.8

Iowa 4.6 0.0

Kansas 1.1 0.0

Kentucky 6.6 1.3

Louisiana 53.4 0.0

Maine 5.3 0.0

Maryland 145.4 30.0

Massachusetts 386.7 58.3

Michigan 22.2 0.0

Minnesota 12.8 2.3

Mississippi 0.9 0.1

Missouri 48.9 0.0

Montana 3.0 0.0

Nebraska 0.6 0.0

Nevada 91.3 332.7

New Hampshire 9.6 0.0

New Jersey 1,021.1 163.5

New Mexico 66.1 190.5

New York 187.7 52.8

North Carolina 18.8 450.2

North Dakota 0.2 0.0

Ohio 74.0 24.4

Oklahoma 0.7 0.0

Oregon 47.0 15.8

Pennsylvania 158.6 21.6

Rhode Island 1.9 5.7

South Carolina 5.0 3.0
18

South Dakota <0.1 0.0

Tennessee 47.1 17.7

Texas 70.2 145.7

Utah 16.0 0.0

Vermont 24.6 16.9

Virginia 12.6 0.0

Washington 27.4 0.0

Washington DC 16.5 0.0

West Virginia 2.2 0.0

Wisconsin 21.4 1.1

Wyoming 1.0 0.0

a. Distributed PV Should be Included in Building Block 3 Because it is Technically Feasible

The below chart shows the growth of distributed PV installations from 2000-2014, demonstrating that 

distributed PV should be included in building block 3 because it is technically feasible.35

 

35 SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight.
19

As the chart shows, distributed PV is growing rapidly year over year. Distributed PV is generally broken 

into two segments: residential and non-residential. 

The residential PV sector represents homeowners who are installing solar. With falling solar prices and 

the rise of 3rd party financing, more homeowners are going solar than ever before. Homeowners are 

either directly purchasing these solar systems, or leasing them through certain solar companies. The 

energy produced by homeowners is often used to offset the need for generation from affected EGUs or 

is counted towards clean energy requirements such as renewable portfolio standards. 

The non-residential sector typically represents those business owners who are installing solar systems. 

Solar energy generated from commercial units also reduces the need for generation from affected EGUs 

and is often counted towards clean energy requirements or used to make green claims by the 

companies that invest in the systems. See Section 2B6 on procurement of solar for more discussion of 

affected EGUs procuring distributed PV. 

In addition to affected EGUs, some of the most well-run and efficient companies are turning to solar 

energy to reduce their carbon footprint and hedge against risks associated with energy prices and 
20

climate change. As of mid-2014, cumulative commercial deployment totaled 4,530 MW at over 41,800 

facilities throughout the country, an increase of more than 34 percent over last year. A recent SEIA 

report “Solar Means Business 2014” shows that Wal-Mart leads all U.S. companies with 105 MW of 

installed capacity, with Costco, Kohl’s, Apple, IKEA, and Macy’s all having at least 20 MW. The report also 

found that growth in the commercial market is not limited to just California, as 129 million people – 41% 

of all Americans - live within 20 miles of at least one of the more than 1,100 commercial solar 

installations that were analyzed.

36

 

It is also important to point out the percentage of the solar market that is comprised of distributed PV. 

Note that in all years, at least 40% or more of the total installed solar in each year comes from the 

distributed PV sector. This is shown the following graph, which breaks utility PV, CSP, and distributed PV

from 2000-2016.37

 

36 Solar Means Business Report, 2014. Available here: http://www.seia.org/research-resources/solar-meansbusiness-report

37 SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight.
21

b. Utility Scale PV Should be Included in Building Block 3 Because it is Technically Feasible 

The below chart shows the growth of utility PV installations from 2000-2014, demonstrating that utility

PV is technically feasible.38 For further discussion of how utility scale PV is deployed by affected EGUs, 

see Section 2B6 on solar procurement. 

2. CSP Should be Included in Building Block 3 Because it is Technically Feasible 

CSP technology is technically feasible and is being installed throughout the country today. The following 

chart shows the total installed solar CSP capacity from 2006-2013. For further discussion of how CSP is 

deployed by affected EGUs, see Section 2B6 on solar procurement. 

 

38 SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight.
22

Concentrating Solar Power Installations, 2006-2013 and Cumulative (MWac)

39

State 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Cumulative 

(through 

2013)

Arizona 1.0 2.0 280.0 283.0

California 10.0 125.0 1,006.0

Florida 75.0 75.0

Hawaii 2.0 5.0 7.0

Nevada 64.0 64.0

3. Third-Party Studies Verify That Solar Energy is Technically Feasible and Should be Included in 

Building Block 3 

Several third-party verified studies show the technical feasibility of all solar energy as well. Below two 

such studies are highlighted. 

The Department of Energy (DOE) SunShot Vision study shows that solar energy can meet roughly 14% of 

U.S. electricity demand by 2030 based on widely anticipated cost reductions.

40 Achieving the expected 

price targets is projected to result in the cumulative installation of approximately 302 gigawatts (GW) of 

PV and 28 GW of CSP by 2030. By 2030, this translates into PV generating 505 terawatt-hours (TWh) 

per year of electricity or 11% of total U.S. electricity demand, and CSP generating 137 TWh per year or 

3% of total demand for a combined solar generation of 642 TWh in 2030, well more than the EPA’s 

total solar generation target of 8,722 GWh in 2030 under the alternative approach.41 This is also 

7,360% more than what the EPA had estimated for solar. It should be noted that the DOE Sunshot 

study also analyzed the grid integration and reliability aspect of this amount of solar generation on the 

grid, and found that solar could be added to the grid at the projected levels without adverse effects on 

grid reliability. See the Section 2B5 for more information on grid reliability and grid integration. See a 

further breakdown of the Sunshot study below: 

 

39 Compiled from: SEIA/GTM Research Solar Market Insight 2013. 

40 The DOE Sunshot Vision Study is available here: http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/01/f7/47927.pdf

41 http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/01/f7/47927.pdf and the Alternative RE Approach Technical Support 

Document, p.4. 
23

Additionally, the Renewable Electricity Futures Study (RE Futures) conducted by the National Renewable 

Energy Laboratory (NREL) shows a modelling scenario with renewables achieving between 30%-90% of 

generation levels.

42 The cost assumptions used to arrive at the 2030 generation levels in NREL’s report 

are higher than current industry projections. For example, the U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2014 report 

(see section 2B2 on full detailed cost descriptions) shows that solar is outpacing the 2030 cost 

assumptions within the NREL report. Therefore, solar is reasonably expected to meet its share of the 

80% by 2050 renewable electricity targets within the RE Futures study, and solar may exceed the solar 

targets put forth in the study. 

Further, the two graphs below show that, based on the cost assumptions in the RE Futures study, solar 

can represent nearly 20% of total generated electricity in the high-demand scenario for 2050, and at 

least 12% in the low-demand scenario for 2050. 

 

42 The NREL Renewable Electricity Futures Study is available here: http://www.nrel.gov/analysis/re_futures/
24

2B2. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They are a 

Reasonable Cost System to Reduce Emissions from Affected EGUs

There are a number of ways to consider whether a system of emission reduction is reasonable cost, and 

EPA has broad discretion when making this determination.43 Below, SEIA provides information showing 

that solar energy measures are reasonable cost under the methodologies proposed by the EPA for 

setting state goals. Further, SEIA provides data showing solar costs are falling in relation to other 

sources of energy, reinforcing the EPA’s position that solar energy measures are reasonable cost. 

1. Solar Energy is Reasonable Cost under Both of EPA’s Proposed Methodologies for Setting State 

Goals, and Therefore Should be Included in the BSER 

In its proposal the EPA finds that renewables cost $10-$40/ton under its Renewable Portfolio Standard 

(RPS) approach and $30/MWh under its Alternative approach, which the EPA determines to be 

reasonable cost.44 SEIA agrees with EPA that renewable energy, including solar, is reasonable cost under 

 

43 EPA v. EME Homer City Generation, L.P. No. 12-1182, slip op. at 22 (U.S. April 29, 2014) citing Chevron U.S.A., 

Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. 467 U.S. 831 (1984)

44 79 FR 34869 and the Alternative RE Approach Technical Support Document. 
25

both approaches. However, the EPA should recognize that solar costs are even lower than projected by 

the EPA and distributed PV must be included in building block 3 because it is a reasonable cost emission 

reduction technology. 

i. Solar Energy is Reasonable Cost Under the Alternative Approach

Under the alternative approach, the EPA notes that RE deployment levels were modelled with a cost 

reduction of $30/MWh, a level that is consistent with the cost range of $10-$40/metric ton of avoided 

CO2 emissions. In a recent analysis of the EPA’s Clean Power Plan performed by the Natural Resources 

Defense Council (NRDC), NRDC updated the cost assumptions for solar and wind energy that are used in 

the IPM model.45 See Section 3B3 for a discussion on the updated costs. The model results show that 

with these updated costs for renewable energy, the overall nationwide cost of abatement for renewable 

energy is approximately $14/metric ton avoided carbon emissions in 2020, and $19/metric ton avoided 

carbon emissions in 2030. These costs fall well within the range of $10-$40/metric ton of avoided 

carbon emissions that the EPA had initially set, and demonstrate that renewables, including solar, are a 

reasonable cost emissions reduction measure. 

ii. Distributed PV Should be Included in Building Block 3 Because it is Reasonable Cost When 

Compared to the Default Generation Mix 

It should be noted that the abatement costs for renewable energy discussed above do not include 

distributed PV, as the IPM model does not look at retail costs as an input. The IPM model essentially 

looks at the incremental total system cost (i.e. $30/MWh cost to deploy renewable energy as a part of 

the best system) versus the emission reductions achieved (i.e. $19/metric ton avoided carbon emissions 

in 2030 in the NRDC analysis) to determine what technologies should be deployed at reasonable cost. 

Since distributed PV is purchased and contracted by consumers and utilities at retail rates, and not 

wholesale rates, distributed PV cannot be entered into the IPM model as a piece of the incremental total 

system cost. Retail and wholesale electricity rates are simply not comparable in this regard. 

The EPA stated in the Alternative RE Approach Technical Support document that “distributed generation 

RE technologies were omitted from the RE Alternative Approach because their market potential cannot 

be tested in the current IPM framework.”46 However, the difference between modelling methods for 

distributed PV versus other renewables is not grounds to exclude distributed PV from building block 3. 

In fact, exclusion of distributed PV on these grounds would be arbitrary and capricious because 

 

45 During the comment period, SEIA worked with NRDC on improving the solar cost, performance, and generation 

data for use in the IPM model and NRDC analysis. http://www.nrdc.org/

46 EPA’s Alternative RE Approach Technical Support Document: http://www2.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-

06/documents/20140602tsd-alternative-re-approach.pdf
26

distributed PV is used to shift generation away from affected EGUs, and it is possible to accurately 

model distributed PV as part of building block 3. 

Distributed PV can be included within the IPM model, as shown and elaborated further upon in Section 

3B2. Distributed PV is hard-wired into the IPM model by using the distributed PV capacity projections 

from the Sunshot -62.5% scenario. These capacity projections assume a certain cost assumption and 

were calculated using a model called SolarDS.

The capacity projections show the amount of solar (GW) that will be built at the given cost assumptions 

over the default generation mix within the model precisely because distributed PV is more economical. 

The SolarDS model inherently includes this comparison of distributed PV to other sources of electricity 

as it produces the output of solar. The capacity projections- the output of SolarDS based on the costshow that distributed PV should be included within the baseline mix of electricity in a state. For more 

information on the comparison of distributed PV to other sources of electricity, please review the PV 

Annual Revenue Calculator and PV Financial Performance Calculator sections of the NREL SolarDS 

Documentation and Sample Results report.47 

The EPA will need to determine which costs to assume for input into the SolarDS model. To this end, the 

EPA should compare the Department of Energy’s Sunshot -62.5% scenario with current industry trends. 

The Sunshot -62.5% scenario cost assumptions are $1.88/watt for commercial PV and $2.25/watt for 

residential PV. The latest U.S. Solar Market Insight Report (Q2 2014) shows that commercial distributed 

PV is currently $2.39/watt and residential distributed PV is currently $3.92/watt. The decreasing 

trendline of these current industry costs from the SMI report places solar on track to meet the 2030 

goals for the -75% scenario and to exceed the 2030 goals for the -62.5%. Under the -62.5% scenario, 

approximately 67.3 GW of distributed PV will be deployed instead of the default electricity mix based on 

cost by 2030. This significant level of projected distributed PV deployment based on the trendline of 

current industry costs demonstrates that distributed PV is reasonable cost when compared to the 

default electricity mix. 

These cost assumptions may be a conservative projection as well, as an October 2014 notice from the 

Sunshot program projects that distributed solar prices are still on track to meet the Sunshot goal (a full -

75% reduction in price) by 2020, which would result in higher demand for distributed PV systems than in 

-62.5% projection.48 Second, the SolarDS model assumes no further price declines after 2020, when in 

 

47The NREL “Solar Deployment System (SolarDS) Model: Documentation and Sample Results” report is available 

here: http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy10osti/45832.pdf

48 U.S. DOE Sunshot, “Photovoltaic System Pricing Trends: Historical, Recent, and Near-Term Projections.” October 

2014. Copy available at: 

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CC0QFjAC&url=ht

tp%3A%2F%2Fny-sun.ny.gov%2F-%2Fmedia%2FNYSun%2Ffiles%2FMeetings%2F2014-11-06%2FSunShot-Solar-
27

fact many analysts expect that solar prices will continue to decline. Finally, the SolarDS model does not 

assume any carbon price or incentives for renewable energy beyond those already in place in 2012.49

Once EPA has determined that distributed PV is part of the BSER, it will need to factor distributed PV 

into the state goals. For a further discussion of how distributed PV can be factored into EPA’s state goal 

calculation, see Section 3B2. 

The below graph shows the declining solar prices over the past 4 years and the 2030 Sunshot -62.5% 

scenario.

c. Solar Energy is Reasonable Cost Under the RPS Approach 

SEIA does not advocate for the RPS approach. For more discussion, see Section 3D. However, SEIA 

agrees with EPA that solar energy is reasonable cost as part of building block 3 under the RPS approach. 

 

IndustryUpdate.pdf&ei=W1dqVIzfO9W3yASv1oGIDg&usg=AFQjCNFhnGZs41wmZP0ch3ZWQbBBcb35TA&sig2=YfPjLEA6Hz_

TNtkpn2SNrA&bvm=bv.79142246,d.aWw

49 NREL’s analysis assumed that the PTC and ITC expired in 2012 and 2016, respectively.
28

Under the RPS approach, the EPA has examined the cost of implementing renewable measures under an 

RPS policy. The EPA states, “Analysis of RE development in response to state RPS policies also finds 

historical and projected costs of RPS-driven RE deployment to be modest.” The EPA goes on to cite a 

number of LBNL and NREL studies looking at the costs and benefits of state RPS policies. SEIA agrees 

that the cost of deploying renewable energy measures, including solar, through state RPS policies is 

reasonable cost. A May 2014 joint study from LBNL and NREL analyzing the state level cost and benefits 

estimates from RPS policies found that “over the 2010-2012 period, average estimated incremental RPS

compliance costs in the U.S. were equivalent to 0.9% of retail electricity rates when calculated as a 

weighted-average (based on revenues from retail electricity sales in each RPS state) or 1.2% when 

calculated as a simple average.”50 For states with a restructured electricity market, this estimated 

incremental RPS compliance cost for retail rates can also be expressed in terms of the cost per unit of 

renewable energy required, estimated in the range of $2-$48/MWh.51 For states with a regulated 

electricity market, the costs are in the range of minus $4-$44/MWh.52 The study also looked at the cost 

of renewable energy to reduce emissions through state RPS policies. The estimates of the benefits 

ranged from approximately $4-$23/MWh of renewable generation, depending on the cost value 

assumed for CO2, cumulating to roughly tens to hundreds of millions of dollars on an annual basis 

depending on the state. The joint study also looks at a number of other benefits, including economic 

impacts and wholesale market price reductions. 

2. Solar Energy Measures are Reasonable Cost to Utilities 

Utilities are increasingly procuring solar energy because solar energy technologies, including utility PV, 

distributed PV, and CSP, have become reasonable cost resources when compared to other resources. 

Further, the various forms of solar technologies provide significant economic benefits beyond cost, such 

as price certainty, hedge value, and avoided infrastructure investment. For more information on 

procurement of solar energy, see Section 2B6.

One of the primary methods of procurement is through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with a solar 

developer. Many utilities are now signing PPAs in the $50-$60/MWh range over 20 to 25 years, offering 

price certainty to both utilities and ratepayers without any of the fluctuation in costs that accompanies 

fossil-fuel plants, which are subject to variability in fuel costs throughout their operating lives, as 

discussed below. In fact, Recurrent Energy, a developer of utility-scale solar PV, recently executed a 

 

50 Note that substantial variation exists around the averages, both from year-to-year and across states. See page V, 

VI, and VII. The study, “A Survey of State-Level Cost and Benefit Estimates of Renewable Portfolio Standards” is 

available here: 

http://emp.lbl.gov/publications/survey-state-level-cost-and-benefit-estimates-renewable-portfolio-standards

51 Id. 

52 Id. 
29

power purchase agreement with Austin Energy in Texas for less than $50/MWh.53 These costs will 

continue to decline as economies of scale are achieved.

Solar projects being offered and installed today show that solar is already cost-competitive with new 

and existing fossil generation in certain circumstances. For example, in 2013 Xcel Energy received 

approval from the Colorado Public Service Commission to procure 170 MW of solar strictly on a cost 

competitiveness basis.54 In addition, solar recently outbid natural gas in a competitive evaluation for 

utility resource planning in Minnesota.55 Furthermore, a recent NY Times article notes the following: 

“According to a study by the investment banking firm Lazard, the cost of utility-scale solar energy is as 

low as 5.6 cents a kilowatt-hour, and wind is as low as 1.4 cents. In comparison, natural gas comes at 6.1 

cents a kilowatt-hour on the low end and coal at 6.6 cents. Without subsidies, the firm’s analysis shows, 

solar costs about 7.2 cents a kilowatt-hour at the low end, with wind at 3.7 cents.”56 These competitive 

costs are one of the reasons utilities are looking to include solar systems as part of a balanced energy 

portfolio. 

In addition, solar energy offers price certainty to utilities because the fuel is free once the system is 

constructed. This allows costs to be transparent and fixed over the length of the contract, which may be 

anywhere from 10-30 years. Even when conventional fossil-based generators offer long-term contracts, 

the actual energy price paid usually varies along with the underlying fluctuating fuel prices.57As a result, 

solar is seen as a valuable hedge against volatile fossil fuel prices.58

Further, distributed PV allows utilities to avoid significant infrastructure costs. A recent McKinsey 

analysis notes the following avoided costs with the deployment of distributed PV: 

The impact on national energy systems can be significant. A recent report by the California Solar 

Initiative estimated that 1 to 1.6 GW per year of solar power generated by consumers would 

 

53 http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/Austin-Energy-Switches-From-SunEdison-to-Recurrent-For-5-

Cent-Solar.

54 More info available at: 

http://www.xcelenergy.com/About_Us/Energy_News/News_Archive/Xcel_Energy_proposes_adding_economic_so

lar,_wind_to_meet_future_customer_energy_demands

55 More info available at: http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2014/01/minn-judge-solarbeats-natural-gas-for-utility-procurement

56 NY Times Article “Solar and Wind Energy Start to Win on Price vs. Conventional Fuels” from Nov. 24, 2014. 

Available here: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/24/business/energy-environment/solar-and-wind-energy-startto-win-on-price-vs-conventional-fuels.html

57 While fuel-price hedging contracts exist, the terms of the contracts can be limited and tend to be very expensive.

58 More info available at: http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/59065.pdf; In fact, Renewables Portfolio Standards, 

such as the California program, were initially adopted primarily for fuel diversity and hedging purposes, in 

response to the 2001 energy crisis that resulted in significant part from reliance on natural gas supplies.
30

supply the equivalent capacity of adding a new 500kV transmission line, estimated to cost nearly 

$1.8 billion in capital costs. Distributed generation could also provide other benefits, such as 

lower line losses due to shorter distances transmitted, productive use of unutilized real estate 

(rooftops), and environmental benefits. It could be particularly relevant for heavily congested 

areas where adding new infrastructure is impractical. Distributed generation can also make the 

grid more resilient, since it would continue to function when central infrastructure is out of 

commission. If renewable generation costs continue to fall and energy storage capabilities grow 

rapidly, we can imagine entire neighborhoods or factory complexes being served through 

distributed solar power. This could make remote housing and manufacturing plants more viable 

by reducing the transmission capacity required from the grid or even eliminating the need to 

access the grid altogether.59

3. Solar Energy Measures are Reasonable Cost to Ratepayers 

Solar energy measures are being adopted by states and utilities around the country because they are

reasonable cost to ratepayers as well. Ratepayers are typically billed for their consumption of electricity 

in kWhs. The charge per kWh may include transmission and distribution services, or they may be billed 

separately. Utility-scale solar operates much in the same manner as a traditional fossil fuel plant, and 

the energy is generally sold to utilities at the wholesale price in the same manner as fossil plants. 

Therefore, the ratepayer will often see no difference on their electric bill when energy comes from a 

wholesale solar generator rather than a wholesale fossil fuel generator. 

Similarly, distributed PV has a negligible impact on the ratepayer and has been shown to provide a 

benefit to ratepayers in many circumstances. The benefit to the ratepayer will depend largely on 

whether the system is owned or leased, as well as other factors including where on the grid the system 

is located. If the system is owned or leased by the ratepayer, they will often be able to sell the excess 

energy they generate back to their utility reducing their overall bill. If the system is installed pursuant to 

a power purchase agreement, the ratepayer may be able to procure energy at a rate that is lower than 

the rate provided by the utility through a power purchase agreement. Further, ratepayers may be able 

to avoid some transmission and distribution service costs that they would be subject to if they were 

purchasing energy from a central station plant, as the solar system is located on the customer site. 

There are numerous third party verified studies that have looked at the costs and benefits of distributed 

PV to the ratepayer.60 While some studies show a net benefit and others a net cost to ratepayers, when 

 

59See page 143-144. Analysis found here: 

http://www.mckinsey.com/insights/business_technology/disruptive_technologies

60 The following are examples of recent studies that have looked at the costs and benefits of distributed solar to 

the ratepayer: IREC, A Regulator’s Guidebook: Calculating the Benefits and Costs of Distributed Solar Generation, at 

http://www.irecusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/IREC_Rabago_Regulators-Guidebook-to-
31

taken as a whole the studies clearly show that distributed PV is reasonable cost to ratepayers. A recent 

report by the Rocky Mountain Institute completed a meta-analysis of 16 distributed PV cost-benefit 

studies, reflecting diverse levels of distributed PV penetration levels.61 The chart below shows a 

summary of the costs and benefits of including distributed PV to the grid.62 

 

Assessing-Benefits-and-Costs-of-DSG.pdf; Hoff et al., The Value of Distributed Photovoltaics to Austin Energy 

and the City of Austin (Mar. 2006), at http://www.ilsr.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Value-of-PV-toAustin-Energy.pdf; Tom Beach, Crossborder Energy, The Benefits and Costs of Solar Distributed Generation for 

Arizona Public Service” (May 2013), available at http://www.seia.org/research-resources/benefits-costssolar-distributed-generation-arizona-public-service; Tom Beach, Crossborder Energy, Evaluating the Benefits 

and Costs of Net Energy Metering in California” (January 2013), available at http://votesolar.org/wpcontent/uploads/2013/01/Crossborder-Energy-CA-Net-Metering-Cost-Benefit-Jan-2013-final.pdf; Tom 

Beach, Crossborder Energy,The Benefits and Costs of Solar Generation for Electric Ratepayers in North Carolina 

(2013), at 

http://energync.org/assets/files/Benefits%20and%20Costs%20of%20Solar%20Generation%20for%20Rat

epayers%20in%20North%20Carolina(2).pdf; Energy & Environmental Economics, Nevada Net Energy Metering 

Impacts Evaluation, Prepared for NV PUC (July 2014), at 

http://puc.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/pucnvgov/Content/About/Media_Outreach/Announcements/Announc

ements/E3%20PUCN%20NEM%20Report%202014.pdf?pdf=Net-Metering-Study

61 http://www.rmi.org/Knowledge-Center/Library/2013-13_eLabDERCostValue

62 Graph from page 22 of the following Rocky Mountain Institute study: http://www.rmi.org/KnowledgeCenter/Library/2013-13_eLabDERCostValue; Note that there is a significant range of estimated value across the 

studies, due to differences in the regions, input assumptions, and methodological approaches. Thus, comparing 

the below studies show in the graph can be helpful and informative, but the aforementioned differences should be 

normalized first. 
32

4. Solar Energy Measures Will Continue to be Reasonable Cost Because Industry Costs are 

Expected to Decline in the Future 

Costs across the solar industry are falling rapidly, which will lead to reduced overall costs for 

implementing solar measures to reduce emissions from affected EGUs. These costs are: installed costs, 

future installed costs, balance of system costs, and raw material costs. 
33

a. Installed Costs 

Current installed costs for solar show that solar energy is already a cost-competitive emissions reduction 

technology and prices continue to decline rapidly. As of Q2 2014, installed distributed PV prices have 

dropped by 8% over the last year and 39% since Q2 2010. Utility-scale solar PV prices have seen even

larger declines- by 14% over the last year and 61% from Q2 2010.63 Looking back further, the price to 

install a distributed PV system has dropped by nearly 70% since 2001- from $10.00/watt to $3.13/watt 

as of Q2 2014.64 For distributed PV, the national weighted average residential PV installed system price 

for Q2 was $3.92/watt. Further, the national weighted average of non-residential PV (commercial, 

industrial, gov’t and non-profit) installed system price for Q2 was $2.39/watt.65 The estimated utility 

scale PV national installed system price for Q2 was $1.81/watt, which is 14% lower than 2013 and 61% 

lower than 2010 (as noted previously).66

The two charts below help to illustrate these declining costs. The first chart shows quarterly cost 

declines by sector, while the second chart shows yearly blended average cost declines.67

 

63 U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2014 Report. Available at: www.seia.org/smi.

64 Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Tracking the Sun V and SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 

2014

65 Id.

66 Id.

67 Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Tracking the Sun V and SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 

2014
34
35

b. Future Costs 

Future costs of solar are forecasted to decline as well, according to several third-party verified studies. 

The DOE SunShot Vision study uses the NREL Regional Energy Deployment System (ReEDS) and Solar 

Deployment System (SolarDS) models to develop and evaluate a SunShot scenario (-75% cost reduction) 

and a reference scenario. Two alternative cost scenarios were also modeled, including a -62.5% scenario 

and a -50% scenario. In both the Sunshot and reference scenarios, the models are used to develop a 

least-cost geographical deployment of solar technologies and other generating technologies 

(conventional and other renewable).68

 

68 The DOE SunShot Vision study states, “The scenarios assume the federal investment tax credit (ITC) and 

production tax credit (PTC) run through their currently established expiration dates —end of 2016 and 2012, 

respectively—but that existing supports for conventional technologies that are embedded in the tax code or 

through other provisions continue indefinitely. Further, the scenarios do not incorporate any additional costs for 

mercury and air toxins, carbon emissions, or other environmental externalities associated most strongly with 

conventional generation technologies. Key variables evaluated by the models include solar resource quality, cost of 

electricity, transmission requirements, reserve requirements, variability impacts, and projected fuel prices. For the 

SunShot scenario, solar technology installed system prices are assumed to reach the SunShot Initiative’s targets by 

2020: $1/watt (W) for utility-scale PV systems, $1.25/W for commercial rooftop PV, $1.50/W for residential 

rooftop PV, and $3.60/W for CSP systems with up to 14 hours of thermal energy storage capacity. The reference 
36

The chart below shows the cost assumptions used in the DOE Sunshot scenarios. The chart has been 

recreated from the DOE Sunshot study.69

Projected PV Installed System Prices and Performance (2010 U.S. Dollars/W)

Utility PV Res. Rooftop PV 

(Distributed PV)

Commercial Rooftop 

PV (Distributed PV)

Sunshot 

(-75%)

SS

-62.5%

Sunshot 

(-75%)

SS

-62.5%

Sunshot 

(-75%)

SS

-62.5%

$/Wdc

2010 4.00 4.00 6.00 6.00 5.00 5.00

2020 1.00 1.50 1.50 2.25 1.25 1.88

2030 1.00 1.50 1.50 2.25 1.25 1.88

2040 1.00 1.50 1.50 2.25 1.25 1.88

2050 1.00 1.50 1.50 2.25 1.25 1.88

CSP, which historically has been limited to larger utility-scale plants and relatively fewer installations,

has comparatively less price history and can be expected to have a more granular price trajectory. 

Pricing for utility-scale plants in many jurisdictions is also kept confidential. The chart below shows the

 

scenario is modeled with moderate solar energy price reductions to enable comparison of the costs, benefits, and 

challenges relative to the reference case of achieving the SunShot price targets.” Study available at: 

http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/01/f7/47927.pdf

69 Full chart available on page 43: http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/01/f7/47927_chapter3_0.pdf
37

cost assumptions used in the DOE Sunshot scenarios for CSP.70 The chart has been recreated from the

DOE Sunshot study. Note the $/Wac and not $/Wdc used for CSP.71 

CSP

Sunshot

$/Wac Hours of 

storage

Capacity 

Factor

2010 7.20 6 43

2020 3.60 14 67

2030 3.60 14 67

2040 3.60 14 67

2050 3.60 14 67

Although the first commercial deployment of CSP was in the late 1980s, large-scale deployment has only 

recently resumed and is now occurring worldwide. The DOE has issued multiple grants recently, which, 

along with company-funded R&D, has helped reduce the costs of CSP, particularly CSP combined with 

Thermal Energy Storage (“TES”; when combined with CSP “CSP+TES”), which offers dispatchable solar 

power, including the ancillary services needed for reliability that traditionally have come from fossilfueled generators. Cost of electricity from CSP plants depends on many factors, including capacity, 

location, and cost of debt and equity. Current costs are therefore variable, as innovation and 

 

70 The CSP prices are based on a project’s “overnight installed cost,” which is the total direct and indirect costs that 

would be incurred if the projects was built in an instant, void of any additional costs for financing the construction 

period. The number of hours of thermal energy storage for CSP is optimized in the ReEDS model, and is slightly 

different than the numbers in this table due to restrictions on the solar multiple within the ReEDS. Full chart 

available on page 43: http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/01/f7/47927_chapter3_0.pdf

71 Watts direct current (Wdc) is defined by the direct current array size of a PV plant as measured under standard 

test conditions (STC). It is the sum of the STC ratings of all the panels in the plant. Watts alternating current (Wac) 

is defined by the maximum AC output of all the inverters at a given plant. In cases where the DC power exceeds 

the AC capacity (beyond efficiency losses), the inverter will “clip” power, meaning it will only put out its maximum 

rated AC power. For a utility PV plant, an inverter loading ratio (ILR) of 1.3 would be typical. This means that a 

plant would have 1.3 MWdc of modules and a 1 MWac inverter. If the plant cost $2 million to build, it would have 

costs of $2.00/Wdc or $2.60/Wac. These units are different ways of describing the same plant. However, knowing 

the DC array size (and other system characteristics) is extremely important because it has a closer relationship to 

energy harvest than does the inverter size.
38

deployment continues. However, several studies have shown that CSP+TES projects provide substantial 

value to the energy system, reducing the overall costs that energy customers pay and increasing the 

extent to which PV and other intermittent renewables can be integrated onto the grid. For example, 

NREL issued a report in November 2012, entitled “Simulating the Value of Concentrating Solar Power 

with Thermal Energy Storage in a Production Cost Model”.

72 In September 2014, the Concentrating Solar 

Power Alliance issued an updated report, entitled “The Economic and Reliability Benefits of CSP with 

Thermal Energy Storage: Recent Studies and Research Needs,” which both summarizes recent studies by 

NREL and the LBNL, among others, and adds analyses that tie the results of those studies together. A 

recent NREL report shows that CSP+TES provides up to $30-60/MWh in flexibility benefits, enabling 

CSP+TES to contribute to reducing net system costs (the costs that energy customers ultimately pay for 

energy).73

c. Balance of System Costs 

For PV systems, it is also important to recognize the balance of system costs in comparison to the panel 

costs. The RE Futures study identifies a capital cost breakdown for a non-tracking utility PV with a 10 

MW (DC) install size project in 2012, as show in the pie chart below.74 At the time of the RE Futures 

study, module costs at $1,400/kWdc appeared to comprise approximately 50% of utility-scale PV 

installation costs. Since that time, module costs have declined by more than half while balance of 

system costs have also declined significantly, although to a lesser extent. 

 

72 http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/57376.pdf

73 Jorgenson, J., P. Denholm, and M. Mehos, “Estimating the Value of Utility-Scale Solar Technologies in California 

Under a 40% Renewable Portfolio Standard,” National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Technical Report, TP-6A20-

61685 (May 2014).

74See page 42 of: http://bv.com/docs/reports-studies/nrel-cost-report.pdf
39

 

Two recent reports from NREL acknowledged the balance of system costs for all solar and the fact that 

with falling module and other hardware costs, the total cost of a solar system is increasingly dependent 

on the “soft”, or non-hardware costs. The reports found that solar financing and other non-hardware 

costs now comprise up to 64% of the total price of residential solar energy systems. The report notes: 

The authors found that in the first half of 2012, soft costs represented the majority of all costs —

64% of the total price for residential systems, up from 50% of the total price in the first edition. 

Similar results were found for small and large commercial installations — 57% of the total cost 

for small (less than 250 kilowatts) commercial systems (up from 44%); and 52% of the total costs 

for large (250 kilowatts or larger) commercial systems (up from 41%).For residential systems, the 

greatest soft costs were supply chain costs ($0.61/watt), installation labor ($0.55/W), customer 

acquisition ($0.48/W), and indirect corporate costs ($0.47/W), such as maintaining office 

management and accounting functions. Other soft costs examined for the report included costs 

for permitting, inspection, interconnection, subsidy applications and system design.75

As total installation costs have declined and continue to decline at a more rapid pace than previously 

expected, solar is increasingly cost competitive with alternative sources of energy and other carbon 

emission reduction measures.

 

75 Report available here: http://www.nrel.gov/news/press/2013/5306.html
40

d. Materials Costs

In addition, the RE Futures study also examined the cost and availability of the future supply of sourced 

materials for PV panels. Ultimately, the study found no concern over the availability of PV materials 

even in the scenario of planned significant deployment of solar PV globally. The study notes: 

RE Futures does not identify any insurmountable long-term constraints to manufacturing 

capacity, material supply, or labor availability for any of the renewable technologies considered 

in this study (see RE Futures Volume 2). Growth in renewable capacity additions globally and in 

the United States has been considerable over the last decade, demonstrating the ability to scale 

manufacturing and deployment at a rapid pace. ... The estimated annual capacity of PV 

deployment is high, especially in later years, but PV manufacturing and deployment are scalable. 

Worldwide PV production capacity has been growing rapidly and is already comparable to the 

deployment levels projected for the latter years in many of the 80%-by-2050 RE scenarios. 

Moreover, many of the renewable technologies are based on common materials that are not 

supply-constrained. Even for PV, which uses some materials that may be supply-constrained, 

worldwide production capacity is already sizable, and that capacity continues to scale rapidly. 

Even considering the High-Demand 80% RE scenario, and worldwide demand for PV, given the 

variety of PV feedstocks used today and the possibility of newer ones being developed in the 

future, reaching the required levels of installed capacity need not be limited by the availability of 

raw materials.76

These facts illustrate that solar energy measures can be implemented at a reasonable cost, and that cost 

should not be an impediment to solar energy inclusion in the BSER. 

2B3. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They Reduce Carbon 

Emissions from Affected EGUs

Solar energy is not a hypothetical way to reduce carbon emissions; solar energy generation significantly 

reduces carbon emissions today. Solar energy systems in the U.S. are expected to generate more than 

20,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) in 2014.77 With one GWh of solar generation eliminating 690 metric tons 

of CO2 emissions, solar generation can be expected to avoid 13.8 million metric tons of CO2 emissions in 

2014.78

Emission reductions resulting from solar deployment are certain to grow. In 2013 alone, the solar 

industry grew 53 percent over 2012, installing 5.2 GW of solar generating capacity. On average, a new 

 

76 http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/52409-1.pdf page 138

77 SEIA analysis based on data from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight: 2013 Year in Review

78 For more information, see http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/refs.html
41

solar project was installed in the U.S. every 4 minutes in 2013.79 Solar energy accounted for 29 percent 

of new electric generation capacity installed in 2013.80 An approximate 6.8 GW of new solar capacity is 

projected to come online in 2014.81

The EPA’s Avoided Emissions and Generation Tool (AVERT) can be used to calculate the carbon 

emissions reductions from solar energy using historic dispatch data.82 The chart below shows the current 

CO2, NOx and SO2 avoided in each AVERT region at current solar energy deployment levels.83 Additional 

information on evaluation, measurement and verification (EM&V) from all solar energy, including 

distributed solar, is provided in the EM&V section of these comments. 

AVERT 

REGION

STATES WITHIN 

AVERT REGION

CUMULATIV

E CAPACITY 

(MW)

CO2

EMISSIONS 

REDUCED 

(TONS)

SO2 

EMISSIONS 

REDUCED 

(POUNDS)

NOX 

EMISSIONS 

REDUCED 

(POUNDS)

California CA, UT 5171.70 4,433,300 705,700 6,340,000

Great 

Lakes/

MidAtlantic

DE, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, 

NJ, OH, PA, VA, WI, 

WV

1241.90 1,325,700 6,069,800 2,406,700

Lower 

Midwest

AR, KS, LA, MO, NM, 

OK, TX

141.48 180,800 418,300 394,800

Northeast CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, 

NY, RI, VT

1408.35 1,113,600 1,972,900 1,574,000

 

79 U.S. Solar Market Insight 2013 Year in Review Report. Available at: www.seia.org/smi.

80 U.S. Solar Market Insight 2013 Year in Review Report. Available at: www.seia.org/smi.

81 SEIA analysis based on data from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight: 2013 Year in Review and EIA 

Electric Power Monthly, December 2013, Table ES3.

82 The AVERT tool statistically determines the marginal electric generating units (EGUs) on an hourly basis. The 

AVERT tool is free to use with a simple user interface designed to meet the needs of state air quality planners and 

other interested stakeholders, and can easily be used to evaluate county-level emissions displaced at EGUs by 

EE/RE policies and programs, and to analyze the emission benefits of different renewable energy programs in 

multiple states within an AVERT region. The tool can also be used to quantify the nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur 

dioxide (SO2), and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions benefits of state and multi-state renewable policies and 

programs. Read more here: http://epa.gov/statelocalclimate/resources/avert/index.html

83 Solar deployment data taken from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight: 2013 Year in Review and SEIA 

solar industry 2012 data. Report available here: http://www.seia.org/research-resources/us-solar-market-insight. Hawaii and 

Alaska have been excluded; the total MW of cumulative capacity in each state have been split equally between the 

utility PV and rooftop PV specifications in the model; states in multiple AVERT regions have had their cumulative 

capacity divided equally among the multiple AVERT regions the state is present in, with the exception of Texas. All 

Texas cumulative solar capacity was run in the Texas AVERT region. 
42

Northwest ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, 

WA, WY

312.70 329,800 389,800 785,200

Rocky 

Mountains

CO, SD, WY 331.50 464,000 647,900 899,300

Southeast AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, 

MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, 

TN, TX, VA, WV

927.03 959,800 2,975,400 1,486,000

Southwest AZ, CA, NM, NV, TX 1850.40 2,070,300 977,800 2,987,300

Texas TX, OK 201.20 203,600 408,800 236,800

Upper 

Midwest

IA, IL, MI, MN, MO, 

MT, ND, NE, SD, WI

72.43 94,500 286,000 170,800

As the EPA recognized correctly in its proposal, an increase in the amount of electricity produced from 

solar decreases the amount of electricity produced by fossil fuel power plants. Solar can potentially 

replace polluting sources on a 1:1 basis, depending on the combination of solar and other technologies 

deployed on the complex grid. For example, CSP with thermal energy storage can provide the equivalent 

of baseload, intermediate, or peaking conventional fossil-fuel generation; in other areas, PV combined 

with wind, storage and/or demand-side resources could provide a complete substitute for fossil-fired 

generation. As a general matter, when solar is placed on the grid it displaces electricity production from 

a source that emits carbon pollution, often at a high rate, such as a simple-cycle natural gas generator.

Numerous studies have shown the extent to which renewable energy can effectively reduce emissions. 

The Western Wind and Solar Integration Study, performed by the National Renewable Energy 

Laboratory (NREL), evaluated the impacts of operating the Western Interconnect with high penetrations 

of wind and solar. The study found that CO2 emissions could be reduced by 29 percent to 34 percent, or 

the equivalent of 260-300 billion pounds per year when the Western Interconnect obtains 33 percent of 

electricity from wind and solar.84

In February 2014, PJM, the nation’s largest grid operator (with territory covering 13 states and 

Washington, DC), released a study analyzing a high penetration of renewable generation on the PJM 

grid. The study considered scenarios of up to 30 percent wind and solar and found no significant 

operating issues. In addition, the study found that CO2 emissions could be reduced by 28 percent in the 

 

84 While this study presumed that the various electrical assets in the Western Interconnect could be coordinated in 

an optimal fashion, setting aside institutional barriers presented by differing operating regimes within the Western 

Interconnect, it demonstrates both the strong carbon reduction potential as well as need to reduce those 

counterproductive barriers. Western Wind and Solar Integration Study, available at: 

http://www.nrel.gov/electricity/transmission/western_wind.html
43

“High Solar Best Onshore” scenario compared to the business as usual (BAU) scenario in the target year 

2026.85

In February of 2012, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released the SunShot Vision Study, a detailed 

report that examines the potential for and barriers to solar PV and CSP in the U.S., while striving for 

reduced solar costs. The report states:

Solar energy reduces GHG emissions compared with most other sources of energy. Compared with 

the reference scenario, the SunShot scenario is estimated to reduce electric-sector operational 

carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 181 million metric tons (MMT) per year by 2030 (an 8 percent 

reduction), and the estimated reduction by 2050 is 760 MMT per year for the SunShot scenario (a 28 

percent reduction).... Significant reductions in U.S. GHG emissions are projected under the SunShot 

scenario. Combined with other efforts worldwide, these reductions have the potential to contribute 

significantly to the deceleration of global climate change.86

Furthermore, life-cycle GHG emissions from PV and CSP, as assessed in the SunShot Vision study, are 

orders of magnitude lower than lifecycle GHG emissions from natural gas and coal power plants.87

a. Distributed PV Reduces Emissions From Affected EGUs and Should be Included in Building 

Block 3

As stated above, with one GWh of solar generation eliminating 690 metric tons of CO2 emissions, solar 

generation can be expected to avoid 13.8 million metric tons of CO2 emissions in 2014.88 Of this,

distributed PV capacity (as of June 2014) will generate 10,450,000 MWh/year and displace 7,206,000 MT 

of CO2 per year.89 The mode of carbon displacement for distributed PV is identical or slightly better than 

utility PV, as distributed PV does not need to factor in line loss. The above mentioned studies apply to

distributed PV as well. Therefore, distributed PV is clearly an effective means of reducing emissions and 

must be included in building block 3. 

 

85 PJM Renewable Integration Study, available at: http://www.pjm.com/~/media/committeesgroups/committees/mic/20140303/20140303-pris-executive-summary.ashx

86 For additional figures, see http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/pdfs/47927_chapter7.pdf. Chapter 3 of the SunShot Vision 

study describes the SunShot and reference scenarios, including descriptions of the modeled electricity capacity and 

generation mixes and discussion of peak and baseload power resources.

87 Id.

88 For more information, see http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/refs.html

89 Solar data from U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2014. See also: http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energyresources/refs.html
44

2B4. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They Promote 

Technological Development 

When determining the BSER, EPA considers measures that promote technological development. As 

discussed above, solar energy measures throughout the United States have driven significant solar 

deployment and are expected to continue driving solar installations at an increasing rate. Alongside this 

rapid deployment are decreasing costs and increased emissions reductions. 

i. PV Measures Promote Technological Development

Further, new solar technologies and efficiencies of solar panels are continually being developed. NREL 

maintains a plot of compiled values of the highest confirmed conversion efficiencies for solar cells, as 

shown in the chart below:90

 

90 Devices included in this plot of the current state of the art have efficiencies that are confirmed by independent, 

recognized test labs (e.g., NREL, AIST, Fraunhofer) and are reported on a standardized basis. The measurements for 

new entries must be with respect to Standard Test or Reporting Conditions(STC) as defined by the global reference 

spectrum for flat-plate devices and the direct reference spectrum for concentrator devices as listed in standards 

IEC 60904-3 edition2 or ASTM G173. The reference temperature is 25°C and the area is the cell total area or the 

area defined by an aperture. More at:

http://www.nrel.gov/ncpv/pdfs/cell_efficiency_explanatory_notes.pdf
45

A report by the McKinsey Global Institute called, “Disruptive technologies: Advances that will transform 

life, business, and the global economy” notes the following for technological development of solar 

energy:91

Technological advances that reduce the costs of renewable energy generation will be important 

enablers of adoption. During the past two decades, the efficiency of solar panels (the 

percentage of solar energy converted into electricity) has risen to 15 percent; in laboratory 

tests, panels have achieved as much as 44 percent efficiency. The cost of solar cells has already

dropped from nearly $8 per watt of capacity in 1990 to less than 80 cents. Further advances in 

solar and wind power technologies are under way. Thin film cells, which are made from 

compounds like cadmium telluride, copper indium gallium arsenide (CIGS), or amorphous silicon 

(A-Si), are being developed for PV use. These advances reduce the amount of material used in 

creating solar cells and can be “printed” on flexible surfaces, potentially reducing cost and 

increasing ease of application. Researchers are also working with nanomaterials, including 

polymer films that are less than 100 nanometers thick that could replace silicon cells and 

nanomaterial-based coatings that repel water and that prevent dust and debris from sticking to 

panels.

ii. CSP Measures Promote Technological Development

The technologies used for CSP also promote technological development. The first commercial utilityscale CSP projects in the United Stated were built in the late 1980’s by Luz International. Luz built nine 

parabolic trough plants in southern California that totaled 354 MWs- an indication of the robust nature 

of this technology- all of these plants continue in operation today. Parabolic trough technology has 

continued to improve since the Lux plants were built, substantially increasing receiver efficiency, 

reducing cost and weight of reflector structures, and updating control. Troughs remained the only 

commercial CSP technology until 2007 when an 11 MW commercial solar power tower went into 

operation in Spain. In the US, the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System, a 377 MW plant with three 

steam power towers in California became operational in 2014. This is the largest commercial power 

tower facility in the world. As with trough technology, tower technology is rapidly improving, including 

new lightweight solar collector designs, advanced automation of assembly and installation of collectors, 

improved control systems, and higher temperatures that allow improved power cycle efficiency. 

Since the first CSP plants went into commercial operation, they have often incorporated thermal energy 

storage. The first of the Luz parabolic trough plants included three hours of thermal energy storage, 

which was used to help the plant meet a nighttime peak during winter months. More recently, many 

parabolic trough projects in the U.S. and Spain have incorporated high-temperature and highly efficient 

molten-salt thermal energy storage. The Solana 250 MW solar trough plant, in Arizona, is the first 

commercial plant in the U.S. to incorporate this type of storage. Solana, which became operational in 

 

91 http://www.mckinsey.com/insights/business_technology/disruptive_technologies 
46

2013, incorporates 6 hours of thermal energy storage. The storage system at Solana allows the utility 

dispatch solar power to meet peak system loads and reliability needs in the summer and winter. 

The first commercial solar power tower, in Spain, and a similar 20 MW tower included steam 

accumulators that allowed 30 minutes of buffer storage, enabling the plants to operate through 

transient cloud interruptions of sunlight. In 2011 the first commercial power tower with direct moltensalt thermal energy storage became operational in Spain, a 20 MW plant with 15 hours of storage. In a 

direct molten-salt system, the molten salt serves as both the initial heat transfer medium (the substance 

heated through concentrated sunlight) as well as the storage medium, as opposed to an indirect moltensalt system, in which another substance is used as the initial heat transfer medium (such as steam, 

specialized heat transfer fluids, or even air).The direct molten-salt storage enables this plant to operate 

24 hours per day through much of the year. 

In the United States, the 110 MW Crescent Dunes project is under construction, and is expected to 

become operational in 2015. This direct molten-salt tower will incorporate 10 hours of thermal energy 

storage, and is expected to become operational in 2015. This plant will operate from noon to 10pm 

throughout the year. As with trough technology, tower technology is rapidly improving; with new 

lightweight solar collector designs, advanced automation of assembly and installation of collectors, 

improved control systems, integration of efficient thermal energy storage and movement to higher 

temperatures that allow improved power cycle efficiency.

DOE, which tracks the cost of renewable technologies, estimates that between 2010 and 2013, the price 

of CSP fell from 21¢/kWh to 13¢/kWh92. Through new R&D in CSP technologies like DOE’s SunShot 

program, the advancement in CSP technology noted above, and the learning coming from deployment 

of commercial projects in the US and around the world, CSP prices are expected to continue to 

decrease. 

2B5. Solar Energy Measures Should be Included in the BSER Because They Can be Reliably 

Integrated into the Electric Grid 

When establishing the BSER, the EPA considers the impact that systems of emissions reductions have on 

the energy system and electric grid. Several studies have clearly shown that high levels of renewables, 

including solar energy measures, can be integrated into the grid without negatively impacting reliability 

or grid requirements. In fact, solar energy can improve grid reliability and provide benefits to the 

existing energy infrastructure, including reducing transmission losses and relieving congestion on the 

 

92 US Department of Energy, http://energy.gov/eere/sunshot/concentrating-solar-power
47

grid. There are several resources the EPA can look to for understanding how solar fits into the grid in 

terms of reliability and higher penetrations of renewable energy.93

Reliability and Transmission Benefits of Solar

Solar energy can be configured and operated to provide various reliability services and transmission 

benefits that will be essential to electric power system operations in conjunction with the state 

implementation of §111(d) regulations.

CSP technologies employ conventional synchronous turbine generators and inherently possess valuable 

system reliability attributes, such as, but not limited to, active and reactive power support, dynamic 

voltage support and regulation, voltage control and some degree of inertia response. With the 

integration of thermal energy storage, CSP facilities can be fully dispatched by utilities and system 

operators, meaning that the plants are capable of ramping power output up and down to meet changing 

energy demand and supply, without material efficiency losses. CSP with storage plants can be a 

significant source of essential grid flexibility services, such as ramping, regulation, load following 

reserves and spinning reserves, which are critical to a reliable system. These services are typically 

provided by fossil-fired generators operating at sub-optimal heat rates, which may increase their 

emissions.

To explain further, the ability to store and produce energy at any time enables CSP projects to provide 

or withhold power as needed for the grid. For all intents and purposes it has all the attributes of a fossil 

fueled power plant, without carbon emissions.94 CSP plants can be built in a number of configurations, 

ranging from baseload to peaker. These attributes include:

a. System Benefits: The primary benefit provided to the grid system by CSP plants with storage is the 

ability to dispatch power whenever it is needed most, day or night. In addition, CSP with storage 

can provide ancillary services and reduce integration costs while providing the same reactive power 

quality attributes of traditional thermal plants. The important role of storage and reactive power in 

maintaining grid reliability is emphasized in NERC’s report Potential Reliability Impacts of EPA’s 

Proposed Clean Power Plan, Initial Reliability Review, November 2014. 

b. Energy Value: Thermal energy storage allows CSP plants to shift electricity generation to the highest 

value hours across the operating day, overnight, or the next day as needed by the utility or system 

operator.

 

93 See the NREL Renewable Electricity Futures Study, available here: http://www.nrel.gov/analysis/re_futures/ See 

also the study “Integrating High Penetration Renewables: Best Practices from International Experience” available 

here: http://www.jisea.org/high_pen.cfm

94 Some CSP plants that do not incorporate storage use a de minimis amount of fossil fuels to increase efficiency at 

the beginning and end of the solar day, or during transient cloud cover.
48

c. Capacity: At low penetrations of solar power on the grid, solar correlates well with daily peak 

demands. As solar penetration increases, however, peak demand shifts to the evening hours. CSP 

with storage allows for shifting energy into the periods of highest demand or value. CSP plants can 

also be hybridized to use natural gas or other fuels to provide high availability even on cloudy days.

d. Power Quality: Since CSP projects typically generate power with a steam turbine, just as most fossilfueled plants, they have the same power quality characteristics as those plants. These attributes 

include reactive power support, dynamic voltage support, voltage control, inertia response, and 

primary frequency control.

e. Ancillary Services: CSP plants with thermal energy storage can provide spinning reserves, nonspinning reserves, and regulation and they can operate efficiently at part load.

f. Integration: CSP with storage can vary its production to complement other renewables that are 

more dependent on the times at which the resource is present (whether sunlight or 

wind),transitional periods, helping to lessen grid ramps and providing both rapid response and 

significant supply of power at times that other resources are unavailable.

With supportive policies and standards in place, utility-scale solar PV can include advanced features that 

enable it to operate more like conventional power plants and actively contribute to the stability and 

reliability of a regional grid as part of a balanced energy portfolio.95 Some of these features include 

voltage regulation, active power controls, ramp-rate power controls, fault ride-through, and frequency 

response controls. These capabilities are managed through the use of a plant-level controller specifically 

engineered to regulate real and reactive power output of the solar facility such that it behaves as a 

single large conventional generator, although within the limits dictated by the intermittent nature of the 

solar resource. These advanced features can enable solar PV to provide a state or region with additional 

system flexibility by responding to utility and independent system operator instructions. 

Distributed PV can provide wholesale ancillary services in the same fashion as utility-scale assets and can 

also provide local ancillary services beyond what utility-scale assets are capable. These services include 

but are not limited to frequency regulation, frequency response, spinning and non-spinning reserves, 

voltage and reactive power support. In addition, distributed PV can provide incremental ancillary 

services on the local or distribution level. Local voltage support is critical to operating the distribution 

system within system constraints, and distribution system operators rely on a distributed set of voltage 

regulating equipment to provide that support. Distributed PV can augment and sometimes replace this 

equipment, providing real and reactive power support as identified by the distribution operator. 

On an aggregated basis, utility-scale and distributed PV resources provide significant reliability and 

transmission benefits to a state or regional grid. Even if solar PV output varies at a few individual 

 

95 See “Grid-Friendly” Utility Scale PV Plants, First Solar at 3 and 13 (August 13, 2013).
49

locations due to localized cloud coverage, when the sum of the solar installations in a geographic area is 

assessed, the variability is reduced and can be managed by the grid operator. In a recent study regarding 

the integration of wind and solar in PJM, General Electric International, Inc. (GE) found that PJM’s large 

geographic footprint significantly reduced the magnitude of variability-related challenges as compared 

to smaller balancing areas.96 GE noted that an individual solar PV plant’s variability is significantly 

reduced when solar plants are aggregated and located in a geographically diverse manner throughout

PJM.97

Further, targeted deployment of solar generation in congested areas can provide relief to transmission 

and distribution systems, defer costly transmission upgrades, and help maintain grid reliability. For 

example, unlike central station power plants, solar installed on-site does not experience transmission 

and distribution system losses, which can be as high as 7 percent on a utility distribution system and up 

to 20 percent at the time of system peak.98 These avoided line losses through solar DG contribute to 

further CO2 reductions. Similarly, utilities may site small utility-scale power plants in specific locations to 

ease congestion on a particular transmission line.

Finally, solar technologies that require transmission investment often do not require pipelines, coal 

transport or the associated production and processing infrastructure needed by coal and gas industries. 

This has the potential to save immense costs as the energy infrastructure in the U.S. ages and requires 

repairs.

Solar Energy Can be Integrated into the Grid at High Penetration Levels 

As renewable energy becomes a larger component of the electricity sector, the generation profile of the 

electric resources available throughout the day is changing. For example, solar and wind resources peak 

in terms of output at specific times depending on geography and other factors. The addition of 

renewable energy has spurred utilities and regulators to think differently about matching supply and 

demand. The EPA’s proposal to require affected sources to shift generation correctly reflects regulator 

and utility actions to accommodate more renewables in the grid today and moving forward, and is thus 

follows the forward looking intent of 111(d). 

Utilities and policymakers are already addressing the changes to grid operations presented by increased 

renewable penetration. For example, in areas of an electric grid where the peak energy use is in the late 

afternoon, solar systems can be configured to coincide with peak demand later in the day. Solar can also 

be coupled with storage technologies to match their output to local power demand patterns, including 

 

96 See PJM Renewable Integration Study, General Electric International, Inc. at 12 (February 28, 2014) (GE Study).

97 See Id. at 12 and 15. 

98 For more information, see the paper, “Valuing the Contribution of Energy Efficiency to Avoided Marginal Line 

Losses and Reserve Requirements” available at: www.raponline.org/document/download/id/4537
50

evening peaks. This can be done economically, if supported through appropriate policies, pricing 

options, and program offerings.99 For a discussion of strategies to address the changes to grid operations 

presented by renewables, we recommend Teaching the Duck to Fly, a paper recently published by the 

Regulatory Assistance Project.100

Some stakeholders have expressed concerns that solar and wind energy can increase costs and energy 

system emissions due to an increased need to cycle conventional power plants in response to variable 

renewable output.101 However, such claims have been proven to be overstated, and could largely be 

avoided through a balanced portfolio of complementary solar, wind and other clean energy resources. 

The Western Wind and Solar Integration study found that not only is a high renewable energy 

penetration achievable, but also that any increases in costs or emissions associated with increased 

cycling of fossil fuel power plants are nominal compared to the overall cost and emissions savings 

associated with reduced generation from fossil fuel power plants.102 The PJM Renewable Integration 

Study reached a similar conclusion: any increased costs associated with increased cycling of 

conventional generators are dwarfed by the savings in fuel costs.103

Further, a recently released NERC report expressed concerns regarding the impact of high penetration 

renewables on the grid as a result of the Clean Power Plan. The report cited concerns such as the need 

to build out new infrastructure, the inability for renewable energy to ramp up as needed, impacts on 

reliability, and an overreliance on natural gas. However, upon review the report appears to be very 

preliminary and not based on any modelling. In fact, the main concerns regarding renewables 

integration have been rebutted or are currently being addressed by regulators in states throughout the 

country. For example, The SunShot Vision Study, the Renewable Energy Futures Study, the Western 

Wind and Solar Integration Study, the forthcoming Wind Vision Study (all NREL), the Minnesota 

Renewable Energy Integration and Transmission Study104, and the PJM Renewable Integration Study (GE) 

show that renewables, including solar, can be integrated at high levels without significant issue. 

 

99 See “Teaching the Duck to Fly: Integrating Renewable Energy,” available here: 

http://www.raponline.org/featured-work/teach-the-duck-to-fly-integrating-renewable-energy

100 Id.

101 Western Wind and Solar Integration Study, available at: http://www.nrel.gov/electricity/transmission/western_wind.html

(Citing cycling concerns at pg. vii)

102 Western Wind and Solar Integration Study, available at: 

http://www.nrel.gov/electricity/transmission/western_wind.html

103 PJM Renewable Integration Study, available at: http://www.pjm.com/~/media/committeesgroups/committees/mic/20140303/20140303-pris-executive-summary.ashx

104 Minnesota Renewable Energy Integration and Transmission Study, Final Report, October 31, 2014 

(http://mn.gov/commerce/energy/images/FINAL-MRITS-Report14.pdf) 
51

2B6. Solar Energy Measures are Adequately Demonstrated Because They are Currently 

Being Used by Utilities and Other Owners of Affected EGUs 

Once the EPA has established that a system of emission reduction is technically feasible and reduces 

emissions at reasonable cost, it must determine whether the system has been adequately 

demonstrated. 

Solar energy measures have been adequately demonstrated because they are currently being used by 

owners of affected EGUs, including utilities and independent power producers, to shift generation away 

from fossil resources and diversify their energy mix with cleaner resources. For example, NRG, Inc., 

which owns a significant energy portfolio comprised of both fossil and renewable energy assets, recently 

announced that it intends to reduce its carbon emissions by 2050 through divestment of dirty fossil 

resources and investment in renewable resources such as wind and solar.105 

In many states some solar and wind technologies have already reached grid parity, making the utilities’ 

choice to install or purchase renewable energy over fossil resources a decision based solely on price.

106

As previously noted, utilities can now sign solar power purchase agreements for $50-$60 /MWh. 

Further, in some cases solar is even competitive with base load generation. For example, a new 

conventional natural gas combined cycle power plant costs $66/MWh while a new conventional coal 

fired power plant costs $96/MWh. In some cases the interest in solar generation has created a backlog 

of applications for interconnection; in others, utilities have combined solar procurement with their long 

term resource planning and procurement due to the competitive price and hedge value of solar relative 

to natural gas and other generation. 

Further, utilities have become heavily involved in the valuation and procurement of distributed PV 

through RPS policies, value of solar dockets, and direct ownership as the price of distributed PV drops 

and the benefits to both the grid and ratepayers is being realized. 

Below is a discussion of solar procurement by entities that own or operate affected EGUs. Each of the 

models discussed below shows that utility scale and distributed PV, as well as CSP and SHC, can be 

procured by utilities to reduce generation (and emissions) from affected units. See Appendix E for 

further information. 

 

105 http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/21/business/energy-environment/nrg-sets-goals-to-cut-carbonemissions.html?emc=eta1&_r=1

106 http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/24/business/energy-environment/solar-and-wind-energy-start-to-win-onprice-vs-conventional-fuels.html?_r=0
52

1. Distributed PV is Adequately Demonstrated and Should be Included in Building Block 3 

Because Utilities and Other Owners of Affected EGUs Currently Procure Distributed PV

Utilities and other entities that own affected EGUs are procuring distributed PV on an increasing basis. 

Some of the most common examples are residential systems, commercial systems, community solar, 

and distributed solar RECs. Examples are discussed in the next section under “Solar Procurement 

Methods” and provided in Appendix E. 

2. Solar Procurement Methods 107

a. Solar Purchases 

Purchases of solar energy output can take on a number of different forms, but predominately are 

comprised of power purchase agreements (PPAs), feed-in tariffs (FITs), value of solar rates, and excess 

generation net metering contracts. All can be constructed to various contract lengths and amounts. A 

few examples are listed below. For a list of further examples and program descriptions, see Appendix E. 

 Virginia Dominion Power Renewable Energy Tariff: Under the tariff, the utility enters into a PPA 

with the solar energy supplier, thereby creating competition among generators and helping to 

lower renewable energy prices.108

 PSEG Wyandot Solar Farm Contract: PSEG Solar Source, LLC contracted with Ohio Power 

Company, a subsidiary of AEP, for a 12MW solar PV project that was built in 2010.109

 City of Palo Alto Utility Solar Rate: Through its Palo Alto CLEAN program, CAPU purchases 

electricity generated by solar electric systems located in CAPU’s service territory at a solar rate 

that reflects an estimated value of solar. As of February 3, 2014, CAPU is offering to purchase 

up to 3 MW of solar electricity. 

 Xcel Value of Solar Tariff: In Minnesota, the Commission has authorized Xcel to file a Value of 

Solar Tariff with the Commission. Under the tariff, Xcel will pay a solar rate to solar customers in 

exchange for their solar energy. This solar energy will be generated by distributed PV systems

(mostly residential rooftop). Xcel will receive the solar REC, which Xcel can then use to comply 

with its renewable energy standard requirements in Minnesota. The legislation enabling the 

tariff requires the Commission to consider the environmental benefits of solar in determining 

 

107 The following procurement definitions and examples are taken from the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) 

database. SEPA maintains a comprehensive utility solar database that details all utilities and the solar projects 

within the portfolio of the utility. 

108 http://media.law.stanford.edu/organizations/programs-and-centers/steyer-taylor/State-PolicyReport-low-res.pdf

109 http://usd.solarelectricpower.org/summarytables/index.cfm?view=projects
53

the value of solar.110 The Commission included the social cost of carbon in its final methodology 

for determining the value of solar.111

 Five CSP plants, with a total capacity of 1,300 MW, were recently built under long term PPAs; 

the power from these plants was purchased by Arizona Public Service, Pacific Gas & Electric, 

Southern California Edison and NV Energy. Specifics of these plants are presented in Appendix B.

b. Solar Ownership

This refers to ownership and operation of solar electricity resources as enterprise assets by entities that 

own or operate affected EGUs. The most common evidentiary benefits of the ownership model are the 

ability to provide stable prices, large-scale market activity, and/or procurement risk mitigation. A few 

examples are listed below. For a list of further examples and program descriptions, see Appendix E.

 SCE&G Distributed PV RFP: On August 21, 2014, SCE&G announced plans to contract for several 

small distributed PV installations. For example, the company’s North Charleston installation will 

be built on the 3 acre site of a former gas facility with a generating capacity of 300-500 kW. This 

was done in conjunction with the passing of the Distributed Energy Resource Program Act, 

which is intended to allow increased penetration of utility and distributed PV by SCE&G 

throughout South Carolina. 

 NY Reforming Energy Vision Docket:112 Utilities have requested authority to construct and own 

distributed energy resources, including distributed PV, in New York State.113 The proceeding is 

part of New York’s effort to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and bring the benefits of

distributed energy resources to more ratepayers at affordable rates. These resources include 

various types of distributed PV including residential rooftop, commercial PV, and community 

solar. 

 Duke Energy Corp Utility PV Ownership: Duke Energy recently announced plans to invest $500 

million in new solar energy facilities across North Carolina, including direct ownership of 

128MW of utility-scale solar to be built at 3 sites.

c. Unregulated Activities 

This refers to business models adopted by unregulated entities, such as holding companies or 

unregulated subsidiaries of IOUs. These unregulated bodies principally participate in the solar markets 

 

110 Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 216B.164 as amended.

(https://www.revisor.mn.gov/laws/?id=85&year=2013&type=0)

111 http://mn.gov/commerce/energy/images/MN-VOS-Methodology-FINAL.pdf

112 NYPSC 14-M-0101 

(http://www3.dps.ny.gov/W/PSCWeb.nsf/All/26BE8A93967E604785257CC40066B91A?OpenDocument)

113 See Staff Straw Proposal at 67 
54

either by developing and owning solar installations, by selling solar power output to load-serving 

utilities, or by making financial investments in the solar industry. An example is listed below. For a list of 

further examples and program descriptions, see Appendix E.

 Southern Power Utility Scale PV Ownership: Southern Company, a subsidiary of Southern Power, 

has acquired the Solar Gen 2 150 MW facility in California from First Solar, Inc. Along with other 

projects, Southern Company now owns more than 400 MW of solar generating capacity that it 

offers to its customers and that can be used to shift generation away from dirtier fossil 

resources. 

d. Community Solar 

In its most basic form, a utility community solar program consists of one or more larger utility-managed 

photovoltaic projects from which customers can purchase a fractional share of the electricity output to 

virtually offset their electric bill as if the solar system were on their property, i.e. net metered. An 

example is listed below. For a list of further examples and program descriptions, see Appendix E.

 Colorado Solar Gardens: Colorado’s Solar Gardens is one of the most successful shared 

renewables programs, with shares in the projects selling out about 30 minutes after they were 

announced. The CO IOUs are required to purchase the energy from the projects, capped at 6 

MW per year from 2011-2013. Due to the success of the program, most CO IOUs decided to 

continue supporting the Solar Garden projects by purchasing the energy.114

e. Property Leasing 

This topic captures programs where utilities or other entities have leased customer property for the 

installation of one or more solar projects. Under this model, customers are typically compensated with a 

nominal annual lease payment in exchange for access to the property over a set contract term. A couple

examples are listed below. For a list of further examples and program descriptions, see Appendix E.

 Arizona Public Service Luke Air Force Base Facility: APS recently partnered with Luke Air Force 

Base. Under the agreement, APS leased 106 acres from the Air Force to construct a solar plant 

that will “help save the Air Force money” and allow both “Luke and APS to meet their renewable 

energy generation goals.” 

 Lakeland Electric Solar Water Heating Program: Lakeland Electric, a utility based in Florida, has 

been offering a leasing program for solar water heating systems for the past 15 years.115

 

114 http://sharedrenewables.org/index.php?option=com_legislation&view=listing&stateCode=CO

115 For more information on the program, see here: 

http://www.lakelandelectric.com/Customers/ProgramsServices/SolarWaterHeater.aspx
55

f. Requests for Proposals 

Utilities often issue requests for proposals as part of their efforts to increase solar or renewable energy 

more broadly within their service territories. A utility-issued RFP may either seek a specific single 

partner, or just as likely announce that a variety of projects are being sought such that, when combined, 

allow for a target amount of solar/renewable energy generation to be reached. An examples is listed 

below. For a list of further examples and program descriptions, see Appendix E.

 Seattle City Light Renewable Energy RFP: Seattle City Light recently announce an RFP to procure 

150,000 MWh of renewable energy or renewable energy credits per year. Sources must qualify 

for Washington’s State’s renewable energy portfolio standard. City light has stated it will 

consider a broad range of proposals and contractual arrangements. 

g. Merchant Solar Plants

A merchant plant is a power plant built for the purpose of selling directly to the wholesale electricity 

market, rather than under contract. While merchant plants are traditionally fossil plants, solar 

companies are now constructing merchant plants that will sell solar energy directly in wholesale spot 

markets. The off takers in these markets are generally utilities that may choose to purchase from a solar 

plant rather than a fossil plant, which allows utilities to reduce emissions from their overall energy mix. 

An example is listed below: 

 First Solar Barilla PV Plant: First Solar has recently completed the initial 18MW phase of the 

Barilla PV plant in Texas, the first plant in the state to operate without a power purchase 

agreement. This merchant solar plant, located in West Texas, will instead sell electricity on 

Texas’ ERCOT grid spot market.116

h. Solar REC Purchases

Utilities around the country purchase solar RECs and distributed generation renewable energy credits 

(RECs) from solar systems to comply with state renewable portfolio standards. One of the primary 

motivations of such standards is to shift generation away from affected EGUs and towards lower 

emitting renewable energy resources. Currently, 23 states and the District of Columbia have renewable 

portfolio standards that include solar and distributed solar carve-outs. Under these requirements, 

utilities are required to purchase solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) from distributed solar systems 

that are then used to reduce the utility’s overall reliance on carbon emitting resources. A utility will 

generally issue an RFP to purchase RECs when purchased in large quantities. The primary goals of state 

 

116 http://www.pv-tech.org/news/first_solar_completes_merchant_pv_power_plant_in_texas
56

solar requirements are to reduce emissions, stimulate economic activity, hedge against fossil fuel prices, 

and improve grid resiliency and reliability through increased solar deployment.

117 These goals are clearly 

aligned with the requirements for establishing the BSER as set forth under 111(d). For a full list of solar 

RPS requirements, see DSIRE Solar Policy Guide.118

 Nevada Energy Integrated Resource Plan: Nevada Energy IRP counts distributed PV towards the 

NV RPS, so distributed PV penetration is tracked closely and is included as part of the utilities' 

overall resource plan.

 New Jersey RPS § 14:8-2.1 Purpose and scope: 

The purpose and scope of the NJ RPS states: “(a) Each supplier/provider, as defined at N.J.A.C. 

14:8-1.2, that sells electricity to retail customers in New Jersey, shall include in its electric 

energy portfolio electricity generated from renewable energy sources. This subchapter is 

designed to encourage the development of renewable sources of electricity and new, cleaner 

generation technology; minimize the environmental impact of air pollutant emissions from 

electric generation; reduce possible transport of emissions and minimize any adverse 

environmental impact from deregulation of energy generation; and support the reliability of the 

supply of electricity in New Jersey.”

 New York RPS Objectives (Case 03-E-0188):119

The objective of the NY RPS states: “New York’s Environment: improve New York’s environment 

by reducing air emissions, including greenhouse gas emissions, and other adverse 

environmental impacts on New York State, including upon underserved communities, of 

electricity generation...”

i. Utility Engagement in the Valuation of Distributed PV

As distributed PV generation becomes a larger portion of the energy mix, many utilities are working to 

properly value distributed PV generation. Currently, there have been 15 value of solar studies or 

proceedings undertaken by states. These proceedings involve dozens of stakeholders engaging in a 

robust analysis of the benefits and costs of solar to the utility, ratepayers, and the grid. In addition, 

there are active dockets in Louisiana, South Carolina, and New York evaluating the benefits and costs of 

distributed PV.

 

117 www.dsireusa.org/solar/solarpolicyguide/?id=21

118 Id.

119 Order Regarding Retail Renewable Portfolio Standard 

(http://www3.dps.ny.gov/pscweb/WebFileRoom.nsf/Web/85D8CCC6A42DB86F85256F1900533518/$File/301.03e

0188.RPS.pdf?OpenElement)
57

Finally, the graph below shows methods that utilities have used to procure solar energy outside RPS

requirements in the past 12 months (Nov. 2013-Nov. 2014): 

120

Each of the models discussed above shows that utility scale and distributed PV, as well as CSP and SHC, 

can be procured to reduce generation (and emissions) from affected EGUs.

2B7. Solar Energy Measures Avoid Health and Environmental Concerns Associated with 

Dirtier Sources of Energy.

Solar energy does not produce as many costly externalities as fossil sources.121 Emissions from coal 

power, for example, can cause bronchitis, asthma, heart disease, water pollution, land degradation and 

 

120Chart from November 2014, GTM Research Utility PV Tracker: http://www.greentechmedia.com/pv-tracker. 

121 Externalities are defined as the costs unaccounted for by the price of a product. 
58

more — all in addition to climate change.122 One study concluded that, when monetized, the “social 

cost” of coal-fired power could be as high as 60 percent of residential electricity prices.123 Similarly, the 

EPA determined that particulate exposure from coal-fired power costs Americans between $110 billion 

and $270 billion each year.124 When energy sources are adjusted to account for these externalities, solar 

energy becomes even more cost-competitive.125

3. Determination of State Goals 

Once the EPA determines the BSER that has been adequately demonstrated for the affected EGUs, it 

calculates the emission limitation achievable through the application of the BSER to the affected 

EGUs.

126 The emission limitation is expressed as an emissions rate to the state in the emissions guideline 

issued pursuant to 40 CFR 60.22(b).127 In the immediate rulemaking, the emission limitation achievable 

through application of the BSER is the state goal.128 Each state then develops an implementation plan 

that includes a standard of performance for affected EGUs to meet the emissions guideline.129 The 

standard of performance, when taken as a whole, must achieve the required emissions performance 

level required by the EPA.130 

3A. The Proposed State Goals do not Reflect Emissions Limitations Achievable 

through Application of the BSER to Affected EGUs. 

As discussed above, the BSER as proposed by EPA does not properly account for solar energy measures 

because it fails to project accurate emissions reduction and cost potential, and it fails to include 

 

122 Towards the Full Cost of Coal: A review of the recent literature assessing the negative health care externalities 

associated with coal-fired electricity production (Caroline Burkhard Golin 2012).

123 Epstein, P. R., Buonocore, J. J., Eckerle, K., Hendryx, M., Stout Iii, B. M., Heinberg, R., ... Glustrom, L. (2011). Full 

cost accounting for the life cycle of coal. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1219(1), 73-98. Per Towards 

the Full Cost of Coal: A review of the recent literature assessing the negative health care externalities associated 

with coal-fired electricity production (Caroline Burkhard Golin 2012). 

124 Regulatory Impact Analysis for the Federal Implementation Plans to Reduce Interstate Transport of Fine 

Particulate Matter and Ozone in 27 States; Correction of SIP Approvals for 22 States (U.S. EPA Office of Air and 

Radiation 2011), per Solar Electricity: Economic Development and Impact (presentation by Lee J. Peterson, Esq. 

2012).

125 Solar Electricity: Economic Development and Impact (presentation by Lee J. Peterson, Esq. 2012).

126 CAA Section 111(d)(1); Clean Power Plan Legal Memo at 97 

127 Id. 

128 Id.

129 CAA Section 111(d)(1); CAA Section 111(a) (1); Legal Memo 94 

130 Id. 
59

distributed PV entirely. Therefore, the state goals as set forth in EPA’s proposal are inaccurate. Below 

are the steps the EPA should take to accurately account for solar energy as a part of the BSER. 

 The EPA should exclude the technical potential benchmark from the alternative approach 

and rely on the IPM model results with modifications.

 The EPA should use the Sunshot -62.5% cost scenario as the cost input for utility PV in the 

IPM model and as the cost input for distributed PV from the SolarDS model. 

 The EPA should use the Sunshot -62.5% scenario distributed PV solar capacity projections to 

hard-wire distributed PV into the IPM model to include distributed PV. 

 The EPA should update the current generation data for solar from EIA data with SEIA’s 

recommended outlined approach. 

 The EPA should update the performance estimates used in the IPM model for solar. 

 The EPA should use a 2012 or higher baseline year. 

These steps are elaborated upon below in Section 3B. 

3B. The EPA Should Use the Alternative Approach with Modifications to Determine 

the State Goals. 

SEIA believes that the Alternative Approach, when adjusted to adequately capture the contributions 

from solar, would most effectively capture the emissions reductions achievable through application of 

the BSER to affected EGUs. The Alternative Approach is more accurate because it does not rely on one 

policy to determine the solar potential in a state, as the RPS approach does.131 Thus the Alternative 

 

131 There are numerous policies that are driving the growth of solar. For utility scale solar, there are several policy 

drivers at the federal and state level that play a key role in creating the foundation for continued increase in utility 

scale solar. At the federal level Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) and the Investment Tax 

Credit (ITC) create the predictable tax environment necessary to foster investment in utility scale projects. At the 

state level, RPS policies have historically been the main driver for utility scale solar projects: as of March 2013, 

there are 29 states plus Washington, DC that have an RPS, while an additional 8 states have a renewable portfolio 

goal. As installed costs have dropped, state and local tax policies as well as utility procurement policies are playing 

an increasingly important role in the growth in utility scale solar projects. However, for distributed solar, the most 

important policy driver is the net metering policy. As of July 2013, there are 43 states plus Washington, DC that 

have adopted a solar net metering policy. This policy, in combination with the federal 30% investment tax credit, 

along with other state incentive programs such as rebate and loan programs have driven deployment in this 

sector. A state RPS with either a solar carve-out or a DG carve-out can be a driver of deployment; however, as of 

March 2013 only 16 states and Washington, DC have an RPS policy with this provision. See more at: 

http://www.dsireusa.org/documents/summarymaps/RPS_map.pdf; 

http://www.dsireusa.org/documents/summarymaps/net_metering_map.pdf; and 

http://www.dsireusa.org/documents/summarymaps/Solar_DG_RPS_map.pdf
60

Approach would set a more realistic expectation of the amount of solar growth feasible that will create 

a balanced energy portfolio in each state.

The Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC) engaged with ICF to run the Integrated Planning Model 

(IPM®), the same model that EPA uses, to reproduce EPA’s RE Market Potential run based on the below 

solar energy recommendations, using up-to-date cost and performance assumptions for renewable 

energy technologies. The resulting national target for renewable generation nearly doubles from EPA’s 

estimate, growing from 524 TWh in 2030 to approximately 973 TWh in 2030.

132 This clearly 

demonstrates that significantly higher levels of renewable energy are both technically and economically 

achievable, compared to the levels proposed in either of EPA’s target-setting approaches. Based on 

these results, EPA should strengthen the contributions of renewable energy in its target-setting to 

accurately reflect the full potential that these technologies can have in reducing dangerous carbon 

pollution from the electricity sector.

The following adjustments should be made to the EPA’s proposed rule to accurately include solar energy 

in the alternative approach. Failure to make these adjustments would be arbitrary, as state goals would 

not reflect the emission limitations achievable through solar energy measures in place today. 

3B1. Exclude the Technical Potential Benchmark from the Alternative Approach and Rely 

on the IPM Model Results with Modifications. 

Within the Alternative Approach, the current proposed rule first establishes a technical potential 

benchmark that is used in combination with an IPM projected market potential. SEIA does not support 

the inclusion of the technical potential benchmark in setting a state’s target. Instead, SEIA recommends 

that EPA rely solely on the IPM model when applying its Alternative Approach. 

As the EPA notes in its proposal, applying NREL’s technical potential for solar in each state to determine 

the state goals has limited value. In fact, SEIA believes that the technical potential is arbitrary because it 

shows the solar capacity that could be built in a given state without recognizing real-world limiting 

factors such as economic growth and grid constraints. Therefore, the EPA should not rely on NREL’s 

technical potential for setting state goals. See Appendix A for more information on the technical 

potential of solar.

The EPA should solely rely on the IPM model for setting the state targets. Unlike the technical potential, 

the IPM model takes into account the cost of building renewable generation, as well as grid conditions in 

 

132 See the NRDC comments to the EPA on the Clean Power Plan. SEIA supports the NRDC analysis of solar within 

the EPA’s Clean Power Plan and building block 3. See Table 1.3 in the EPA’s Alternative RE Approach Technical 

Support Document. Available here: http://www2.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-

06/documents/20140602tsd-alternative-re-approach.pdf
61

each state and a number of other factors. In addition, the IPM model considers the resource potential 

that is considered by NREL’s technical potential. SEIA believes that with the correct solar data inputs, 

the IPM model provides a realistic projection of solar energy potential at the state level that can be 

relied upon for setting state goals. 

Further, there is precedent to rely solely on the IPM model for setting the renewable targets in each 

state under the Alternative Approach. The EPA currently uses the IPM model to analyze the impact of air 

emissions policies on the U.S. electric power sector such as the Clean Air Interstate Rule, Cross-State Air 

Pollution Rule (CSAPR), the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), and the proposed Carbon 

Pollution Standards for New Power Plants.133 Therefore, there is precedent to rely solely on the IPM 

model for setting the renewable targets in each state under the Alternative Approach. The EPA also 

notes that “for the development of its latest power sector modeling platform, EPA has increased its 

external engagement with state air quality planning officials, power company representatives, regional 

transmission organizations, and others who have provided input on the data, assumptions, and 

structure of EPA's Power Sector Modeling Platform v.5.1,”134 which shows that the model includes 

feedback from a variety of stakeholders, and can be used reliably to set the state targets for 

compliance.135 

Should, however, the EPA default to use the technical potential benchmark, please view SEIA’s 

calculation of the solar technical potential benchmark in Appendix A. 

3B2. Use Sunshot -62.5% Scenario Distributed PV Solar Capacity Projections to Hard-wire 

Distributed PV into the IPM Model. 

As demonstrated in the comments above, distributed PV meets the necessary requirements to be 

considered a part of the BSER. Distributed PV can be deployed at a reasonable cost, reduces emissions, 

is technically feasible, and is also adequately demonstrated. As distributed PV is a unique, customersited generation resource, it may be difficult to represent the technology in a wholesale power model 

 

133 http://www.epa.gov/ttn/ecas/regdata/RIAs/111dproposalRIAfinal0602.pdf p. 3-3.

134 http://www.epa.gov/powersectormodeling/

135

“IPM is a multi-regional, dynamic, deterministic linear programming model of the U.S. electric power sector. It 

provides forecasts of least cost capacity expansion, electricity dispatch, and emission control strategies while 

meeting energy demand and environmental, transmission, dispatch, and reliability constraints. EPA has used IPM 

for over two decades to better understand power sector behavior under future business- as- usual conditions and 

evaluate the economic and emission impacts of prospective environmental policies. The model is designed to 

reflect electricity markets as accurately as possible. EPA uses the best available information from utilities, industry 

experts, gas and coal market experts, financial institutions, and government statistics as the basis for the detailed 

power sector modeling in IPM.” http://www.epa.gov/ttn/ecas/regdata/RIAs/111dproposalRIAfinal0602.pdf

p. 3-2.
62

such as IPM. Instead, it is more accurate to rely on separate modeling that fully accounts for market 

dynamics at the customer level. For example, NREL has developed the Solar Deployment System model 

(solarDS), a modeling complement to ReEDS which projects distributed PV installations by state based 

on system prices, retail rates, and consumer economics.136 A further description of the model is provided 

here: 

The Solar Deployment System (SolarDS) model is a geospatially rich, bottom -up, marketpenetration model that simulates the potential adoption PV on residential and commercial 

rooftops in the continental United States through 2030. SolarDS was developed by the National 

Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to examine the market competitiveness of PV based on 

regional solar resources, capital costs, electricity prices, utility rate structures, and federal and 

local incentives. SolarDS calculations are run at a high level of disaggregation by calculating PV 

generation in 216 solar resource regions, shown in Figure ES-1, and combining PV output with 

state-based electricity rate distributions from 3000 utilities. Regional PV financial performance is 

used to simulate PV adoption rates for each customer type and building type. SolarDS then 

aggregates regional PV adoption to the state and national level.

In an analysis of the EPA Clean Power Plan performed by the NRDC137, NRDC utilized the DOE Sunshot 

distributed solar capacity projections from their -62.5% price scenario for input into the IPM model. To 

arrive at these distributed PV capacity projections, the DOE ran the -62.5% price scenario through the 

SolarDS model. The -62.5% cost scenario is reasonable to use, as the cost assumptions correspond with 

the level of prices and projection of prices seen in today’s distributed PV markets. Refer back to Section 

2B2 for discussion of reasonable cost. See Appendix C for these solar capacity projections from the 

Sunshot -62.5% scenario. NRDC also approximated a growth pathway between 2014 installed capacity 

and the Sunshot 2030 distributed PV capacity projections. The Sunshot -62.5% distributed PV solar 

capacity projections were then hard-wired into IPM to ensure that the effects on the grid and other 

generation options are captured. Meaning, the capacity projections were forced into the IPM model to 

build a certain GW amount of distributed PV in 2020. The IPM model then went through the same set of 

steps as the model would with other technologies (i.e. cost considerations, regulations, etc.). 

The analysis by NRDC notes that using the -62.5% cost reduction scenario may be a conservative 

projection, as an October 2014 notice from the Sunshot program projects that distributed solar prices 

are still on track to meet the Sunshot goal (a full -75% reduction in price) by 2020, which would result in 

higher demand for distributed PV systems than in the -62.5% projection.

138 Second, NREL’s analysis 

 

136 See NREL’s “The Solar Deployment System (SolarDS) Model: Documentation and Sample Results”, available 

here: http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy10osti/45832.pdf

137 http://www.nrdc.org/

138 U.S. DOE Sunshot, “Photovoltaic System Pricing Trends: Historical, Recent, and Near-Term Projections.” October 

2014. Copy available at: 

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CC0QFjAC&url=ht

tp%3A%2F%2Fny-sun.ny.gov%2F-%2Fmedia%2FNYSun%2Ffiles%2FMeetings%2F2014-11-06%2FSunShot-Solar-
63

assumes no further price declines after 2020, when in fact many analysts expect that prices will continue 

to decline. Finally, the NRDC analysis does not assume any carbon price or incentives for renewable 

energy beyond those already in place in 2012.139 Therefore, an analysis that includes an application of a 

$30/MWh cost reduction or similar incentive for zero-carbon technologies would lead to even higher 

levels of distributed PV deployment to achieve cost-effective emissions reductions.

3B3. Use the Sunshot -62.5% Cost Scenario as the Cost Input for Utility PV in the IPM Model 

and as the Cost Input for Distributed PV from the SolarDS Model. 

The strengths of the Alternative Approach lie in its use of technical and economic data to calculate the 

state renewable energy potential. However, the EPA has relied on outdated and incorrect data from the 

EIA, which contains several-year old cost and performance data and results in levelized costs for wind 

and solar which are 46% above current averages for each technology.140 EPA’s modeling should use the 

most reliable and up-to-date cost and performance assumptions available, which will provide a more 

accurate representation of the cost competitiveness of renewables and demonstrate that more 

renewables can be deployed at reasonable cost. Refer back to Section 2B2 for discussion of reasonable 

cost.

Based on data from the latest U.S. Solar Market Insight Report (Q2 2014), the costs for utility PV are at 

$1.81/watt, while the costs for residential and commercial PV (which together make up the distributed 

solar market) are at $3.92/watt and $2.39/watt, respectively. This places solar on track or close to meet 

the 2030 SunShot goals. Therefore, the Sunshot assumptions can be used as a trendline for 2030 solar 

costs. The below graph shows the declining solar prices over the past 4 years and the 2030 Sunshot -

62.5% scenario. 

 

IndustryUpdate.pdf&ei=W1dqVIzfO9W3yASv1oGIDg&usg=AFQjCNFhnGZs41wmZP0ch3ZWQbBBcb35TA&sig2=YfPjLEA6Hz_

TNtkpn2SNrA&bvm=bv.79142246,d.aWw

139 NREL’s analysis assumed that the PTC and ITC expired in 2012 and 2016, respectively.

140 NRDC calculation. 
64

The -62.5% Sunshot cost assumptions to use are: $1.50/watt for utility PV as an input directly into the 

IPM model; $2.25/watt for residential distributed PV and $1.88/watt for commercial distributed PV 

for use with the -62.5% capacity projections as inputs directly for the solarDS model, which is then 

hard-wired into the IPM model. 

NRDC compared a variety of sources to determine an installed cost for utility solar PV. The below chart 

shows the inputs NRDC used in their IPM analysis, and the sources used for the cost assumption. Note 

that the $1.77/watt that NRDC uses for utility PV is rather conservative as an October 2014 Sunshot 

report “Photovoltaic System Pricing Trends: Historical, Recent, and Near-Term Projections” shows solar 

meeting the $1.00/watt projections for utility PV in 2030.
65

Comparison of Cost and Performance Characteristics: Updated Costs and Performance vs. AEO2013

Renewable Energy Cost Assumptions

Installed Costs ($/kW)

Onshore Wind Solar PV141

EIA AEO 2013142 2213 3098

Updated Costs and 

Performance 1750 1770143

3B4. Update the Capital Cost Adders for CSP. 

For CSP cost, the Proposed Rule’s 2016 cost and performance numbers are consistent with a near-term 

molten-salt tower, if the location multipliers are accounted for and the dollars are converted to 2014 

dollars. However, the maximum targets for solar thermal provided in the Proposed Rule are too low; in 

addition, the “short term capital cost adders,” intended to account for maxing out the production 

capacity of any given technology, are too high and their use results in unrealistically high costs (we note 

as well that the steps on the short term cost adders of 90 MW and 60 MW are unrealistically low). These 

should be corrected. The cost adder should be no more than 10% or 20%. There is significant excess 

capacity for the CSP equipment today, including factories for receivers and mirrors all over the world. 

Most of the equipment in a CSP plant is conventional power plant equipment or materials (steel and 

concrete); only a small percent is specialty equipment, for example mirrors, receivers, heat transfer 

fluids and salt. In addition, the future cost reduction assumptions are too conservative, as costs are 

predicted to continue to decrease as new CSP plants come on line. If availability impacts the EPA 

analysis, it is important to note that operating CSP plants in the US have availabilities above 95% after 

the first couple years of operation. Finally, CSP plants can be adapted to the needs of the utility; they 

can be designed for peaking, intermediate or baseload. EPA’s model only includes the intermediate load 

plant configuration, but in the future, the baseload and the peaker plant configurations are likely to be 

as or more relevant. EPA should model all of the three options.

 

141 Cost and performance assumptions for solar are given in terms of kWdc. EIA’s assumptions are converted from 

AC to DC using a 0.8 derate factor.

142 Energy Information Agency, “Annual Energy Outlook 2013”, April 2013. 

143 Range of estimates based on data from the following sources. See Bottom-up modeling estimates in: U.S. DOE 

Sunshot, “Photovoltaic System Pricing Trends: Historical, Recent, and Near-Term Projections.” October 2014; 

“Bloomberg New Energy Finance. “H1 2014 Levelized Cost of Electricity – PV.” February 2014; Lazard. “Levelized 

Cost of Energy – v. 8.0; Bloomberg New Energy Finance/World Energy Council. “World Energy Perspective: Cost of 

Energy Technologies.” 2013; SEIA/GTM U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2014.
66

3B5. Update the Current Generation Data for Solar from EIA Data with the Below Outlined 

Approach. 

The IPM model base case should accurately depict the solar market today in order to give an accurate 

forecast for future solar deployment. The EPA can source data from a number of publicly available data 

sources to understand the solar potential from DG solar, utility PV, and CSP.144 The EIA collects data on 

distributed PV, utility PV and CSP capacity and generation through 4 separate forms. Those forms are:145

 EIA form 860: Annual Electric Generator Report

This covers system-level data for all plants larger than 1 MWac; therefore it does not include 

most distributed PV capacity deployed. While detailed data from this form is reported only 

annually, monthly data releases with important metrics are available from EIA’s Electric Power 

Monthly table 6.3.146

 EIA form 861: Annual Electric Power Industry Report

This form includes data on the number and capacity of solar energy systems deployed under net 

energy metering. (Note: data for 2012 and 2013 likely does not include plants larger than 2 

MWac but a form update recently approved by OMB means new data will include those systems 

and capacity.) This form also contains fields related to energy exported to the grid from these 

systems reported in megawatt-hours (MWh) but due to different metering infrastructure and 

different interpretations of the survey questions, this data is not consistent or reliable.

 EIA form 826: Monthly Electric Utility Sales and Revenue Report with State Distributions

This form includes data on the number and capacity of solar energy systems deployed under net 

energy metering. This data is updated monthly and, thus, is more current than form 861 data. 

However, it covers fewer than 300 of the roughly 3,000 utilities in the U.S. and excludes a couple 

utilities with significant amounts of customer-sited solar. (Note: data for 2012 and 2013 likely 

does not include plants larger than 2 MWac but a form update recently approved by OMB means 

new data will include those systems and capacity.) This form also contains fields related to 

energy exported to the grid from those systems in megawatt-hours (MWh) but due to different 

metering infrastructure and different interpretations of the survey questions, this data is not 

consistent or reliable.

 EIA form 923: Power Plant Operations Report

This form gathers data on generation from a sample of power plants larger than 1 MWac. Since 

this form does not cover all power plants, EIA uses this data to estimate generation from power 

plants not surveyed. Given the variation in solar production from location to location and with 

 

144 There is very limited data on SHC. To assess the growing SHC market, SEIA encourages Congress to instruct the 

EIA to collect SHC data again.

145 For more detail on EIA forms, see http://www.eia.gov/survey/

146 http://www.eia.gov/electricity/monthly/
67

different plant configurations that are not readily captured by EIA, estimating total solar 

generation based on data from this form is not a reliable reference source.

The four EIA forms outlined above contain limited information about current solar capacity deployed. 

While the EPA relied on data from 2012 in the proposed rule, SEIA strongly encourages the EPA to use 

the latest available data before setting final targets. Given the rapid deployment of solar energy in 

recent years, the amount of existing solar capacity is now much higher than at the end of 2012. Further, 

the EPA failed to account for distributed PV capacity reported in forms 826 and 861. 

Given the shortcomings regarding the timing and limitations of EIA forms utilized, SEIA submits that a 

more comprehensive estimation approach would present a more accurate picture of actual solar 

generation. SEIA therefore recommends the following method for estimating the current generation 

from solar energy: 

SEIA suggests the EPA take the latest available data on solar PV capacity (both distributed and utility) 

from EIA forms 860, 861 and 826 and multiply this capacity by the estimated generation per unit of 

capacity by state as shown in the table below, which is current through the end of September 2014.147

Capacity (MWac)148 Estimated Annual Generation (MWh)149

Customer-Sited DG

Utility Total

Customer-Sited DG

Utility Total

State Residential

NonResidential ResidentialNonResidential

AK 0.30 0.18 0.48 254 186 440

AL 0.25 0.21 0.46 347 346 694

AR 1.52 1.78 3.30 2,102 3,015 5,117

AZ 288.14 276.83 1,213.70 1,778.67 507,741 596,571 2,951,610 4,055,922

CA 1,424.82 1,131.99 4,470.30 7,027.11 2,351,226 2,274,410 10,210,829 14,836,464

CO 128.92 128.92 103.40 361.24 206,010 252,056 230,382 688,448

CT 38.36 51.50 5.00 94.86 47,742 78,493 8,780 135,015

DC 5.34 3.85 9.19 7,062 6,228 13,290

 

147 For each state, we estimated system performance (MWhac/MWdc/year) based on taking the simple average of 

performance of all the weather stations with typical meteorological year 3 (TMY3) data in that state. This method 

also likely underestimates the amount of solar currently being generated, since the weighted average yield per 

MWdc will likely be higher than the simple average of TMY3 sites. The reason that this would likely underestimate 

energy production is because developers are more likely to site plants in higher resource parts of a given state. For 

example, there is more solar in southern California than in the far northwest corner of California but weather 

stations from northwest California are included in the simple average.

148 Source: EIA forms 826, 861 and 860. Includes both photovoltaic (PV) and concentrating solar power (CSP) 

capacity.

149 Estimate based on average modeled system performance in each state using TMY3 weather data.
68

DE 15.72 16.59 27.10 59.41 20,695 26,613 50,048 97,356

FL 41.30 43.80 64.20 149.30 60,862 78,541 130,856 270,259

GA 7.19 37.82 10.50 55.51 10,082 65,339 20,771 96,191

HI 218.21 56.61 24.20 299.01 347,317 108,410 53,500 509,227

IA 13.85 9.31 23.16 17,272 14,393 31,665

ID 2.04 1.65 3.69 2,982 2,939 5,921

IL 4.39 4.82 29.00 38.21 5,593 7,523 51,708 64,824

IN 2.51 1.71 64.70 68.93 3,140 2,613 113,583 119,335

KS 1.07 1.16 2.23 1,596 2,106 3,702

KY 1.01 1.21 2.21 1,293 1,880 3,173

LA 73.81 3.44 77.25 103,510 5,837 109,347

MA 103.32 373.06 126.40 602.78 124,427 552,098 215,336 891,861

MD 49.76 72.95 45.20 167.91 65,965 118,216 81,447 265,629

ME 10.68 3.86 14.53 12,578 5,577 18,155

MI 13.57 9.12 22.69 16,181 13,318 29,499

MN 8.72 10.60 19.32 10,508 15,750 26,257

MO 39.01 56.02 7.70 102.73 53,221 93,429 14,797 161,447

MS 0.05 0.00 0.05 72 0 72

MT 3.38 1.74 5.12 4,514 2,849 7,363

NC 20.84 34.44 279.90 335.18 28,962 60,105 547,483 636,549

ND 0.41 0.05 0.46 524 78 602

NE 0.40 0.48 0.88 571 833 1,404

NH 7.03 4.16 11.19 8,389 6,079 14,468

NJ 196.21 776.23 218.60 1,191.04 256,218 1,243,794 392,955 1,892,967

NM 27.89 41.13 185.60 254.62 49,423 89,077 460,202 598,703

NV 17.96 55.58 494.30 567.83 30,231 114,692 1,157,783 1,302,706

NY 128.85 100.41 31.50 260.76 154,994 147,879 53,018 355,891

OH 7.80 59.40 28.10 95.30 9,411 87,669 47,171 144,252

OK 0.98 0.41 1.38 1,473 750 2,223

OR 32.74 39.53 10.70 82.97 43,187 63,701 19,828 126,716

PA 61.01 134.39 29.50 224.90 74,735 202,061 50,244 327,040

PR 2.00 2.17 4.17 3,149 4,107 7,256

RI 1.45 5.26 4.90 11.62 1,808 8,042 8,637 18,486

SC 3.10 0.45 2.50 6.04 4,449 791 5,074 10,313

SD 0.03 0.22 0.25 33 364 397

TN 0.06 0.40 12.10 12.55 77 661 21,739 22,477

TX 52.07 46.35 119.00 217.42 77,883 84,306 248,151 410,340

UT 12.04 15.11 1.30 28.46 19,566 30,056 2,961 52,582
69

VA 7.63 7.04 14.67 10,278 11,614 21,892

VT 90.07 6.65 10.00 106.72 105,364 9,507 16,453 131,324

WA 30.30 9.14 0.50 39.94 36,121 13,312 817 50,250

WI 7.91 6.02 13.92 9,708 9,080 18,788

WV 1.88 0.53 2.41 2,251 777 3,028

WY 1.02 1.02 2.04 1,560 1,909 3,469

Total 3,208.91 3,647.28 7,619.90 14,476.09 4,914,655 6,519,980 17,166,160 28,600,794

The data in the annual generation column at the far right should be used as a direct input into the IPM 

model. 

3B6. Update the Performance Estimates used in the IPM Model for Solar. 

The EPA used EIA data that does not reflect current performance estimates within the solar market. The 

solar performance estimates are based on the simple average of performance at each TMY3 weather 

station in each state as modeled using PVWatts in NREL’s System Advisor Model (SAM). For detailed 

charts on the solar performance estimates, see Appendix D. SEIA recommends using the maximum 

capacity factor in each state, as utility scale developers will target the highest resource regions. It should 

be noted that through innovation such as oversized inverters, individual projects have reported capacity 

factors of up to 30%, but SEIA does not currently have publicly available data that captures this trend at 

a national level. 

3B7. SEIA Does Not Take a Position on the NODA Regionalized Approach for RE Target 

Setting 

The EPA is requesting comment on grouping states into certain regions, summing the RE target 

generation identified under the alternative approach, and then reallocating the summed generation 

proportionally to each state within that region by a chosen criterion, such as each state’s share of total 

electricity sales within that region in 2012.150 SEIA does not take a position on this regionalized approach 

for setting the renewables target for states under building block 3. However, SEIA notes that a 

regionalized approach would better align RE targets with the proposal to allow the use of certain out-ofstate renewables for compliance, as the EPA notes as well. This would allow for more state flexibility in 

compliance plans. Furthermore, the electric grid is not confined to one state in the contiguous U.S., and 

grid regions have become geographically integrated. SEIA does not take a position on the grouping of 

states or criteria for reapportioning the state RE targets within given regions.

 

150 79 FR 64551
70

3B8. SEIA supports the changing the goal setting equation for calculating building block 3 

as mentioned in the NODA to reflect the reduced utilization of affected EGUs from 

displacement by renewable energy. 

As proposed, the Clean Power Plan evaluates the impact of building block 3 on each state’s carbon 

intensity by adding MWhs of expected renewable and nuclear generation only to the denominator of 

the state’s 2012 adjusted rate. The calculation of the impact of increased generation under building 

block three does not reflect the displacement of emissions and generation from affected EGUs that 

would result from the new renewable generation. The final Clean Power Plan should treat generation 

from renewable energy and existing NGCC in the same way. In calculating the impacts of building block 3

on the state emission rate goals, the EPA should be consistent with the approach in building block 2. 

SEIA supports the second proposal outlined within the NODA that assumes renewables and energy 

efficiency would replace dirtier fossil generation first. This would correctly remove from each state’s 

carbon intensity numerator emission reductions to express the drawdown in fossil fuel resources when 

renewables and energy efficiency increase. That is, affected EGU MWhs should be removed from the 

denominator and the equivalent number of MWhs should be added back based on low- and zero-carbon 

generation from building block 3, and emissions associated with affected EGUs should be removed from 

each state’s carbon emissions numerator. 

This second proposal for setting the state goals under building block 3 as outlined in the NODA is 

consistent with how renewable energy would be used under a best system of emissions reductions, as 

displacing the highest-emitting resources first would be the most cost-effective option. To expand upon 

this, if carbon cost were accounted for in generation dispatch decisions, as it may be in some regions as 

part of implementation of BB2, many gas units would be dispatched lower on the supply curve than 

many coal units, putting coal units onto the margin where they will be displaced by renewable energy.

3B9. SEIA Supports a 2012 or Higher Baseline Year 

The EPA is requesting comment on whether the EPA should use a different single data year or the 

average of a combination of years to calculate the state fossil fuel emission rates used in state goal 

calculations.151 The EPA currently uses 2012 as the baseline year for calculating the state goals. SEIA 

does not support using a baseline year below 2012, and strongly suggests the use of a baseline year of 

2013 or higher in setting the solar portion of the renewable state target under building block 3. The 

solar industry has grown dramatically in recent years and the amount of solar capacity online in the U.S. 

 

151 79 FR 64548
71

has doubled since the end of 2012.152 Therefore, the use of a lower baseline year would not accurately 

represent the current or future potential contributions from solar to a low carbon energy supply. 

Should the EPA use an average of multiple years of generation to set the baseline, it will be critical for 

the EPA to adjust the calculation to reflect the generating fleet as it exists today (i.e. end of September 

2014). To do this, the EPA can look at the generation mix relative to the existing online generation 

capacity of each technology in each averaged year. Put another way, the EPA could look at the average 

capacity factor of each technology in each year and then apply that to generation fleet as it exists today. 

To clarify further, the EPA could estimate baseline solar generation by either multiplying the historical 

average capacity factor for solar in each state by the current existing capacity in each state, or by 

modelling the expected performance of current existing capacity in each state. Modelling for wind and 

solar is a sensible approach as wind and solar are at the top of merit order dispatch, and thus their 

modeled performance is very likely to reflect their average lifetime performance. 

Correctly assessing the baseline and solar energy’s contribution to the baseline for the Clean Power Plan 

is critical, as the generation fleet has changed in meaningful ways since 2012 and especially since 2010. 

Using a simple average of absolute generation levels of each technology would grossly underrepresent 

solar generation as it exists today because there is a significantly larger amount of solar capacity online 

today.

3C. As an Example, Other Approaches to Setting the Renewables Portion to the State 

Targets Show Double the Amount of Renewable Energy Potential using the Correct 

Data for Renewable Energy. 

As an example, other approaches to setting the renewables portion to the state targets, such as the 

Union of Concerned Scientists’ (UCS) demonstrated renewables growth approach, show double the 

amount of renewable energy potential using the correct data for renewable energy.153 The UCS 

demonstrated growth approach would improve on the EPA’s proposed approach by incorporating the 

following core components:

 Setting a national renewable energy growth rate benchmark based on demonstrated 

growth in the states from 2009 to 2013

 Assuming full compliance with current state RES policies, as set by law, that require 

certain percentages of electricity to come from renewable sources

 

152 SEIA/GTM U.S. Solar Market Insight Report. 

153 For a detailed explanation of the UCS demonstrated growth approach, please see: http://www.ucsusa.org/ourwork/global-warming/reduce-emissions/role-of-renewable-energy-in-epa-clean-power-plan#.VHUxBckueYE
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 Accounting for actual and expected renewable energy growth between 2013 and 2017. 

The UCS state-level renewable energy targets begin in 2017, the proposed start date for state 

compliance plans, and ramp up through 2030. To determine each state’s 2017 generation levels, 

the UCS uses actual generation data from 2013 (the EPA’s approach uses 2012 data) and adds 

projected generation from wind and utility-scale solar projects known to be under construction 

through 2016. 

This demonstrated renewables growth approach results in a total of 923 TWh of total 

renewables to be deployed nationwide, nearly double the EPA’s estimate of 524 TWh in 2030.

154

To arrive at this level of generation, the UCS utilized the ReEDS model and SolarDS. Inputs were 

provided into SolarDS first, with the output then inserted into the ReEDS model; this allows for 

distributed PV to be included. The below table shows the updated solar data and cost 

assumptions that were used in the UCS demonstrated growth approach: 

Comparison of Overnight Capital Costs for Solar Electric Generation Technologies (2013$/kWAC)

UCS Demonstrated Growth Approach EIA AEO 2014 

Technology 2010 2020 2030 2040 2050 2010 2020 2030 2040

Solar PV-Utility 5,215 1,925 1,604 1,283 1,283 3,943 3,334 2,963 2,625

Solar PV-Res. Used NREL’s Sunshot scenarios, 62.5% by 2020 and 75% by 2040 7,636 3,850 2,823 2,823

Solar PV-Comm. Used NREL’s Sunshot scenarios, 62.5% by 2020 and 75% by 2040 6,545 2,951 2,567 2,567

3D. Should the EPA Default to the Current Approach (RPS approach) in Setting State 

Targets, Several Key Changes Must be Made as Noted Below. 

SEIA believes that the Alternative Approach, when adjusted, captures the emissions reductions 

achievable through application of the BSER to affected EGUs most effectively. The Alternative Approach 

is more accurate because it is state specific rather than regional, and does not rely on one policy to 

determine the solar potential in a state. While SEIA is not in favor of the current approach (RPS 

approach), should the EPA default to this, there are two key changes that must be made: use the highest 

RPS in a region absent a state specific determination that a lower RPS would be more appropriate, and 

use 2030 RPS targets. 

 

154 See Table 1.3 in the EPA’s Alternative RE Approach Technical Support Document. Available here: 

http://www2.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-06/documents/20140602tsd-alternative-re-approach.pdf
73

First, the EPA should use the highest RPS in a region to set the state targets, not the average RPS, unless 

a state specific determination shows that a lower RPS would be more appropriate. The current approach 

groups states into 6 different regions and takes the average of the 2020 RPS goals for those states in 

that region and multiples this by the total 2012 generation for the region. The EPA chose this RPS 

approach for two principal reasons: “First, in establishing the requirements, states have already had the 

opportunity to assess those requirements against a range of policy objectives including both feasibility 

and costs. ... Second, renewable resource development potential varies by region, and the RPS 

requirements developed by the states necessarily reflect consideration of the states’ own respective 

regional contexts.”155 The highest RPS goal in the region still fits within the principal reasons the EPA 

used, as the state will have weighed the feasibility and cost of the RPS policy against other policy 

objectives, yet still arrived at the aggressive RPS goal. 

Furthermore, there are many instances where solar deployment has exceeded RPS deployment 

schedules, indicating that the RPS goal could have been more aggressive. For example, in New Jersey, 

Pennsylvania, Arizona, California and Massachusetts, solar has already exceeded the RPS goals.156 These 

aggressive goals are an indication that higher-levels of renewable energy deployment are viewed as 

possible in each respective region. Also, a recent report called “The State Clean Energy Cookbook” from 

former Senator Jeff Bingaman notes that only five of twenty-nine states have fallen below 90 percent of 

expected annual progress toward RPS targets.157

Secondly, the EPA should use 2030 RPS targets, not 2020 targets in setting the state goals. As the 

compliance period for the Clean Power Plan rule extends out to 2030, not 2020, selecting the RPS goals 

for 2020 severely limits the renewable energy potential for an entire decade. For example, the RPS goal 

for HI is set for 40% by 2030, compared to just 25% by 2020.158 Minnesota also has a 10% solar target by 

2030, in addition to other RPS goals.159 Today, 2020 RPS goals are less than 6 years away, and by the 

time the rule is made final, less than 5 years away. Utilities are already planning for these RPS 

requirements in 2020 as part of their integrated resource planning processes. Selecting a 2030 RPS goal 

sends a clear message on the potential for a state to include renewables as part of a balanced state 

energy portfolio by 2030. 

 

155 Federal Register, Vol. 79 No. 117 Wednesday, June 18, 2014, p. 34866.

156 http://uspref.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Ramping-up-Renewables-Leveraging-State-RPS-Programsamid-Uncertain-Federal-Support-US-PREF-White-Paper1.pdf

157 http://media.law.stanford.edu/organizations/programs-and-centers/steyer-taylor/State-Policy-Report-lowres.pdf

158 http://energy.hawaii.gov/renewable-energy

159 http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/incentive.cfm?Incentive_Code=MN14R&re=1&ee=0
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4. Compliance Comments 

4A. Existing Measures and Early Action 

4A1. SEIA Supports the EPA Proposal to Allow Existing Measures to Count Towards 

Compliance After the Date of the Proposed Rule, But Requests that EPA Provide Clearer

Guidance in the Final Rule160 

SEIA interprets the EPA’s proposal regarding existing measures to mean that state measures which exist 

after the date of this proposal, June 18, 2014, can be used to drive emissions reductions during the

compliance period (2020-2030). However, because building block 3 was factored into determination of 

the state goals, existing renewable energy goals and actions that were implemented prior to 2018 are 

allowed to count of the compliance period. Therefore, MWh from renewable energy capacity installed 

pursuant to an existing measure or program any time prior to 2020 can be counted towards compliance 

during the compliance period (2020-2030) if the existing measure is included in a state’s implementation 

plan. For example, if 1000 MW of solar capacity was installed in 2013 pursuant to an RPS and the state 

includes the RPS in its compliance plan, then emissions displaced by MWh from the 1000 MW of solar 

capacity during the compliance period (2020-2030) can count towards the state’s 111(d) compliance 

requirements in that period. 

SEIA supports the EPA’s proposal consistent with this understanding. SEIA agrees that existing measures 

should be allowed to count during the compliance period, and can help states meet interim compliance 

goals set forth in the original proposal. SEIA believes that this is consistent with EPA’s interpretation of 

the BSER as including measures taken by states to reduce emissions across the electric system. Further, 

this is consistent with the cooperative model promoted by Section 111(d) and the Clean Air Act, which 

 

160 The EPA is proposing that, for an existing state requirement, program, or measure, a state may apply toward its 

required emission performance level the emission reductions that existing state programs and measures achieve 

during a plan performance period as a result of actions taken after the date of this proposal. An ‘‘existing 

measure’’ refers to a state or utility requirement, program, or measure that is currently ‘‘on the books.’’ (34918) 

For the purposes of this discussion, this may include a legal requirement that includes current and future 

obligations or current programs and measures that are in place and are anticipated to be continued or expanded in 

the future in accordance with established plans. Existing measures may have past, current, and future impacts on 

EGU CO2 emissions. (34918 ft nt. 292) We are also proposing that this proposed limitation would not apply to 

existing renewable energy requirements, programs and measures because existing renewable energy generation 

prior to the date of proposal of the emission guidelines was factored into the state-specific CO2 goals as part of 

building block 3. (34918 ft. nt. 293)
75

provides states with significant flexibility in determining the best method for reducing emissions. 

Further, allowing states to count existing measures towards compliance recognizes the investment 

already made by states towards emission reduction, and will allow states to carry forward programs that 

are in motion without distorting current markets. 

However, during the comment period there has been significant confusion regarding exactly which 

existing renewable energy measures can be counted towards compliance and when credit will be given. 

This confusion is already threatening potential emission reductions by slowing project development 

because states and EGUs are uncertain which actions will count towards compliance, and when these 

actions can count. Therefore, while SEIA supports the proposal put forth by EPA as interpreted above, 

SEIA requests that in the final rule the EPA more clearly state which actions can count towards 

compliance and when such actions count. 

4A2. EPA Proposal to Allow Pre-2020 Emissions Reductions to Count Towards Overall 

State Goals161

SEIA proposes that the EPA allow reductions from existing measures prior to 2020 to count towards 

compliance in 2020. However, to avoid significantly weakening the overall state goals and to prevent 

unintended consequences that may arise from allowing early action to count during the compliance 

period, SEIA recommends that the EPA allow emission reductions to be banked according to limiting 

criteria. 

SEIA recommends that states should be allowed to get limited credit for (“bank”) MWh generated prior 

to 2020. Specifically, states should be allowed to bank MWh generated from the date their SIP is 

 

161 The EPA also solicits comment on a second broad option. This option would recognize emission reductions that 

existing state requirements, programs and measures achieved starting from a specified date prior to the initial plan 

performance period, as well as emission reductions achieved during a plan performance period. The specified date 

could be, for example: The date of promulgation of the emission guidelines; the date of proposal of the emission 

guidelines; the end date of the base period for the EPA’s BSER-based goals analysis (e.g., the beginning of 2013 for 

blocks 1–3 and the beginning of 2017 for block 4, end-use energy efficiency); the end of 2005; or another date... 

The agency is seeking comment on whether some variation of this approach could be justified as consistent with 

the EPA’s proposed goal-setting approach, as well as the general concept of the BSER and its application in 

establishing state goals. In particular, we are seeking comment on whether the emission effects of actions that are 

taken after proposal or promulgation of the emission guidelines or the approval of a state plan, but which occur 

prior to the beginning of the initial state plan performance period, could be applied toward meeting the required 

level of emission performance in a state plan. (34919) The EPA is also seeking comment on the 2020-2029 Glide 

Path and early action in the Notice of Data Availability (NODA). SEIA’s proposal below addresses the EPA’s 

comments on crediting certain pre-2020 reductions that could be used to reduce the overall amount of reductions 

in the 2020-2029 period. 
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submitted, and that those credits be eligible for compliance purposes for 36 months from the date of 

the start of the compliance period. 

This approach is consistent with EPA’s goal of compliance flexibility and EPA’s rationale that states and 

EPA will need a few years to create and approve compliance plans prior to 2020. Further, limited 

banking after SIP approval ensures that only measures included in approved SIPs are used for 

compliance and incentivizes states to submit SIPs for approval in a timely manner. Limiting banking to 

2-3 years is aligned with best practices of most RPSs and regional markets which allow banking for 2-3 

years without significantly reducing overall state goals. However, some banking incentivizes early action 

and market momentum while reducing large fluctuations in the supply curve, which in turn will reduce 

compliance costs and increase the viability of building block 3 as a compliance option for states. 

While SEIA supports limited banking, SEIA believes that unlimited banking or extended banking of 

emission reductions beyond a 3 year timeframe should not be permitted for states. Unlimited or 

extended banking damages the ability of the Clean Power Plan to “lock-in” long-term emissions 

reductions and systematic long-term change by allowing states to increase actual emissions in 

compliance years. As stated above, some flexibility in this regard is warranted but extended or unlimited 

banking would undermine the effectiveness of the Plan. Additionally, extended or unlimited banking 

creates distortions in the market by allowing states and EGUs to choose not to create new renewables

until late in the compliance period or only create new renewables early on. Both create significant 

uncertainty for renewable energy markets, which may increase compliance costs or lead to states failing 

to comply. Further, SEIA is concerned that unlimited banking may lead to gaming and enforcement 

challenges if the EPA uncovers validation issues with MWhs generated many years prior. 

Therefore, SEIA supports limited banking as outlined above. 

4B. Interstate Emissions Effects 

4B1. The EPA Should Credit States that Invest in Renewable Energy162

SEIA supports the approach put forth by the EPA regarding crediting states under building block 3. In 

order to aid state compliance with 111(d) obligations, it would be most efficient and equitable for the 

 

162 The EPA is proposing that, for renewable energy measures, consistent with existing state RPS policies, a state 

could take into account all of the CO2emission reductions from renewable energy measures implemented by the 

state, whether they occur in the state or in other states. This proposed approach for RE acknowledges the 

existence of renewable energy certificates (REC) that allow for interstate trading of RE attributes and the fact that 

a given state’s RPS requirements often allow for the use of qualifying RE located in another state to be used to 

comply with that state’s RPS. The EPA is also seeking comment on how to avoid double counting emission 

reductions using this proposed approach. (34921)
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EPA to model its approach after the best practices of existing state RPSs. Relying upon existing best 

practices and infrastructure will aid states in efficiently meeting their obligations, while making doublecounting structurally impossible, thereby maintaining the integrity of the emissions reductions which 

will be achieved. SEIA recommends that the following rules undergird 111(d) SIPs. 

A. RECs delivered over tracking systems are the primary tool for tracking the compliance benefits of 

renewable electricity.

B. Only the party retiring the REC is located is permitted to claim compliance credit.

C. RECs owned by non-compliance (“voluntary”) buyers are not counted toward state 111(d) 

compliance obligations.

Observance of these rules will help to assure the continuation of the robust renewable energy market, 

uphold the integrity and emissions objectives of the rule, promote efficient market structures, and avoid

double-counting. 

While SEIA recommends the default rules set forth above, SEIA also recognizes that states should be 

allowed to enter into bilateral and multilateral agreements, whether REC based or based on emissions 

budgeting. While states should have be allowed to enter into agreements, they should be required to 

show that the emission reductions are real, verifiable, and are not being claimed by another entity or 

state

A. RECs delivered over tracking systems are the primary tool for tracking the compliance 

benefits of renewable electricity.

The transfer and retirement of RECs in tracking systems - a system in which only the REC owner is 

entitled to compliance credit - ensures that the REC can only be used by one party. In order to ensure 

that a given MWh is only used once, the EPA must make clear that, as a general rule, the generation of 

renewable electricity does not qualify for 111(d) compliance credit, but that the consumption of 

renewable electricity, as demonstrated by REC retirement, does. As noted above, this should not 

preclude states from entering into bilateral or multilateral agreements if they choose to do, so long as 

they can show that emission reductions are real, verifiable, and are not being claimed by another entity 

or state.

B. Only the party retiring the REC is located is permitted to claim compliance credit.

If RECs are not used as the compliance instrument for renewable energy, it would be possible for double 

counting to occur. Double counting would occur in a state where the SIP is based on the generation of 

renewable energy, but the REC associated with that generation is sold into a state where the SIP is 

based the consumption of renewable energy. In such a situation, two states would be seeking to claim 

 
78

the emissions and compliance benefits of the same MWh. To ensure that this scenario does not arise, 

and additionally, to promote a robust market for the purchase of renewable energy, the EPA should be 

clear that only the party which retires the REC is able to claim 111(d) compliance credit.

Rewarding REC purchases, as opposed to generation has the additional benefit of reducing compliance 

costs by allowing states to benefit from the comparative advantages of interstate trade. States where 

renewable generation is relatively expensive, or resources are scarce, are able to purchase RECs from 

neighboring states where generation is more economical, or resources are readily available, thereby 

encouraging renewable energy development and compliance at the lowest total cost. 

As noted above, this should not preclude states from entering into bilateral or multilateral agreements if 

they choose to do, so long as they can show that emission reductions are real, verifiable, and are not 

being claimed by another entity or state.

C. RECs owned by non-compliance entity (“voluntary”) buyers are not counted toward state 

111(d) compliance obligations.

An additional situation where double counting could arise, is the situation where a voluntary buyer of 

RECs uses the REC for its own benefit, but then a compliance entity seeks to claim the benefit of the 

same MWh of renewable electricity. The renewable energy industry in the United States has been 

boosted by a vibrant voluntary market for RECs. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory 

(NREL), in 2012, total retail sales of renewable energy in voluntary purchase markets exceeded 48 

million megawatt-hours (MWh) and represented approximately 1.3% of total U.S. electricity sales.163

Voluntary buyers purchase renewable energy because they support the generation of renewable energy 

above the minimum standards required by government regulations. Just like a buyer in an RPS market, 

when a voluntary customer purchases a REC, it has purchased the exclusive rights to claim that REC for 

itself. If federal and/or state government agencies were to create a system where a state were to be 

permitted to take title to those claiming rights away from the REC consumer, then the voluntary REC 

owner would have had its property rights taken without compensation, potentially in violation of the 

Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution. 

In order to account for voluntary REC purchases in rate based SIPs, the EPA should mandate that the 

party claiming 111(d) compliance benefits must own and retire the associated REC.

In order to account for voluntary REC purchases in mass based SIPs, the EPA should follow California’s 

practices in its AB 32 cap and trade program. California has enacted a voluntary renewable energy 

 

163 Status and Trends in the U.S. Voluntary Green Power Market (2012 Data); J. Heeter and T. Nicholas, 

National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
79

program which retires emission allowances equivalent to the avoided emissions associated with 

voluntary REC purchases.164 The retirement of these allowances ensures that the owner of the REC is 

able claim the emission reduction benefits from their purchase. In the absence of this allowance 

retirement, parties other than the REC owner would be able to claim the benefits of the REC’s lack of 

emissions and avoided emissions, thereby negating the zero emission and emissions reductions benefits 

owned by the REC purchaser. This result would discourage future REC purchases, and potentially lead to 

a Fifth Amendment government taking. 

SEIA recommends that in order to ensure an active, growing, efficient renewable energy market with 

integrity, that the EPA adopt the above referenced industry best practices to undergird 111(d) 

compliance programs.

4C. Federal Enforceability: The EPA Should Implement Enforceable Emissions 

Targets but Allow Programmatic Flexibility165

SEIA does not take a position on any of the approaches put forth by EPA regarding the structure of state 

plans.166 What is important is that the EPA require states to commit to binding and verifiable emission 

reductions, but allow states significant programmatic flexibility in achieving those reductions.

As recognized by the EPA, Section 111(d) provides EPA and states significant flexibility in determining 

how to structure state plans to most effectively achieve emissions reductions. SEIA urges the EPA to 

take advantage of this flexibility and allow states to maintain autonomy over their emission reduction 

programs to the extent possible. States have shown that they can achieve significant reductions 

through a combination of programs and measures developed and managed at the state level. SEIA is 

concerned that taking an overly prescriptive approach to enforcing state programs will render the 

programs less effective by exposing states to litigation risk and disrupting the administration of the 

 

164 See http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/capandtrade/guidance/chapter7.pdf. 

165 The EPA is proposing that all measures relied on to achieve the emission performance level be included in the 

state plan, and that inclusion in the state plan renders those measures federally enforceable. In light of current 

state programs, and of stakeholder expressions of concerns over the above-noted issues, including legal 

enforcement considerations, with respect to those programs, the EPA is proposing to authorize states either to 

submit plans that hold the affected EGUs fully and solely responsible for achieving the emission performance level, 

or to submit plans that rely in part on measures imposed on entities other than affected EGUs to achieve at least 

part of that level, as well as on measures imposed on affected EGUs to achieve the balance of that level. The EPA 

requests comment on this proposed approach, as opposed to the approach under which state plans simply would 

be required to hold the affected EGUs fully and solely responsible for achieving the emission performance level. 

(34901)

166 The EPA suggests a number of approaches to state plans, including a portfolio approach, state commitment 

approach, and alternatives. 
80

programs by state agencies. Therefore, SEIA suggests the EPA require states to commit to binding 

emission reductions, but allow states significant programmatic flexibility in achieving their reduction 

goals. 

4D. Evaluation, Measurement and Verification: The EPA Should Provide Guidance 

for Evaluation, Measurement and Verification of Solar167

Existing protocols already exist for measuring, verifying, and crediting the renewable electricity

generated from solar systems and the associated carbon emissions reductions. The two basic main steps 

are: (i) to track the output – i.e. meter the solar energy generated (MWh)- and (ii) to determine the 

emissions rate of electricity that is being displaced (lbs/MWh). The EPA should provide guidance to 

states on which protocols and methods will be acceptable to the EPA for compliance with the rule. SEIA 

has provided a discussion of this issue in Appendix B.

4E. Periodic Review of the Best System of Emissions Reductions: The EPA Should 

Review the BSER Every 8 Years168

Under §111(b)(1)(B), the EPA reviews and, if appropriate, revises its standards of performance for new 

sources. Section 111(d) does not require regular review and revision of the rule. However, because the 

section is silent on the issue, EPA has discretion to institute a periodic review of its standard for existing 

sources. Because §111(d) is intended to capture reasonably anticipated regulatory and technological 

developments, it would be inconsistent with the statutory scheme for EPA not to revisit and update the 

BSER and state goals periodically. In addition, periodic review would be consistent with the “no 

backsliding” policy set forth in the Clean Power Plan to ensure that emissions reductions are maintained 

during and after the compliance period.169 To ensure that state goals continue to be a reflection of the 

BSER, SEIA recommends that EPA treat the 2030 goals as a default and review the final goals by no later 

than 2024. 

 

167 As discussed in section VIII.F.1, the EPA is seeking comment on whether the agency should provide guidance on 

enforceability considerations related to requirements in a state plan for entities other than affected EGUs (and if 

so, which types of entities). Also, as discussed in section VIII.F.4, the EPA intends to develop guidance for 

evaluation, monitoring, and verification (EM&V) of renewable energy and demand-side energy efficiency programs 

and measures incorporated in state plans.

168 The EPA notes that CAA section 111(b)(1)(B) calls for the EPA, at least every eight years, to review and, if 

appropriate, revise federal standards of performance for new sources. This requirement provides for regular 

updating of performance standards as technical advances provide technologies that are cleaner or less costly. The 

agency requests comment on the implications of this concept, if any, for CAA section 111(d). (34908)

169 Clean Power Plan at 34,917
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4F. Post-2030 Emissions Reduction Requirements: The EPA Should Require State 

Emission Levels to be Maintained After the Compliance Period has Ended170

Congress intended emission reductions under §111(d) to be permanent. In fact, other emission limits 

set under §111(d) are permanent requirements. Therefore, the EPA should require emissions 

reductions achieved by existing sources under §111(d) to be permanent reductions that remain in place 

after 2030. 

4G. Concerns with Natural Gas171

SEIA urges the EPA to consider the impact of its rule on the build out of natural gas infrastructure. SEIA 

is concerned that, depending on how the rule is implemented, affected EGUs may be incentivized to 

build significant natural gas infrastructure that will be in place for the next 20-30 years once 

constructed. This would undermine EPA’s long term emission reduction goals and potentially 

discourage states from relying on renewable energy resources as a compliance option. Further, 

significant build out of natural gas infrastructure over the next few years could negatively impact 

ratepayers in the long run if such infrastructure becomes stranded assets as carbon emissions become 

more expensive in the future. 

There are two areas of particular concern in the proposed rule. 

1. Emissions Changes from the Substitution of New Natural Gas Generation 

SEIA is concerned that under the rule, states may be incentivized to construct new natural gas plants 

that are not subject to 111(d) to avoid 111(d) requirements on affected EGUs. Therefore, emissions that 

result from substituting generation by affected EGUs should be calculated toward a required emission 

performance level for affected EGUs. This means that if new natural gas plants are used for compliance 

purposes, they should be factored into the establishment of state targets to maintain symmetry 

between the resources considered in setting the target and resources allowed for compliance. Treating 

 

170 Specifically, the state plan must demonstrate that the projected emission performance of affected EGUs in the 

state will be equivalent to or better than the applicable interim goal during the 2020–2029 period, and equivalent 

to or better than the applicable final goal during the year 2030. The state plan must identify requirements that 

continue to apply after 2030 and are likely to maintain continued emission performance by affected EGUs that 

meets the final goal; (34904)

171 The agency requests comment on how emissions changes under a rate-based plan resulting from substitution 

of generation by new NGCC for generation by affected EGUs should be calculated toward a required emission 

performance level for affected EGUs. Specifically, considering the legal structure of CAA section 111(d), should the 

calculation consider only the emission reductions at affected EGUs, or should the calculation also consider the new 

emissions added by the new NGCC unit, which is not an affected unit under section 111(d)? Should the emissions 

from a new NGCC included as an enforceable measure in a mass-based state plan (e.g., in a plan using a portfolio 

approach) also be considered?
82

new gas generation as if it has zero carbon emissions would result in less overall carbon emission 

reductions because the gas generation would be subject to the cap under 111(d). This would allow a 

state to treat new gas facilities as if they were zero-emitting resources, creating a disincentive to rely on 

renewables or existing natural gas that is subject to 111(d) regulations. 

2. EPA’s “Glide Path” Proposal172

SEIA is also concerned with the “glide path” proposed by the EPA and the incentive it might create to 

build significant natural gas infrastructure in the early years of the compliance period. SEIA recognizes 

the need for some compliance flexibility early on. Therefore, SEIA proposes limited banking (see Section 

4A2). However, SEIA urges to the EPA to carefully consider whether the proposed “glide path” will 

create an early incentive to construct significant natural gas infrastructure that will make it more 

difficult and expensive for states to reduce emissions through the deployment of renewables and other 

measures in the long term. Natural gas has a history of price fluctuations, and a low cost in the U.S. in 

2014 doesn’t guarantee it will remain inexpensive in 2020 or 2030, particularly given the very high price 

for natural gas elsewhere in the world and increasing demand for the product. A portfolio of energy 

resources can act as a hedge against price increases in natural gas; particularly as the price of renewable 

energy continues to decrease. CSP plants, for example, use conventional steam turbines, and when 

combined with thermal energy storage have the same operational characteristics of fossil fueled power 

plants, without their emissions. 

Further, SEIA urges the EPA to recognize the speed of solar deployment, along with the modularity of 

solar, which makes it a great choice for meeting incremental generation needs and can assist states in 

quickly achieving compliance with EPA regulations under §111(d). The development and construction 

timeline for a large, centralized conventional fossil fuel power plant is typically a multi-year process (and 

longer for nuclear energy). By comparison, the time from conception to operation for renewable energy 

projects can be much faster. While very large solar and wind plants are still subject to some of the same 

 

172 The EPA is requesting comment from the NODA on the phasing in of Building Block 2, leading to a more gradual 

glide path. The EPA is specifically asking for comment on phasing in dispatch changes under Building Block 2.172

SEIA does not support the gradual phasing in of dispatch for natural gas plants under Building Block 2. States 

should be encouraged to begin compliance measures as soon as the compliance period begins in 2020, regardless 

of the make-up of the state compliance plans. Allowing the gradual phase in of Building Block 2 could delay action 

by some states on the compliance plan and thus further delay emission reductions. Furthermore, the 2020-2029 

glide path is intended to show that a state is making progress towards the end target in 2030. Incorporating 

renewable energy and energy efficiency measures into a state compliance plan can demonstrate that a state is 

making progress towards the 2030 goal in the earlier years of the compliance period as these measures are quick 

to install, while the other compliance measures- such as the switching to natural gas- can demonstrate compliance 

in the later years of the compliance period. 
83

siting and permitting-related requirements as large fossil plants, medium and small solar facilities can be 

built quickly, especially with the right policies in place. In places with streamlined permitting and 

interconnection procedures, it is possible for a three-person crew to install up to three residential PV 

systems in a day. For larger commercial flat-roof PV systems, a six-person crew can install 100 kW of PV 

in a day.

4H. Recognize Each Solar Technology as a Compliance Option and Specifically 

Mention these Technologies May be Eligible within State Compliance Plans. 

The EPA needs to clearly state in the final rule which renewable energy projects and technologies will be 

eligible as compliance measures. SEIA encourages the EPA to clearly state that energy generated from 

distributed PV, CSP, utility PV, and SHC projects be specifically named as eligible technologies.

5. Conclusion 

The solar industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States. For all of the above 

reasons, we respectfully request that the EPA adopt an approach to regulating carbon emissions under 

Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act that accurately reflects the potential for solar to reduce carbon 

emissions from affected EGUs as discussed in these comments. 

Thank you for your consideration of our input, and we look forward to working with the EPA. If you have 

any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Rhone Resch

President & CEO

Solar Energy Industries Association

505 9th Street, NW Suite 800

Washington, DC 20004

(202) 682-0556
84

APPENDIX A – SEIA Calculation of the Technical Potential 

Benchmark 

Should the EPA choose to include the technical benchmark potential, the EPA must include updated 

solar data to reflect the current solar industry. To establish the technical potential benchmark, the EPA 

compares each state’s renewable energy technical potential against its existing renewable energy 

generation. The technical potential is measured by NREL in the report “U.S. Renewable Energy Technical 

Potential: a GIS-based analysis” and existing renewable generation as reported by the EIA for 2012. The 

EPA notes that for solar, the EPA uses NREL’s technical potential estimates for urban utility-scale PV, 

rural utility-scale PV, and CSP. Should the EPA include the technical potential benchmark, the EPA must 

include the technical potential estimates for distributed solar. This technical potential for rooftop solar 

can be found here: http://www.nrel.gov/gis/re_potential.html. 

SEIA has severe concerns with the existing renewable generation data used for solar as reported by the 

EIA in 2012. As stated in comments above, SEIA recommends the EPA take the latest available data on 

solar capacity (both DG and utility) from EIA forms 860, 861 and 826 and multiply it by the estimated 

generation per unit of capacity by state as shown in the table on page 67 in Section 3B5 that is current 

through April 2014. For CSP facilities in operation, the EPA should use production estimates provided by 

NREL since generation from these plants is more project-specific. 

The comparison of the renewable technical potential to the existing renewable net generation yields the 

proportion of achieved renewable generation from technical potential, which the EPA represents as the 

renewable energy development rate. The EPA next takes the average renewable energy development 

rate for the top third of states to use as a benchmark renewable energy development rate for each 

technology. The benchmark rate is applied to each state’s technical potential to calculate the 

benchmark generation for each technology type. 

Using the SEIA recommended approach for accurate solar data in each state and the NREL technical 

potential figures gives a new benchmark average solar development rate of 4.74% when looking at the 

top 16 states as the approach calls for. The current EPA proposal has a benchmark average solar 

development rate of 0.009%. 

For illustrative purposes, the following chart shows what each state’s technical potential for solar would 

be with this approach (this excludes current CSP generation from each state in the calculation): 
85

Benchmark Generation for Solar for 

each State (GWh) State

95.98011027 Alaska

55.88955507 Alabama

200.1702 Arizona

143423.3466 Arkansas

470827.755 California

30391.932 Colorado

5003.9232 Connecticut

4289.5104 District of Columbia

649.9962 Delaware

10729.701 Florida

3125.2242 Georgia

22151.3472 Hawaii

2080.5282 Iowa

1168.8366 Idaho

311.3706 Illinois

2804.4684 Indiana

193.392 Kansas

187.23 Kentucky

4772.4216 Louisiana

697.3962 Massachusetts

11269.113 Maryland

27486.4068 Maine

838.3638 Michigan

1157.3658 Minnesota

68.8248 Missouri

4635.8148 Mississippi

393.7518 Montana

35422.4466 North Carolina

11610.2508 North Dakota

17453.865 Nebraska

117.6468 New Hampshire

645.2562 New Jersey

81386.3214 New Mexico

74.8446 Nevada

24650.4174 New York
86

6235.1856 Ohio

153.576 Oklahoma

5400.045 Oregon

14165.3004 Pennsylvania

423.0924 Rhode Island

517.6554 South Carolina

294.4014 South Dakota

66.9762 Tennessee

1131.912 Texas

11806.2498 Utah

1009.62 Virginia

1987.245 Vermont

6401.133 Washington

880.3602 Wisconsin

1718.9136 West Virginia

200.1228 Wyoming

972,762.8977 TOTAL

The EPA realizes the limits with the technical potential, and therefore pairs the benchmark development 

rates with an IPM model to take into account the cost of building the renewable generation.173

The final target renewable generation for each state is achieved by taking the lesser of these two 

approaches: the technology benchmark rate multiplied by the in-state technical potential, or the IPMprojected market potential for that specific technology.

However, as mentioned in the comments above, SEIA does not support including the technical potential 

benchmark in the alternative approach. To clarify how the technical potential is not a realistic number to 

use in setting a benchmark, Texas has enough renewable potential to meet the 111(d) requirements of 

every state combined several times over. In 2012 (according to EIA form 861 data), Texas consumed 

365,000 GWh of electricity. The table below summarizes the renewable energy potential relative to 

annual consumption in Texas.174 That is, Texas could get 22% of its electricity from rooftop PV, 81% from 

 

173 Alternative RE Approach Technical Support Document, “While the benchmark Re development rate offers a 

useful metric to quantify the proportion of RE generation consistent with what has been demonstrably achieved in 

practice by the top third of states, EPA recognizes that a metric based solely on technical potential has limitations.” 

P.2

174 Data from the NREL report “U.S. Renewable Energy Technical Potential: a GIS-based analysis” and EIA 2012 

data. 
87

urban utility PV, more than 10,000% of its electricity from rural utility PV, etc. A fraction of any one of 

these would be more than enough to comply with the requirements for Texas under the Clean Power 

Plan. 

km2 Acres GW GWh

Renewable 

Potential as a 

fraction of Total 

Texas 

Consumption

Urban Utility PV 3,214 794,089 154 294,684 81%

Rural Utility-scale PV 425,230 105,076,479 20,411 38,993,582 10680%

Rooftop PV 60 78,717 22%

CSP 235,398 58,168,046 7,743 22,786,750 6241%

Onshore Wind 380,306 93,975,509 1,902 5,552,400 1521%

Offshore Wind 54,289 13,415,007 271 1,101,063 302%

Total (Excluding CSP 

due to overlap with 

Rural PV) 863,038 213,261,084 22,799 46,020,445 12605%

Furthermore, the SunShot study also notes that the land area that is potentially suitable for solar 

deployment is enormous and “thus land, per se, is not a constraint on meeting the SunShot scenario 

level of deployment.”175 The study goes on to note: 

However, it is important to make careful selection of sites in order to provide access to 

available or planned transmission, and to minimize conflicts with environmental, cultural, 

and aesthetic interests. The land area required to supply all end-use electricity in the United 

States using PV is only about 0.6% of the country’s total land area. Similarly, the technical 

potential for CSP is enormous: about 17,500 TWh of annual CSP electricity generation, which 

is more than four times the 2010 U.S. annual demand, could be sited in seven southwestern 

states on land that has been pre-screened to avoid prominent land-use issues and to meet 

technical requirements such as insolation and slope. About 370,000–1,100,000 hectares (ha) 

(900,000–2,700,000 acres) are required for utility-scale solar installations in 2030 under the 

SunShot scenario, and about 860,000–2,500,000 ha (2,100,000–6,300,000 acres) are 

required in 2050. The required land area is equivalent to about 0.05%–0.14% of the 

 

175 http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/01/f7/47927.pdf
88

contiguous U.S. land area in 2030 and about 0.11%–0.33% in 2050. Solar development in the 

SunShot scenario is greatest in the South and Southwest. Often the highest-quality solar 

resource areas are dry environments that are typically not well suited for cropland or offer 

little value for forestry and rangeland.176

APPENDIX B- Evaluation, Measurement & Verification 

Existing protocols already exist for measuring, verifying, and crediting the renewable electricity

generated from solar systems and the associated carbon emissions reductions. The two basic main steps 

are to, (i) track the output – i.e. meter the solar energy generated (MWh)- and (ii) to determine the 

emissions rate of electricity that is being displaced (lbs/MWh). It may also be necessary to adjust for 

transmission and distribution (T&D) losses if the solar energy is being generated at or near the 

customer, but is displacing central station generation. 

Tracking the Output

Utility PV and CSP

For utility PV and CSP systems, EM&V is not difficult. All utility scale solar projects and CSP projects are 

already metered and monitored. The metered electricity is also usually assigned a renewable energy 

credit (REC), whether for compliance with RPS or for use in voluntary green power programs. One REC is 

typically equal to 1 MWh of generation. Rigorous accounting methods and transaction platforms for 

RECs already exist throughout the U.S.; for example, in almost every state that has an RPS policy, there 

is a method to track the RECs. More generally, these RECs are often part of broader generation attribute 

tracking systems, such as the GATS system used in the PJM control area and the GIS system used in the 

New England ISO. 

Distributed PV 

The distributed PV sector is comprised of the residential and commercial markets. Although not all 

distributed PV systems are metered and monitored, many are. For example, every system that is 

contracted under third-party ownership is metered and monitored, typically remotely (electronically) 

and often in near real time, such that time of day production can be recorded. Of existing solar capacity, 

nearly 70% of the residential market and 50% of the commercial market is contracted under third party 

ownership. Moreover, in states where distributed PV is used to meet state RPS requirements, metering 

and reporting is required for tracking of SRECs, regardless of the ownership of the system. The type of 

metering may be similar to that for third-party owned systems or may be less granular, for example 

using an analog meter to manually record monthly production. For the portion of the distributed PV

market that is not metered, estimates of performance can be made by using any number of publicly and 

 

176 http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/01/f7/47927.pdf
89

commercially available models including the NREL PVWatts model Sandia National Labs flat plate model, 

PVSyst, SolarAnywhere® FleetView®, and Homer. 

Determining the Emissions Rate of Electricity that is Being Displaced

Once the generation is known, either through direct metering or from the sale of the RECs, the next step 

is to determine the fossil fuel energy that is being displaced by the solar energy and the associated 

avoided carbon emissions. The EPA has already spelled out guidance to states for incorporating more 

renewable energy into state implementation plans for compliance purposes with pollutants under 

Section 110 of the Clean Air Act, and has included an Appendix within the guidance that details some of 

the methods available for quantifying the carbon emissions reduced by renewable energy.177 These 

methods include energy models, historic generation and emissions data, capacity factor emission rates, 

and system average emission rates. 

One example of a model that uses historic dispatch data is the Avoided Emissions and Generation Tool 

(AVERT), developed by the EPA. The AVERT model uses historic dispatch data to statistically determine 

the marginal EGUs on an hourly basis. The AVERT model is free to use and comes with a simple user 

interface designed to meet the needs of state air quality planners and other interested stakeholders, 

and can easily be used to evaluate county-level emissions displaced at EGUs by renewable energy

policies and programs, and to analyze the emission benefits of different renewable energy programs in 

multiple states within an AVERT region. 

Another example of an energy model is the ForeSEE model. A Georgia Tech startup recently developed 

the ForeSEE model that examines the CO2 emissions avoided from solar, including DG PV, as well as the 

NOx and SOx emissions too. While this model is currently only available for Atlanta and the State of 

Georgia, as the model was designed to look at the impact of Georgia Power’s distributed solar policies 

for the city of Atlanta, the startup (Cox and Golin Consulting) is expanding ForeSEE’s application 

throughout the country to inform debates about the value of solar.178 

 

177More information on the Roadmap can be found here: http://epa.gov/airquality/eere/ Appendix I on “Methods 

for Quantifying Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Emission Reductions” is available here: 

http://epa.gov/airquality/eere/pdfs/appendixI.pdf

178 See “Sustaining the City: Understanding the Role of Energy and Carbon Dioxide Emissions in Sustainable 

Development in Major Metropolitan Areas” by William Matthew Cox, June 2014. Available here: 

https://smartech.gatech.edu/handle/1853/52316
90

Additional Solar Factors to Note 

The methods that can be used to determine the emissions rate of electricity that is being displaced from

solar all have advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the approach that is chosen, the calculated 

carbon emission reductions from solar will likely differ. For example, solar energy typically displaces 

fossil fuels at or near the peak demand hours, when the sun is shining. The EGUs on the margin at peak 

demand hours are almost always natural gas units; therefore, in a more complex approach to calculating 

the carbon emission reductions- such as a dispatch model- the carbon emission reductions from solar

may be less than with an averaging approach, because averaging will tend to include higher-emitting 

baseload EGUs such as coal plants. 

Solar heating and cooling (SHC) is another type of solar energy that is generally not accounted for in 

energy models. Solar heating and cooling systems should be a part of any state compliance plan for 

111(d), as SHC systems displace the need for the combustion of fossil fuels for heating and cooling 

needs. 

Finally, the use of solar storage affects the calculation of carbon emission reductions. With thermal 

energy storage, solar energy is able to displace EGUs operating at the margin during non-peak hours, 

and even potentially cut into base load EGU supply. With the development of all types of storage, solar 

can substantially displace natural gas and coal EGUs, and play an even more significant role in reducing 

carbon emissions. Any methods used to quantify the carbon emission reductions from solar must be 

able to account for solar storage. This poses a problem for those models and methods that use resource 

availability (i.e. sunlight) as the assumed proxy for solar energy generation, but should not be difficult 

for dispatch models and other approaches that rely on plant operating characteristics.

The EM&V of solar output (MWh) is straight-forward and will increasingly include granular time of day 

output for large and small systems, which provides high confidence in the ability to track solar 

generation.

APPENDIX C- DOE Sunshot Capacity Projections with -62.5% Cost 

Reduction Scenario 

The below DOE Sunshot capacity projections were used as inputs into the IPM model. The IPM model 

was told – or, “hard-wired”- to build the below distributed PV capacity in each state in 2030 under the -

62.5% cost reduction scenario. 
91

Rooftop PV

2030 2050

SunShot 

75% cost 

reduction

(GW)

SunShot 

62.5% 

cost 

reduction

(GW)

REF

case

(GW)

SunShot 

75% cost 

reduction

(GW)

SunShot 

62.5% 

cost 

reduction

(GW)

REF

case

(GW)

Alabama

 

0.6 0.2 

 

0.0 2.3 0.8 

 

0.2 

Arizona

 

7.4 4.8 

 

2.2 10.6 7.6 

 

4.6 

Arkansas

 

0.2 0.1 

 

0.0 1.3 0.4 

 

0.1 

California

 

29.5 19.8 

 

11.4 37.8 24.4 

 

16.1 

Colorado

 

4.3 2.6 

 

1.5 5.8 3.8 

 

2.0 

Connecticut

 

2.2 1.1 

 

0.2 3.5 2.2 

 

0.9 

Delaware

 

0.6 0.3 

 

0.1 1.2 0.7 

 

0.3 

Florida

 

10.7 4.7 

 

0.6 29.0 15.2 

 

4.8 

Georgia

 

2.4 1.0 

 

0.1 6.5 2.6 

 

0.8 

Idaho

 

0.1 0.0 

 

0.0 0.9 0.3 

 

0.0 

Illinois

 

1.8 0.7 

 

0.2 5.1 1.7 

 

0.4 

Indiana

 

0.7 0.4 

 

0.2 1.9 0.8 

 

0.4 

Iowa

 

0.8 0.6 

 

0.4 1.6 0.9 

 

0.7 

Kansas

 

0.9 0.7 

 

0.5 1.7 1.0 

 

0.7 

Kentucky

 

0.4 0.1 

 

0.0 1.6 0.4 

 

0.1 

Louisiana

 

1.2 0.8 

 

0.6 2.3 1.2 

 

0.8 

Maine

 

0.5 0.2 

 

0.1 1.0 0.6 

 

0.2 

Maryland

 

1.6 0.8 

 

0.2 3.7 2.1 

 

0.9 

Massachusetts

 

1.9 0.9 

 

0.1 3.1 1.7 

 

0.5 
92

Michigan

 

1.4 0.7 

 

0.1 4.9 1.7 

 

0.8 

Minnesota

 

1.3 0.6 

 

0.0 3.6 1.3 

 

0.6 

Mississippi

 

0.2 0.1 

 

0.0 1.0 0.3 

 

0.0 

Missouri

 

2.0 1.0 

 

0.2 5.0 2.4 

 

1.2 

Montana

 

0.4 0.1 

 

0.0 0.8 0.4 

 

0.1 

Nebraska

 

0.5 0.3 

 

0.1 1.2 0.6 

 

0.4 

Nevada

 

3.4 2.1 

 

0.7 5.0 3.6 

 

2.2 

New 

Hampshire

 

0.3 0.1 

 

0.0 0.7 0.2 

 

0.0 

New Jersey

 

2.6 1.2 

 

0.2 4.1 2.5 

 

0.8 

New Mexico

 

1.1 0.7 

 

0.4 1.8 1.3 

 

0.7 

New York

 

6.5 3.9 

 

1.2 11.5 8.0 

 

4.6 

North Carolina

 

2.4 1.2 

 

0.4 6.7 2.5 

 

1.2 

North Dakota

 

0.2 0.1 

 

0.0 0.8 0.2 

 

0.0 

Ohio

 

1.0 0.3 

 

0.0 4.3 1.2 

 

0.3 

Oklahoma

 

1.1 0.7 

 

0.4 2.7 1.3 

 

0.8 

Oregon

 

0.6 0.3 

 

0.2 0.9 0.4 

 

0.2 

Pennsylvania

 

3.2 1.6 

 

0.4 6.9 3.2 

 

1.2 

Rhode Island

 

0.7 0.4 

 

0.1 1.2 0.7 

 

0.2 

South Carolina

 

0.7 0.3 

 

0.0 2.2 0.7 

 

0.2 

South Dakota

 

0.3 0.2 

 

0.1 0.6 0.3 

 

0.2 

Tennessee

 

1.1 0.3 

 

0.0 4.6 1.2 

 

0.2 

Texas

 

15.2 7.7 

 

1.5 33.9 20.0 

 

8.8 

Utah

 

0.8 0.4 

 

0.0 2.6 1.4 

 

0.5 
93

Vermont

 

0.2 0.1 

 

0.0 0.3 0.1 

 

0.0 

Virginia

 

1.8 0.8 

 

0.1 5.3 2.2 

 

0.9 

Washington

 

1.9 1.6 

 

0.6 2.3 1.8 

 

0.7 

West Virginia

 

0.2 0.1 

 

0.0 0.7 0.3 

 

0.1 

Wisconsin

 

1.2 0.5 

 

0.1 3.3 1.2 

 

0.4 

Wyoming

 

0.2 0.1 

 

0.0 0.5 0.3 

 

0.1 

APPENDIX D- TMY3 Solar PV System Performance 

The following shows the solar performance estimates based on the simple average of performance at 

each TMY3 weather station in each state as modeled using PVWatts in NREL’s System Advisor Model 

(SAM). These performance estimates were then used as an input in NRDC’s IPM analysis. 

Average of 

Capacity 

Factors in 

Each State

Average of DC 

to AC Capacity 

Factor

Column 

Labels

0-Axis 1-Axis

Row Labels 15 Lat Lat

AL 15.51% 15.86% 19.76%

AR 15.40% 15.82% 20.12%

AZ 19.62% 20.47% 27.10%

CA 18.40% 18.96% 24.61%

CO 17.83% 18.80% 24.73%

CT 13.86% 14.43% 17.93%

DE 14.68% 15.31% 19.12%
94

FL 16.47% 16.75% 20.90%

GA 15.70% 16.12% 20.08%

IA 13.98% 14.61% 18.61%

ID 16.27% 17.09% 22.70%

IL 14.23% 14.75% 18.61%

IN 13.92% 14.28% 17.85%

KS 16.52% 17.41% 22.41%

KY 14.31% 14.67% 18.41%

LA 15.57% 15.84% 19.78%

MA 13.43% 14.00% 17.35%

MD 14.76% 15.39% 19.26%

ME 13.18% 13.87% 17.63%

MI 13.34% 13.72% 17.39%

MN 13.51% 14.29% 18.36%

MO 15.12% 15.66% 19.95%

MS 15.73% 16.05% 20.10%

MT 14.90% 16.06% 21.01%

NC 15.52% 16.07% 20.10%

ND 14.18% 15.26% 19.84%

NE 15.84% 16.83% 21.66%

NH 13.30% 13.86% 17.44%

NJ 14.60% 15.26% 19.05%

NM 19.77% 20.62% 27.20%

NV 18.71% 19.66% 26.19%

NY 13.43% 13.90% 17.41%

OH 13.45% 13.74% 17.04%

OK 16.81% 17.46% 22.56%

OR 14.73% 15.24% 19.83%

PA 13.73% 14.15% 17.56%

RI 13.90% 14.58% 18.00%

SC 16.07% 16.61% 20.79%

SD 14.83% 15.75% 20.35%

TN 15.25% 15.66% 19.65%

TX 16.66% 17.00% 21.67%

UT 18.07% 18.96% 25.13%

VA 15.06% 15.66% 19.64%

VT 13.05% 13.48% 17.08%

WA 13.29% 13.77% 17.83%
95

WI 13.75% 14.36% 18.30%

WV 13.35% 13.68% 16.87%

WY 17.08% 18.29% 24.13%

Grand Total 15.47% 16.07% 20.53%

Maximum 

Capacity 

Factor in 

Each State

Max of DC to 

AC Capacity 

Factor

Column 

Labels

0-Axis 1-Axis

Row Labels 15 Lat Lat

AL 16.82% 17.22% 21.57%

AR 16.66% 17.32% 22.33%

AZ 20.55% 21.47% 28.91%

CA 21.41% 22.20% 29.62%

CO 20.43% 21.65% 28.91%

CT 14.71% 15.41% 19.23%

DE 14.99% 15.57% 19.58%

FL 17.92% 18.24% 22.93%

GA 16.58% 17.08% 21.41%

IA 15.83% 16.75% 21.42%

ID 17.79% 18.81% 25.02%

IL 15.49% 16.19% 20.59%

IN 15.32% 15.77% 20.02%

KS 18.44% 19.42% 25.42%

KY 15.46% 15.97% 20.26%

LA 16.47% 16.83% 21.31%

MA 14.71% 15.54% 19.29%

MD 15.29% 15.94% 20.16%

ME 14.98% 15.94% 20.15%
96

MI 14.12% 14.61% 18.60%

MN 14.93% 16.02% 20.53%

MO 16.38% 17.12% 21.84%

MS 16.26% 16.72% 21.06%

MT 15.90% 17.34% 23.03%

NC 16.91% 17.59% 22.50%

ND 15.20% 16.49% 21.50%

NE 17.56% 18.89% 24.64%

NH 14.38% 14.98% 19.13%

NJ 16.06% 16.78% 21.25%

NM 21.00% 21.86% 28.95%

NV 20.00% 20.98% 28.29%

NY 15.09% 15.89% 19.87%

OH 14.45% 14.86% 18.59%

OK 18.47% 19.41% 25.44%

OR 17.48% 18.29% 24.36%

PA 14.94% 15.65% 19.56%

RI 14.31% 14.97% 18.52%

SC 16.74% 17.31% 21.84%

SD 16.63% 17.98% 23.45%

TN 16.09% 16.69% 21.14%

TX 20.50% 21.03% 27.96%

UT 19.60% 20.52% 27.40%

VA 17.05% 17.88% 22.87%

VT 13.82% 14.31% 18.20%

WA 15.33% 16.06% 21.37%

WI 14.74% 15.49% 19.61%

WV 14.51% 14.88% 18.49%

WY 18.56% 19.91% 26.53%

Grand Total 21.41% 22.20% 29.62%

Count of 

Weather 

Stations in 

Each State
97

Count of DC to 

AC Capacity 

Factor

Column 

Labels

0-Axis 1-Axis

Row Labels 15 Lat Lat

AL 14 14 14

AR 18 18 18

AZ 18 18 18

CA 73 73 73

CO 25 25 25

CT 7 7 7

DE 2 2 2

FL 42 42 42

GA 19 19 19

IA 39 39 39

ID 13 13 13

IL 19 19 19

IN 10 10 10

KS 23 23 23

KY 12 12 12

LA 17 17 17

MA 15 15 15

MD 5 5 5

ME 15 15 15

MI 31 31 31

MN 54 54 54

MO 17 17 17

MS 13 13 13

MT 16 16 16

NC 22 22 22

ND 10 10 10

NE 26 26 26

NH 8 8 8

NJ 9 9 9

NM 17 17 17

NV 10 10 10

NY 24 24 24

OH 13 13 13
98

OK 15 15 15

OR 19 19 19

PA 21 21 21

RI 3 3 3

SC 10 10 10

SD 11 11 11

TN 8 8 8

TX 61 61 61

UT 13 13 13

VA 31 31 31

VT 4 4 4

WA 29 29 29

WI 20 20 20

WV 11 11 11

WY 13 13 13

Grand Total 925 925 925

APPENDIX E- Solar Procurement179 

The following is a list of utility solar procurement programs and activities. SEIA has provided URLs to 

many of the solar procurement programs and activities within the tables below. These tables are 

followed by another table showing solar on the grid within the service territory of each utility, as well as

a table that shows current CSP projects. Finally, details on specific utility solar procurement programs 

are also included. 

 

179 All solar procurement data taken from Solar Electric Power Association database 12.1.14
99

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Dover 

Electric Dept.

DE Site 

Lease

(Ground) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A http://www.r

enewableener

gyworld.com/

rea/news/arti

cle/2009/07/d

overdelawareplans-10-mwsolar-project

Palo Alto 

Utilities

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

20000 

MWh

60000 

MWh

9-Oct13https://www.c

ityofpaloalto.o

rg/civicax/file

bank/docume

nts/39981

Public 

Service 

Electric & 

Gas Co. Long 

Island

NY RFP Solar 

Only

PV 2 MW 2 MW 9-Oct13

https://www.

psegliny.com/

page.cfm/Abo

utUs/PressRel

eases/040214

-solar

Ohio Edison 

(FirstEnergy)

OH RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 6600 

MWh

14-Oct13http://www.bi

zjournals.com

/prnewswire/

press_release

s/2014/10/22

/CL44642

The 

Illuminating 

Co (First 

Energy)

OH RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 6600 

MWh

14-Oct13http://www.bi

zjournals.com

/prnewswire/

press_release
100

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

s/2014/10/22

/CL44642

Toledo 

Edison 

(FirstEnergy)

OH RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 6600 

MWh

14-Oct13http://www.bi

zjournals.com

/prnewswire/

press_release

s/2014/10/22

/CL44642

Tennessee 

Valley 

Authority

TN RFP Solar 

Only

PV 500 kW N/A 7-Nov13

http://www.tv

a.com/environ

ment/epa_mit

igation/pdf/So

licitation%20f

or%20Solar%2

0Aggregated%

20Value%20E

ducation%20I

nitiative.pdf

Southern 

Maryland 

Elec Co-op

MD RFP Solar 

Only

PV 2 MW 10 MW 1-Jul13

http://www.s

meco.com/ne

ws/11-09-

23/SMECO_Pl

ans_to_Build_

Solar_Project.

aspx

Pacific 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

OR RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 10 MW 31-

May-13

https://www.

pacificpower.

net/env/bsre/

cpf/eligibility.

html
101

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Rocky Mtn 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

UT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 10 MW 31-

May-13

https://www.r

ockymountain

power.net/en

v/bsre/bscpf/

eligibility.html

CPS Energy TX RFP Solar 

Only

PV 400 MW 400 

MW

7-Dec11http://www.o

cisolarpower.c

om/news.htm

l

United 

Illuminating

CT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A N/A 26-Jul11

http://www.g

oogle.com/url

?sa=t&rct=j&q

=&esrc=s&sou

rce=web&cd=

12&cad=rja&u

act=8&ved=0C

CgQFjABOAo&

url=http%3A%

2F%2Fnuwnot

es1.nu.com%2

Fapps%2Fwhp

wr%2Frfp.nsf

%2F0%2FEE27

CC26B410A19

B85256F5400

81E92B%2F%2

4FILE%2FCCE

O_RFP_Term_

Sheet_2011.d

oc&ei=Y7p0V

MHqPMmnyA

Sg6oLICg&usg

=AFQjCNGqk4
102

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

QL2WUWv7zb

uPtuHbg32sS

m7g

Conn. Light 

& Power 

(Northeast 

Utilities)

CT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A N/A 26-Jul11

http://www.g

oogle.com/url

?sa=t&rct=j&q

=&esrc=s&sou

rce=web&cd=

12&cad=rja&u

act=8&ved=0C

CgQFjABOAo&

url=http%3A%

2F%2Fnuwnot

es1.nu.com%2

Fapps%2Fwhp

wr%2Frfp.nsf

%2F0%2FEE27

CC26B410A19

B85256F5400

81E92B%2F%2

4FILE%2FCCE

O_RFP_Term_

Sheet_2011.d

oc&ei=Y7p0V

MHqPMmnyA

Sg6oLICg&usg

=AFQjCNGqk4

QL2WUWv7zb

uPtuHbg32sS

m7g
103

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Arkansas 

Valley 

Electric Coop 

AR RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

2 MW N/A 14-Oct10

could not find 

anything

Detroit 

Edison (DTE 

Energy)

MI RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

1 MW N/A 15-Feb11

https://dteen

ergy.mediaroo

m.com/index.

php?s=26817

&item=72245

Detroit 

Edison (DTE 

Energy)

MI RFP Solar 

Only

PV 3 MW 3 MW 26-Apr11

https://dteen

ergy.mediaroo

m.com/index.

php?s=26817

&item=72271

El Paso 

Electric

TX RFP All 

Source

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 200 

MW

19-

Aug-11

http://greene

nergymaine.c

om/job/elpaso-electricseeksproposals-itspeakingcapacityneeds

Georgia 

Power 

(Southern 

Co)

GA RFP Solar 

Only

PV 1 kW 100 kW 11-Jul11

http://www.g

eorestore.com

/ProjectDetail.

aspx?pid=570

Holy Cross 

Energy

CO RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV

N/A 10 MW 1-Feb11

http://biomas

sconference.c

rowdvine.com

/attachments/
104

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

0002/7215/G

olis-Diana.pdf

Lincoln 

Electric 

System

NE RFP Solar 

Only

PV 5 kW 5 kW 21-Jul11

http://apps3.e

ere.energy.go

v/greenpower

/financial/arc

hives.shtml

Sierra Pacific 

Power Co

NV RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

1000 

MW

N/A 16-

Dec-10

http://www.s

olarindustrym

ag.com/e107_

plugins/conte

nt/content.ph

p?content.663

4

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

1 MW N/A 15-Jun11

Penn Power 

(First Energy)

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A 10-Feb11

PPL Electric 

Utilities

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

24000 

MWh

24000 

MWh

27-Jun11http://www.p

ennfuture.org

/UserFiles/File

/Energy/Solar

_Policy_PUC_

20100916.pdf

PPL Electric 

Utilities

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV 27000 

MWh

27000 

MWh

11-Apr11http://teampa

.com/2011/06

/ppl-to-
105

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

purchasesolar-credits/

Rocky Mtn 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

UT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV

N/A N/A 1-Jul11

Roseville 

Electric

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A N/A 26-Jul11

San 

Francisco 

PUC

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A N/A 6-Oct10

Southern 

California 

Edison

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

1 MW N/A 27-Jun11

Arizona 

Public 

Service

AZ RFP Solar 

Only

PV 17 MW 17 MW 30-

Nov-11

Arizona 

Public 

Service

AZ RFP Solar 

Only

PV 14 MW 14 MW 30-Apr12

Salt River 

Project

AZ RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 50 MW 15-Sep11

CPS Energy TX RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 50 MW 31-

May-11

Southern 

California 

Edison

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A N/A 11-Jul11
106

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Pedernales 

Electric Coop

TX RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 30 MW 15-Jul11

Avista 

Utilities

WA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 35 MW 2-Mar11

South 

Mississippi El 

Pwr Assn

MS RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A N/A 1-Jul11

Conn. Light 

& Power 

(Northeast 

Utilities)

CT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV 100 kW 2000 

kW

12-Jun12

PNM - New 

Mexico

NM RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 150 

MWh

10-Feb12

Duke Energy 

Indiana

IN RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 400 

MW

30-

Mar-12

Silicon Valley 

Power

CA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 15 MW 9-Jun12

Holy Cross 

Energy

CO RFP Solar 

Only

PV 100 kW 300 kW 4-Jun12

Denton 

Municipal 

Electric

TX RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV 10 MW 20 MW 21-Feb12
107

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Pacific 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

OR RFP Solar 

Only

PV 500 kW 5 MW 11-Jun13

http://www.p

acificorp.com/

sup/rfps/rsola

r2013.html

PNM - New 

Mexico

NM RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

100 

MWh

375000 

MWh

31-Jan13http://www.s

olarindustrym

ag.com/e107_

plugins/conte

nt/content.ph

p?content.116

36

Southern 

California 

Edison

CA RFP Solar 

Only

PV 500 kW 10 kW 2-Dec13

http://www.p

vmagazine.com

/news/details

/beitrag/south

ern-californiaedisonlaunchessolicitationfor-mid-sizedbehind-themeter-solarpv_10001676

5/#axzz3K6lZn

8nI

Pennsylvania 

Electric 

Company

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A 24-Oct13

Met-Ed 

(FirstEnergy)

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A 24-Oct13
108

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Pennsylvania 

Power Co

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A 24-Oct13

Austin 

Energy

TX RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 50 MW 3-Dec13

Southern 

California 

Edison

CA RFP All 

Source

PV N/A N/A 16-

Dec-13

Public 

Service 

Electric & 

Gas Co. Long 

Island

NY RFP All 

Source

PV N/A N/A 31-

Mar-14

People's 

Electric 

Cooperative

OK RFP Solar 

Only

PV 2 MW 15 MW 25-

Nov-13

http://www.p

eoplesrfp.com

/15MW/defau

lt.aspx

PNM - New 

Mexico

NM RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 150000 

MWh

10-Jan14

National Grid MA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 20 MW 1-May14

Duke Energy 

Carolinas

NC RFP Solar 

Only

PV 5 MW 300 

MW

28-

Mar-14

http://www.p

vmagazine.com

/news/details

/beitrag/dukeenergy-issues300-mw-solarenergy-
109

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

request-innorthcarolina_1000

14258/#axzz3

K6lZn8nI

Georgia 

Power 

(Southern 

Co)

GA RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A 495 

MW

30-Apr14

Southern 

California P 

A

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A N/A 31-

Dec-14

Lyndonville 

Village of

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Orleans 

Village of

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Village of 

Swanton

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Washington 

Electric Coop 

Inc

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Vermont 

Electric 

Cooperative, 

Inc.

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14
110

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Jacksonville 

Village of

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Central 

Vermont PSC

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Barton 

Village, Inc

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Green 

Mountain 

Power

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Village of 

Ludlow

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Village of 

Morrisville

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Hyde Park 

Village of

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Village of 

Enosburg 

Falls

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Town of 

Readsboro

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14
111

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Town of 

Stowe

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Village of 

Northfield

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

City of 

BurlingtonElectric

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Town of 

Hardwick

VT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 kW 100 kW 9-May14

Xcel Energy -

MN

MN RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

5 MW 100 

MW

20-Jun14

Northern 

States Power 

Co

MN RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

5 MW 100 

MW

20-Jun14

Black Hills 

Energy

CO RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A 60 MW 31-Jul14

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA RFP All 

Source

PV N/A N/A 31-

Dec-13

Xcel Energy -

MN

MN RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 150 

MW

1-Jun14
112

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Austin 

Energy

TX RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 4 MW 29-Apr14

Arizona 

Public 

Service

AZ RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 20 MW 28-Jul14

http://www.p

vmagazine.com

/news/details

/beitrag/arizo

na-publicserviceunveils-plansto-install-20-

mw-of-solarpv-oncustomerrooftops_100

015891/#axzz

3K6lZn8nI

United 

Illuminating

CT RFP All 

Source

PV N/A 9 MW 14-Jul14

http://www.s

olarindustrym

ag.com/e107_

plugins/conte

nt/content.ph

p?content.142

25

Constellation 

NewEnergy, 

Inc

MD RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 1 MW 18-Jul14

http://www.c

hestertown.co

m/gov/pdf/RF

Psolar.pdf

Southern 

California 

Edison

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

N/A N/A 31-Jan14
113

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

CPV, 

SWH

Xcel Energy -

CO

CO RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 100 

MW

20-Jun14http://www.r

enewableener

gyworld.com/

rea/blog/post

/2014/04/nort

hern-statespowercompanyissues-100-

mw-solar-rfp

NV Energy NV RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A 20 MW 21-

Mar-14

Gainesville 

Regional 

Utilities

FL RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 1 MW 31-Oct10

Maui Electric 

Co

HI RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV 200 MW N/A N/A

Southern 

Maryland 

Elec Co-op

MD RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 10 MW N/A http://www.s

meco.coop/ne

ws/14-04-

16/SMECO_A

nnounces_Sec

ond_Solar_Pr

oject.aspx
114

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

La Plata 

Electric Assn

CO RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A 29-Jun12

Palo Alto 

Utilities

CA RFP Solar 

Only

PV 1 MW 3 MW 12-

Aug-14

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 21 MW 10-Jun14

El Paso 

Electric

TX RFP All 

Source

PV N/A N/A 28-Apr13

PlumasSierra REC

CA RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A 2 MW 31-Jul14

PEPCO MD RFP Solar 

Only

PV 3 MW N/A 5-Sep14

http://www.m

ontgomerycou

ntymd.gov/D

OTParking/Resou

rces/Files/MC

DOTSolarRFEP

_FINAL.pdf

Baltimore 

Gas & 

Electric 

(Exelon)

MD RFP Solar 

Only

PV 3 MW N/A 5-Sep14

Allegheny 

Energy 

Supply Co 

LLC

MD RFP Solar 

Only

PV 3 MW N/A 5-Sep14
115

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Washington 

Gas Energy 

Services

MD RFP Solar 

Only

PV 3 MW N/A 5-Sep14

National Grid RI RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A 90 MW 5-Aug14

Southwester

n Public 

Service 

Company

NM RFP All 

Source

PV N/A 2 MW 10-Sep10

Public 

Service Co of 

NH

NH RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

SWH

N/A 100 kW 7-Jun14

Potomac 

Edison 

(FirstEnergy)

MD RFP All 

Source

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 536 

MW

8-Jun15

Baltimore 

Gas & 

Electric 

(Exelon)

MD RFP All 

Source

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A N/A N/A

Baltimore 

Gas & 

Electric 

(Exelon)

MD RFP All 

Source

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 2251 

MW

8-Jun15

Delmarva 

Power 

(PEPCO)

MD RFP All 

Source

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 330 

MW

8-Jun15
116

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

PEPCO MD RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 967 

MW

8-Jun15

San Diego 

Gas & 

Electric

CA RFP All 

Source

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 800 

MW

5-Jan15

City of 

BurlingtonElectric

VT RFP Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A 6-Oct14

NV Energy NV RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

10 MW 100 

MW

12-

Nov-14

Pennsylvania 

Electric 

Company

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A 6-Nov14

Penn Power 

(First Energy)

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A 6-Nov14

Met-Ed 

(FirstEnergy)

PA RFP Solar 

Only

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A 6-Nov14

Oncor TX RFP All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

30 MWh N/A 17-

Dec-14
117

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

South 

Carolina

Electric & 

Gas

SC RFP Solar 

Only

N/A N/A 4 MW 3-Oct14

https://www.s

ceg.com/abou

tus/newsroom

/2014/08/21/

sce-g-issuesrequest-forproposals-tosupply-solarenergy-on-itssystem

Puget Sound 

Energy

WA RFP All 

Source

N/A N/A N/A 1-Nov11

NorthWester

n Energy

MT RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 45 MW 14-Jul14

http://www.la

ndsenergy.co

m/wpcontent/uploa

ds/2014/06/N

orthWestern2014-CREPRFP.pdf

Indianapolis 

Power & 

Light

IN RFP All 

Source

N/A 550 MW 725 

MW

10-Sep12http://www.r

euters.com/ar

ticle/2013/05/

13/utilitiesaes-coalidUSL2N0DU1

PH20130513

Seattle City 

Light

WA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 150 

MWh

15-Oct12http://powerli

nes.seattle.go

v/2012/09/10
118

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

/seattle-citylight-seeksproposals-onrenewableenergy/

San Diego 

Gas & 

Electric

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 72 MW 27-Jun14

El Paso 

Electric

TX RFP Solar 

Only

N/A 80 MW 200 

MW

8-Aug11

Arizona 

Public 

Service

AZ RFP Solar 

Only

N/A N/A 10 MW 24-Jul14

Hawaiian 

Electric Co

HI RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 200 

MW

29-Jul13

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA RFP Solar 

Only

N/A N/A N/A 27-

Nov-13

Conn. Light 

& Power 

(Northeast 

Utilities)

CT RFP All 

Source

N/A N/A N/A 31-

Dec-13

Green 

Mountain 

Power

VT RFP Solar 

Only

N/A N/A N/A 6-Dec13

Kaua'i Island 

Utility Co-op

HI RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A 18-Apr14
119

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Palo Alto 

Utilities

CA RFP Solar 

Only

N/A 1 MW 3 MW 12-

Aug-14

San Diego 

Gas & 

Electric

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A 20 MW 100 

MW

29-Jan14http://www.s

dge.com/rene

wableportfoliostandard-rfodecember2013

Xcel Energy -

CO

CO RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 2 MW 3-Sep14

Austin 

Energy

TX RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 4 MW 14-

May-14

http://austine

nergy.com/wp

s/wcm/conne

ct/e275cee1-

32d8-4f8bb36f5d9d9c3927e

7/Community

SolarRFPfinalrev05072014.

pdf?MOD=AJP

ERES

Hawaiian 

Electric Co

HI RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A 60 MW 200 

MW

21-Jul14http://cleante

chnica.com/2

014/05/14/20

0-mw-energystorageproposedhawaii/
120

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

NSTAR 

(Northeast 

Utilities)

MA RFP Solar 

Only

N/A 5 MW N/A 28-Jun13

Los Angeles 

DWP

CA RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A 11-

Nov-11

Baltimore 

Gas & 

Electric 

(Exelon)

MD RFP All 

Source

N/A 1831 

MW

N/A 31-Oct13

Tennessee 

Valley 

Authority

TN RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A 13-

Mar-15

Sacramento 

Municipal 

Utility Dist.

CA RFP Solar 

Only

N/A N/A 200 

MW

1-Jul13

Alliant 

Energy 

WI RFP All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 600 

MW

25-Jul14

Inland Power 

& Light

WA Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Wyandotte 

Municipal 

Serv Comm

MI Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Central 

Virginia 

Electric Coop

VA Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A
121

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

CoServ 

Electric

TX Net 

Metering 

All 

Source

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Washington 

Electric Coop 

Inc

VT Net 

Metering 

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Sacramento 

Municipal 

Utility Dist.

CA Net 

Metering 

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Central 

Electric Coop 

Inc

OR Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Sulphur 

Springs 

Valley EC

AZ Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Delta 

Montrose 

Electric Assn

CO Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Delta 

Montrose 

Electric Assn

CO Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Inland Power 

& Light

WA Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Truckee 

Donner PUD

CA Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 1000 

kW

N/A
122

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

St. George 

Energy Svcs. 

Dept.

UT Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

St. George 

Energy Svcs. 

Dept.

UT Net 

Metering 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A 250 kW N/A

La Plata 

Electric Assn

CO Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Consumers 

Power

OR Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Imperial 

Irrigation 

District

CA Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A N/A N/A

Lompoc 

Electric 

Utility

CA Net 

Metering 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A N/A

Silicon Valley 

Power

CA Net 

Metering 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 1 MW N/A

Sulphur 

Springs 

Valley EC

AZ Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

United 

Power

CO Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A
123

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Pacific 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

OR Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Sulphur 

Springs 

Valley EC

AZ Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

West Penn 

Power 

(FirstEnergy)

PA Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Ameren 

Missouri

MO Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Trico Electric 

Co-op

AZ Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Central 

Electric Coop 

Inc

OR Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Columbia 

Water & 

Light

MO Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

NV Energy NV Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A 1 MW N/A

Sierra Pacific 

Power Co

NV Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A 1 MW N/A

Pacific 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

WA Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A
124

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Snohomish 

County PUD

WA Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Southern 

Indiana Gas 

& Elec Co

IN Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Rocky Mtn 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

WY Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Puget Sound 

Energy

WA Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Western 

Massachuset

ts Elec Co

MA Net 

Metering 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Western 

Massachuset

ts Elec Co

MA Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Puget Sound 

Energy

WA Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Seattle City 

Light

WA Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Rocky Mtn 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

WY Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A http://www.p

ge.com/en/m
125

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

ybusiness/ser

vices/nonpge/

generateownp

ower/netener

gymetering/st

andardnem/in

dex.page

Pacific 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

WA Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A https://www.

pacificpower.

net/content/d

am/pacificorp

/doc/Transmis

sion/Transmis

sion_Services/

Generation_In

terconnection

/PC_Interconn

ection_LrgCus

t_Brochure.pd

f

Sierra Pacific 

Power Co

NV Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A 1 MW N/A

NV Energy NV Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A 1 MW N/A http://dsireus

a.org/incentiv

es/incentive.cf

m?Incentive_

Code=NV09R

&re=0&ee=0

Columbia 

Water & 

Light

MO Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A
126

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Ellensburg 

Electric 

Utility

WA Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Florida 

Power & 

Light

FL Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Consumers 

Energy

MI Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Entergy New 

Orleans

LA Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Dover 

Electric Dept.

DE Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

United 

Power

CO Intercon

nection 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Silicon Valley 

Power

CA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A 1 MW N/A

Sulphur 

Springs 

Valley EC

AZ Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A N/A

Lompoc 

Electric 

Utility

CA Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A N/A N/A

Wyandotte 

Municipal 

Serv Comm

MI Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A http://www.w

yan.org/Energ

yPrograms/PDF

/ExpeditedGe
127

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

neratorInterco

nnection2012.

aspx

Imperial 

Irrigation 

District

CA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A N/A N/A

Southern 

Maryland 

Elec Co-op

MD Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A 10 MW N/A

Consumers 

Power

OR Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

La Plata 

Electric Assn

CO Intercon

nection 

All 

Source

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Truckee 

Donner PUD

CA Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A 1000 

kW

N/A

Verendrye 

Electric Coop

ND Intercon

nection 

All 

Source

PV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

HickmanFulton 

Counties 

RECC

KY Intercon

nection 

All 

Source

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Town of 

Middletown

DE Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A N/A N/A
128

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Rocky Mtn

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

UT Intercon

nection 

N/A PV, 

CPV

N/A N/A N/A

St. George 

Energy Svcs. 

Dept.

UT Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Inland Power 

& Light

WA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Inland Power 

& Light

WA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Sulphur 

Springs 

Valley EC

AZ Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Central 

Electric Coop 

Inc

OR Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Florida Keys 

Electric Coop

FL Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Florida Keys 

Electric Coop

FL Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Florida Keys 

Electric Coop

FL Intercon

nection 

Solar 

Only

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A
129

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Central 

Virginia 

Electric Coop

VA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Fort 

Loudoun 

Electric Coop

TN Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Fort 

Loudoun 

Electric Coop

TN Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Peninsula 

Light Co

WA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Sacramento 

Municipal 

Utility Dist.

CA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A

CoServ 

Electric

TX Intercon

nection 

All 

Source

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Imperial 

Irrigation 

District

CA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Inland Power 

& Light

WA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A
130

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Kit Carson 

Electric Coop

NM Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 10 kW N/A

Georgia 

Power 

(Southern 

Co)

GA Intercon

nection 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A 25 kW N/A

Southern 

Maryland 

Elec Co-op

MD Intercon

nection 

N/A PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Sacramento 

Municipal 

Utility Dist.

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Duke Energy 

Carolinas

NC Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A 52 MW N/A http://www.d

ukeenergy.com/n

ews/releases/

2014030601.a

sp

Rocky Mtn 

Power 

(PacifiCorp)

UT Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV, 

CPV

N/A N/A N/A

La Plata 

Electric Assn

CO Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

Solar 

Only

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A http://www.e

asycleanenerg

y.com/Shown

ews.aspx?ID=

86ac9b38-

e7a2-4402-

a2d4-
131

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

52e187d5b61

2

Southern 

Maryland 

Elec Co-op

MD Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

Solar 

Only

PV N/A 10 MW N/A

Anaheim 

Public 

Utilities

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Southern

California 

Edison

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

CPS Energy TX Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

NV Energy NV Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV 20 MW 20 MW N/A

Hawaiian 

Electric Co

HI Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

Solar 

Only

PV 20 MW 20 MW N/A http://www.h

awaiianelectri

c.com/heco/_

hidden_Hidde

n/CorpComm/

HawaiianElectric-andKa-La-NuiSolar-sign-
132

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

agreementfor-newproject?cpsext

currchannel=1

El Paso 

Electric

TX Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV 10 MW 10 MW N/A http://investo

r.firstsolar.co

m/releasedeta

il.cfm?releasei

d=769487

Austin 

Energy

TX Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Georgia 

Power 

(Southern 

Co)

GA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

North 

Carolina 

Eastern M P 

A

NC Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Southern

California 

Edison

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A N/A N/A

Pacific Gas & 

Electric

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (PPA) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A
133

Utility State Procure

ment 

Topic

Type Techno

logies

Min. Size Max. 

Size

Deadli

ne

Program 

Details

Palo Alto 

Utilities

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Gainesville

Regional 

Utilities

FL Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

N/A PV N/A N/A N/A

Public 

Service 

Electric & 

Gas Co. Long 

Island

NY Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV N/A N/A N/A

Southern 

California 

Edison

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Anaheim 

Public 

Utilities

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CPV, 

SWH

N/A N/A N/A

Truckee 

Donner PUD

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

All 

Renewa

ble

PV, 

CSP, 

CPV

N/A 1000 

kW

N/A

Sacramento 

Municipal 

Utility Dist.

CA Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Public 

Service 

Electric & 

Gas Co. Long 

Island

NY Energy 

Purchase

s (FIT) 

All 

Renewa

ble

N/A 100 kW 2000 

kW

N/A
134

Utility Unregulated Activities

Alabama Power (Southern Co) http://www.southerncompany.com/about-us/ourbusiness/southern-power/home.cshtml

Pacific Power (PacifiCorp) http://www.berkshirehathawayenergyco.com/ourbusinesses/midamerican-renewables

SDG&E http://www.semprausgp.com/

Southern California Edison http://www.socoreenergy.com/

Gulf Power (Southern Co) http://www.southerncompany.com/about-us/ourbusiness/southern-power/home.cshtml

Florida Power & Light http://www.nexteraenergyresources.com/home/index.shtml

Duke Energy Florida http://www.duke-energy.com/commercialrenewables/default.asp

Georgia Power (Southern Co) http://www.southerncompany.com/about-us/ourbusiness/southern-power/home.cshtml

Rocky Mountain Power 

(Pacificorp)

http://www.berkshirehathawayenergyco.com/ourbusinesses/midamerican-renewables

ComEd(Exelon) http://www.constellation.com/pages/default.aspx

Duke Energy Kentucky http://www.duke-energy.com/commercialrenewables/default.asp

Baltimore Gas & Electric (Exelon) http://www.constellation.com/pages/default.aspx

Mississippi Power (Southern Co) http://www.southerncompany.com/about-us/ourbusiness/southern-power/home.cshtml

Sierra Pacific Power Co http://www.berkshirehathawayenergyco.com/ourbusinesses/midamerican-renewables

NV Energy http://www.berkshirehathawayenergyco.com/ourbusinesses/midamerican-renewables
135

Utility Unregulated Activities

PSEG https://pseg.com/family/holdings/global/solar_source/index.jsp

Con Edison http://www.conedsolutions.com/About.aspx

Orange & Rockland Utilities (Con 

Ed)

http://www.conedsolutions.com/About.aspx

Rockland Electric Co http://www.conedsolutions.com/About.aspx

Duke Energy Carolinas http://www.duke-energy.com/commercialrenewables/default.asp

Duke Energy Progress http://www.duke-energy.com/commercialrenewables/default.asp

Duke Energy Ohio http://www.duke-energy.com/commercialrenewables/default.asp

Pacific Power (PacifiCorp) http://www.berkshirehathawayenergyco.com/ourbusinesses/midamerican-renewables

Pike County Light & Power (Con 

Ed

http://www.conedsolutions.com/About.aspx

PECO (Exelon) http://www.constellation.com/pages/default.aspx

Rocky Mountain Power 

(Pacificorp)

http://www.berkshirehathawayenergyco.com/ourbusinesses/midamerican-renewables

Pepco Energy Services No Url/Info

Pacific Power (PacifiCorp) http://www.berkshirehathawayenergyco.com/ourbusinesses/midamerican-renewables
136

Utility Property Leasing

Arizona Public Service http://www.aps.com/en/residential/accountservi

ces/apsfyi/Pages/luke-air-force-base-and-apspartner-on-new-solar-facility.aspx

San Diego Gas & Electric http://www.sdge.com/environment/sustainablecommunities-overview

Miami Electric Co http://www.heco.com/portal/site/heco/menuite

m.508576f78baa14340b4c0610c510b1ca/?vgnex

toid=bc759f5b0e9f0210VgnVCM1000005c011bac

RCRD&vgnextfmt=default&cpsextcurrchannel=1

Hawaii Electric Light Co http://www.heco.com/portal/site/heco/menuite

m.508576f78baa14340b4c0610c510b1ca/?vgnex

toid=bc759f5b0e9f0210VgnVCM1000005c011bac

RCRD&vgnextfmt=default&cpsextcurrchannel=1

Detroit Edison (DTE Energy) https://www2.dteenergy.com/wps/portal/dte/ab

outus/environment/details/Renewable%20Energ

y/Solar%20Energy/!ut/p/b1/hZLZbqNAEEW_JR_g

0CxN40eWNgZDsxPgBWEbE7PEELBZvn6c0USazC

hOvbV0TpWqblMJFVHJW3Y7F9lwvrxl9cc74VNW

MEgIA8vx3ZADGpKgRwQTCJC5A_EdANUCL76hkbDDx_Ius7TANB__AfAo_kOvQt0fW4DwAADDQ3VOztTmBVE_3kv1CRH7OSct

FGLIZp6-

aWn10ZIHFEKEgXX2Vm3OhdjIfukm5v5OA4ZWrO

1XzIQOQFdentrNZ6y4SgG69ljrR42I1m3dpemiDN

PDiVi5tsvnS5XeT7kMmdBb_zxVskGUajyivZnuxwE

eNYsBFzrpdbfpY6S2WlLFPXDgxR57AWX0HHPLSK

8YJ2oJ3U5TqN6RASN_n3fv8v-ENOpWc983zeGiewTOANESARYhBkGYADe_nSX53e

BTww4gF_hP4PiKyvTQ5Fd8x9Fcfk98AjegK5v0Aq

DJPVQEuNQr51ZbqsUtwQxMXC394rD0PtSIH_nExzRZ

yzRRvJHGtEGUeOz3MjCNHTDJyT6GbiCJourrL9rX1

RHPMCwLOIEBEME1S4VlzCOl10YF379FMKhNP_X
137

Utility Property Leasing

d1i3FsysT_kCTjZ57FeunJe06bjCax2Zl3eKpTpcMc8

GAwVzVuBv2pOZnwa1K9xrLZMP6W1d0tkTU6_e

bLLFT0lQN1-

70dF9ds8tpsl8PUYgj2inhop8vp4Jbi6vAH9xXZt2P1

2WsjqDBYhJtjhZbSYKfzqk9WZ12cuJjvYynq8KEwJ1luVtVPiF3ZFjebJhtnLmefWqOiukwz

5fxOKJapsgCG4G1PFJiRbx6Re8scA8/dl4/d5/L2dBI

SEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/

Hawaiian Electric Co http://www.heco.com/portal/site/heco/menuite

m.508576f78baa14340b4c0610c510b1ca/?vgnex

toid=bc759f5b0e9f0210VgnVCM1000005c011bac

RCRD&vgnextfmt=default&cpsextcurrchannel=1

Public Service Elec & Gas https://www.pseg.com/family/pseandg/solar4all

/index.jsp

Duke Energy Carolinas https://www.duke-energy.com/northcarolina/renewable-energy/nc-solar-distributedgeneration-program.asp

Dominion VA https://www.dom.com/

Utility Solar Rates

Sacramento Municipal Utility Dist. https://www.smud.org/en/residential/environment/s

olar-for-your-home/solarshares/

Salt River Project http://www.srpnet.com/menu/solar/SRPcommunitys

olar.aspx

Tucson Electric Power (UNS Energy) https://www.tep.com/renewable/home/bright/

Arizona Public Service http://www.aps.com/en/communityandenvironment

/environment/solarinitiatives/Pages/home.aspx
138

Utility Solar Rates

Los Angeles DWP https://www.ladwp.com/ladwp/faces/ladwp/partner

s/p-gogreen/p-gglocalrenewableenergyprogram;jsessionid=cpX2J0yDY

Gfy04BzC1tp17v6wyQ2p2lKqx55mGYn3VYJghhQH7L

C!-

408981786?_afrWindowId=null&_afrLoop=38626921

6634456&_afrWindowMode=0&_adf.ctrlstate=7m84b1ko4_17

Palo Alto Utilities http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/gov/depts/utl/busines

s/sustainability/clean.asp

United Power http://www.unitedpower.com/mainNav/greenPower

/solPartners.aspx

Holy Cross Energy http://apps3.eere.energy.gov/greenpower/news/ne

ws_template.shtml?id=1564

Fort Collins Utilities http://www.fcgov.com/utilities/residential/conserve/

renewables

Lee County Electric Co-op, INC https://www.lcec.net/energy-efficiency/netmetering-program

Gainesville Regional Utilities https://www.gru.com/TabID/3824/Default.aspx

Orlando Utilities Commission http://www.ouc.com/environmentcommunity/solar/community-solar

Maui Electric Co http://www.heco.com/portal/site/heco/menuitem.5

08576f78baa14340b4c0610c510b1ca/?vgnextoid=0b

0a8618ce4f7210VgnVCM1000005c011bacRCRD&vgn

extfmt=default&cpsextcurrchannel=1

Hawaii Electric Light Co http://www.heco.com/portal/site/heco/menuitem.5

08576f78baa14340b4c0610c510b1ca/?vgnextoid=0b

0a8618ce4f7210VgnVCM1000005c011bacRCRD&vgn

extfmt=default&cpsextcurrchannel=1
139

Utility Solar Rates

Hawaiian Electric Co http://www.heco.com/portal/site/heco/menuitem.5

08576f78baa14340b4c0610c510b1ca/?vgnextoid=0b

0a8618ce4f7210VgnVCM1000005c011bacRCRD&vgn

extfmt=default&cpsextcurrchannel=1

Indianapolis Power & Light http://www.iplpower.com/uploadedFiles/iplpowerco

m/Business/Programs_and_Services/Rate%20REPApr%2010.pdf

Nstar Community Power http://www.easycleanenergy.com/communitysolarpr

ojects.aspx

National Grid http://www.easycleanenergy.com/communitysolarpr

ojects.aspx

Consumers Energy http://www.consumersenergy.com/content.aspx?id=

4844

DTE Energy https://www2.dteenergy.com/wps/portal/dte/about

us/environment/details/Renewable%20Energy/Solar

%20Energy/!ut/p/b1/hZLZbqNAEEW_JR_g0CxN40eW

NgZDsxPgBWEbE7PEELBZvn6c0USazChOvbV0TpWqbl

MJFVHJW3Y7F9lwvrxl9cc74VNWMEgIA8vx3ZADGpKg

RwQTCJC5A_EdANUCL76hkbDDx_Ius7TANB__AfAo_kOvQt0fW4DwAADDQ3VOztTmBVE_3kv1CRH7OSctFGLI

Zp6-

aWn10ZIHFEKEgXX2Vm3OhdjIfukm5v5OA4ZWrO1XzI

QOQFdentrNZ6y4SgG69ljrR42I1m3dpemiDNPDiVi5ts

vnS5XeT7kMmdBb_zxVskGUajyivZnuxwEeNYsBFzrpd

bfpY6S2WlLFPXDgxR57AWX0HHPLSK8YJ2oJ3U5TqN6

RASN_n3fv8v-ENOpWc983zeGiewTOANESARYhBkGYADe_nSX53eBTw

w4gF_hP4PiKyvTQ5Fd8x9Fcfk98AjegK5v0AqDJPVQEuNQr51ZbqsUtwQxMXC394rD0PtSIH_nExzRZyzR

RvJHGtEGUeOz3MjCNHTDJyT6GbiCJourrL9rX1RHPMC

wLOIEBEME1S4VlzCOl10YF379FMKhNP_Xd1i3FsysT_

kCTjZ57FeunJe06bjCax2Zl3eKpTpcMc8GAwVzVuBv2p
140

Utility Solar Rates

OZnwa1K9xrLZMP6W1d0tkTU6_ebLLFT0lQN1-

70dF9ds8tpsl8PUYgj2inhop8vp4Jbi6vAH9xXZt2P12W

sjqDBYhJtjhZbSYKfzqk9WZ12cuJjvYynq8KEwJ1luVtVPiF3ZFjebJhtnLmefWqOiukwz5fxO

KJapsgCG4G1PFJiRbx6Re8scA8/dl4/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBI

S9nQSEh/

TVA http://www.tva.com/greenpowerswitch/providers/

Austin Energy http://austinenergy.com/wps/wcm/connect/c6c8ad2

0-ee8f-4d89-be36-

2d6f7433edbd/ResidentialSolar.pdf?MOD=AJPERES

CPS Energy http://www.solarsanantonio.org/wpcontent/uploads/2010/07/SolartricityFAQsFinalv4-

12-2010.pdf

Dominion VA https://www.dom.com/

Wisconsin Electric Power Co http://www.weenergies.com/business/altenergy/rateschedule_cgspv.pdf

Madison Gas & Electric http://www.mge.com/customer-service/home/elecrates-res/clean-power.htm

Utility Utility Ownership

Arizona Public Service No URL; PucDocket #: E-01345A-10-0166, E-01345A-11-0264

Tuscon Electric Power (UNS Energy https://www.tep.com/pages/SolarStats/SolarTech.html

San Diego Gas & Electric http://www.sdge.com/node/710

Florida Power & Light http://www.fpl.com/environment/solar/projects.shtml
141

Utility Utility Ownership

Trico Electric Co-op http://www.trico.coop/

PG&E http://www.pge.com/en/b2b/energysupply/wholesaleelectric

suppliersolicitation/PVRFO2012/index.page

United Power http://www.unitedpower.com/mainNav/greenPower/solPartn

ers.aspx

Delta Montrose Electric Assn http://www.dmea.com/index.php?option=com_content&view

=article&id=156&Itemid=101

Grand Valley Rural Power Line http://www.gvp.org/content/solar-farm

Newark Electric Dept. http://cityofnewarkde.us/index.aspx?nid=900

Florida Keys Electric Co-op http://www.fkec.com/Green/simplesolar.cfm

Coastal EMC http://www.coastalemc.com/CoastalElectricRenewables.aspx

Georgia Power (Southern Co) http://www.georgiapower.com/about-energy/energysources/solar/solar-projects/3x30.cshtml

Hawaiian Electric Co http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hawaiian-electricrequests-approval-to-move-forward-with-15-megawatt-solarenergy-project-2013-10-24?reflink=MW_news_stmp

Kaua"I Island Utility Co-op http://website.kiuc.coop/content/solar

Farmers Electric Co-op https://sites.google.com/site/feckalona/services/documents/p

df-files/flyer500-c.pdf.pdf?attredirects=1

Southern Maryland Electric Co-op No Url: Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative's (SMECO) 5.5 

MW solar project is located on 47 acres of utility-owned land. 

The solar farm was developed to help comply with Maryland 

RPS, which requires RECs to be generated within Maryland 

beginning in 2012. SMECO's solar farm will supply all of the 

utility's REC obligations for 2013.
142

Utility Utility Ownership

Nantucket Electric Co No Url: National Grid companies, Massachusetts Electric 

Company and Nantucket Electric Company propose to build 

own and operate 5 MW of PV on 5 different utility-owned 

properties. Most of the locations are underutilized, former 

manufactured gas plants (MGP). The five individual projects 

will range in size from .62 MW to 1.3 MW and will total 5 MW. 

National Grid will solicit competitive bids for construction.

The development of these facilities will have no impact on 

retail choice and the costs and benefits will be spread across 

all customers. 

National Grid National Grid companies, Massachusetts Electric Company and 

Nantucket Electric Company propose to build own and 

operate 5 MW of PV on 5 different utility-owned properties. 

Most of the locations are underutilized, former manufactured 

gas plants (MGP). The five individual projects will range in size 

from .62 No Url: MW to 1.3 MW and will total 5 MW. National 

Grid will solicit competitive bids for construction.

The development of these facilities will have no impact on 

retail choice and the costs and benefits will be spread across 

all customers. 

Western Massachusetts Electric https://www.wmeco.com/energywise/largescalesolar.aspx

DTE Energy https://www2.dteenergy.com/wps/portal/dte/aboutus/enviro

nment/details/Renewable%20Energy/Solar%20Energy/!ut/p/b

1/hZLZbqNAEEW_JR_g0CxN40eWNgZDsxPgBWEbE7PEELBZvn

6c0USazChOvbV0TpWqblMJFVHJW3Y7F9lwvrxl9cc74VNWMEg

IA8vx3ZADGpKgRwQTCJC5A_EdANUCL76hkbDDx_Ius7TANB__AfAo_kOvQt0fW4DwAADDQ3VOztTmBVE_3kv1CRH7OSctFGLIZp6-

aWn10ZIHFEKEgXX2Vm3OhdjIfukm5v5OA4ZWrO1XzIQOQFde

ntrNZ6y4SgG69ljrR42I1m3dpemiDNPDiVi5tsvnS5XeT7kMmdB

b_zxVskGUajyivZnuxwEeNYsBFzrpdbfpY6S2WlLFPXDgxR57AW

X0HHPLSK8YJ2oJ3U5TqN6RASN_n3fv8v-ENOpWc983zeGiewTOANESARYhBkGYADe_nSX53eBTww4gF_hP

4PiKyvTQ5Fd8x9Fcfk98AjegK5v0AqDJP-
143

Utility Utility Ownership

VQEuNQr51ZbqsUtwQxMXC394rD0PtSIH_nExzRZyzRRvJHGtEG

UeOz3MjCNHTDJyT6GbiCJourrL9rX1RHPMCwLOIEBEME1S4Vlz

COl10YF379FMKhNP_Xd1i3FsysT_kCTjZ57FeunJe06bjCax2Zl3e

KpTpcMc8GAwVzVuBv2pOZnwa1K9xrLZMP6W1d0tkTU6_ebLL

FT0lQN1-

70dF9ds8tpsl8PUYgj2inhop8vp4Jbi6vAH9xXZt2P12WsjqDBYhJt

jhZbSYKfzqk9WZ12cuJjvYynq8KEwJ1luVtVPiF3ZFjebJhtnLmefWqOiukwz5fxOKJapsgC

G4G1PFJiRbx6Re8scA8/dl4/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/

Lake Region Electric Co-op http://www.lrec.coop/solar

Public Service Electric & Gas https://www.pseg.com/family/pseandg/solar4all/index.jsp

PNM New Mexico No Url: PNM issued an RFP for Customer-Sited Utility-Owned 

(CSUO) PV installations in August 2009 with responses due in 

September 2009. The New Mexico Public Regulation 

Commission denied approval for the program in August 2010 

due to program costs.

The purpose of the CSUO program was to help PNM meet New 

Mexico RPS. Only systems between 3 kW and 4 MW were 

eligible. Projects where material cost and workforce were 

based in New Mexico were favored, in order to assist the New 

Mexico economy. Once projects were completed, ownership 

would be transferred to PNM.

Con Edison No Url: ConEd's Solar Energy Pilot Program was developed to 

spur the development of 12 MW of PV in 18 months, better 

understand the grid impacts of distributed generation, 

integrate with Smart Grid and wholesale capacity markets, test 

market mechanisms, engage customers and stakeholders, and 

reduce greenhouse gases. The petition was initially filed with 

NYPSC February 27, 2009 with a clarification March 11, 2009. 

The program would initially cost $20-25 million, with $3 

million per year ongoing.

There are three main program segments. First, installing 
144

Utility Utility Ownership

customer-owned solar located on customer property, which 

would target 2 day-peaking networks and 3-5 feeders. The 

second component is utility-owned solar on utility property, 

seeking to value of benefits to offset program costs. The third 

aspect is third-party-owned solar purchased via PPAs. This 

aspect would examine transmission or distribution-side 

resources. The utility would take the energy, capacity, and 

renewable attributes from this program.

Duke Energy Carolinas https://www.duke-energy.com/north-carolina/renewableenergy/nc-solar-distributed-generation-program.asp

Ashland Electric Dept. http://www.ashland.or.us/Page.asp?NavID=14017

Portland General Electric https://www.portlandgeneral.com/community_environment/i

nitiatives/renewable_energy/solar_power.aspx

Duck River EMC http://www.dremc.com/community/solar-farm/

Dixie Escalante REA http://www.sgsunsmart.com/index.htm

St. George Energy Service Dept http://www.sgsunsmart.com/index.htm

Dominion Va www.dom.com

Seattle City Light http://www.seattle.gov/light/solarenergy/commsolar.asp

Ellensburg Electric Utility http://www.ci.ellensburg.wa.us/index.aspx?NID=310

EAU Claire Electric Co-op No Url: Eau Claire is planning to offer its members the option 

to buy one or more solar panels from a roughly 1 MW project. 

Panels are expected to cost between $625 and $750 each. The 

project still requires approval of the co-op board of directors, 

which is not expected to happen until 2015. 

The below examples demonstrate solar on the grid within the service territory of each utility, classified 

by utility type: investor owned utility (IOU), municipal utility or “muni”, and cooperative, or “co-op”. An 
145

investor-owned utility (IOU) is operated by a public corporation whose shares are owned by investors. A 

municipal utility ('muni') is owned and operated, in varying forms, by a municipal (or county) 

government. A utility cooperative ('coop') is a customer- owned, non-profit utility type that tends to 

serve rural areas. The below examples are courtesy of the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) Utility 

Database. Note the distributed PV that is already a part of these utilities’ energy portfolio. 

Utility Name Location 

Type 

of 

Utility

All 

Solar 

Total 

(MW)

CSP 

(MW)

Total 

PV 

(MW)

Distributed 

PV (MW)

Utility 

PV 

(MW)

Pacific Gas & Electric California IOU 3082.7 125 2957.7 1042.8 1914.9

Duke Energy Florida Florida IOU 15.6 0 15.597 15.59 0.007

Arizona Public Service Arizona IOU 733.1 250 483.083 272.58 209.425

Georgia Power Georgia IOU 67.6 0 67.63 25.88 41.75

Indianapolis Power & 

Light Indiana IOU 43.2 0 43.244 0.353 42.891

Public Service Electric & 

Gas (PSEG) New Jersey IOU 547 0 547 414.7 132.3

Duke Energy Carolinas North Carolina IOU 129.9 0 129.831 6.694 123.137

NV Energy Nevada IOU 234.8 69 165.753 47.761 117.992

Excel Energy Colorado IOU 239 0 238.995 151.287 87.708

Ohio Power Company Ohio IOU 20 0 19.98 11.916 8.064

CPS Energy Texas Muni 92.7 0 92.743 11.909 80.834

Los Angeles DWP California Muni 92.5 0 92.548 90.116 2.433

Salt River Project Arizona Muni 92.7 1 91.704 59.556 32.148

Seattle City Light Washington Muni 4.7 0 4.72 4.72 0

Orlando Utilities Comm Florida Muni 7.8 0 7.846 3.116 4.73

Holyoke Gas & Electric 

Department Massachusetts Muni 3.6 0 3.607 0.007 3.6

Memphis Light, Gas and 

Water Tennessee Muni 3.5 0 3.496 0.847 2.649

Omaha Public Power 

District Nebraska Muni 0.3 0 0.347 0.347 0

Colorado Springs Utilities Colorado Muni 6.4 0 6.401 6.401 0

Starkville Electric Dept Mississippi Muni 0.3 0 0.255 0.242 0.013

Kaua'I Island Utility Co-op Hawaii co-op 21 0 20.953 13.708 7.245

Delaware Electric Co-op Delaware co-op 7.6 0 7.609 3.248 4.361

Trico Electric Co-op Arizona co-op 7.6 0 7.591 7.41 0.181

Santee Electric Co-op South Carolina co-op 2.9 0 2.915 0.119 2.796
146

Southern Maryland Elec 

Co-op Maryland co-op 8.4 0 8.434 4.034 4.4

West Kentucky Rural 

Electric Cooperative 

Corporation Kentucky co-op 1.8 0 1.759 1.759 0

Holy Cross Energy Colorado co-op 3.7 0 3.725 2.077 1.648

Middle Tennessee 

Electric Membership 

Corporation Tennessee co-op 3.6 0 3.619 3.619 0

Kit Carson Electric Co-op New Mexico co-op 6.4 1.125 5.31 0 5.31

Cullman Electric Co-Op Alabama co-op 0.3 0 0.325 0.325 0

Here are several press releases on solar projects for some of the utilities listed above. These press 

releases highlight some of the key facts about the solar projects. 

Pacific Gas & Electric (IOU): 

http://www.pge.com/en/about/newsroom/newsdetails/index.page?title=20091026_pge_to_buy_500_

megawatts_of_clean_solar_power_from_nextera_and_abengoa_solar 

Duke Energy Florida (IOU): http://www.duke-energy.com/news/releases/2009101301.asp 

Georgia Power (IOU): http://southerncompany.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=3456

NV Energy (IOU): http://www.solarreserve.com/pressReleases/Tonopah_PPA_Press_ReleaseFINAL.pdf 

CPS Energy (muni): http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2014/10/how-the-rightkind-of-electric-utility-can-increase-solar-energy-and-jobs

Los Angeles DWP (muni): http://investor.firstsolar.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=834730

Kaua’l Island Utility Co-op (co-op): http://kauai.coopwebbuilder.com/content/work-start-54-millionkiuc-solar-project-anahola

Delaware Electric Co-op (co-op): http://www.delaware.coop/news/press-releases/co-op-solar-farmnow-producing-power

The following CSP projects in the US represent a new generation of technology that can help states 

meet EPA’s carbon emission goals. The two projects that include thermal energy storage (Solana and 

Crescent Dunes) provide the additional benefits of helping maintain grid reliability through the dispatch 

of electricity whenever it is most needed, providing ancillary services such as spinning and non-spinning 

reserves, as well as reactive power.
147

Solana Ivanpah Genesis Crescent 

Dunes

Mojave

Technology Trough w/ 

6 hours 

storage

Steam 

Towers

Trough Salt Tower 

w/

10 hrs 

storage

Trough

Capacity (MW, 

gross)

280 392 280 110 280

Approx. 

Annual Output 

(GWh)

945 1,080 560 500 600

CO2 Saved 

(Metric 

Tons/yr)

475,000 400,000 330,000 290,000 350,000
11/25/2014 2013 Solar RFP

http://www.pacificorp.com/sup/rfps/rsolar2013.html 1/2

2013 Solar RFP

This solar request for proposal (RFP) (2013S Solar RFP) seeks acquisition of solar resources to meet the

Company’s remaining Oregon solar capacity mandate goal of 6.7 MWAC. Bids must comply with specific RFP

criteria including; meeting company solar specifications, individual project capacity greater than 500 kWAC and

up to 5.0 MWAC, commercial operation date on or before December 31, 2014, fixed price power purchase

agreement or asset purchase and sale agreement only, and delivery to PacifiCorp’s system on firm basis.

Information for the Request For Proposal (RFP) process is outlined below. More information will be made

available as it is released. For questions or more information, please send an email to RFPSolar@PacifiCorp.com.

Schedule

Event Estimated Timeline

2013S issued April 30, 2013

Bidder/stakeholder meeting May 13, 2013

Responses due June 11, 2013

Bid evaluation completed July 16, 2013

Shortlist selection July 19, 2013

Best and final pricing update by shortlist August 6, 2013

Bidder negotiations completed September 30, 2013

Final selection October 4, 2013

Project commercial operation date December 31, 2014

Documents

PacifiCorp Request for Proposal Solar Resources (RFP 2013S)

Appendices

Appendix A Technical Specification and Appendix A Exhibits (A­J)

Appendices B­K

Appendix E­2 ­ Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

Appendix F­2 ­ Asset Purchase and Sale Agreement (APSA) & Appendices

Appendix F­2 ­ EPC Agreement and Appendices

Appendix H ­ Form 1 ­ Pricing Input Sheet

Appendix J ­ Qualifying Reporting Entity (QRE) Agreement

Appendix K ­ General Services Contract­O&M Services for Photovoltaic Project

Presentations
11/25/2014 2013 Solar RFP

http://www.pacificorp.com/sup/rfps/rsolar2013.html 2/2

©2014 PacifiCorp, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy
11/25/2014 aps ­ 2014 rooftop solar program proposal

http://www.aps.com/en/ourcompany/aboutus/investmentinrenewableenergy/Pages/azsun.aspx?src=azsun 1/2

residential business community & environment our company

search

username password login activate

We have filed two proposals with the Arizona Corporation

Commission for adding clean, sustainable solar energy to help

power Arizona’s future.

One proposal would continue our successful AZ Sun program and build a 20­megawatt community­scale solar

plant near Tonopah.

The other option, filed July 28, proposes a new residential rooftop solar program. The rooftop program would

enable about 3,000 customers across Arizona to add rooftop solar to their homes and receive a $30 bill credit

each month through the life of a 20­year agreement with APS. Eligible customers will be able to participate

without paying any fees for the panels.

proposed details

If approved, the program is open to approximately 3,000 customers, totaling 20 MW of residential rooftop

solar throughout APS service territory.

Participating customers receive a $30 monthly credit on their bill through the life of the 20­year program,

totaling to $7,200.

We are partnering with reputable installers who will ensure all participating customer rooftops meet

specific requirements.

Arizona solar installers will be given preference and selected through a competitive bidding process –

keeping jobs and money in the state.

benefits of proposed program

no upfront fees for installation or maintenance of the system

guaranteed bill savings

provides another option for customers to install rooftop solar

makes rooftop solar available to customers who would not otherwise be able to afford it

uses local rooftop solar installers

contributes to Arizona’s national solar leadership

additional information

The proposal is expected to be heard at the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) in the Fall of 2014.

To learn more about Arizona’s solar leadership, visit azenergyfuture.com.

our company about us investment in renewable energy 2014 rooftop solar program proposal

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There is not a wait list for the program but we will contact customers on the interest list if the program is

approved. Please sign up for our interest list below if you would like to be notified.

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see what’s next for Arizona’s energy future

11/25/2014 Duke Energy Renewables acquires two solar projects from Infigen Energy, adding 40 megawatts to its California portfolio ­ Duke Energy

http://www.duke­energy.com/news/releases/2014030601.asp 1/1

Choose State View Mobile Investors

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. ­

Duke Energy Renewables acquires two solar projects from Infigen

Energy, adding 40 megawatts to its California portfolio

March 6, 2014

Duke Energy Renewables, a commercial business unit of Duke Energy, today announced its acquisition of two 20­megawatt (MW) AC California solar

projects from renewable energy developer Infigen Energy.

The construction­ready Pumpjack and Wildwood Solar Power Projects, located in Kern County near Bakersfield, represent Duke Energy Renewables’ third and fourth utilityscale solar power projects in the state. Once the projects are complete, the company will own and operate more than 65 megawatts of solar power in California.

“The acquisition of Pumpjack and Wildwood will more than double our solar power capacity in California,” said Duke Energy Renewables President Greg Wolf. “We’re pleased

to provide an increasing supply of affordable, clean energy to the nation’s number one solar market.”

The solar energy generated from the two projects will be sold through 20­year power purchase agreements with Southern California Edison.

Infigen’s U.S. CEO, Craig Carson, said, “We are very pleased that our first development efforts in solar PV have succeeded in bringing together strong counterparties such

as Southern California Edison and Duke Energy. We expect that the experience gained and the relationships created through these solar projects will deliver significant

benefits for our future development opportunities.”

In 2013, Duke Energy Renewables built the 21­MW Highlander Solar Power Project in Twentynine Palms and acquired the 4.5­MW Sunset Reservoir project in San

Francisco. Within the year, once Pumpjack and Wildwood reach commercial operation, the projects will push Duke Energy Renewables’ total U.S. installed solar capacity to

185 MW at 23 utility­scale facilities across the country.

In 2011, INDU, a partnership between Duke Energy Renewables and Integrys Energy, constructed eight 1­MW rooftop solar projects in southern California.

About Duke Energy Renewables

Duke Energy Renewables, part of Duke Energy’s Commercial Businesses, is a leader in developing innovative wind and solar energy generation projects for customers

throughout the United States. The company’s growing portfolio of commercial renewable assets includes 15 wind farms and 21 solar farms in operation in 12 states, totaling

almost 1,800 megawatts in electric­generating capacity. Learn more at www.duke­energy.com/renewables (http://www.duke­energy.com/renewables) .

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Duke Energy is a Fortune 250 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the

company is available on the Internet at: www.duke­energy.com (http://www.duke­energy.com) .

About Infigen Energy

Infigen Energy is a specialist renewable energy business. We have interests in 24 wind farms across Australia and the United States. With a total installed capacity in

excess of 1,600MW (on an equity interest basis), we currently generate enough renewable energy per year to power over half a million households. As a fully integrated

renewable energy business in Australia, we develop, build, own and operate energy generation assets and directly manage the sale of the electricity that we produce to a

range of customers in the wholesale market.

Infigen Energy trades on the Australian Securities Exchange under the code IFN.

For further information please visit our website: www.infigenenergy.com (http://www.infigenenergy.com)

Duke Energy contact: Tammie McGee or Luke Currin

Office: 980.373.8812 | Office: 980.373.1849

Infigen Energy U.S. contact: Kelly Kimberly

Office: 713.328.5151

Infigen Energy Australia contact: Richard Farrell

Office: +61 2 8031 9900

Back to News Releases (/news/default.asp)

©Duke Energy Corporation All Rights Reserved
11/25/2014 Electricity for West Texas and Southern New Mexico | El Paso Electric | Newman Solar Facility

http://www.epelectric.com/nm/business/newman­solar­facility 1/2

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Renewable Energy Links
11/25/2014 Electricity for West Texas and Southern New Mexico | El Paso Electric | Newman Solar Facility

http://www.epelectric.com/nm/business/newman­solar­facility 2/2

Newman Solar Facility

Newman Solar facility, located in northeast El Paso, Texas, will be a 10 MW AC ground mounted singleaxis tracking PV system that will interconnect to a dedicated EPE’s 13.8­kV distribution feeder. The

Purchase Power Agreement is between Newman Solar, LLC (owned by PSEG) and El Paso Electric

(EPE).

Project Highlights:

Contract life: 30­year power purchase agreement

Construction Ground Break: April 2014

Expected Commercial Operation Date: December 2014

All Renewable Energy Certificates (REC) associated with the solar energy will be owned by EPE.

Newman Solar facility will generate enough clean energy to power more than 3,800 average homes.

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11/25/2014 Electricity for West Texas and Southern New Mexico | El Paso Electric |

http://www.epelectric.com/renewable­energy/NR01 1/3

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View Energy Tracker

Roadrunner Solar Generating Facility

Project Type: Solar thin­film panels

provided by FirstSolar

Project Location: Santa Teresa, New Mexico

Project Owner: NRG

Fuel Source: Solar

Project Capacity: 20 MW
11/25/2014 Electricity for West Texas and Southern New Mexico | El Paso Electric |

http://www.epelectric.com/renewable­energy/NR01 2/3

Power Output Number of Homes Powered

Power (kw)

18,000

16,000

14,000

12,000

10,000

8,000

6,000

4,000

2,000

Hours in Mountain Standard Time (MST) ­ 11/25/2014

Commercial Operation Date: August 2011

El Paso Electric purchases 20 MW of electricity generated from solar power from the Roadrunner Solar

Generating Facility located in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The Roadrunner Solar Facility, which began

operations in August 2011, is owned by NRG. The Solar Roadrunner Plant uses thin­film panels

provided by FirstSolar and single­axis tracking of the sun to capture solar rays and convert them into

electricity.

This site's production over

the past 12 hours.

13,037 Kw

12:00pm ­ 11/25/2014

Energy

53,390,000 kwh (Yearly Projection)

* Number of homes powered for the year based on average home yearly energy consumption.

** Number of homes being powered based on average home hourly energy consumption.
11/25/2014 Electricity for West Texas and Southern New Mexico | El Paso Electric |

http://www.epelectric.com/renewable­energy/NR01 3/3

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Transmission

© 2014 El Paso Electric | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Designed by Stanton Street

53,390,000 kwh (Yearly Projection)

47,266,847 kwh (Year to Date)


11/25/2014 Hawaiian Electric: Hawaiian Electric and Ka La Nui Solar sign agreement for new project

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Hawaiian Electric and Ka La Nui Solar sign

agreement for new project

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Download printable version (pdf)

October 10, 2014

Contact:

Peter Rosegg

Phone: (808) 543­7780

Email: peter.rosegg@hawaiianelectric.com

HONOLULU, Oct. 10, 2014 – Hawaiian Electric Company has submitted a power purchase agreement (PPA) for the 15­megawatt

Ka La Nui Solar project in Waianae to the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission for review and approval.

This and other solar projects will benefit all utility customers with lower prices and help support Hawaiian Electric’s goal to lower

customer electric bills.

Ka La Nui Solar will consist of approximately 61,000 fixed photovoltaic panels and associated equipment on 75 acres leased from

Mountain View Dairy west of the Waianae Valley Road and Piliuka Place intersection.

Ka La Nui Solar, LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, will build, own and operate the project.

Ka La Nui has conducted extensive outreach in the Waianae community since early 2013 and plans to continue public outreach

through the permitting, design, and construction phases.

NextEra responded to a February 2013 Hawaiian Electric invitation for renewable energy projects on Oahu at a low levelized cost,

generally below 17 cents per kilowatthour. The PUC approved Hawaiian Electric’s request to negotiate with responding developers

outside of the lengthier competitive bidding process.

Pricing for the Ka La Nui Solar contract has been provided to the PUC, but is not public at this time while negotiations with other

responding solar developers continue. This will help ensure Hawaiian Electric can negotiate the best possible pricing for our

customers. Prices will become public after other negotiations are completed. The low cost per kilowatt­hour is locked in for the 22­

year duration of the contract.

The final contract also awaits completion of an Interconnection Requirements Study to tie the solar facility to Hawaiian Electric’s

46 kV sub­transmission line along Farrington Highway in Leeward Oahu.

To capture full value of the federal investment tax credit for Hawaiian Electric’s customers, the project is proposed to be in service

by the end of 2016. Beginning in 2017, the tax credits are due to decline from 30% to 10%.

FOLLOW US FOR THE LATEST

Our offices will be closed on Thursday,

November 27, 2014, in observance of

Thanksgiving Day. View holiday schedule >

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Copyright © 2013 Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc.
11/25/2014 News > SMECO Announces Second Solar Project

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SMECO Announces Second Solar Project

April 16, 2014

Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) has entered into a

power purchase agreement with an affiliate of juwi solar Inc. (JSI) to

develop, design and construct the 10.0­megawatt (MW) Rockfish Solar

facility. JSI will construct and operate the facility through a wholly­owned

subsidiary, and SMECO will purchase all generated energy, capacity,

and solar renewable energy credits for the next 20 years.

Pending approval from the Maryland Public Service Commission and

local permitting, the solar farm is planned to be a 10­MW solar

photovoltaic facility to be located on 80 acres in Charles County. JSI

plans to employ the use of single axis tracking technology, and

preliminary designs call for approximately 41,000 modules of solar

panels. The project is scheduled to reach full commercial operation as

early as the end of this year and is expected to generate roughly 21,000

megawatt­hours (MWh) during its first year of operation: enough to

power about 1,300 homes annually. An average SMECO household

uses 1,300 kilowatt­hours (kWh) a month and 15,600 kWh per year.

SMECO worked with the National Renewables Cooperative Organization

(NRCO) to develop a request for proposals and evaluated about 30

submissions before selecting JSI. JSI is headquartered in Boulder,

Colorado. According to Austin J. Slater, Jr., SMECO’s president and

CEO, “By working with NRCO and JSI, we are developing a project that

will provide renewable energy right here in our service area, helping us

to meet our regulatory requirements and to avoid costly transmission

fees.” He added, “Our customer­members will be glad to know that the

cost of the energy provided by this solar project is very reasonable and

will have a positive effect on customer rates.”

“We are incredibly excited to be working with SMECO and NRCO to

provide clean, reliable solar power to SMECO customers in a costeffective manner,” said Michael Martin, CEO of JSI. “We also eagerly

anticipate breaking ground and completing our first utility­scale solar

project in the state of Maryland.”

This project is the second solar project and fourth renewable project that

NRCO has facilitated for SMECO. SMECO developed a 5.5­MW solar

farm in Hughesville which has produced more than 10 million kWh since

November 2012. The new solar project is expected to produce nearly

twice as much energy as the Hughesville facility. SMECO also purchases

the energy and environmental attributes of two wind projects located in

Pennsylvania.

Purchasing solar energy is one way SMECO works to fulfill its renewable

portfolio obligation, as required by the state, at the lowest costs to its

members. Utilities are obligated to purchase .5 percent of their load from

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11/25/2014 News > SMECO Announces Second Solar Project

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solar energy resources in 2015; that percentage increases each year

until reaching two percent in 2020. Utilities that don’t purchase the

required amount of solar energy must pay a penalty.

11/25/2014 Power Lines » Seattle City Light Seeks Proposals on Renewable Energy

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Seattle City Light Seeks Proposals on Renewable Energy

Seattle City Light issued a request for proposals today for up to 150,000 megawatt­hours of

renewable energy or renewable energy credits per year, beginning in 2020.

Source projects must qualify as eligible according to Washington State’s renewable portfolio

standard, approved by voters in 2006 as Initiative 937. City Light will require a minimum

output guarantee and credit assurances. The utility will consider proposals for equity

ownership.

Under the request for proposals, City Light will consider a broad range of proposals,

technologies, and contractual arrangements. The utility will require potential providers to

demonstrate they have the creditworthiness to develop the project(s) offered and deliver the

electrical energy and/or renewable energy credits over the indicated contract length.

Any party submitting a proposal must be the owner of the eligible resource or renewable

energy credits, or have written authorization from the owner to submit a proposal.

City Light prefers baseload or dispatchable resources to complement the existing supply

resources that are predominately hydroelectric.

Seattle City Light is the 10th largest public electric utility in the United States. It has some

of the lowest cost customer rates of any urban utility, providing reliable, renewable and

environmentally responsible power to nearly 1 million Seattle area residents. City Light has

been greenhouse gas neutral since 2005, the first electric utility in the nation to achieve that

distinction.

For more information on submitting a proposal, contact Robert W. Cromwell, Jr., director of

power contracts and resource acquisition, at robert.cromwell@seattle.gov, by phone at

(206) 684­3856 or by FAX at (206) 386­4555.

Posted: September 10th, 2012 under Power Lines.

Tags: I­937, renewable energy, request for proposals, Seattle City Light

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11/25/2014 SCE&G Issues Request for Proposals to Supply Solar Energy on its System

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Back to Newsroom

SCE&G Issues Request for Proposals to Supply Solar Energy on its

System

First Solar Farms to be located in Charleston and Cayce by Early 2015

Cayce, S.C. (August 21, 2014) – Today SCE&G took another step forward in advancing its renewable energy

commitment by issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the first two solar farms to be constructed on its

system. The RFP calls for bidders to provide solar power to the utility through purchased power agreements with

the selected solar developer(s). SCE&G intends to work with solar developers to locate the solar farms on

company-owned property in North Charleston and Cayce.

The North Charleston installation will be built on the 3-acre site of the former Leeds Avenue Gas Operations

facility off I-526 and will have a generating capacity between 300 – 500 kilowatts. The Cayce project, located

adjacent to SCANA’s corporate headquarters off I-77, will be larger in scope with a generating capacity between 3

– 4 megawatts on approximately 20 acres. Completion of both sites is expected in 2015.

“After much careful planning we are excited to move forward with the construction of our first solar farms,” said

Kevin Marsh, chairman and CEO of SCANA, SCE&G’s parent company. “Solar is an integral component of our

balanced generation portfolio as we strive to reach a diversified mix of 30% natural gas, 30% nuclear, 30%

scrubbed coal and 10% hydro and other renewables over the next five years.”

In late 2013, SCE&G announced a new renewable energy team and committed to installing 20 megawatts of solar

energy on its system by 2020. Initial plans were to build on a site near Lake Murray. That site is still on the table

but may be developed at a later date.

Over the past several months, SCE&G has worked together with solar stakeholders from across the state,

including conservation groups and other utilities, to develop comprehensive consensus legislation that

establishes equitable net metering rules, introduces distributed energy programs and allows customers greater

access to solar leasing. In June, the landmark Distributed Energy Resource Program Act was signed into law by

Governor Nikki Haley, opening the door for increased solar installations across the state. The new legislation

includes a provision that would allow SCE&G to add both utility-scale and customer installed solar energy to its

system in addition to the 20 megawatts announced last year.

“We are proud to have been part of the collaborative process that resulted in the new legislation, which will

provide a strong foundation for integrating more renewable energy in South Carolina benefitting us all,” said

Marcus Harris, general manager of renewable products and services for SCE&G. “These first two solar farms will

demonstrate our commitment to advancing solar energy in the state.”

The RFP for the new solar farms outlines technical requirements for solar developers regarding the design,

installation, operation and maintenance of the solar photovoltaic distributed generation systems. To access the

full RFP, bidders must be registered at www.Poweradvocate.com, the web-based platform that will be utilized by

SCE&G to administer the RFP.

For bidders with an existing PowerAdvocate Supplier Account:

Please share your interest in reviewing the RFP documents via an e-mail to SCEGSolarRFP@scana.com (must

include full company name, contact name, and e-mail address). An invitation to the RFP event in Power

Advocate will be forwarded following receipt of your e-mail.

For bidders who require a new PowerAdvocate Supplier Account:

Visit www.Poweradvocate.com, click on the “Registration” link at the top of the screen, and follow the

instructions to complete registration as a Supplier. Once the registration has been accepted by

Media Contacts

Contact

Public Affairs

1-800-562-9308

New Solar

Farms RFP

(PDF, 199KB)

RFP Response

Package

(PDF, 161KB)

c

Newsroom

Press releases, photos, videos and other resources for journalists.
11/25/2014 SCE&G Issues Request for Proposals to Supply Solar Energy on its System

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PowerAdvocate, follow the instructions above to request access to the RFP.

All proposals must be submitted by 5 p.m. October 3, 2014. Contracts are expected to be finalized by the end of

December 2014.

For more information about SCE&G’s renewable energy initiatives visit www.sceg.com/solar.

About SCE&G

South Carolina Electric & Gas Company is a regulated public utility engaged in the generation, transmission,

distribution and sale of electricity to approximately 684,000 customers in 24 counties in the central, southern and

southwestern portions of South Carolina. The company also provides natural gas service to approximately

332,000 customers in 38 counties in the state.

How can we help you? 1-800-251-7234 Available 24/7

j Mobile Site c About South Carolina Electric & Gas c Careers c News c Español c Contact

SCE&G is a subsidiary of SCANA Corporation. © 2000 - 2014 SCANA Corporation Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy

Better Bu

11/25/2014 Standard Net Energy Metering (NEMS) | PG&E

http://www.pge.com/en/mybusiness/services/nonpge/generateownpower/netenergymetering/standardnem/index.page 1/4

Your Bill & Account Save Money Rates Services

Standard Net Energy Metering (NEMS)

NEMS (previously Standard E­NET) is a net

energy metering program for all customers

with eligible solar, wind or hybrid (solar and

wind) generators that are less than or equal to

30 kilowatts in size.

City and County of San Francisco (“CCSF”) owned generating facilities

seeking Schedule NEMCCSF and participants in the Demand

Response Programs below are not eligible to participate in NEM:

Peak Day Pricing (PDP)

Scheduled Load Reduction Program (SLRP)

SmartRate

NOTE: Customers must not operate any generating facility in parallel

with Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) distribution facilities

until they receive written authorization from PG&E, as is required in

Electric Rule 21. Unauthorized operation may result in personal injury,

equipment damage and/or property damage for which the customer

may be liable.

Prepare for Your Project

PG&E’s Electric Generation Interconnection Department can help you

understand the steps you need to take set up your net energy metering

interconnection for solar and/or wind electric generating facilities.

This website provides a variety of resources to prepare for project,

including:

Webinar

NEM Welcome Letter

Net Energy Metering and Tracking

Rates and Rules

Distribution Interconnection Handbook

PG&Es Greenbook

NEM Tariff

Rule 21

California Energy Commission (CEC)

CEC Lists of Eligible Renewable

Equipment

California Public Utilities Commission

(CPUC)

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable

Energy

Additional Info

Related Links

Building & Renovation

Services

Property Managers & Owners

Maintenance & Repair

Economic Development

Brochures and Forms

SmartMeterTM

Workshops & Training

Non­PG&E Energy

First Responders

Recent Interconnection News

05/09/2014

03/26/2014

Transition Update: The customer­signed 79­1101

form will continue to be accepted if and only if it is

accompanied by machine­readable 79­1151A and

79­1151B forms. This will be allowable until

6/30/2014. Beginning 7/1/2014 PG&E will no longer

accept the old (79­1101) form.

The new forms (79­1151A and 79­1151B) posted to

this website can be used immediately. However

please note, effective 5/1/2014, PG&E will require

interconnection requests to utilize the new forms:

Agreement & Customer Authorization (79­1151A)

(PDF, 214 KB) and Application (79­1151B) (PDF,

204 KB) and discontinue the use of the old form

(79­1101).

02/20/2014

Load Aggregation Approved Under the NEM Tariff

(PDF, 257 KB).

12/01/2013

New streamlined Standard Interconnection

Agreement and Authorization Form (79­1151A) and

Standard Interconnection Application Form (79­

1151B) developed and approved by the CPUC.

For My Business About Contact Us Safety English Search Go Log in
11/25/2014 Standard Net Energy Metering (NEMS) | PG&E

http://www.pge.com/en/mybusiness/services/nonpge/generateownpower/netenergymetering/standardnem/index.page 2/4

Video (approximately 35 minutes in duration) that will give you an

overview to the revised process and forms. Old forms will no

longer be accepted post 5/1/14.

View the Webinar »

Getting Started Guides

Standard NEM Overview – System Built and Passed Local

Jurisdiction's Final Inspection (PDF, 141 KB)

Standard NEM Overview – System Not Yet Built (PDF, 143 KB)

Submittal Path Guide – Summary of Required Documents (PDF,

50 KB)

How to Fill Out Form 79­1151A (Agreement & Customer

Authorization) (PDF, 173 KB)

How to Fill Out Form 79­1151B (Application) (PDF, 170 KB)

How to Save and Submit 79­1151A & B – Technical Difficulties?

Follow this Guide (PDF, 679 KB)

Of course, you may have questions. Our Frequently Asked Questions

(PDF, 102 KB) document covers additional information for you to

effectively manage your project.

How Do I Apply?

All of the below listed components, correctly filled out, constitutes a

complete Standard NEM interconnection request.

Electronically filling out the requested items identified below using a

computer will greatly streamline the interconnection process and allow

for quicker turnaround.

If PDF fillable forms are electronically filled out using a computer,

please note that when submitting the Agreement and Customer

Authorization (79­1151A) form, you will need to submit both of the

following:

1. The unsigned copy (form filled out in its original PDF fillable format)

2. The same form with proof of signature (locked form from qualified third

party e­signature vendor or scanned PDF of wet signature)

The first document allows PG&E systems to read the form eliminating

the potential for errors and rework.

Item

Requested

Why It Is Requested

REQUIRED

INFORMATION

1. Agreement

and Customer

Authorization

Form 79­1151A

(PDF, 214 KB)

Provides important customer, contractor,

system and rate information about the project.

Single form that allows the customer to

authorize their contractor or another Third Party

to act on its behalf (i.e., fill out Application for

NEM Interconnection, receive communication

regarding the interconnection application,

including a copy of the Permission to Operate

notice).

2. Application

for NEM

Interconnection

Form 79­1151B

(PDF, 204 KB)

Provides important generating facility

information, description of generating facilities

and guidelines for additional documentation to

submit a complete application. Application

includes the basic single­line diagram.

3. Final

Building Permit

/ Inspection

Certificate

Copy of final building permit / inspection

certificate that allows PG&E to know that the

project has been finished and approved by local

building authority. Note that we only require the

final signed off permit showing that the

construction has received final approval by the
11/25/2014 Standard Net Energy Metering (NEMS) | PG&E

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Please submit the appropriate documents via one of the

methods outlined below:

1. Email: gen@pge.com

*This is the preferred method as this allows PG&E to streamline the

process and attend to your request more quickly.

OR

2. Mail hard copies of all appropriate documents to:

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Attention: Electric Generation Interconnection

Mail Code N7L

245 Market St.

San Francisco, CA 94105

Attention: PG&E may not be able to interconnect your generator if it is

located in certain areas of San Francisco or Oakland. Please read our

notice about Secondary Networks.

Who should I contact for additional information?

For questions about PG&E’s renewable programs and NEM accounts,

please view the following webpage for further details:

www.pge.com/solar or contact the Gen Hotline at (415) 972­5676.

For questions about interconnection, you can email us at

gen@pge.com or contact the Gen Hotline at (415) 972­5676.

local authorities.

ADDITIONAL

INFORMATION IF

APPLICABLE

4. NEM Load

Aggregation

Appendix Form

79­1153

5. Custom

Single­Line

Diagram

Applicable only to eligible customers applying

under NEM Aggregation. The Frequently Asked

Questions (PDF, 440 KB)document covers

additional information for you to effectively

manage your NEM Aggregation project.

Simple diagram for technical review. Here is an

example.

6. Variance

Request

The Customer or Customer’s Contractor can

request a Variance Request from PG&E if the

project is unable to meet the requirements

described in the Distribution Interconnection

Handbook and Greenbook. Please see the

Application for NEM Interconnection for further

details on Variance Request components.

7. PV Module

Equipment

Spec Sheet

If the PV module is not listed on the

GoSolarCalifornia.com approved equipment list,

please provide a copy of the equipment spec

sheet detailing the make, model, and rating.

8. Inverter

Module

Equipment

Spec Sheet

If the inverter is not listed on the

GoSolarCalifornia.com approved equipment list,

please provide a copy of the equipment spec

sheet detailing the make, model, and rating.
11/25/2014 Standard Net Energy Metering (NEMS) | PG&E

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About Careers Contact Us Privacy Newsroom Regulation

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The Bright Tucson Community Solar Program offers an easy and affordable way to meet your electric

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Protection offered against future energy cost increases

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Program rates must be paid in full each month regardless of actual energy consumption. If the solar

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Future demands would be met through new solar power systems located in the Tucson metropolitan

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Municipal Service Commission

Gerald P. Cole

Frederick C. DeLisle

James S. Figurski

Leslie G. Lupo

Michael Sadowski

Melanie L. McCoy

General Manager and Secretary

3200 Biddle Avenue, Suite 200

P.O. Box 658

Wyandotte, MI. 48192-0658

Telephone: 734.324.7100

Fax: 734.324.7119

Electric, Steam, Water 

Cable Television and High Speed Internet

Service since 1889

Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection 

Requirements
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 2

INTRODUCTION

This Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements document outlines the process, 

requirements, and agreements used to install or modify generation projects with generator 

output capacity that does not exceed 30 kW that are designed to operate in parallel with the 

Wyandotte Municipal Services (“Utility”) electric system and are part of the Utility’s Net 

Metering Program.

ELIGIBILITY

Any residential customer*in good standing may install, own, and operate a “Net Metered” 

generation source(s), interconnected in parallel with the Utility’s distribution system if the 

following are met (subject to the requirements of the “Net Metering Agreement”):

1. Completed application describing the interconnected generation that includes a $100 

application fee.

2. The generation source is solar, wind, or hydro.

3. The total nameplate capacity of the generation source is 30 kilowatts or less.

4. The generation source is located on the eligible customer’s premises, is operated by 

said customer, and is interconnected through a single point of service.

5. The generation is used primarily to offset all or a part of the eligible customer’s electric 

load.

6. Eligible customers shall enter into a “Net Metering Agreement” with the Utility before 

the generation source is allowed to interconnect to the Utility’s distribution system.

7. The Utility reserves the right to limit the number of customers.

GENERAL

1. All Customer-Owned generating facility installations shall comply with any and all 

applicable codes and standards, including but not limited to those listed in this 

document.

2. Interconnection shall not be allowed to the Utility’s distribution system until the 

installation has been approved by an authorized municipal, county, or other 

 

* Other non-residential customers may apply at the discretion of the Utility.
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 3

governmental inspector where such inspection procedures are established.

3. Generation source shall comply with IEEE Std. 1547.

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

1. The eligible customer shall provide proof of a qualified installation of the generation 

source by a licensed electrical contractor.

2. The eligible customer shall install, operate, and maintain the generation source in 

accordance with the manufacturers suggested practices.

3. A lockable manual disconnect switch with load-break capability shall be installed between 

the generation source and the Utility’s distribution system and be accessible to Utility 

personnel at all times. This switch shall be labeled as follows: (See Figure 1)

4. The Utility may isolate the eligible customer’s generation source at any time if it is 

believed that continued operation of the generation source will create or contribute to a 

system emergency, for safety purposes, or for reliability purposes.

5. The Utility may perform on-site inspections to verify the proper installation and continued 

safe operation of the generation source, interconnection equipment, and net metering 

facilities. Inspections shall be done at reasonable times and with reasonable advance 

notice to the eligible customer.

 
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 4

METERING

1. The Utility shall have the option of metering two watt-hour meters as shown above in 

Figure 1 or through a single bidirectional meter.

2. If a second watt-hour meter is used, one meter will measure kWh used by the 

eligible customer, and the other will measure the kWh exported by the customer to 

the Utility’s distribution system. If the Utility chooses to utilize a single 

bidirectional meter, that meter will measure the net kWh used by the eligible 

customer.
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 A-1

APPLICATION

1. The undersigned Customer Generator submits this Generator Interconnection 

Application with the application fee to interconnect a new Project to the Utility’s

distribution system.

2. The Customer Generator requesting interconnection to the Utility distribution 

system must provide the following information:

a. Description of the equipment configuration and proposed interconnection one-line 

diagram (one-line diagram must be attached to this Interconnection Application).

b. Project Developer (Single Point of 

Contact): 

Name:

Address:

Phone Number:

Fax Number:

e-mail Address:

Project Site Address:

3. This Generator Interconnection Application shall be directed to the Utility 

representative as indicated below:

General Manager, Wyandotte Municipal Services

3200 Biddle Ave, Suite 200, Wyandotte, MI 48192

4. I, the undersigned and authorized representative of the Customer Generator, submit 

this Generator Interconnection Application for the Utility. I understand that I shall be 

required to furnish certain required technical data as requested by the Utility in support 

of this application.

Authorized Signature: 

Printed Name:

Title:

Company Name:

Date:
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 B-1

INTERCONNECTION AND PARALLEL OPERATING AGREEMENT FOR 

EXPEDITED PROJECTS (INVERTER BASED - 10kW OR LESS)

This Interconnection and Parallel Operating Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into on _____________ 

(insert date of last signature from page 8) by_________________________ (the “Utility”), 

___________________ (the “Customer”), and_______________________ (if applicable under Paragraph 

5) (the “Property Owner”). Utility and Customer are sometimes also referred to in this Agreement 

collectively as “Parties” or individually as “Party.” Customer shall be the “Project Developer” as used in 

and for purposes of the applicable Expedited Utility Interconnection Requirements (“Interconnection 

Requirements”) approved by the Utility Board (“Board”). 

I. RECITALS 

A. Customer is an electric service customer of Utility in good standing with the Utility. 

B. Customer desires to interconnect an electric generating facility with maximum capacity of 30 kilowatts 

(“kW”) or less (the “Customer Facility”) with Utility’s electric distribution system and operate the 

Customer Facility in parallel with Utility’s distribution system, under the Utility’s Expedited Utility 

Interconnection Requirements and Net Metering Agreement approved by the Board (the “Standards”). 

C. For purposes of this Agreement, “interconnect” means establishing a connection between a 

non-utility generating resource (in this case, the Customer Facility) and Utility’s distribution system. 

“Operate in parallel” means generating electricity from a non-utility resource (in this case, the 

Customer Facility) that is connected to Utility’s system. In all cases, terms shall have the meaning as 

defined in the Standards. 

D. Interconnection of the Customer Facility with Utility’s distribution system is subject to this 

Agreement, the Application, the Interconnection Requirements, the Standards and applicable utility tariffs 

approved by the Board. 

E. This Agreement does not address any purchase or sale of electricity between Utility and Customer 

nor does it create any agency, partnership, joint venture or other business arrangement between or among 

Utility, Customer and/or Property Owner. 

II. AGREEMENT 

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals, the mutual covenants contained herein and for 

good and valuable consideration, the Parties agree as follows: 

1. Description of Customer Facility 

1.1 The Customer Facility must be built with the following ratings, which shall not be changed 

without thirty (30) days advance written notice to Utility according to the notice requirements herein: 
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 B-2

Photovoltaic/Solar (“PV”) Array Rating: _________________________________kW 

Certified Test Record Number (UL1741 Scope 1.1A): ______________________ kW 

Wind Turbine (WT) Rating: ___________________________________________kW 

Hydro Rating: ___________________________________________kW 

Service Type (circle one): Single Phase / Three Phase 

Voltage Level: ___________ 

Equipment Specifications: Make: ___________Model: _____________ 

1.2 Customer Facility Location: 

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

(Street Address, City, State, Zip) 

If Customer is not the owner of the property identified above, the Property Owner must sign this 

Agreement for the purposes indicated in Paragraph 5. 

1.3 Customer’s Utility service account number: ____________________ 

Property Owner’s Utility service account number (if applicable): ______________________ 

1.4 The Customer Facility is planned to be ready for parallel operation on or about: 

_______________(insert date) 

2. Interconnection Facilities 

If it is necessary for Utility to install certain interconnection facilities (“Interconnection Facilities”) and 

make certain system modifications in order to establish an interconnection between the Customer 

Facility and Utility’s distribution system, the Interconnection facilities and modifications shall be 

described to the Customer. 

3. Design Requirements, Testing and Maintenance of Customer Facility 

3.1 Customer shall be responsible for the design and installation of the Customer Facility and obtaining 

and maintaining any required governmental authorizations and/or permits, which may include, but shall not 

be limited to, easements to clear trees, and necessary rights-of-way for installation and maintenance of the 

Utility Interconnection Facilities. Customer shall reimburse Utility for its costs and expenses to acquire 

such easements / permits. 
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 B-3

3.2 Customer shall, at its sole expense, install and properly maintain protective relay equipment and 

devices to protect its equipment and service, and the equipment and system of Utility, from damage, injury 

or interruptions, and will assume any loss, liability or damage to the Customer Facility caused by lack of or 

failure of such protection. Such protective equipment specifications and design shall be consistent with the 

applicable Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements. Prior to the Customer Facility operating in 

parallel with Utility distribution system, Customer Shall provide satisfactory evidence to Utility that it has 

met the Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements, including but not limited to the receipt of 

approval from the local building/electrical code inspector. 

3.3 At its own expense, Customer shall perform operational testing at least five (5) days prior to the 

installation of any Interconnection Facilities by Utility. Utility may send qualified personnel to the 

Customer Facility to inspect the facility and observe the testing. Upon completion of such testing and 

inspection and prior to interconnection Customer shall provide Utility with a written report explaining all 

test results, including a copy of the generator commissioning test report. 

Protective relay equipment shall be tested every two (2) years (unless an extension is agreed to by Utility) 

to verify the calibration indicated on the latest relay setting document issued by Utility. The results of such 

tests shall be provided to Utility in writing for review and approval. Utility may, at any time and at its sole 

expense, inspect and test the Customer Facility to verify that the required protective equipment is in 

service, properly maintained, and calibrated to provide the intended protection. This inspection may also 

include a review of Customer's pertinent records Inspection, testing and/or approval by Utility or the 

omission of any inspection, testing and/or approval by Utility pursuant to this Agreement shall not relieve 

the Customer of any obligations or responsibility assumed under this Agreement. 

3.4 Customer shall operate and maintain the Customer Facility in a safe and prudent manner and in 

conformance with all applicable laws and regulations. Customer shall obtain or maintain any governmental 

authorizations and permits required for construction and operation of the Customer Facility. 

4. Disconnection 

Utility shall be entitled to disconnect the Customer Facility from Utility’s distribution system, or otherwise 

refuse to connect the Customer Facility, if: (a) Customer has not complied with any one of the technical 

requirements contained in the applicable Interconnection Requirements, (b) the electrical characteristics of 

the Customer Facility are not compatible with the electrical characteristics of Utility’s distribution system, 

(c) an emergency condition exists on Utility’s distribution system, 

(d) Customer's protective relay equipment fails, (e) Utility determines that the Customer Facility is 

disrupting service to any Utility customer, (f) disconnection is required to allow for construction, 

installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, removal, investigation, inspection or testing of any part of 

Utility’s facilities, (g) if a required installation (e.g., telephone line) fails or becomes incapacitated and is 

not repaired in a timely manner, as determined by Utility, or (f) Customer commits a material breach of 

this Agreement. 

5. Access to Property 

5.1 At its own expense, Customer shall make the Customer Facility site available to Utility. The site shall 

be free from hazards and shall be adequate for the operation and construction of the Interconnection 

Facilities. Utility, its agents and employees, shall have full right and authority of ingress and egress at all 
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 B-4

reasonable times on and across the property at which the Customer’s Facility is located, for the purpose of 

installing, operating, maintaining, inspecting, replacing, repairing, and removing the Interconnection 

Facilities. The right of ingress and egress shall not unreasonably interfere with Customer's or (if different) 

Property Owner’s use of the property. 

5.2 Utility may enter the property on which the Customer Facility is located to inspect, at reasonable hours, 

Customer’s protective devices and read or test meters. Utility will use reasonable efforts to provide 

Customer or Property Owner, if applicable, at least 24 hours’ notice prior to entering said property, in order 

to afford Customer or Property Owner the opportunity to remove any locks or other encumbrances to entry; 

provided, however, that Utility may enter the property without notice (removing, at Customer’s expense, 

any lock or other encumbrance to entry) and disconnect the Interconnection Facilities if Utility believes 

that disconnection is necessary to address a hazardous condition and/or to protect persons, Utility’s 

facilities, or the property of others from damage or interference caused by Customer’s Facility. 

5.3 By executing this Agreement, Property Owner consents to and agrees to provide access to its property 

on which the Customer Facility is located to Utility as described in this section, but does not assume or 

guarantee other performance obligations of the Customer under this Agreement. 

6. Indemnity and Liability 

6.1 Unless caused by the sole negligence or intentional wrongdoing of the other Party, each Party to 

this Agreement shall at all times assume all liability for, and shall defend, hold harmless, and indemnify the 

other Party and its directors, officers, employees, and agents from, any and all damages, losses, claims, 

demands, suits, recoveries, costs, legal fees, and expenses: (a) for injury to or death of any person or 

persons whomsoever occurring on its own system, or (b) for any loss, destruction of or damage to any 

property of third persons, firms, corporations or other entities occurring on its own system, including 

environmental harm or damage, or (c) arising out of or resulting from, either directly or indirectly, its own 

Interconnection Facilities, or (d) arising out of or resulting from, either directly or indirectly, any electric 

energy furnished to it hereunder after such energy has been delivered to it by such other Party. The 

provisions of this Section shall survive termination or expiration of this Agreement. 

6.2 The provisions of this Section 6 shall not be construed to relieve any insurer of its obligations to 

pay any insurance claims in accordance with the provisions of any valid insurance policy. 

6.3 Notwithstanding anything in this Section, or any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, 

any liability of a Party to the other Party shall be limited to direct actual damages, and all other damages at 

law or in equity are hereby waived. Under no circumstances shall a Party be liable to the other Party, 

whether in tort, contract or other basis in law or equity for any special, indirect, punitive, exemplary or 

consequential damages, including lost profits. The indemnification obligations and limits on liability in this 

Section shall continue in full force and effect notwithstanding the expiration or termination of this 

Agreement, with respect to any event or condition giving rise to an indemnification obligation that 

occurred prior to such expiration or termination. 

7. Breach and Default 

A breach of this Agreement (“Breach”) shall occur upon the failure of a Party to perform or observe any 

material term or condition of this Agreement, if the Standards or the Interconnection Requirement. Upon a 
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 B-5

Breach by one Party, the non-breaching Party shall give written notice of such Breach to the Breaching 

Party. The Party in Breach shall have 30 days from the date of the written notice to cure the Breach. If a 

Breach is not cured within the 30-day period provided for herein, the Party in Breach shall be deemed in 

default (“Default”). The non defaulting Party shall then have the right to terminate this Agreement by 

written notice, shall be relieved of any further obligations hereunder, and may pursue any and all remedies 

available to it at law or in equity. 

8. Governing Law 

This Agreement shall be interpreted, governed, and construed under the laws of Michigan. 

9. Amendment, Modification or Waiver 

Any amendments or modifications to this Agreement shall be in writing and agreed to by both Parties. The 

failure of any Party at any time to require performance of any provision hereof shall in no manner affect its 

right at a later time to enforce the same. No waiver by any Party of the breach of any term or covenant 

contained in this Agreement, whether by conduct or otherwise, shall be deemed to be construed as a further 

or continuing waiver of any such breach or a waiver of the breach of any other term or covenant unless 

such waiver is in writing. 

10. Notices

Any notice required under this Agreement shall be in writing and mailed or personally delivered to the 

Party at the address below. Written notice is effective within 3 days of depositing the notice in the United 

States mail, first class postage prepaid. Personal notice is effective upon delivery. Written notice of any 

address changes shall be provided. All written notices shall refer to the Customer’s Utility account number, 

as provided in Section 1 of this Agreement. All written notices shall be directed as follows: 

Notice to Utility: 

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

Notice to Customer: 

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

Notice to Property Owner (if different than Customer): 

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 B-6

11. Term of Agreement and Termination 

This Agreement shall become effective upon execution by all Parties and, if applicable, the Property 

Owner, and it shall continue in full force and effect until terminated upon thirty (30) days’ prior notice by 

either Party, upon Default of either Party as set forth in Section 7, upon mutual agreement of the Parties, or 

upon a change in ownership of either the Customer Facility or the property at which the Customer Facility 

is located absent a valid assignment under Section 14. 

Utility may independently terminate this agreement if, after one year, the Customer Facility 

12. Entire Agreement 

This Agreement supersedes all prior discussions and agreements between the Parties with respect to the 

subject matter hereof and constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties hereto. 

13. No Third Party Beneficiary 

The terms and provisions of this Agreement are intended solely for the benefit of each Party, and it is not 

the intention of the Parties to confer third-party beneficiary rights upon any other person or entity. 

14. Assignment and Binding Effect 

This Agreement shall not be assigned by a Party without the prior written consent of the other Party. Any 

attempt to do so will be void. Subject to the preceding, this Agreement is binding upon, inures to the 

benefit of, and is enforceable by the Parties and their respective successors and assigns. Customer agrees to 

notify Utility in writing upon the sale or transfer of the Customer Facility. This Agreement shall terminate 

upon such notice unless Utility consents to an assignment. 

15. Severability 

If any provision of this Agreement is determined to be partially or wholly invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, 

then such provision shall be deemed to be modified or restricted to the extent necessary to make such 

provision valid, binding, and enforceable; or, if such provision cannot be modified or restricted in a manner 

so as to make such provision valid, binding or enforceable, then such provision shall be deemed to be 

excised from this Agreement and the validity, binding effect, and enforceability of the remaining 

provisions of this Agreement shall not be affected or impaired in any manner. 
Wyandotte Municipal Services

Expedited Generator Interconnection Requirements

Expedited Generator Interconnection Sept 2012 B-7

16. Signatures 

The Parties to this Agreement hereby agree to have two originals of this Agreement executed by their duly 

authorized representatives. This Agreement is effective as of the later (or latest) of the dates set forth 

below. 

UTILITY 

Signature:________________________________________________ 

Name:___________________________________________________ 

Title:____________________________________________________

Date:____________________________________________________ 

CUSTOMER 

Signature:________________________________________________ 

Name:___________________________________________________ 

Title:____________________________________________________

Date:____________________________________________________ 

PROPERTY OWNER (IF APPLICABLE) 

Signature:________________________________________________ 

Name:___________________________________________________ 

Title:____________________________________________________

Date:____________________________________________________