The Ontario Power Authority is in the process of receiving input on the design of its new process for procurement of large scale renewable power projects (LRP). It has prepared plans for issuing an RFQ (Request for Qualifications) after receiving input from stakeholders and is now in the process of receiving input from stakeholders on the draft framework for its RFP (Request for Proposals).
APPrO and other groups made submissions to the OPA in late August and early September. APPrO’s recommendations suggested changes that it believes would allow for more precise and definite evaluation criteria for the purpose of evaluating project risk and viability. Because the LRP encompasses four types of technology (hydroelectric, wind, solar and biomass), APPrO recommended the use of criteria specific to the type of technology, and a selection process that relates directly to the four sets of criteria, and to available connection capacity. The OPA expects to continue consulting with stakeholders in the coming weeks and release a more final framework for the RFP in November.
See also “OPA outlines framework for Large Renewable Procurement,” IPPSO FACTO, August 2014.