New York Power Authority seeks developers for SUNY Niagara Community College solar project

Proposals requested for up to 6 MW solar system with option of energy storage

The New York Power Authority is seeking developers to implement an up to 6 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) energy project with the option of battery energy storage at SUNY Niagara Community College in Sanborn. The solicitation, which was issued today and requires submissions by April 17, is asking for proposals to help the college increase its use of renewable energy and reduce its carbon emissions to help New York move toward a cleaner future.

“The Power Authority is proud to help SUNY Niagara take a major step toward its sustainability goals by advising the college in choosing an environmentally friendly energy solution that brings financial savings,” said Justin E. Driscoll, the Power Authority’s president and CEO. “Bringing the right developer on board will activate one more opportunity for renewable growth and help New York state make the transition to clean energy.”

NYPA is requesting competitively priced proposals on behalf of SUNY Niagara to design, construct, install, finance, own, operate and maintain solar photovoltaic and battery energy storage systems at 3111 Saunders Settlement Road in Sanborn. Evaluation criteria will include technical competency, implementation approach, strength of management team, price, risk analysis, and schedule for project delivery and completion.

SUNY Niagara President William Murabito said, “This project aligns our campus with SUNY and the governor’s clean energy direction. We look forward to partnering with the New York Power Authority to bring a solar array to fruition on our campus.”

NYPA conducted preliminary site assessments and anticipates installing a ground-mounted system with up to 6.0 MW of solar PV and potentially a 3 MW option of battery energy storage on a vacant parcel on the west side of the college campus. The systems will either be connected as “front-of-the-meter” or “behind-the-meter” resources.

NYPA’s role includes conducting individual site analysis, consolidating usage data and determining economic viability. The Power Authority will also review and evaluate the proposals, deliver a recommendation, and provide ongoing support during contract execution and project installation.

The selected proposer will enter an up-to 25-year power purchase agreement with the college detailing the commercial terms and conditions and operation and maintenance of the system.

The college aims to incorporate clean renewable energy resources and support the Climate Act’s renewable energy goals to reduce greenhouse gases 40% and achieve 70% of New York's electricity through renewable sources by 2030.

Proposers must demonstrate past success in the development, design, installation, operation and maintenance of Solar PV.

Developers are invited to participate in a walk-through at the site on March 26.

For more information and to review the RFP, access NYPA’s procurement site here.