The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has selected a smart grid solar photovoltaic project being studied by Tampa, Fla.-based Seminole Electric Cooperative, a nonprofit generation and transmission cooperative, for access to up to $34 million in low-cost project funding.
The IRS has awarded Seminole the right to issue up to $34 million in new clean renewable energy bonds (CREBs) to finance a potential 1.5 MW solar energy project. Seminole is evaluating its natural-gas-fueled Midulla Generating Station, in southwest Florida, as a site for the facility, which would consist of an array of solar photovoltaic panels and associated energy-storage capabilities.
Seminole has published a request for proposals for the PV portion of the project. Bidding is open to prequalified vendors with experience in developing large-scale PV projects. The cooperative expects to make a final decision on developing the project by March 2010.
SOURCE: Seminole Electric Cooperative
