Xcel Energy's Southwestern Public Service Company (SPS) is seeking proposals for new renewable energy sources – particularly solar – as part of its plan to diversify its renewable energy portfolio in New Mexico.
Xcel Energy says Texas customers will also benefit from additional energy resources as well because the SPS system is interconnected across state lines, and power is shared between the two states.
SPS will require approximately 434,931 MWh of energy produced by renewable resources, or 10% of its New Mexico retail sales, beginning in 2011. This requirement increases to 15% of New Mexico retail sales beginning Jan. 1, 2015, followed by another increase beginning Jan. 1, 2020, to 20% of New Mexico retail sales.
Proposals are due Mon., May 5. Energy and renewable energy credits associated with new projects and offered in response to this solicitation are required to have achieved commercial operations by January 2011. However, as circumstances warrant, SPS may entertain offers with planned commercial operation dates after Jan. 1, 2011, the company notes.
