PacifiCorp is starting a bid process to add 1,270 megawatts (MW) of wind generating capacity in Wyoming. Those renewable energy resources, along with a new 500 kV transmission line (Aeolus to Bridger/Anticline), are expected to be in service by Dec. 31, 2020.
PacifiCorp says the new resources must be at least 20 MW in size. Although projects do not necessarily have to qualify for federal production tax credits (PTCs) the utility says it expected all of them to be PTC-eligible. Its 2017 integrated resource plan says it is likely that PTCs will be needed to deliver "all-in economic benefits for customers."
Proposed projects also must be capable of interconnecting with the PacifiCorp’s Wyoming transmission system including the Energy Gateway West sub-segment D2 transmission line running from Aeolus to Bridger/Anticline. In the alternative, the project must be able to deliver energy and capacity into PacifiCorp’s Wyoming transmission system.
The utility says it will consider both a build-transfer and a power purchase agreement (PPA) structure for the capacity.
Under a build-transfer the bidder develops the project, assumes responsibility for construction, and transfers the asset to PacifiCorp. Under a PPA, the developer would enter into a 20-year term with exclusive ownership by PacifiCorp of any environmental attributes associated with the energy generated. PPA structures can include an option for PacifiCorp to buy the project.
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