For the first time, Independent System Operator (ISO)-New England has issued its emergency request for proposals (RFP) for capacity help in Southwest Connecticut to include energy efficiency. This represents a marked change from the previous two years of emergency RFPs, where ISO-NE did not include any energy efficiency clauses but looked instead for measures to obtain additional generation and offered payments for customers to temporarily forego grid power. This amended RFP will allow efficiency providers to submit bids for up to 300 megawatts of load reduction.
NEEP partner Environment Northeast led the way, working as a member of the Connecticut Energy Conservation Management Board (ECMB) and engaging the support of the Connecticut DPUC to include energy efficiency in the ISO process. The bids will only be applied toward new projects not already covered by the state conservation fund programs.
As of this writing, proposals are due January 7, 2004, with service commencing June 4, though several NEEP partners are continuing to work with ISO-New England to ensure an adequate opportunity for energy efficiency providers to respond. Click here to access the actual RFP.