RFP 23NC1123

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has issued RFP 23NC1123 for a California Shared Renewables Portfolio Process and Impact Evaluation contract. The solicitation seeks a qualified contractor to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of two renewable energy programs: the modified Green Tariff program and the new Community Renewable Energy Program (CREP). Key deliverables include a project kickoff meeting, draft research plan, stakeholder workshops and webinars, monthly progress meetings, and draft and final report production. The evaluation will assess program metrics such as geographic coverage, customer participation, environmental benefits, and cost-effectiveness, with a specific focus on implementing California's Solar for All grant objectives. The RFP was released on March 24, 2025, with proposal responses due on April 24, 2025, by 10:00 AM PST. The contract will have a three-year term with a potential one-year optional extension, and the contractor will be responsible for detailed research, stakeholder engagement, and comprehensive reporting on community solar project impacts.

The procurement emphasizes 100% utilization of the award to enable low-income and disadvantaged communities to deploy zero-emissions technologies, with particular attention to residential rooftop solar, community solar, and energy storage infrastructure. The project is funded through multiple sources, including $33 million from the state legislature's 2023 budget, $200 million from the EPA's Solar for All competition, and potential additional funding from utility greenhouse gas auction proceeds and federal enhanced investment tax credits. While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed, the RFP strongly suggests a preference for contractors with demonstrated experience in supporting low-income and disadvantaged community solar initiatives. The total project budget appears substantial, with multiple funding streams totaling potentially over $233 million. The cost sheet provided indicates a structured approach to deliverables, though specific pricing details are not publicly disclosed in the attached documents. Contractors will need to demonstrate expertise in renewable energy program evaluation, community solar deployment, and comprehensive impact assessment methodologies.