2026 Solar RFP

Duke Energy Carolinas (DEC) and Duke Energy Progress (DEP) are issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for solar energy projects in the Carolinas region. This RFP seeks proposals for solar photovoltaic generation facilities and solar projects with energy storage components (SPWS - Solar Plus With Storage) from qualified independent power producers and other eligible entities.

The 2026 Solar RFP includes opportunities for both traditional solar-only projects and integrated solar-plus-storage configurations. Proposals may also include asset acquisition opportunities (UOT - Utility Owned Technology) where Duke Energy may acquire existing solar assets. The RFP specifies detailed technical requirements including pollinator habitat standards, approved vendor lists, energy storage specifications, survey requirements using LiDAR technology, and asset transfer procedures.

Key submission requirements include Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) compliant with either the Solar Only template (Appendix A) or the SPWS template (Appendix B), letters of credit and bond documentation, completed scoring sheets, and for UOT proposals, asset purchase agreements with exhibits including LGIA assignments, bill of sale, assignment and assumption agreements, and lessor estoppel certificates.

The RFP process includes a Renewable Sourcing Committee (RSC) evaluation phase detailed in Appendix O. Bidders must meet technical specifications for equipment from approved vendors, survey standards including LiDAR mapping, and energy storage requirements as outlined in the technical appendices. All proposals are subject to interconnection considerations and must comply with Duke Energy's operational standards for utility-integrated renewable resources.