2027 Independent Evaluator RFP

Puget Sound Energy (PSE) plans to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for an Independent Evaluator (IE) to support its upcoming electric resource RFPs for utility-scale resources, distributed solar and storage, and any other RFPs not exempt from Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 480-107. The IE is a third-party, unaffiliated with PSE, tasked with assessing the fairness and reasonableness of PSE's RFP process, evaluation criteria, and analysis of proposals. Per WAC 480-107-023, the IE is required if PSE, its subsidiary, or affiliate participates in bidding, or if PSE retains the option to own a resource, or is considering repowering. The IE will contract with PSE and be paid by PSE, with selection subject to Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) approval.

PSE's integrated system planning (ISP) process estimates that by 2030, the company will need to acquire 2.9 million MWh of renewable or non-emitting energy and address a winter peak capacity deficit of approximately 1,500 MW. To meet these requirements, PSE expects to issue a series of electric resource RFPs in coming years. This RFP specifically seeks an IE for the 2027 electric resource RFPs, which are expected to include one RFP for utility-scale resources and one for distributed solar and storage. Design work for one or both RFPs could begin as early as Q1 2027. The IE contract may also extend to additional RFPs through 2030.

The timeline for participation requires interested parties to contact PSE by August 27, 2026. To express interest or obtain information about the IE RFP, send an email to AllSourceRFPmailbox@pse.com. The RFP selection process will be subject to WUTC approval. Additional details on PSE's resource requirements are available from the July 27, 2026 public webinar on integrated system planning, and the full WAC regulations governing purchases of resources are referenced.