Barbados RFP Energy Storage Services from BESS

This Request for Proposals seeks qualified developers to deploy 60 MW (240 MWh) of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) across Barbados in the first tranche of a competitive procurement process. The project aims to unlock renewable energy access to the grid, improve grid stability, enable better demand management, mitigate supply interruptions, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels while supporting Barbados' 100% renewable energy target by 2030.

Eligible projects must be between 1 MW and 20 MW in capacity, with a maximum of 30 MW awarded per bidder. The procurement is open to both local and international developers. Successful bidders will receive a Storage Licence from the Ministry of Energy and Business (MEB) and enter into a long-term Energy Storage Agreement (ESAG) with Barbados Light and Power Company, the nation's private-owned utility. Projects will be developed on a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) basis, with awarded developers responsible for site rights, permits, design, financing, construction, commissioning, maintenance, and decommissioning.

Submission requirements include a participation fee of BBD 10,000 (payable to the Treasury of Barbados) and a bid bond of BBD 38,000/MW accompanying each proposal. A construction security deposit of BBD 580,000/MW is required following contract execution. The award process involves simultaneous electronic submission of Technical (pass/fail assessment) and Financial Proposals, with successful bidders selected based on the lowest price among technically qualified bids.

A Revolving Liquidity Guarantee Facility, issued and administered by the Central Bank of Barbados through financial institutions, will protect awarded projects by ensuring payments for up to three months in case of BLPC delays or defaults. Complete RFP documentation, including requirements, conditions, Energy Storage Agreement, Energy Storage Licence, and Interconnection Agreement, is available on the Government of Barbados e-Procurement Portal.