Stage 3 RFP Interconnection Process

Hawaiian Electric's Stage 3 Request for Proposals (RFP) process for utility-scale generation development across its service territory in Hawaii. This comprehensive interconnection process is designed for renewable energy and power generation projects subject to the Public Utilities Commission's Framework for Competitive Bidding. All projects with a net output greater than 5 MW on Oahu, 2.5 MW on Maui and Hawaii, and 250 kW on Molokai and Lanai are subject to this competitive bidding framework.

The interconnection process is divided into three major phases spanning approximately 1 to 9 years total. Part 1 (RFP and Selection Process) targets an 11-month timeline and involves PUC approval of the RFP, issuance by Hawaiian Electric, developer registration in the PowerAdvocate electronic procurement platform, submission of Developer's Response Packages, proposal evaluation, and final selection to the award group. Part 2 (Power Purchase Agreement and PUC Application) targets a 13-month timeline and includes PPA negotiation, Interconnection Requirements Study (IRS) completion with System Impact Study and Facility Study, Greenhouse Gas emissions analysis, community outreach requirements, and PUC application filing and approval. Part 3 (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Operation) spans 1 to 9 years depending on project complexity and includes developer EPC work, Hawaiian Electric's Company Owned Interconnection Facility (COIF) construction, permitting, land rights acquisition, site services procurement, interconnection facilities construction with inspection and acceptance testing, and final commercial operations.

Key requirements include submission of comprehensive Developer Response Packages containing proposal summary tables, financial information, contract exceptions, site information, environmental compliance and permitting plans, cultural resource impact assessments, community outreach plans, operations and maintenance details, performance standards, interconnection requirement studies with technical models and single-line diagrams, proven technology documentation, and experience qualifications. Developers must execute Mutual Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreements and register accounts in Hawaiian Electric's electronic procurement platform (PowerAdvocate/Sourcing Intelligence). Community outreach must include at least one community meeting held at least 3 months before PPA execution with public comment periods of 30 days. Interconnection facilities construction and testing must be completed with Hawaiian Electric inspection throughout and acceptance testing prior to energization. Control System Acceptance Testing Plans must be developed and executed before commercial operations can begin.