DTE Energy Seeks Solar Panel Equipment

DTE Energy has issued a request for proposals to identify qualified solar photovoltaic panel suppliers to provide solar panels and logistics for the company's solar energy installations.

DTE Energy plans to install PV systems through 2014 at locations throughout the company's service area. DTE Energy will own and operate the solar energy systems, which will be ground-mounted or on rooftops of commercial and industrial customers, or at DTE Energy locations. This year, panels totaling 3 megawatts will be sought; up to 12 MW could be installed by 2014.

The company is seeking manufacturers or suppliers who have strong qualifications and proven PV module technology installed in the United States.

The electricity produced from the proposed solar energy installations will help DTE Energy achieve Michigan's new Renewable Portfolio Standard, which calls for 10 percent of a utility's retail electric sales to come from renewable resources by 2015.

"This is another step in making Southeastern Michigan more self-sufficient when it comes to energy," said Trevor Lauer, DTE Energy vice president, marketing and renewables. "Moving to solar and wind energy is all possible because of the comprehensive energy legislation passed in 2008."

Detailed bid documents for the prequalification are available at www.dteenergy.com/renewsuppliers.

Potential bidders must register with the PowerAdvocate bid event platform to participate in the RFP. The PowerAdvocate registration site is www.poweradvocate.com. Responses are due by April 26. If the potential respondent already has a PowerAdvocate user ID and password, they should send an email to renewsuppliers@dteenergy.com and in the subject line request access to Event 26626.