APS Announces Upcoming Request for Energy from Small Renewable Projects

February 17, 2009

In March, APS will be announcing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for energy generated from small renewable projects.

The upcoming RFP was created to attract small renewable developers who, in the past, have had difficulty competing in a traditional RFP process. The new RFP helps these developers by streamlining proposal and contract procedures.

APS hopes to add 45,000 megawatt-hours of generation per year as a result of this solicitation. The power is expected to come from projects that provide at least 1,500 megawatt-hours per year. The actual megawatt hours procured will depend on several factors, including the cost to customers.

Developers are encouraged, as part of their project proposals, to include a partnership with municipal, governmental or educational institutions such as school systems or universities. By encouraging partnerships, APS hopes to create some of the same benefits large renewable energy projects bring to the communities they serve, including educational outreach, economic development and the opportunity to foster civic engagement in energy issues. The purpose of this release is to let interested parties know of the upcoming solicitation so that they can begin preliminary work on their proposals including finding partners.

To facilitate interaction between developers and institutions interested in partnering, APS has established an area on its Web site at  www.aps.com/rfp.

The small generation RFP was included in APS’ 2009 Renewable Energy Standard Implementation Plan that was approved by the Arizona Corporation Commission.

APS, Arizona’s largest and longest-serving electricity utility, serves about 1.1 million customers in 11 of the state’s 15 counties. In 2008, APS won its second Edison Award in recognition of innovative leadership and operational excellence in the electric industry. Given annually by the Edison Electric Institute, the Edison Award is considered the industry’s most prestigious honor. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW).

Steven Gotfried, Media Contact
(602) 250-3040

Gordon Samuel, RFP Contact
(602) 250-2298

Rebecca Hickman, Analyst Contact
(602) 250-5668