Michigan-based energy provider Consumers Energy has announced plans to seek potential buyers for its 13 hydroelectric dams located across the US state. This decision to issue a Request For Proposals (RFP) this month follows extensive community engagement and careful consideration of the dams' future, aiming to align with the interests of customers and local communities.
Norm Kapala, Vice President of Generation Operations at Consumers Energy, expressed gratitude for the valuable input received from communities and stakeholders over the past two years. Kapala stated: "Issuing an RFP for these historic facilities will provide even more opportunities for people to offer ideas to preserve the dams and their reservoirs, while also enabling Consumers Energy to reduce costs for all of our customers."
Clear Energy Brokerage & Consulting, LLC, a reputable firm based in Grand Rapids, has been appointed to design and oversee the RFP process. The RFP is set to commence on February 15, with a two-stage evaluation and bidding process expected to conclude by the end of 2024.
With federal operating licenses for the dams set to expire within a decade, potential options for their future include renewing operating licenses for an additional 30 years, transferring ownership, replacement, or removal.
Interested entities are encouraged to register their interest and submit initial bids by March 15. For further details and registration, Ryan Cook of Clear Energy Brokerage & Consulting LLC can be contacted at ryan.cook@clearenergybrokerage.com or +1 616-528-4682.
