new england clean energy request for proposal application...
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NEW ENGLAND CLEAN ENERGY
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL APPLICATION FORM
APPLICANT INFORMATION
Applicant: Ameresco, Inc. Address: 111 Speen St, Suite 410
Framingham, MA 01701
Contact: James Walker, P.E. Phone: 508-598-3030
email: [email protected]
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SECTION 1 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – CERTIFICATION, PROJECT AND
PRICING DATA
The Certification, Project and Pricing Data (“CPPD”) document is a Microsoft Excel workbook
that is provided on the website at www.cleanenergyrfp.com.
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SECTION 2 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PROPOSAL
(INCLUDING THE BASE PROPOSAL AND ANY ALTERNATIVE PROPOSALS)
The bidder is required to provide an executive summary of the project proposal that includes a
complete description of the proposed project, the proposed contract term and pricing schedule,
and other factors the bidder deems to be important.
Candlewood Solar Project
Ameresco: A financially strong, experienced, and reliable project developer/owner
1) Financially strong: Ameresco is a profitable, public company (AMRC) that has built
more than $3 billion of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. Our total backlog
was $1.2 billion in fiscal year 2014. Our fiscal year 2014 revenues were $593 million.
Ameresco for year end 2014 had total assets of approximately $629 million, cash in excess
of $23 million and a $100 million credit facility. 2) Experienced: We design, engineer,
finance, own, and operate solar PV projects as well as landfill gas generators and other
power plants, including the 20 MW Savannah River biomass cogeneration plant. We have
constructed 221 solar PV projects or 64 MW, with 56 MW under construction, and an
additional 87 MW awarded. We recently completed an 18.6 MW solar PV project for Fort
Detrick in Maryland. 3) Reliable: Ameresco has built 100% of its awarded solar PV
projects.
Project Description: 20 MW Solar PV Project in New Milford, CT
1) Project Size: 20 MW AC power; 25 MW DC; 32,815 MWH in year 1; 2) Interconnection
Point: Rocky River Substation (New Milford, CT); 3) Point of Delivery (ISO-NE PTF
Node): Rocky River Substation; 4) Interconnection Application: Application filed with
Eversource on January 27, 2016; 5) Major Equipment: a) Solar PV modules - 320 watt JA
Solar, b) Inverters: Schneider Electric 680 kW (quantity 30); System Voltage: 1000 volts
DC at the solar PV array, 380 V AC from the Inverter; 23 KV leaving the on-site
transformer and delivered to the Rocky River Substation, which will interconnect the solar
PV generated power to the 115 KV transmission grid.
Project Siting
The Candlewood Solar Project is a ground-mounted solar PV project located on 98 acres of
privately owned land in New Milford, CT. The edge of the array is located within 1 mile
along an Eversource right of way to the Rocky River Substation. Ameresco and its
construction contractors and environmental consultant have conducted technical analysis
of the suitability of this property for solar development. Based on the positive results of this
site evaluation, we executed a Letter of Intent to lease a portion of the parcel with New
Milford Clean Power LLC. New Milford Clean Power LLC has exclusive development
rights with the land owner.
Project Implementation and Financing
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
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Ameresco is the sole developer, construction manager, and operator of the project.
Ameresco has financed more than $1.8 billion in energy projects since 2000, and will fully
self-finance the development, permitting and construction of the project through available
cash and bank credit lines. We anticipate using a Partnership Flip structure to finance
project operation, similar to our completed 18.6MW solar PV project at Ft. Detrick in
Fredericksburg, MD. In this financial structure, Ameresco and a tax equity partner will
share in the tax equity benefits with a project lender providing the secondary sources of
capital.
Proposed Contract Term: 20 Year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for energy and
RECs.
Ameresco has reviewed the terms of the draft Power Purchase Agreement and finds the
applicable material terms generally acceptable. However, if awarded the project,
Ameresco intends to negotiate the power purchase agreement with the EDC and will
require revisions to reflect the proposed purchase and sale of intermittent unit contingent
solar power and RECs as set forth in this bid.
Proposed Price: 1) Energy:
; 2) RECs: .
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
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SECTION 3 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS
3.1 Maintenance Outage Requirements - Specify partial and complete planned outage
requirements in weeks or days. Also, list the number of months required for the cycle to
repeat (e.g., list time interval of minor and major overhauls, and the duration of
overhauls). (Not applicable for bids for Firm Qualified Clean Energy from a Large Scale
Hydro Resource)
Except for the replacement of inverters in year 12, there are no planned outage
requirements for the solar PV system. During the replacement of inverters in year 12,
we expect only 10% of the array will be shut down at any one time for a maximum of
two days for each power skid. The project is comprised of ten power skids, in each
power skid there are three 680 kW inverters and one 2,040 kVA transformer. Shutting
down one power skid will result in the expeted 10% array loss during interver
replacment.
3.2 Operating Constraints - Specify all the expected operating constraints and operational
restrictions for the project (i.e., limits on the number of hours a unit may be operated per
year or unit of time). (Not applicable for bids for Firm Qualified Clean Energy from a
Large Scale Hydro Resource)
There are no operating constraints or operational restrictions, except those caused by
solar incidence. We expect the solar PV array will be unit contingent because it is an
intermittent resource subject to available sunlight.
3.3 Reliability - Describe how the proposal would provide enhanced electricity reliability
within the States of Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, including its impact
on transmission constraints.
As long as the sun is shining, solar PV units have high reliability because there are no
moving parts in the power generation system. Ameresco's fleet of solar PV systems have
high reliability after start-up. Since the PV array is connected to the New Milford,
Rocky River substation in southwest Connecticut, a constrained ISO-NE zone, the
array will contribute to reducing transmission constraints during summer peak hours.
3.4 Moderation of System Peak Load - Describe how the proposal would contribute to
moderating system peak load requirements. If the project is an intermittent resource,
please provide the following information:
i) Estimated average output for each summer period (June- September) from 1:00 -
6:00 pm
ii) Estimated average output for each winter period (October-May) from 5:00 – 7:00
pm
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The system will generate it highest energy output during summer peak hours. 1)
Estimated average output for each summer period (June-September) from 1:00-6:00
pm: 41 MWh / summer period. 2) Estimated average output for each winter period
(October-May) from 5:00-7:00 pm: 0.6 MWh / winter period. (Note: These estimates
assume an approximate P50 estimate. We simulated the P50 methodology with the
NREL System Advisor Model (SAM) and, separately modeled the generation output
with the PVSYST model. The annual P50 result and the PVSYST result were within
1/2% of each other. Due to the closeness of the results, we used the hourly output of the
PVSyst model since the SAM model does not permit hourly data extracts.
Appendix 1 shows the PVSyst and P50 outputs.
3.5 Development Stage of Facility - Describe whether the project is in operation, in
construction or in the development phase.
(a) If in operation, when did the project achieve initial operation and commercial
operation?
(b) If in construction, when did construction commence and what are the projected
dates for initial testing commercial operation.
(c) If the project is partly in one development stage and partly in another, please
explain in detail the status of the project.
The project is in the development phase. The project team has conducted/completed the
following activities:
• Site control: Acquisition of exclusive site control of the land parcel where the system is
to be sited, in the form of a purchase option between the current and prospective land
owner (New Milford Clean Power, LLC), and a Letter of Intent to Lease a portion of
the property between Ameresco and New Milford Clean Power, LLC for construction
and operation of the solar PV system. See Appendix 2 for executed site control
documents.
• System Design: Completion of the 30% panel design layout and one-line electrical
drawings, including specification of number of solar PV panels, inverters, racking type,
and transformers.
• Interconnection Application: Preparation and submittal to Eversource of the
Interconnection Application including stamped electrical one line diagram.
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• Local property taxes and project acceptance by town. Initial meetings with the Town
of New Milford local government, including meetings with the Mayor and Town
Council to review the project. We have received preliminary acceptance of the project.
• Connecticut Siting Council: Initial discussion with the Connecticut Siting Council.
• Environmental Permitting. Initial environmental siting and permitting review by
Ameresco's environmental consultant, AMEC Foster Wheeler
If the proposed project is an expansion, repowering, environmental investment or other
modification of an existing Facility, please describe the project in detail, the total installed cost
and cost on a $/kW basis specifying the existing project and the proposed expansion, repowering
or other modification. Indicate any incremental or decremental capacity.
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SECTION 4 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – ENERGY RESOURCE PLAN
For Eligible Facilities, the bidder is required to provide an energy resource or fuel supply plan
for its proposed project, including supporting documentation. The fuel supply/energy resource
profile information should be consistent with the type of technology/resource option proposed
and the term proposed. The information requested is organized according to the type of project
or energy resource. Bidders should respond only to relevant questions.
4.1 Wind Energy Projects
Provide a summary of all collected wind data for the proposed site. Identify when the data
was collected and by whom.
Not applicable
Indicate where the data was collected and its proximity to the proposed site. Include an
identification of the location and height for the anemometers that were used to arrive at an
assessment of the site generation capability.
Not applicable
Provide (a) at least one year of hourly wind resource data, or (b) a wind resource assessment
report from a qualified resource assessment firm or meteorologist, or (c) - both. Include an
analysis of the available wind data which addresses the relationship between wind conditions
and electrical output. Provide a projection of net annual energy production, including
projections of average net hourly energy production, based on the wind resource data (a 12 x
24 energy projection).
Not applicable
Provide a site-adjusted power curve. Each curve should list the elevation, temperature and
air density used.
Not applicable
Identify the assumptions for losses in the calculation of projected annual energy production,
including each element in the calculation of losses.
Not applicable
4.2 Landfill Gas
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Provide a gas production forecast for each landfill. Provide a table that shows the annual,
monthly and hourly projection of gas flow and energy export from each landfill.
Not applicable
Provide supporting data that illustrates the expected generation from each landfill based on
the projected gas production.
Not applicable
Describe any contingencies or constraints that could affect the availability of fuel or the
energy resource for the project and any contingency plans for meeting projected generation
levels.
Not applicable
If the landfill gas is provided by pipeline, provide information related to gas pipeline
delivery, including gas pipeline interconnection points of the landfills delivering the gas into
the pipeline system.
Not applicable
4.3 Biomass
Describe specifically how the project will conform to: (1) Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 16-1(26) and
Connecticut Public Act 13-303, An Act Concerning Connecticut’s Clean Energy Goals,
governing resources using biomass fuel, including how your fuel source complies with Conn.
Gen. Stat. Sec. 16-1(26); (2) the Massachusetts biomass laws and regulations M.G.L. c. 25A,
§ 11F, and 225 CMR 14.00; and/or Chapter 39-26 of the Rhode Island General Laws.
Not applicable
Provide a resource assessment of available biomass fuel for the proposed project and its
proximity to the project site.
Not applicable
Provide a plan for obtaining the biomass fuel, including a transportation plan.
Not applicable
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Provide any contracts or letters of intent to acquire and transport the biomass fuel.
Not applicable
Demonstrate that projected energy output for the project over the term of the contract is
consistent with the energy supply available.
Not applicable
Describe any contingencies or constraints that could affect the availability of fuel or the
energy resource for the project and any contingency plans for meeting projected generation
levels.
Not applicable
4.4 Solar
Provide an assessment of the available solar incidence or resource. Describe any trends in
generation capability over time (i.e., annual decline rate of expected output).
The available annual solar incidence or resource is estimated to be approximately 1,419
kWh/m2 (Global Horizontal Irradiance) on a horizontal flat surface. This value comes
from the geographically closest National Solar Radiation Data Base (NSRDB) Class 1
TMY3 Dataset in Bridgeport, CT. The available annual incident energy on the modules
is 1,584 kWh/m2 after taking the module orientation and 20 degree tilt angle into
account.
Ameresco uses only typical meteorological year (TMY) data sets from Class I facilities
in our production modeling to incorporate the highest quality data in our analysis. The
TMY3s are data sets of hourly values of solar radiation and meteorological elements for
a typical 1-year period.
Generation capability is assumed to decline at an annual rate 0.5% of expected output
due to expected annual panel degradation. This assumption is based on NREL's
"Photovoltaic Degradation Rates- An Analytical Review" published in June 2012.
Describe the methodology used to generate the projected generation and describe the in-
house or consulting expertise used to arrive at the generation estimates.
Ameresco utilized PVSyst and P50 modeling software to generate the projected
generation of the project using our in-house solar PV design engineers. Ameresco's
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senior engineers hold professional engineering licenses and/or North American Board
of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certifications.
We have conducted a PVSyst analysis of the designed solar PV system, using typical
meteorological year (TMY3) Class I meteorological data from Bridgeport, CT. The
detailed losses and other assumptions used in the PVSyst modeling are derived from
industry standards, collaboration with independent engineers, and calculations based
on actual design conditions. Additionally, the snow related soiling losses are calculated
using an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) peer-reviewed snow
soiling method and historical snowfall data from National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) database at the nearby Danbury, CT weather station.
A P50 analysis was also performed using 30 consecutive individual years of weather
data through NREL's System Advisor Model (SAM) to determine the P50/P90
production value estimates, however due to limitations of both PVSyst and SAM
modeling tools, hourly information of the P50/P90 results are not possible to export.
The hourly data contained in the 12 x 24 profile is therefore taken from the PVSyst
model. The annual P50/P90 estimates of production are: P50 = 32,959,000 kWh. The
PVSyst output provides the following projected output from the system on an annual
basis, in close agreement with the P50 value from above: Predicted Year 1 Generation:
32,815 MWh
Appendix 1 shows the PVSyst and P50 outputs.
4.5 Hydropower
Describe the project characteristics in terms of water flow (on a monthly basis) and head, and
state the assumptions regarding seasonal variations, and a conversion of such flow into
megawatts and megawatt-hours.
Not applicable
Provide monthly flow duration curves based upon daily stream flow records.
Not applicable
Identify if the project is run-of-river or has storage capability.
Run-of-river Storage capability
Specify if the project is new, or an expansion of an existing facility.
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New Expansion
Specify if the energy would qualify as Tier I Renewable Generation. If the project already
has Tier I certification, provide or reference the documentation providing such qualification.
If the project does not have Tier I certification; (1) describe the actions proposed to be taken
by the bidder to accomplish such qualification; or (2) describe how the project meets the
requirements of Section 4 of the Connecticut Public Act 13-303 or Section 1(c) of
Connecticut Public Act 15-107.
Tier I Renewable Generation or Description:
Not applicable
The bidder must disclose in its bid how they propose to certify that the environmental
attributes are included with the energy delivered.
Not applicable
4.6 Fuel Cell
Describe how the natural gas for the Fuel Cell will be procured and whether its energy will
be delivered on a firm or non-firm basis for the term of the agreement.
Natural gas source(s) Not applicable
Firm Non-firm
Provide supporting data that illustrates the expected generation from the fuel cell considering
the need for restacking.
Not applicable
4.7 Other
Identification of fuel supply (if applicable).
What is the availability of the fuel supply?
Does the bidder have any firm commitments from fuel suppliers? If so, please provide a
copy of any agreements with confidential information redacted if necessary. Yes: No:
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Not applicable
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SECTION 5 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – FINANCIAL/LEGAL
Bidders are required to demonstrate the financial viability of their proposed project. Bidders
should provide the following information:
5.1 Provide a description of the business entity structure of the bidder’s organization from a
financial and legal perspective, including any general and limited partners, officers,
directors, managers, members and shareholders, involvement of any subsidiaries
supporting the project, and the providers of equity and debt during project development.
Provide an organization chart showing the relationship between the equity participants and
an explanation of the relationships. For jointly owned facilities, identify all owners and
their respective interests, and document the bidder’s right to submit a binding proposal.
Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC) is a public corporation. A full description of
financial results, officers, and major shareholders is contained in Ameresco's annual
report filed on form 10-K. These documents are available at the SEC EDGAR
website (http://www.sec.gov/cgi-bin/browse-
edgar?company=Ameresco&owner=exclude&action=getcompany).
Subsidiaries: Ameresco has set up a wholly-owned special purpose entity for this
project: Candlewood Solar LLC, a Delaware corporation. Ameresco, Inc. will
provide all project development, engineering, financial services, and maintenance
services to the subsidiary.
Project Development:
to
fund the project’s development and construction. There will be no other
subsidiaries, equity partners or joint ventures during the development and
construction period.
Organizational Chart. Since Ameresco will not rely on third parties for development
and construction financing, except through its existing lines of bank credit, no
organizational chart is required.
5.2 For projects that include new facilities or capital investment, provide a description of the
financing plan for the project, including construction and term financing. The financing
plan should address the following:
i. Who will finance the project and how it will be financed
As described in answer 5.1, Ameresco will use
for development and construction financing.
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For long-term financing, Ameresco will use the for
solar PV financing. We have not yet picked out our financing partner for this
project, but for our recent for the 18.6 MW Fort
Detrick project, our tax equity partner was a .
A Deloitte Tax LLP presentation on the can be
found here:
ii. The project’s projected financial structure
Due to the size of this particular transaction, we anticipate using a
,
. Per the diagram in Appendix 3
Ameresco and a tax equity partner will share in the tax equity benefits with a
project lender providing the secondary sources of capital.
iii. Expected sources of debt and equity financing
Ameresco will confirm the specific parties that will finance this project after
a competitive solicitation. As stated above, our on
project with providing tax
equity financing. Prior Ameresco lenders, who have the capability to provide
secondary source debt,
iv. Estimated construction costs
, excluding long-term financing structure costs
v. The projected capital structure
Under a Ameresco and a Tax Equity partner
provide approximately in the project with a secondary
source of debt to provide the remaining capital.
vi. Describe any agreements entered into with respect to equity ownership in the
proposed project and any other financing arrangement.
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As stated above, Ameresco has entered into a with
for the tax equity portion of the
. We have not yet entered into long-term financing agreements for this
proposed project. We expect we will be able to readily enter into such an
agreement for this proposed project after we execute the Power Purchase
Agreement with the participating utility and finalize all other necessary and
required permits and agreements.
With respect to financing arrangements, under a
Ameresco will provide as
equity; and a tax equity partner
The two partners will share the and a
for a period of 6 years at which point Ameresco will
buy out the tax equity provider and become the sole equity holder.
In addition, the financing plan should address the status of the above activities as well
as the financing of development and permitting costs. All bidders are required to
provide this information.
Financing development and permitting costs: As stated above Ameresco already
has the cash and bank lines of credit with to begin construction
as soon as the PPA is executed and all permits and other agreements, including the
interconnection service agreement are executed.
Long-term financing: As stated above, Ameresco's project finance group has not
yet secured the long-term partnership financing for this project. Given our track
record of raising $1.8 billion in project finance funds, we see no delays or
constraints on our ability to raise the financing once the PPA is executed.
5.3 Provide documentation illustrating the experience of the project sponsor in securing
financing for projects of similar size and technology. For each project previously financed
provide the following information:
i. Project name and location
ii. Project type and size
iii. Date of construction and permanent financing
iv. Form of debt and equity financing
Representative renewable energy financings include:
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a. $195.0 million for the single largest federal Energy Service Performance
Contract (“ESPC”) to build a biomass plant in Savannah, GA.
b. $59.0 million Certificate of Participation (“COP”) for a Massachusetts
housing authority.
c. $50 million solar financing (Sales Leaseback) for Northeast projects.
d. $23.3 million Qualified Energy Conservation Bond financing for a combined
solar PV (3.1MW) and energy efficiency project for a Minnesota airport.
e. $14.5 million Tax Exempt Lease Purchase (“TELP”) for a South Carolina
university.
Three project descriptions are shown below:
1) NAME: Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD
PROJECT TYPE: Ground-mount solar PV, micro grid ready
PROJECT SIZE: 18.6 MW-dc
CONSTRUCTION VALUE: $35 million
CONTRACT TYPE: 25-year Power Purchase Agreement.
YEAR COMPLETED: Construction completed, expect to be operational by
March 2016
DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION FINANCING: Ameresco with its
bank credit lines
LONG-TERM FINANCING STRUCTURE:
2) NAME: Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
PROJECT TYPE: Parking garage solar PV, electric vehicle charging stations, and
LED lighting retrofits
PROJECT SIZE: 3 MW solar PV
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CONSTRUCTION VALUE: $25.4 million
CONTRACT TYPE: Energy Services Performance Contract
YEAR COMPLETED: 2015
DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION FINANCING: Ameresco with its
bank credit LINES
LONG-TERM FINANCING: Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs)
3) NAME: Savannah River Biomass Power Plant, Aiken South Carolina
PROJECT TYPE: Biomass Power Plant
PROJECT SIZE: 20 MW and 240,000 pounds of steam per hour
CONSTRUCTION VALUE: $195 million
CONTRACT TYPE: Energy Services Performance Contract
YEAR COMPLETED: January 2012
DEVELOPMENT FINANCING: Ameresco internally funded the preliminary
development and engineering of this project.
CONSTRUCTION FINANCING AND LONG-TERM FINANCING
STRUCTURE: Ameresco closed a $195M financing facility to fund the
construction of the project.
were the financing partners. Following
construction, the loan was transferred to the federal government with payments
guaranteed out of the savings from Ameresco's operation of the facility.
5.4 For projects that include new facilities or capital investment, provide evidence that the
bidder has the financial resources and financial strength to complete and operate the project
as planned.
As shown in the previous question, Ameresco has a proven track record of
financing the all its construction projects.
Ameresco (NYSE: AMRC) has been in business for more 15 years and has
acquired companies with as many as 40 years of operating history.
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Ameresco is one of the largest independent energy services companies in the
United States with 2014 revenues of more than $593 million and a construction
backlog exceeding $1.2 billion. As of September 30, 2015 we had total assets of
$694 million, liabilities of $408 million and equity of $287 million. We had cash
and equivalents of $36 million and working capital of $74 million.
Ameresco’s debt consists of term loans and senior secured credit facilities
negotiated with major finance companies. Ameresco has adequate liquidity to
service its debt and ample capacity to continue raising significant project
financing.
Approximately $77 million of the company’s outstanding long-term debt as of
December 31, 2014 is structured as limited recourse financing associated with the
construction of 180 MW of landfill gas and solar assets the company has retained
on its balance sheet.
In addition, the company maintains a $1.4 billion surety credit facility through
two corporate providers, both with an AM Best Rating of “A Excellent”.
Under Ameresco's credit agreements, the company is required to maintain
minimum EBITDA of $27M on a trailing 4-quarter basis, a maximum debt-to-
EBITDA ratio of 2.0x and a minimum ratio of cash flow to debt service for the
trailing 4 fiscal quarters as a result of the company’s credit facilities and term
loans. As of December 31, 2014 Ameresco was in compliance with all the financial
and operational covenants in the senior credit facility and does not consider it
likely that it will fail to comply with these covenants for the next twelve months.
For the year ending December 31, 2014 Ameresco generated adjusted EBITDA of
$39 million and adjusted cash from operations of $51 million, compared to its
interest expense of $5.9 million. 44% of the company’s long term debt is due
beyond 2020.
As a NYSE-listed company with a proven track record and strong balance sheet,
Ameresco also retains the option to raise equity capital in the public markets.
5.5 Provide copies of the most recent audited financial statement or annual report for each
bidder for each of the past three years; including affiliates of the bidder (if audited
statements are not available, unaudited statements are to be provided). Also, provide the
credit ratings from Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s (the senior unsecured long term debt
rating or if not available, the corporate rating) of the bidder and any affiliates and partners.
See Ameresco's annual report filed on form 10-K in 2014 in Appendix 4. Copies
of previous years annual reports are available at the SEC EDGAR website
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
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(http://www.sec.gov/cgi-bin/browse-
edgar?company=Ameresco&owner=exclude&action=getcompany).
5.6 The bidder should demonstrate its ability (and/or the ability of its credit support provider)
to provide the required security, including its plan for doing so.
As stated in sectioon 5.4, as of September 30, 2015 Ameresco had total assets of
$694 million, liabilities of $408 million and equity of $287 million. We had cash
and equivalents of $36 million and working capital of $74 million. .
5.7 Provide a description of any current or recent credit issues/ credit rating downgrade events
regarding the bidder or affiliate entities raised by rating agencies, banks, or accounting
firms.
Not applicable. Ameresco’s obligations are not rated by the major credit ratings
agencies. We have years of audited financial reports, and remain in good standing
with our auditors, creditors and shareholders.
McGladrey LLP, our independent auditors, most recently found that our
“consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of Ameresco, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31,
2014…and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years
in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion,
Ameresco, Inc. and Subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective
internal control over financial reporting.”
5.8 Describe the role of the Federal Production Tax Credit or Investment Tax Credit (or other
incentives) on the financing of the project.
The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is vital to supporting this solar project. This
incentive allows Ameresco or a third party to monetize certain tax attributes in
addition to contracted cash flows. The 30% ITC was recently extended in
December 2015 for projects that have commenced construction as of December 31,
2019 – ensuring a robust tax equity financing market and providing ample time to
execute this project.
5.9 Bidders must disclose any pending (currently or in the past three years) or threatened
litigation or disputes related to projects developed, owned or managed by bidder or any of
its affiliates in the United States, or related to any energy product sale agreement.
Although Ameresco cannot predict with certainty the ultimate resolution of any
pending or threatened proceedings, lawsuits, investigations or any claims against
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
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us, Ameresco does not believe the ultimate resolution of any of the existing or
threatened claims, actions, suits, investigations, or other proceedings pending or,
to the knowledge, of Ameresco, threatened, matters to which we are a party,
which, if adversely decided, would prevent or impair, in whole or in part,
performance by Ameresco of its obligations under this proposed agreement or
would have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of
operations. A further discussion of Ameresco's pending or threatened litigations
may be found in our most recent 10 – K and 10 – Q reports, which are located on
the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission website as follows:
10 – K:
http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1488139/000148813915000011/amrc12312
01410-k.htm
10- Q:
http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1488139/000148813915000075/amrc93020
1510-qq315.htm
5.10 What is the expected operating life of the proposed project?
We are proposing a 20-year power purchase agreement, but solar PV facilities if
properly maintained, have been demonstrated to show operating lifetimes in
excess of 30 years.
5.11 For projects that include new facilities or capital investment, has the bidder already
obtained financing, or a commitment of financing, for the project? Is such financing or
financing commitment contingent on obtaining a long-term agreement, such as one that
would be obtained if the bidder’s proposal is accepted? If financing has not been obtained,
explain how obtaining a long-term agreement as proposed will help you in obtaining
financing for the proposed project or in obtaining more favorable terms for the financing of
the proposed project.
As stated above, Ameresco has not yet sought or obtained long-term financing for
this proposed solar project. Ameresco already has in place the financing for
development and construction financing.
Due to our bank relationships, we will not start the financing process until after
the PPA is signed. Our financing partners prefer not to begin the expensive legal
process to structure a partnership flip financing until the project is proven real
and viable following execution of the necessary PPA agreement, lease agreement,
and interconnection services agreement. The project financing will be contingent
on normal and customary due diligence and closing procedures of the banks.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
22
5.12 State whether the bidder or its affiliates have executed agreements with respect to energy,
RECs and/or capacity for the project (including any agreements that have been terminated)
and provide information regarding the associated term and quantities, and whether bidder
has been alleged to have defaulted under or breached any such agreement.
This project is still in development and we have not executed energy and REC
agreements. We reserve the right to offer the generation products from this
proposed project to other utility solicitations until a PPA is executed.
Under any other project agreements for energy or RECs delivery, Ameresco has
not defaulted or breached any of its delivery agreements.
5.13 Description of bidder and all affiliated entities and joint ventures transacting business in the
energy sector.
Founded in 2000, Ameresco, Inc., headquartered in Framingham, MA, is a leading
independent provider of comprehensive services, energy efficiency, infrastructure
upgrades, asset sustainability and renewable energy solutions for businesses and
organizations throughout North America and Europe.
Ameresco’s sustainability services include upgrades to a facility’s energy
infrastructure and the development, construction and operation of renewable
energy plants. Ameresco has successfully completed energy saving,
environmentally responsible projects with Federal, state and local governments,
healthcare and educational institutions, housing authorities, and commercial and
industrial customers. With its corporate headquarters in Framingham, MA,
Ameresco has more than 1,000 employees providing local expertise in the United
States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Strategic acquisitions of complementary businesses and assets have been an
important part of our historical development. Since inception, we have completed
numerous acquisitions, which have enabled us to broaden our service offerings
and expand our geographical reach.
With respect to renewable energy assets that we build, own, operate, and
maintain, our projects include the following technologies: solar PV, biomass,
anaerobic digestion, combined heat and power, and landfill gas generation plants.
5.14 Has bidder, or any affiliate of bidder, in the last five years, (a) consented to the
appointment of, or was taken in possession by, a receiver, trustee, custodian or liquidator of
a substantial part of its assets, (b) filed a bankruptcy petition in any bankruptcy court
proceeding, (c) answered, consented or sought relief under any bankruptcy or similar law
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
23
or failed to obtain a dismissal of an involuntary petition, (d) admitted in writing of its
inability to pay its debts when due, (e) made a general assignment for the benefit of
creditors, (f) was the subject of an involuntary proceeding seeking to adjudicate that Party
bankrupt or insolvent, (g) sought reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, or composition
of it or its debt under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization or relief
of debtors.
No, to all of the above.
5.15 Briefly describe any known conflicts of interest between bidder or an affiliate of bidder and
any Soliciting Party, or any affiliates of the foregoing.
There are no known conflicts of interest between bidder or an affiliate of bidder
and any Soliciting Party.
5.16 Describe any litigation, disputes, claims or complaints involving the bidder or an affiliate
of bidder, against any Soliciting Party or any affiliate of any Soliciting Party.
None.
5.17 Describe any litigation, disputes, claims or complaints, or events of default or other failure
to satisfy contract obligations, or failure to deliver products, involving bidder or an affiliate
of bidder, and relating to the purchase or sale of energy, capacity or renewable energy
certificates or products.
None.
5.18 Confirm that bidder, and the directors, employees and agents of bidder and any affiliate of
bidder are not currently under investigation by any governmental agency and have not in
the last four years been convicted or found liable for any act prohibited by State or Federal
law in any jurisdiction involving conspiracy, collusion or other impropriety with respect to
bidding on any contract, or have been the subject of any debarment action (detail any
exceptions).
To the best of the Company’s belief, none of the Company, its directors, employees
and agents and affiliates have been convicted or been found liable during the last
four years for any act prohibited by State or Federal law in any jurisdiction
involving conspiracy, collusion or other impropriety with respect to bidding on
any contract, and none of the Company, its directors, employees and agents and
affiliates have been subject to any debarment action.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
24
In the ordinary conduct of the Company’s business, the Company and its affiliates
are subject to periodic investigations and claims by government agencies.
Although we cannot predict with certainty the ultimate resolution of such
investigations and claims against us, we do not believe that any currently pending
or threatened legal proceedings to which we are a party will have a material
adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
5.19 Identify all regulatory and other approvals needed by bidder to execute a binding sale
agreement.
To the best of Company’s belief, no regulatory approvals are required at this time.
5.20 Describe how the project will conform to FERC’s applicable regulatory requirements,
including, but not limited to, FERC requirements relating to allocation of transmission
capacity and open access, the justness and reasonableness of rates, the potential for undue
preference or discrimination, and affiliate dealings, if any.
Not applicable.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
25
SECTION 6 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – SITING, INTERCONNECTION, AND
DELIVERABILITY
This section of the proposal addresses project location, siting, real property rights and
interconnection issues. Bidders should ensure that the threshold criteria outlined in Section 2.2
of the RFP for generation and interconnection siting are verified in their responses.
6.1 Provide a site plan including a map of the site that clearly identifies the location of the
Eligible Facility site and/or Transmission Project route, the assumed right-of-way width,
the total acreage for Eligible Facilities, the anticipated interconnection point (or, if
applicable, multiple points for a Transmission Project), and the relationship of the site to
other local infrastructure, including transmission facilities, roadways, and water sources.
In addition to providing the required map, provide a site layout plan which illustrates the
location of all major equipment and facilities on the site.
Site plan included? Yes No If not, please explain:
Please see Appendix 4 for site plan map and interconnection route map.
6.2 Provide evidence (including applicable documentation) of the right to use the Eligible
Facility site and/or Transmission Project route, including, for Eligible Facilities, and any
rights of way needed for interconnection.
i. Does the project have a right to use the Eligible Facility site and/or Transmission
Project route for the entire proposed term of the PPA or tariff (e.g., by virtue of
ownership or land development rights obtained from the owner)?
Yes No If not, please explain:
Ameresco is currently under a letter of intent with the landlord for the exclusive
right to develop parcel ID 26/67.1 in New Milford, Connecticut for a solar PV
installation for the entire term of the PPA.
Ameresco has consulted with Eversource- Connecticut Light& Power
("Eversource") to determine the project's interconnection route to the Rocky
River substation located at the intersection of Rocky River Road and Route 7 in
New Milford, Connecticut. The planned project route will utilize an existing
utility right of way to bisect the adjacent parcels owned by Firstlight Hydro
Generation Company, parcel ID 9/6 and 34/31.1 in New Milford, Connecticut to
deliver the project's energy to the Rocky River substation. The planned
interconnection run will require the installation of approximately 1 mile of 23kV
three phase wire, installed on overhead poles.
Site control for the planned interconnection route will be developed as part of
the interconnection application reviewed by Eversource. The proposed
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
26
interconnection route is Eversource's distributed generation group's preferred
route as discussed in our consultation with them. The interconnection
application, submitted January 27, 2016, is currently in Eversource's 20 day
review period. This proposed route will be verified following completion of the
Eversource application review, which is expected to be completed by February
23, 2016. Eversource will be granted access to this parcel by expanding their
existing easement.
ii. If so, please detail the bidder’s rights to control the Eligible Facility site and/or
Transmission Project route control.
Please see the executed letter of intent executed by Ameresco, the tenant, and
New Milford Clean Power, LLC, the landlord, in Appendix 2.
iii. Identify any real property rights (e.g., fee-owned parcels, rights-of-way, development
rights or easements or leases) that are required for access to the Eligible Facility site
and/or Transmission Project route or for interconnection. Describe the status of
acquisition of real property rights, any options in place for the exercise of these rights
and describe the plan for securing the necessary real property rights, including the
proposed timeline. Include these plans and the timeline in the overall project
timeline.
New Milford Clean Power LLC is under agreement to purchase the subject
parcel of land from 26 Cedar Street Associates LLC, which in turn has an
agreement to purchase multiple parcels, including the PV array parcel, from the
current land owner, Wells Fargo National Association. This land purchase
agreement will be executed at the time of PPA execution.
Eversource will need to acquire additional property rights, in the form of an
easement, to install the three phase utility line from the interconnection of the
proposed PV system to the Rocky River substation.
Ameresco will execute a lease option agreement with the landlord, New Milford
Clean Power, LLC after award of the project in this solicitation. A lease
agreement will be executed with the landlord coincident with eecution of the
Power Purchase Agreement with the awarding authority.
Appendix 2 contains the the following executed site control documents:
1. Letter of Intent for Property Lease in New Milford, CT for Solar PV
Ground- Mount Installation: Ameresco, Inc and New Milford Clean Power LLC
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
27
2. Purchase Contract: : 26 Cedar Street Associates LLC and New Milford
Clean Power LLC
3. Agreement for Purchase and Sale of Real Property: Wells Fargo National
Association and 26 Cedar Street Associates LLC
6.3 Provide evidence that the Eligible Facility site and/or Transmission Project route is
properly zoned or permitted. If the Eligible Facility site and/or Transmission Project route
is not currently zoned or permitted properly, identify present and required zoning and/or
land use designations and permits and provide a permitting plan and timeline to secure the
necessary approvals.
Detail the zoning and permitting issues:
Per initial conversation with the Zoning Board of Appeals and review of
zoning bylaws in the Town of New Milford, zoning changes are not required.
Permitting plan and timeline:
The Connecticut Siting Council requires a petition for declaratory ruling.
The expected timeline to complete the Siting Council review and approval
process is 6 months to one year.
Start date: Q32016 Completion date: Q42017
6.4 Provide a description of the area surrounding the Eligible Facility site and/or Transmission
Project route, including a description of the local zoning, flood plain information, existing
land use and setting (woodlands, grasslands, agriculture, other).
The eligible facility property ID is: 26/67.1 in the Town of New Milford,
Connecticut, zoned as residential. The area surrounding the eligible facility site
and interconnection route is zoned residential and industrial. The eligible facility
site is currently unoccupied and consists of a combination of woodlands and open
fields.
6.5 For Eligible Facilities, describe and provide a map of the proposed interconnection that
includes the path from the generation site to the ISO-New England Pool Transmission
Facilities (“PTF”). Describe how the bidder plans to gain interconnection site control.
Interconnection map included? Yes No If not, please explain:
Please see Appendix 5.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
28
Interconnection site control plan:
Interconnection site control will be established as part of the interconnection
agreement with Eversource. The eligible facility interconnection application,
submitted January 27, 2016, will be under review by Eversource.
Eversource will conduct the following studies as part of the interconnection
process.
1. Feasibility Study
2. Impact Study
3. Facilities Study
4. Transmission Impact Study
In addition to the grid impact studies, Eversource will also establish the
requirements to gain site control to access the Eversource transmission
easement.
6.6 Please describe the status of any planned interconnection to the grid. Has the bidder made
a valid interconnection request to ISO-New England Inc. (“ISO-NE”), the applicable New
England Transmission Owner, or any neighboring control areas? Describe the type of
interconnection service requested, i.e., Capacity Network Resource Interconnection
Service, Capacity Network Import Interconnection Service or Network Resource
Interconnection Service or Network Import Service.
The proposed project is to be interconnected to the Eversource network in
acordance with CL&P technical standards and State of Connecticut, ISO-
New England ("ISO-NE"), and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
("FERC") requirements.
Ameresco has started the process of getting approval from Eversource for
the project. The Interconnection Application has been submitted and
Ameresco has had multiple conversations with the Distributed Generation
group at Eversource regarding the project. The project has been designed to
comply with the written and verbal requirements of Eversource. Due to the
generation size of the project, Eversource will perform a System Impact
Study to define further requirements for the project including customer
requirements, utility interconnection facilities, distribution circuit
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
29
requirements, and potential substation upgrades. In addition to the utility
review, ISO-NE will review the project required for all projects greater than
5MW.
The interconnection will be made in accordance with Eversource Guidelines
for Generator Interconnection. The System Impact Study will include:
• Circuit Modeling
• Power Flow Analysis
• Voltage Impact Study
• Thermal Impact Study
• Short Circuit Study
• Review of Distribution Equipment Interrupting Ratings
• Protection Coordination Review
• Assessment of Transfer Trip Requirements, and
• Review of Protection Schemes.
6.7 Describe the Project’s electrical system performance and its impact to the reliability of the
New England Transmission system. For Transmission Projects provide a description of
how the project would satisfy ISO-NE’s I.3.9 requirements. Provide the status of any
interconnection studies already underway with ISO-NE and/or the transmission owner.
Provide a copy of any studies completed to date. Provide a copy of an interconnection
agreement, if any, executed by the bidder with respect to the proposed project. If an
interconnection agreement has not been executed, please provide the steps that need to be
completed before an interconnection agreement can be executed and the associated
timeline.
Performance and its impact:
This project will utilize inverters that are listed to UL1741 Standard for
Inverters, Converters, Controllers, and Interconnection System Equipment
for Use with Distributed Energy Resources including the requirements of
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
30
IEEE1547 Standard for Interconnection Distributed Resources with Electric
Power Systems. These standards ensure that the inverters will operate
seamlessly with the utility as distributed generators as well as protect utility
line workers in the event of a power failure. In the event of a utility event
such as over/under frequency, over/under voltage, etc. the inverters will shut
down allowing the grid to normalize before restarting. In addition, the
inverters have ride through capability for certain grid events that could be
exacerbated by other generators dropping off the grid. During the study
process, the utility may also indicate additional protection requirements that
will be addressed using the customer installed redundant relay protection.
Ameresco has not conducted a network evaluation to determine the
transmission congestion benefits or other FERC ancillary services benefits to
the transmission grid. Since the proposed solar PV project is located next to
the Rocky River substation in Southwest Connecticut, we expect that the
solar PV generated power will aid the transmission system during summer
peak-hour, constrained periods.
Attachments:
Copy of completed studies attached: If none, please explain:
The eligible facility's interconnection application was submitted to
Eversource on Janueary 27, 2016.
Copy of Interconnection Agreement attached: If none, please explain:
The eligible facility's interconnection application was submitted to
Eversource on Janueary 27, 2016.
6.8 Provide the electrical models of all energy resources supporting the proposed project in
accordance with the filing requirements of the ISO-NE Tariff Schedule 22 and 23.
Electrical models attached: If none, please explain:
Appendix 1 contains the annual energy model for this project in
accordance with the filing requirement of the ISO-NE Tariff Schedule 22
and 23.
6.9 Provide a copy of an electrical one-line diagram showing the interconnection facilities and
the relevant facilities of the transmission provider.
Electrical one-line diagram attached: If none, please explain:
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
31
Appendix 6 contains the One-Line Electrical Diagram for this project.
6.10 Specify and describe the current or new interconnection facilities (lines, transformers,
switching equipment, system control protection, etc.) that bidder owns or is intending to
construct or have constructed in order to deliver the proposed energy.
This project is proposed to connect directly to the Eversource-owned Rocky River
Substation located one mile from the proposed solar PV array. The project will
connect directly to the substation utilizing a utility installed and owned overhead
three phase, 23kV circuit. The 23kV line will follow the existing utility right of
way to the site. At the site, Ameresco will build, own, and operate transformers to
convert the 380V power to 23kV as well as redundant relay protection devices,
load break devices, and inverters listed to UL1741. The utility will install a pad
mounted primary metering cluster and meter, a pole mounted recloser and
minimal SCADA equipment. Ameresco retains Consulting Engineers Group
(CEG) for the design of its medium voltage and protective relay systems.
6.11 Incremental data requirements for Projects that include Transmission facilities;
1. IDV file(s) in PSSE v32 format modeling only the new/modified Transmission
components of the project: If none, please explain.
Not applicable.
2. If the bidder does not use PSSE, provide in text format necessary modeling data as
follows:
- Line Data:
Voltage Thermal Ratings Impedances (R, X and B)
Line: From To
(bus numbers and names)
Not applicable.
- Transformer data: (including Phase shifting transformers if applicable):
Terminal Voltages Thermal Ratings Impedance
From To (bus numbers and names)
Not applicable.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
32
- Reactive compensation models as necessary:
Not applicable.
- Other changes to the model that would occur due to a Project such as terminal
changes for lines/transformer/generator leads/loads etc.:
Not applicable.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
33
SECTION 7 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT, PERMIT ACQUISITION PLAN AND TIER 1 CERTIFICATION
This section addresses environmental and other regulatory issues associated with project siting,
development and operations.
7.1 Provide a list of all the permits, licenses, and environmental assessments and/or
environmental impact statements required. If a bidder has secured any permit or has
applied for a permit, please identify in the response.
i. Provide a list of all Federal, state and local permits, licenses, and environmental
assessments and/or environmental impact statements required to construct and
operate the project.
A full scope of environmental assessment and permit acquisition activities will be those that
support a Petition to the Connecticut Siting Council for a Declaratory Ruling that a
Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need (“CECPN”) is not required.
Please see Appendix 7 for a list of all permits, licenses, and environmental assessments
required for the project.
ii. Identify the governmental agencies that will issue or approve the required permits,
licenses, and environmental assessments and/or environmental impact statements.
Ameresco anticipates permitting will take between 6 months and one year to
complete with the Connecticut Siting Council. Appendix 7 shows the expected
schedule for all required permits and approvals.
7.2 Provide the anticipated timeline for seeking and receiving the required permits, licenses,
and environmental assessments and/or environmental impact statements. Include a project
approval assessment which describes, in narrative form, each segment of the process, the
required permit or approval, the status of the request or application and the basis for
projection of success by the milestone date. All requirements should be included on the
project schedule in Section 10.
Connecticut Siting Council
As an electric generating facility utilizing renewable energy sources with a
generating capacity of more than one megawatt (MW) of electricity, the proposed
New Milford solar facility is subject to review and approval by the Connecticut
Siting Council (CSC) in accordance with Section 16-50j of the Regulations of
Connecticut State Agencies (RCSA). Among other things the CSC is charged
with:
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
34
“…balancing the need for adequate and reliable public utility services at the
lowest reasonable cost to consumers with the need to protect the environment and
ecology of the state and to minimize damage to scenic, historic, and recreational
values” (Sec. 16-50j-1(a)(1), RCSA)
As part of the full CSC review process, applicants are required to submit to
municipal review prior to filing an application for a Certificate with the CSC.
Further, under Section 16-50x of Chapter 277a of the Connecticut General
Statutes (Public Utility Environmental Standards Act):
In ruling on applications for certificates or petitions for a declaratory ruling for
facilities and on requests for shared use of facilities, the council shall give such
consideration to other state laws and municipal regulations as it shall deem
appropriate. Whenever the council certifies a facility pursuant to this chapter,
such certification shall satisfy and be in lieu of all certifications, approvals and
other requirements of state and municipal agencies in regard to any questions of
public need, convenience and necessity for such facility.
As a renewable energy facility with a generating capacity less than 65 MW, the
project may file a Petition for Declaratory Ruling with the CSC rather than
undergoing the full Certification process. Under such an approach, the Petition
will establish that the project met the air and water quality standards of the state
and also would not result in any adverse impacts to listed species, cultural
resources or cause adverse impact to other natural resources or the community.
For this process, information will be provided to address the full range of
potential facility impacts, including information regarding listed species, protected
habitat, cultural resources, wetland impacts and consistency with local land use
laws. Consultation with state and federal agencies on potential impacts to listed
species and cultural resources will need to be conducted to support the submittal.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Coverage under CT State General Permit; CT
DEEP 401 WQC
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has issued a General Permit (PGP)
for Connecticut which addresses impacts to waters of the U.S. subject to the
jurisdiction of the USACE under Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act or
Section 10 of the federal Rivers and Harbors Act. Online mapping identifies
potential wetland / stream resources in portions of the overall site. Should
temporary or permanent impacts to these resources be required (such as for
access roads) it is possible that such impacts would meet the conditions for
coverage under the USACE CT GP. Impacts which meet Category 1 do not
require an application. Category 2 projects require review to determine if an
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
35
Individual Permit will be required. Delineation of on-site resource areas and
development of site plan will be conducted to determine if USACE authorization
will be required, and if so, what level of permitting will be triggered. Depending
on the level of review an individual 401 WQC may be required from CT DEEP.
Local Approvals
The New Milford site is located on a single parcel zoned Major Planned
Residential Development District #1. Ameresco and the property owner are
working with the Town of New Milford Zoning Board of Appeals to determine
any necessary actions relative to zoning of the property. As noted above, the CSC
has the authority to override local zoning. It is assumed that at a minimum a site
plan review, including landscaping plan review at the local level will be required,
and potentially a Special Permit. In our discussions the Town of New Milford
Zoning Board of Appeals has not expressed any issue related to the changing the
parcel's zone, if necessary, for this project.
In addition to any local zoning or planning approvals, any impacts to wetlands
will require review by the New Milford Inland Wetlands Commission. Ameresco
and its Environmental Consultant, AMEC/Foster Wheeler, will conduct wetlands
delineation and reporting as necessary during the permitting phase. Currently the
project is not located in or within 100 feet of any wetlands, based on the initial
technical feasibility evaluations.
CT DEEP General Permit for the Discharge of Stormwater and Dewatering
Wastewaters Associated with Construction Activities.
Ameresco will file for a General Permit with CT DEEP prior to construction and
in accordance with EPA and State requirements.
7.3 Provide a preliminary environmental assessment of the site and project, including both
construction and operation, as applicable. In addition, the bidder should identify
environmental impacts associated with the proposed project, any potential impediments to
development, and its plan to mitigate such impacts or impediments. The analysis should
address each of the major environmental areas presented below, as applicable to the
proposed project:
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
36
i. Impacts during site development
ii. Transportation infrastructure
iii. Air quality impacts
iv. Access to water resources/water quality impacts
v. Ecological and natural resources impacts
vi. Land use impacts
vii. Cultural resources
viii. Previous site use (e.g., greenfield, brownfield, industrial, etc.)
ix. Noise level impacts
x. Aesthetic/visual impacts
xi. Transmission infrastructure impacts
xii. Fuel supply access, where applicable
xiii. Interconnection facilities
i. Impacts during site development:
• Vegetation removal and grading
• Construction related traffic
• Construction related noise
• Storm water management to prevent water quality impacts to receiving
waters
• Potential impacts to wildlife from disturbance of habitat and construction
activities, to be determined pending agency consultations
ii. Transportation infrastructure - site located off of / accessible by Candlewood
Mountain Road and Kent Road / Route 7. No impacts to, or upgrades of existing
transportation infrastructure anticipated for construction. Limited construction
related traffic. No impacts due to operations.
ii. Air quality impacts – Construction impacts only, controlled through vehicle
emission controls and idling limits and dust suppression.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
37
iv. Access to water resources/water quality impacts – No water supplies required
for operation, limited water demands for construction to be supplied by water
trucks brought to site. Potential impacts to water quality to be managed by
appropriate storm water Best Management Practices during construction and
operation.
v. Ecological and natural resources impacts – Potential impacts to listed species
habitat will be addressed as part of permitting review. Site will be developed in a
manner to avoid and minimize impacts to ecological and natural resource impacts
including listed species and wetland / stream resources. If impacts cannot be
avoided, mitigation for impacts will be conducted in accordance with applicable
regulatory and permit requirements.
vi. Land use impacts – Property partially zoned Industrial and partially zoned
Major Planned Residential Development District #1. Surrounding land use is
residential and open space / recreational. Due to size of site, ample wooded buffer
will be maintained between solar development and surrounding land uses.
vii. Cultural resources – no known historic resources will be impacted, potential
for impacts to unknown archeological resources pending response to initial
consultation with SHPO. Project would comply with requirements for survey and
mitigation of impacts if resources identified.
viii. Previous site use (e.g., greenfield, brownfield, industrial, etc.) – site is
currently undeveloped and largely wooded.
ix. Noise level impacts – limited to construction noise impacts, due to size of site
and distance from construction location to nearby sensitive noise receptors,
construction impacts expected to be minimal. No operational noise impacts.
x. Aesthetic/visual impacts – Site is on hillside. Panels may be visible from a
distance in certain locations, however, due to size of site ample wooded buffer will
be maintained between solar development and surrounding land use providing
adequate visual screening from most viewpoints. Visual impact analyses will be
included in CSC submittal.
xi. Transmission infrastructure impacts - Interconnection route will be included as
part of the Connecticut Siting Counsel review and order of conditions. The
proposed route for interconnection utilizes existing utility easements and is not
expected to add complications to the siting council approval process.
xii. Fuel supply access, where applicable – Not Applicable
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
38
7.4 Provide documentation identifying the level of public support for the project including
letters from public officials, newspaper articles, etc. Include information on specific
localized support and/or opposition to the project of which the bidder is aware. Provide
copies of any agreements with communities and other constituencies impacted by the
project, and a plan for community outreach activities, and discuss the status of that plan.
Ameresco, Inc and New Milford Clean Power, LLC. have approached the local
community in several meetings to discuss the project and gain local support from
residents and the local government. To date, the eligible project does not have any
formal ducomentation identifying the level of public support for the project.
Local support is subject to the visibility of the facility from nearby residences and
Candlewood Lake. To speed approvals and citizen acceptance of the project, the
array has been sited behind a ridge to eliminate visbility from the lake and nearby
homes and businesses. We expect local support will be positive with our design
choices.
7.5 For bids that include Tier 1 Qualified Clean Energy, provide documentation demonstrating
that the project was or will be qualified as a Tier 1 Class I renewable energy source under
Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 16-1(20) as amended by Connecticut Public Act 13-303; M.G.L.
c. 25A, § 11F, and 225 CMR 14.00; and/or R.I.G.L. § 39-26-1 and Rules and Regulations
Governing the Implementation of a Renewable Energy Standard. If the facility is already in
operation, please indicate when the facility received such qualification.
By definination, solar PV is a Tier I Class I renewable energy source under
Connecticut state law. The proposed eligible facility is solar PV.
7.6 Identify any existing, preliminary or pending claims or litigation, or matters before any
federal agency or any state legislature or regulatory agency that might affect the feasibility
of the project or the ability to obtain or retain the required permits for the project.
There are no existing or pending claims against the project.
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
39
SECTION 8 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, COMMERCIAL ACCESS TO EQUIPMENT
This section includes questions pertinent to the engineering design and project technology. This
section must be completed for a project that includes new facilities or capital investments.
Bidders should provide information about the specific technology or equipment including the
track record of the technology and equipment and other information as necessary to demonstrate
that the technology is viable.
8.1 Provide a reasonable but preliminary engineering plan which includes the following
information:
i. Type of generation technology, if applicable
ii. Major equipment to be used
iii. Manufacturer of the equipment
iv. Status of acquisition of the equipment
v. Whether the bidder has a contract for the equipment. If not, describe the bidder’s
plan for securing equipment and the status of any pertinent commercial
arrangements
vi. Equipment vendors selected/considered
vii. History of equipment operations
viii. If the equipment manufacturer has not yet been selected, identify in the equipment
procurement strategy the factors under consideration for selecting the preferred
equipment
The proposed eligible facility is a 20 MW AC (25 MW DC) solar photovoltaic
installation. The system will be ground mounted on approximately 100 acres of
contiguous land on a single parcel in New Milford, Connecticut. The system will
contain skid-mounted central inverters and step-up transformers to interconnect
at 23kV to the Rocky River Substation, approximately one mile from the proposed
site.
Ameresco selected a fixed tilt racking system over single axis trackers due to the
increased reliability of fixed-tilt systems in northern climates.
Ameresco exclusively installs crystalline silicon PV modules from Tier I module
manufacturers for our projects under Power Purchase Agreements. Ameresco
only sources from Tier I suppliers to ensure the quality of the product as well as
the longevity of the manufacturer to ensure the warranty can be upheld for the
duration of their term. With our solar experience, we are currently designing with
the following equipment:
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• Solar Modules: JA Solar 320 watt panel.
• Inverters: Schneider Electric 680 kW (30 units).
• Mounting System: Terrasmart.
• Data Acquisition System: Also Energy.
Ameresco is vendor neutral. At this point Ameresco has Master Sales Agreements
(MSA) with several equipment manufacturers, but has not made a commitment or
guarantee to use any specific equipment manufacturer. The major equipment and
materials above represent likely equipment selections due to the product's
durability, site suitability, and suitability for a utility scale solar PV installation.
This includes: screw driven racking to penetrate near surface ledge and variable
slope found at the site and central inverters to maximize AC wire runs and
minimize voltage losses with DC wiring over long distances. Prior to construction,
Ameresco will select the final Tier 1 manufacturer and procure the equipment
that provides the most cost effective and highest quality solar PV system to be
installed at the site.
8.2 If the bidder has not yet selected the major generation equipment for a project, please
provide a list of the key equipment suppliers under consideration.
The suppliers listed in section 8.1 represent the likely list of key equipment
suppliers for this project.
8.3 Please identify the same or similar equipment by the same manufacturer that are presently
in commercial operation including the number installed, installed capacity and estimated
generation for the past three years.
1. Inverters: Schneider Electric, Schneider Electric inverters have been installed
worldwide in utility scale solar PV power plants. To date Schneider Electric has
installed more than 3 GW of three- phase inverters in more than 100 countries
2. Racking: Terrasmart, Ideally suited for rocky and uneven terrain, Terrasmart
has been install in over 110 MW of projects in the Northeast United States alone.
3. Data Acquisition System: Also Energy, Also Energy is a leading provider of
Data Acquisition Systems. To date Also Energy has been selected by developers
on over 2,000 projects, totaling more than 800 MW
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4. Modules: JA Solar, JA Solar is a global leader in solar PV module
manufacturing. Total volume manufactured and shipped exceeds 11 GW
worldwide.
8.4 For less mature technologies, provide evidence (including identifying specific applications)
that the technology to be employed for energy production is ready for transfer to the design
and construction phases. Also, address how the status of the technology is being
considered in the financial plan for the project.
Not applicable
8.5 Please indicate if the bidder has secured its equipment for the project. If not, identify the
long-lead equipment options and describe the timing for securing equipment.
As stated above, Ameresco has not secured equipment for the project. Equipment
will be procured when the project achieves notice to proceed to construction.
Notice to proceed will be achieved when all permitting has been approved,
inclauding the Connecticut Siting Council and local permits, interconnection
agreement with the utility has been achieved, and the power purchase agreement
has been executed.
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SECTION 9 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
Projects that can demonstrate that the operation and maintenance (“O&M”) plan, level of
funding, and mechanism for funding will ensure reliable operations during the term of the
contract or the tariff are preferred.
9.1 Provide an O&M plan for the project that demonstrates the long term operational viability
of the proposed project. The plan should include a discussion of the staffing levels
proposed for the project, the expected role of the project sponsor or outside contractor,
scheduling of major maintenance activity, and the plan for testing equipment.
Ameresco maintains its own O&M staff and a fleet of vehicles supplied with tools
and equipment. We also maintain and stock replacement parts in our warehouse
facilities. In addition, we enter into extended warranty programs and we contract
with third-party specialty contractors to provide rapid service to our projects.
This capability provides our customers long-term, worry-free service – assuring
that the solar PV systems continue to operate over the 20-year length of its Power
Purchase Agreement terms.
Ameresco’s currently operates and maintains over 17 MW of solar PV and 17
MW of cogeneration and landfill gas plants in New England. Our dedicated staff
of 5 local O&M personnel is located in our Framingham, Massachusetts office.
This local staff hires and coordinates subcontractors to repair or maintain all
systems. The O&M plan includes maintenance of the following main system
components to ensure optimal system performance:
1. Inverters
2. PV Modules & Mounting System
3. Disconnects
4. Wiring
5. Monitoring System & Weather Station
6. Transformers
9.2 Describe in detail the proposed O&M funding mechanism and funding levels to support
planned and unplanned O&M requirements.
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Ameresco, Inc self funds O&M through the project's revenues from the sales of
energy and RECs. Ameresco maintains project operation at optimal levels
throughout the 20 year period to maximize operating performance and revenues.
The O&M staff conducts regular preventative maintenance and quick response to
service interruptions by monitoring real production time data.
Regardless of the cause of a service interruption, Ameresco will immediately be
notified by the automatic alarm capabilities of our data acquisition system (DAS).
Calls, pager alerts, e-mails, or all of these notifications will be sent to the
appropriate Ameresco O&M staff and on-call person in one of our nearby
operations centers. The on-call person will be the initial point of contact for all
service interruptions. The responding technician will review our DAS alarms via
a remote connection to evaluate the nature of the event. The responding
technician will seek assistance as required from other Ameresco staff or our
contractor partners to ultimately determine cause and fix for the outage.
Service interruptions can be broadly categorized as whether they have occurred
on the utility side of the electric service or on the customer side. Any loss of grid
power from the utility side will automatically trigger a shutdown of the PV system.
This PV system shutdown is to protect the safety of utility workers addressing the
utility gird outage by assuring that there is no back-feed power on the system.
Upon restoration of power by the utility, our PV system will detect a return to
normal grid power and automatically return the PV system to power generation
mode. Generally, shutdowns on the utility side of the grid will not involve
Ameresco. However, as noted above, Ameresco O&M staff are on call via our
24/7 service line and will promptly respond to any utility requests should our
services be required.
In the event that the PV system shuts down due to a problem with Ameresco's side
of the PV system, Ameresco’s on-call O&M staff will immediately receive an
alarm at our central monitoring location. (We will also receive alarms for off-
normal conditions that might not cause a shutdown but might warrant immediate
action.) In such cases, Ameresco staff will diagnose much of the system’s status
remotely in order to respond more efficiently at the site with the appropriate staff,
or contracted support if warranted. After assessing the cause of the shutdown and
the course of correction, Ameresco will coordinate any corrective actions with the
customer and, as necessary, with the utility. The PV system can be isolated
electrically from the utility grid while we are conducting service work and re-
connected when our work is complete.
9.3 Describe the terms (or expected terms) of the warranties and/or guarantees on major
equipment that the bidder is utilizing or proposing to utilize.
Please see Appendix 8 for major equipment warranties.
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9.4 Describe the status of the project sponsor in securing any O&M agreements or contracts.
Include a discussion of the sponsor’s plan for securing a medium-term or long-term O&M
contract, including the expected provider of O&M services.
Ameresco, Inc will provide all O&M services.
9.5 Provide examples of the bidder’s experience with O&M services for other similar projects.
Appendix 9 contains the list of projects Ameresco's O&M team services.
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SECTION 10 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – PROJECT SCHEDULE
For Eligible Facilities or Transmission Projects that are not yet in-service, bidders are required to
provide a complete critical path schedule for the project from the notice of selection of the
project for contract consideration to the start of commercial operations. For each project
element, list the start and end date.
10.1 Identify the elements on the critical path. The schedule should include, at a minimum,
facility contracts, start of construction, construction schedule, siting, fuel supply, financing,
engineering and procurement, acquisition of real property rights, Federal, state and/or local
permits, licenses, environmental assessments and/or environmental impact statements
(including anticipated permit submittal and approval dates) and any other requirements that
could influence the project schedule and the commercial operation date, including
requirements pertaining to the generator interconnection process and any transmission
facilities for which the bidder seeks recovery through federal transmission rates.
1. Project Award: October 2016
2. Interconnection Agreement: Q4 2016
3. PPA Execution: Q1 2017
3. Siting Council Declaritory Ruling: Q4 2017
4. Final Design Complete: Q4 2017
5. Equipment Procurement: Q4 2017
6. Start of Construction: Q1 2018
7. Completion of Construction: Q4 2018
8. Commercial Operation: Q4 2018
10.2 Detail the status of all critical path items.
As a critical long-lead time task, Ameresco has submitted an interconnection
application to Eversource for the project. The application was submitted on
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
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January 27, 2016. The following timeline is the anticipated path to
interconnection agreement for this application.
Application Review 20 business days
Feasibility Study 30 business days
Impact Study 50-60 business days
Facility Study 70 business days.
Transmission Impact Study TBD
Execute Interconnection Agreement 1 month
Ameresco anticipated interconnection agreement execution Q4 2016 based on this
schedule.
Remaining critical task items will be initiated following project award by the
awarding authority.
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SECTION 11 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – PROJECT MANAGEMENT/EXPERIENCE
Bidders are required to demonstrate project experience and management capability to
successfully develop (for a project that includes new facilities or capital investment) and operate
the project proposed. The Soliciting Parties are particularly interested in project teams that have
demonstrated success in projects of similar type, size and technology and, for projects that
include new facilities or capital investment, can demonstrate an ability to work together
effectively to bring the project to commercial operation in a timely fashion.
11.1 Provide an organizational chart for the project that lists the project participants and
identifies the corporate structure, including general and limited partners.
Appendix 3 contains the project organization chart.
11.2 For a project that includes new facilities or capital investment, provide statements that list
the specific experience of the bidder and each of the project participants (including, when
applicable, the bidder, partners, EPC contractor and proposed contractors), in developing,
financing, owning, and operating generating or transmission facilities (as applicable), other
projects of similar type, size and technology, and any evidence that the project participants
have worked jointly on other projects.
Note: Refer to section 5.3 for specific project examples, in addition to the ones
listed below.
As the developer, owner and operator of the proposed solar PV project, Ameresco
has developed, financed, and constructed more than 100 MW of solar PV projects
for the public and private customers.
For example, for Arizona State University, we designed and built 16 MW of solar
PV on 11 sites (rooftop, ground-mount, garages, and carports). We are
constructing multiple ground-mount facilities for the Massachusetts Department
of Transportation along the Massachusetts Turnpike (Interstate 90) and other
highways in Massachusetts. We have recently completed the development,
financing and construction of an 18.6 megawatt (MW) direct current solar facility
at the Fort Detrick Army installation in Frederick, Maryland.
The following provides additional information on our capabilities and experience
(also refer to sections 5.2, 5.3, and 5.4:
• 100% construction and operation of awarded projects: Ameresco has built
100% of the solar projects we have been awarded. We have the in-house expertise
to design, permit, construct, own, and operate PV facilities. To start construction
New England Clean Energy Request For Proposal
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quickly, Ameresco has the funds and bank credit lines for construction financing
(shown below).
• Ameresco is a financially strong, publicly traded company. Ameresco for
year end 2014 had total assets of approximately $629 million, cash in excess of $23
million and a $100 million credit facility. Our fiscal year 2014 revenues were $593
million. At the end of 2014, Ameresco (AMRC) had a construction backlog
exceeding $1.2 billion.
• Ameresco has built more than $3 billion in renewable energy and energy
efficiency projects. Ameresco and its predecessors built more than $5 billion of
energy projects including solar PV, energy efficiency infrastructure
improvements, landfill gas generation projects, biogas generation projects, bio-
mass generation projects, and geothermal projects. Of these projects,
approximately 47% were designed and built for municipalities, universities, K-12
schools, and hospitals, and another 12% were built for the federal government.
• We have deep in-house expertise to manage the life cycle of energy asset
projects. Ameresco has more than 1,000 employees, comprised of professional
engineers (40% of Ameresco’s engineers are Licensed Professional Engineers),
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) in solar
energy design and construction, construction managers, finance and capital
markets professionals, legal and regulatory professionals, and operation and
maintenance staff. Our staff develops and manages projects from the initial
proposal stage to design, construction, financing, and long-term operations.
11.3 For a bid that includes existing facilities, provide statements that list the specific experience
of the bidder and each of the project participants (including, when applicable, the bidder,
partners, EPC contractor and proposed contractors), in owning and operating generating or
transmission facilities (as applicable), other projects of similar type, size and technology,
and any evidence that the project participants have worked jointly on other projects.
Not applicable
11.4 Provide a management chart that lists the key personnel dedicated to this project and
provide resumes of the key personnel. For Eligible Facilities or Transmission Projects that
are not yet in-service, key personnel of the bidder’s development team having substantial
project management responsibilities must have:
i. Successfully developed and/or operated one or more projects of similar size or
complexity or requiring similar skill sets; AND
ii. For a project that includes new facilities or capital investment, experience in
financing one or more projects of a similar size and complexity (or have the
financial means to finance the project on the bidder’s balance sheet).
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Ameresco possesses the skills required to complete this project including licensed
professional engineers, North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners
(NABCEP), certified solar PV installers, certified and licensed master electricians,
and certified energy managers.
Ameresco’s Solar PV Grid-Tie group is led by Jim Walker, P.E. and is comprised
of experienced, knowledgeable individuals who are responsible for the
development, execution and operation of our solar PV systems
Please see Appendix 10 for Ameresco's Solar PV Organizational Chart and the
resumes of the key management staff.
11.5 Provide a listing of all projects the project sponsor has successfully developed or that are
currently under construction. Provide the following information as part of the response:
i. Name of the project
ii. Location of the project
iii. Project type, size and technology
iv. Commercial operation date
v. Estimated and actual capacity factor of the project for the past three years
vi. Availability factor of the project for the past three years
vii. References, including the names and current addresses and telephone numbers of
individuals to contact for each reference.
Please see Appendix 11 for the requested reference project information.
11.6 With regard to the bidder’s project team, identify and describe the entity responsible for the
following, as applicable:
i. Construction Period Lender, if any
ii. Operating Period Lender and/or Tax Equity Provider, as applicable
iii. Financial Advisor
iv. Environmental Consultant
v. Facility Operator and Manager
vi. Owner’s Engineer
vii. EPC Contractor (if selected)
viii. Transmission Consultant
ix. Legal Counsel
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i. Construction Period Lender, if any
As discussed in sections 5.1 and 5.2(i), Ameresco will fund the construction period
with its own cash on hand, cash from operations and/or its $100M revolving
construction facility with the Bank of America.
ii. Operating Period Lender and/or Tax Equity Provider, as applicable
As discussed in section 5.2 (iii), Ameresco will confirm the specific parties that will
finance the operating period for this proposed project after a competitive
solicitation. As stated above, on the
18.6MW Fort Detrick project was a
iii. Financial Advisor
Ameresco has an in-house team of finance professionals in its structured finance
group, and will not require the assistance of a financial advisor.
iv. Environmental & Civil Design and Permitting - AMEC Foster Wheeler
AMEC Foster Wheeler is a regional leader in engineering and environmental
consulting, with the expertise to speed permit approvals through various federal,
state and local agencies. AMEC’s team offers a breadth of disciplines, along with
decades of permitting, planning, design, and construction experience for a wide
variety of projects, to develop and execute environmental solutions that meet the
changing environmental regulations. Globally, the company employs over 27,000
people with GBP 4 billion in annual revenue.
Ameresco teamed with AMEC to provide environmental engineering services at
our Bethel, CT, Sudbury, Braintree, Pittsfield, Weston, Acton, and Lowell, MA
landfill solar PV sites. We are also currently working with AMEC on the design
and development of the Lenox, Hampden, and Stockbridge landfill solar PV sites,
and the West Newbury ground mount site in Massachusetts, totaling 10 MW.
Given Ameresco’s successful and continued work with AMEC on those and other
projects, Ameresco continues to choose them as our primary consultant for
ground mount and landfill solar PV projects. Services provided by AMEC on the
solar development on these sites include (as needed):
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• Investigation: Pre-design investigations – including site
investigation/assessment, wetland investigation/delineation, and utility assessment
• Engineering: a) Civil/environmental engineering – including storm-water
analysis and design, erosion and sediment control plans, access road design, site
layout, and site grading to optimize solar array layout; b) Geotechnical
engineering – including bearing capacity analysis, settlement analysis, slope
stability analysis, sliding and stability analysis of equipment on the landfill surface
and foundation design; c) Structural engineering – including concrete pad design
for electrical equipment installation on landfills and structural analysis of
racking/foundation interface.
• Land surveying: Land surveying – including topographic and boundary
surveys, route and right-of-way surveys, surveys for construction layout, and as-
built surveys.
• Permitting:
a) Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office
b) Connecticut DEEP- Natural Diversity Database, NOI and Storm-water
Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) preparation for coverage under EPA’s
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for
storm-water related to construction activities.
c) Connecticut Siting Council- Petition for Declaratory Ruling or Certificate of
Environmental Compatibility and Public Need
d) Connecticut Inland Wetlands Permit (local)
• Construction Inspections/ Oversight: a) Request for Information (RFI) and
submittal review of information provided by the contractor during the
construction phase; b) Quantity takeoffs of material placed/installed during
construction; c) Cast-in-place concrete testing (rebar inspection, slump test, air
entrainment monitoring)
v. Facility Operator and Manager
Ameresco’s operations group will have responsibility for operations management
of the project. Our operations group for all eastern US projects is headquartered
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in our Framingham, MA and Portland, ME offices. This group is responsible for
the operation of solar and other renewable energy projects across the Northeast.
vi. Owner’s Engineer
Ameresco, with its financial partners, will be the owner of the project and will
provide its own engineering services.
vii. EPC Contractor
Ameresco, as the developer, designer, and EPC contractor for the projects, has
single-source responsibility for all the installation and site preparation work. We
subcontract with experienced electrical and civil contractors who bring the
appropriate level of expertise and project specific experience to ensure high
quality installation and a trouble free installation process. Ameresco intends to
contract with Miller Brothers, Inc. for the electrical installation and civil work of
the system.
viii. Transmission and Medium Voltage Consultant: CEG Consulting
Since 1994, Consulting Engineering Group (CEG) has been designing utility
substations, distribution & transmission systems (up to 345kV), preparing
contract documents, procurement specifications, planning studies, analytical
studies, construction standards, and reviewing new and existing electrical
equipment. CEG provides engineering and consulting services for the installation,
upgrades and retrofits of medium and high voltage electrical equipment,
substations, distribution systems and transmission interconnects.
CEG’s team of Registered Professional Engineers, designers, technicians and
support staff have extensive knowledge and experience with electrical utilities’
procedures and policies for medium voltage equipment design. CEG works closely
with Ameresco and the utilities to speed interconnection approvals.
ix. Legal Counsel
Ameresco’s internal legal team has extensive experience providing legal services
for our renewable energy projects across the Northeast and the US. For this
project we will rely on our internal legal resources.
11.7 Provide details of the bidder’s experience in ISO-NE markets. With regard to bidder’s
experience with ISO-NE markets, please indicate the entity that will assume the duties of
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Lead Market Participant for your Project. Please provide a summary of the proposed Lead
Market Participant’s experience with each of the ISO-NE markets.
Ameresco has been a member of ISO NE, with two memberships, since 2009. We
are a lead market participant in the forward capacity market for assets that we
own. In addition we work with generation assets owned by other companies on a
consulting basis.
We also participate in the monthly demand response working group meetings and
the markets committee meetings in order to maintain up to date knowledge and
changes in all of the markets.
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SECTION 12 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – EMISSIONS
12.1 For existing generation facilities, provide emissions estimates based on available
continuous emissions monitoring data. Where continuous emissions monitoring data is not
available, provide emissions estimates based on the most recent stack emissions test
conducted using an EPA reference method approved by the applicable permitting and
enforcement authority. Where continuous emissions data or actual stack emissions test
data are not available, provide emissions estimates based on emissions factors from the
latest edition of EPA’s AP-42, Compilation of Air Pollutant Emissions Factors.
For new generation facilities, provide emissions estimates based on available data from the
unit manufacturer. Alternatively, provide actual emissions data determined in accordance
with the paragraph above for a similar facility built within the past 3 years. Include copies
of supporting documentation for all emissions estimates.
Project Anticipated Emissions, expressed in pounds/megawatt-hour (lbs/MWh)
Source of
Information
Date of Test
(if
applicable)
Greenhouse
Gases
(all except
methane)
Expressed as
Carbon Dioxide
equivalent
(CO2e)
Nitrogen
Oxides
(NOx)
Sulfur
Oxides
(SOx)
Carbon
Monoxide
(CO)
Particulate
Matter
(PM 2.5)
Methane
(CH4)
12.2 Describe any past investments that will, or have been made to your facility to improve its
emissions profile or any planned future investments made to your facility in order to
improve its emissions profile. Pollutant specific emissions improving technologies include,
but are not limited to:
• NOx – Selective/Non-Selective Catalytic Reduction
• SOx – wet/dry scrubbers
• PM – fabric filter/bag house, electrostatic precipitator, cyclone separator
• CO – oxidation catalyst
Investments that improve overall emissions include, but are not limited to:
• equipment tune-ups (improves combustion efficiency and emissions)
• boiler tube replacements (improves heat transfer efficiency and reduces fuel use)
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• other efficiency improvements (e.g., installing a heat exchanger to use waste heat
to pre-heat feed water to the boiler)
Include control equipment specifications, date(s) of installation, expected life of equipment,
benefits gained from the addition of such equipment, etc.
Not applicable
12.3 Describe how your project will contribute to (i) Connecticut’s goals under Connecticut
Public Act 08-98, An Act Concerning Connecticut Global Warming Solutions (2008),
codified in Section 22a-200a of the Connecticut General Statutes; (ii) the Massachusetts
2008 Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA) and the 2010 Clean Energy and Climate
Plan for 2020. Describe how your project will contribute both to the short term 2020 goal,
and longer term 2050 goal found in these laws. And (iii) Rhode Island’s purposes under
Chapter 39-31
As a clean, renewable generation source, the proposed solar PV system will
provide locally generated clean power for CT with no emissions. Based on
modeled projections of system output, and use of US EPA's carbon emissions
offset calculator, the clean power generated annually by the proposed system can
offset 22,712 metric tons of CO2 emissions.
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SECTION 13 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – CONTRIBUTION TO EMPLOYMENT AND
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND OTHER DIRECT AND INDIRECT BENEFITS
13.1 Please provide an estimate of the number of jobs to be created directly during project
development and construction (for a project that includes new facilities or capital
investment), and during operations, and a general description of the types of jobs created,
estimated annual compensation, the employer(s) for such jobs, and the location. Please
treat the development, construction, and operation periods separately in your response.
Ameresco conduced an economic development study using NREL's Jobs &
Economic Development Impact Model (JEDI) tool. The model projects the
following job creation:
1. Construction: 259 jobs
2. Operation: 38 jobs
Please see Appendix 12 for results of the JEDI study.
13.2 Please provide the same information as provided in response to question 13.1 above but
with respect to jobs that would be indirectly created as a result of the proposed project.
Please see Appendix 12 for the results of the JEDI study, included are indirect
jobs. Examples of indirect jobs include:
1. Professional Services
2. Surveying and Topographical Surveyors
4. Utility line workers
5. Landscape Professionals
13.3 Please describe any other economic development impacts (either positive or negative) that
could result from the proposed project, such as creating property tax revenues or
purchasing capital equipment, materials or services for New England businesses. Please
provide the location(s) where these economic development benefits are expected to occur.
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The project provides real benefit to the Town of New Milford, Connecticut in the
form of annual tax payments. The annual property tax payment to the Town is
under negoatioation. Negotiations will establish a structured tax agreement for
the full term of the project, tax payments to the Town may exceeed $250,000
annually.
13.4 To the extent not already specified elsewhere in your response, please address the factors
listed in Section 2.3.2.1 and describe any benefits or impacts associated with the proposed
project.
Not Applicable
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SECTION 14 OF APPENDIX B TO THE RFP – ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED
FOR TRANSMISSION PROJECTS
Bids that include Transmission Projects must also provide the following information.
14.1 The following information regarding the proposed new Transmission Project:
i. Overall project description:
Not applicable
ii. The operating voltage of the proposed project: kV:
iii. The type of structures (such as steel towers or poles) that would be used for the
proposed project:
Not applicable
iv. The length of the proposed
transmission line and the type(s) of
terrain and land ownership of the
proposed ROW:
Overhead miles:
Underground/
Underwater miles:
Terrain:
Not applicable
v. The substation facilities (number of circuit breakers, transformers, etc.) required
at each terminal of the proposed project and information as to how the new
facilities would interconnect to any existing facilities.
Not applicable
vi. The estimated costs of the proposed project broken out into separate categories
for transmission facilities and substation facilities in nominal year dollars.
Transmission: Substation: Year dollars:
vii. Provide a proposed schedule for project development through release for
operation that includes, as a minimum, key critical path items such as:
a. Develop contracts for project work:
Not applicable
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b. Permitting; R/W and land acquisition:
Not applicable
c. Engineering and design:
Not applicable
d. Material and equipment procurement:
Not applicable
e. Facility construction:
Not applicablee
f. Agreements (interconnection, operating, scheduling, etc.) with other entities:
Not applicablee
g. Pre-operations testing:
Not applicable
h. Project in-service date:
i. Other items identified by the bidder:
Not applicable
14.2 The proposed payment required.
i. If the proposed payment may change during the contract term, then the Eligible
Bidder must also provide the method that transmission owner shall use to
determine the payment for the Transmission Project under the transmission Rate
Schedule or Tariff and Service Agreement to be filed with FERC. If the proposed
payment is a formula rate, the Eligible Bidder must also provide the formula and
its proposed inputs that the transmission owner will file with FERC.
Not applicable
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ii. If the proposed payment is based on the Transmission Project’s cost of service
and may change during the contract term based on changes in the cost of service,
a full revenue requirements model submitted as a working Excel spreadsheet with
the formulas intact. All assumptions must be detailed as follows:
a. Provide the capital cost estimate presented as a buildup of costs by category,
such as environmental, engineering, civil works, materials, equipment,
construction, construction management, physical and price contingencies,
allowance for funds used during construction (AFUDC), and all other
categories for which recovery under FERC would be sought. These
categories are illustrative; aggregate costs into the categories most relevant
to the development of the proposed project. All costs should be provided in
nominal dollars.
Not applicable
b. For projects with transmission and substation components, separate the costs
into two rows (e.g. use one row for substation construction and a second for
transmission construction). Describe the detailed financial plan on a
monthly basis during the construction period, e.g., for 3 years or as long as
necessary. The plan should present the costs and financial outlays in each
month of the construction period, and the corresponding sources of
financing (equity contribution and debt drawdown). Data should include an
estimate of the cost of both physical and price contingencies during the
construction period. The financing plan should indicate the ability to finance
the construction of the proposed project under base case and contingency
scenarios.
Not applicable
c. Describe the proposed financing sources and instruments:
i. Sources of funds for construction and working capital - include name
of entity providing debt financing, loan amounts, interest rates,
repayment period, grace period during construction; and equity
provided by project sponsor:
Not applicable
ii. Sources of funds for unexpected repairs or replacement construction
during the operating period, e.g., replacement of tower. Note: the
operating period is the applicant’s estimate of the useful life or
accounting life of the transmission project element(s):
Not applicable
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d. Provide the annual revenue requirement forecasts for the project - including
assumptions. Provide a draft version of the revenue requirement calculation
in a format that is similar to what would be included in the Rate Schedule or
Tariff and Service Agreement application to FERC, indicating the forecast
revenue requirement amounts and all assumptions used in the calculations.
This should include but not be limited to the assumptions regarding rate of
return, depreciation life, split between debt and capital, AFUDC and
weighted cost of capital, and a detailed estimate of the anticipated average
annual operating and maintenance cost:
Not applicable
iii. If the pricing proposed is based on cost of service, detailed cost
containment commitments such as fixed price components, cost
overrun restrictions, or other cost bandwidth provisions that are
proposed to limit ratepayer risk must be clearly defined:
Not applicable
14.3 The schedule of the payments defined in 14.2 above including when the payments will
commence, how often payments will be required and the length of time over which
payments will be required. In no event may payments commence before the Transmission
Project is placed in service.
Not applicable
14.4 The design life of the project:
Not applicable
14.5 If the bidder is proposing the use of a Performance-Based Tariff in connection with the
Delivery commitment model, the bidder is required to state the proposal for liquidated
damages to compensate the buyer and to keep it financially whole for non-Delivery.
Not applicable
14.6 If the bidder is proposing the use of a Performance-Based Tariff in connection with the
Delivery commitment model, the bidder is required to provide details of the source and
reliability of the Qualified Clean Energy supply along with the rights and ownership of that
energy.
Not applicable
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14.7 A description of the reliability benefits of the proposed Transmission Project and its impact
on existing transmission constraints:
Not applicable
14.8 For the Delivery commitment model, please describe the process for the transfer of the
environmental attributes associated with the Qualified Clean Energy Delivery
Commitment.
Not applicable