The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) released a Request for Proposals (RFP) on January 30 seeking proposals to provide zero-carbon electric power from nuclear, hydropower, solar, onshore wind and associated transmission, and/or paired and co-located energy storage systems. The RFP aims to diversify the state’s energy sources, improve electric reliability, and save ratepayers money. Through the bid process, DEEP will coordinate with other New England states also interested in potentially procuring these resources. Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Vermont, or their respective utilities, have expressed interest in participating under their states’ relevant authorities.
In 2018, DEEP issued an RFP for zero-carbon resources that resulted in contracts with the existing Millstone Nuclear Power Plant and Seabrook Station Nuclear Power Plant. At the time, wholesale energy prices were at historic lows and nuclear generating facilities were shutting down across the nation. By signing a contract with the Millstone facility, Connecticut prevented the premature retirement of that facility, which would have threatened regional reliability, particularly during the winter, and cost New England ratepayers hundreds of millions to over one billion dollars to replace.
