The Bahamas - Electric power generation

Description

The government of The Bahamas (GoB), in partnership with Bahamas Power and Light Company, request bids from respondents interested in offering renewable energy-based independent power producer (IPP) projects for select islands of The Bahamas.

The proposed projects seek to integrate climate-responsive regulation of resource management, improve energy storage capacity, facilitate new generation capabilities, and improve sustainability efforts. The projects require the development of microgrids on various islands throughout The Bahamas.

It is expected that each project will supply consistent and reliable power output for 24 hours per day at the requested output level.

Modes of operation and interconnection requirements

Any installation proposed must have grid forming and grid following capabilities to switch between modes seamlessly without disrupting supply.

The solution must be able to synchronise with an existing grid and manage its output to remain consistent at the required level for 24 hours per day. This includes any conventional generation proposed as part of the solution that would be required to run in parallel with or back-up to the renewable energy source and storage as needed.

Any required extension of the grid to the point of common coupling (POCC) at the identified site will be provided by the GoB at no cost to the project developer.

Any respondent selected will have to install an interfacing switchboard at their cost, along with all the required automation, control, and protection needed to provide the required service.

Reliable baseload power

Respondents must design solutions capable of providing uninterrupted and reliable power, consistently meeting the specified output levels throughout all 8,760 hours a year.

Renewable energy component

Each proposed system must incorporate a renewable energy component of 30% to 50% or more.

Local management

The proposed systems must be manageable at the local level, with the ability for secure remote monitoring and control via a wide area network (WAN).

Black start

The systems must be able to black start, ensuring the ability to restart and restore power after an outage.

Flexible engine selection

The choice of engine size and type should align with specific power requirements, fuel availability, environmental considerations, and other factors relevant to the intended use.

Consideration of alternative technologies

While reciprocating engines are a commonly used option for small prime power generation, respondents are encouraged to explore alternative technologies such as microturbines and fuel cells, especially if they are suitable for specific situations.

Alternative fuels

If alternative fuels are being considered, detailed specifications should be included in the overall project plan.

Energy storage systems

The information submitted should include solutions that can be achieved primarily through efficient prime power and renewable energy sources combined with energy storage.

Though lithium battery storage is currently the most common, alternative storage technologies and chemistries will be considered, provided they offer increased safety and/or environmental benefits and are cost-competitive.

Battery energy storage system (BESS) requirements

Upon loss of the primary distribution system, the microgrid shall seamlessly convert into island mode operation and provide backup power to the distribution system.

The battery inverter must have the capability of a grid-forming unit providing the voltage and frequency reference to the islanded system.

The BESS should support the following modes of operation:

• renewable firming
• reliability
• peak load limiting
• load management

Opportunity closing date

25 January 2024

Value of contract

to be confirmed

The buyer is happy to talk to

manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, agents, consultants