CPS Energy today officially launched its efforts to bring a solar manufacturer or assembler to San Antonio by releasing a request for proposals (RFP). The utility renewed a date-style ad campaign to advertise the RFP, placing ads that beckon for a “two-step partner” in an assortment of national and international publications as well as newspapers and the company’s website, cpsenergy.com.

On January 18, President and CEO Doyle Beneby outlined CPS Energy’s plans to build its own solar farm with up to 50 megawatts (MW) of power. Per the RFP, the partnering company needs to locate a facility in San Antonio to make or assemble the components. The long-term commitment would bring clean energy and economic development to the community. The contract also calls for elements to support research and development as well as education.

Gaining 50 MW of solar would help fulfill one facet of the company’s Vision 2020 plan, which calls for a minimum of 100 MW of non-wind renewable energy by 2020. Currently, CPS Energy is receiving 14 MW from the Blue Wing Solar Farm. A second purchase power agreement with Sun Edison will add another 30 MW of solar energy to the utility’s portfolio by Fall 2012.

CPS Energy currently has a generation mix that is approximately 90 percent traditional fuels and 10 percent renewable resources. Cost-efficient coal and nuclear energy have enabled the company to add renewable resources, while continuing to have some of the lowest bills in the country.