As part of SaskPower’s previously announced goal to increase renewable source energy to 50% of all generation capacity by 2030, on September 30, 2016 SaskPower commenced Requests for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Province’s first 10 megawatt (MW) solar generation facility.  Under the RFQ, SaskPower is seeking applications from proponents that can demonstrate their ability to plan, develop, finance, construct, own and operate the solar generation facility for a term of 20 years. By the terms of the RFQ, proponents are required to establish financial strength and capacity including, among other detailed criteria, current and future sources of debt or equity financing to support the development.  Additionally, proponents are required to establish their particular experience and understanding of planning, developing, financing, constructing, owning and operating a solar generation facility. SaskPower will be evaluating the respondents based on: solar facility knowledge and development experience, financial risk, safety certification and compliance, consultations and community engagement, community benefits and sustainability, aboriginal participation, site location and price.  Proponents are also required to establish that they will be able to meet all technical and regulatory requirements and obtain all applicable permits. RFQ Proposed Key Dates: October 13, 2016:         Optional Information Session November 21, 2016:     Deadline For Respondent Questions November 30, 2016:     Deadline for Respondent Application Submission December 16, 2016:     SaskPower Determination of Prequalified Respondents

About the author: Christopher J. Masich is a senior associate in the Saskatoon McKercher LLP office, where he maintains a project development and commercial transaction practice with particular emphasis on Energy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment.  Christopher has assisted clients with matters relating directly to energy development in Saskatchewan, including land acquisitions, regulatory compliance, environmental compliance and SaskPower procurement.

About McKercher LLP: McKercher LLP is one of Saskatchewan’s oldest, largest law firms with offices in Saskatoon and Regina. Our deep roots and client-first philosophy have made us a top ranked firm by Canadian Lawyer magazine (2011, 2013). Integrity, experience and capacity provide innovative solutions for our clients’ diverse legal issues and complex business transactions. McKercher LLP’s Resources, Energy and Environmental teams have experience in major projects across western Canada and protect clients through every step of the project development process. We have assisted commercial, government, corporate and individual clients with complex transactions. With respect to project development, we have acted for owners, developers, engineers, architects, contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, property managers, financial institutions and their insurers. This post is for information purposes only and should not be taken as legal opinions on any specific facts or circumstances.  Counsel should be consulted concerning your own situation and any specific legal questions you may have.