Non-Wire Alternative Projects
Ameren Illinois' non-wires alternative (NWA) strategy provides an opportunity to use alternative energy solutions as a means to defer or replace traditional infrastructure investments that may result in cost savings and societal benefits for customers while maintaining reliable system performance. Ameren Illinois has implemented a structured planning process that allows for the identification of potential viable NWA projects.
Identification of Potential NWA Solutions:
Suitability Criteria
Screening criteria used within the planning process identified above is based off of three pillars. Projects that meet the screening criteria will then have a BCA (benefit-cost analysis) conducted to determine if the cost of the project outweighs potential benefits.
Project Types
Capacity expansions and some systems performance projects such as reliability are to be evaluated.
Project Cost
Projects above a $3 million cost threshold are to be evaluated, consistent with requirements of Section 16-105.17 of the Act.
Project Timeline
Projects identified with an in-service date three to five years into the future are to be evaluated.
In addition to the suitability criteria listed above, Ameren Illinois uses good engineering judgement in considering implementation of NWAs as it helps to ensure and verify that solutions will maintain safe and reliable operation of the grid.
Current Opportunities
Current Ameren Illinois projects that meet the screening criteria are outlined below. If positive results are obtained through the BCA then Ameren Illinois will move forward with procuring the NWA solution. Detailed project information would be provided as project solicitations are released.
Supplier Resources
Suppliers must be an approved Ameren business partner in order to participate in the program. Ameren Illinois' procurement process as well as information on the pre-qualification requirements which allow suppliers to become eligible for bidding on upcoming RFP's can be found here.
Suppliers that are not currently approved are welcome to bid on RFPs but will need to work in tandem to become an approved supplier.
