Alliant Energy is seeking to expand its renewable energy generation with solar power, and its Iowa utility is issuing a request for proposals (RFP) for new solar projects that could increase its system-wide solar generation by 50%.

"We're in a transition right now as we continue to move to a cleaner energy future," said Doug Kopp, president of Alliant Energy's Iowa utility. "We've been increasing the use of different types of renewable energy for years, and now we are exploring ways to specifically provide solar power to our customers."

The request is to build solar projects between one and 10 MW within Alliant Energy's Iowa service territory, which could power between 200 and 2,000 average homes.

The RFP seeks a variety of options and configurations for new solar generation in Iowa, and the company hopes that developers will bring innovation to their proposals.

"There are a variety of ways we could design and deploy solar energy," said Kopp. "We will be considering a wide range of options, from larger utility-scale solar fields to smaller community solar programs. We will engage customers, key stakeholders and interested parties to help us develop the new program options, rates and services."

Alliant Energy has helped Iowa customers connect 1,650 individual solar or wind systems to the electric system, and recognizes that different customers need different options.

"The desire to tap into renewable energy is broader than the number of customers whose homes and businesses or incomes are suitable for rooftop solar, and we're working on new energy solutions for our communities and customers," said Kopp. "We'll be listening to what our customers are interested in."

The RFP solicits utility ownership and/or long-term Purchased Power Agreement (PPA) proposals for new solar resources. The RFP is requesting that respondents install up to 10MW of solar nameplate capacity and supply energy to Alliant Energy's Iowa customers beginning in fourth quarter 2016. Notification of Intent to Bid is due October 15, 2015.