Independent solar energy producer contract

Do solar projects need an EPC contract?

In our experience, most utility-scale solar projects use an EPC Contract. An operation and maintenance agreement: This is usually a medium- to long-term Operating and Maintenance Agreement (O&M Agreement) with an Operator. The term of the O&M Agreement will vary from project to project.

What is a solar power purchase agreement (SPPA)?

A Solar Power Purchase Agreement (SPPA) is a financial arrangement in which a third-party developer owns, operates, and maintains the photovoltaic (PV) system, and a host customer agrees to site the system on its property and purchases the system's electric output from the solar services provider for a predetermined period.

Who owns a solar plant?

With few exceptions, the seller is a special purpose entity (often called an “SPV” or the “project company”) that owns and operates the solar plant that will generate energy and environmental attributes (“output”).

What makes a solar project viable?

I. The Revenue Stream. When a solar project is owned by an independent power producer rather than a utility serving its own load, the agreement that provides for an assured source of revenue from the energy output and related environmental attributes of the project is central to the project’s viability.

Will EPC contracts provide for the handover of a solar facility?

EPC Contracts will not provide for the handover of the solar facility to the Project Company, and the PPA will not become effective until all commissioning and reliability trialling has been successfully completed.

Can a PPA buy a solar project?

Buyer Options to Purchase the Project or Special Purpose Entity. Many utilities have shown a strong interest in owning solar energy projects. In PPAs, this interest often takes the form of an option to purchase the project or the entity that owns it on or after a specified date. Such options should be handled carefully.