CPS Energy has announced an expansion of its community solar program with a new Request for Proposal (RFP) aimed at securing up to 50 megawatts (MW) of community solar capacity. According to the utility, this amount is sufficient to power around 10,000 homes during periods of peak energy demand.
The initiative is part of CPS Energy’s Sustainable Tomorrow Energy Plan (STEP), which aims to support reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy delivery for San Antonio and nearby areas. The RFP invites proposals for various types of community solar projects, including turnkey programs, innovative approaches that use new technologies or models, and installation-only solutions. Multiple vendors may be selected through this process.
Selected vendors will enter into Power Purchase Agreements with CPS Energy to sell all the generated electricity. The company encourages participation from both local and small businesses as well as larger industry firms in an effort to support economic development.
Community solar programs are designed to increase access to renewable energy for customers who have previously faced obstacles, such as those living in apartments or rental properties. Jonathan Tijerina, Vice President of Corporate Development at CPS Energy, stated: “This RFP reflects CPS Energy’s continued focus on expanding our solar portfolio in ways that are flexible, scalable, and responsive to our community’s needs. Community solar allows us to bring more renewable energy online while maintaining affordability and reliability for our customers.”
CPS Energy currently ranks first in Texas for installed solar power capacity. Through its STEP program, the utility works on lowering barriers for customer participation in solar initiatives while maintaining a diverse energy mix.
Key dates for the RFP process include issuance on January 30, 2026; deadline for questions on February 16; responses posted by February 23; and final proposal submissions due March 19 via cpsenergy.com/bids. Evaluation will begin after the portal closes.
CPS Energy serves over 970,000 electric and 390,000 natural gas customers across San Antonio and parts of seven adjacent counties. Since 1942, it has contributed $10.1 billion in revenue to the City of San Antonio and continues efforts toward job creation and educational investment as a community-owned utility.
