Competitive Bidding Process for Renewable Energy Sources with the use of innovative eAuctions

Abstract

new RES and CHP support scheme in Greece has been approved by the European Commission and published in 25/2/2017 (EE[C(2016)7272final-SA44666). The new mechanism is based on a sliding feed-in-premium concept for the majority of RES projects, where the premium is provided through competitive auctions, that can be technology-specific or neutral, national or regional. According to a Ministerial Decision, published in March 2018, a cumulative capacity of 2600 MW will be auctioned in Greece for wind and PV power plants within the years 2018 to 2020, in order to achieve the RES deployment and CO2 reduction targets of the country for the next decade, while increasing the competition and reducing the cost of renewable energy for the consumers. This paper will describe and analyze the first steps made within the new regulatory framework for RES development in Greece, and more specifically, the design, implementation and outcome of the RES Auction the period 2016–2020. The Hellenic Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE) has successfully introduced in the Greek market since 2016, innovative Competitive Procedures for Renewable Energy Sources (RES): tenders with the use of customized e-auctions, partnering with cosmoONE, a private e-commerce company. Seeking an efficient solution to facilitate the extremely complex process within limited time and great outcome, a number of 14 energy eAuctions have been conducted up currently, featuring as the most transparent and competent tool under the approval of SA 48143 of EU; their undisputable success has contributed to the smooth award of 1.137,43MW solar and 953,73MW wind plants, with significant low prices to the benefit of both the consumers and national economy.