An eastern Kentucky utility says it is looking to add up to 20 megawatts of solar energy to meet growing customer interest in solar options.

Kentucky Power says it's also looking to diversify its electric generation mix.

The company is seeking bids for solar resources to be purchased. As part of the process, Kentucky Power says it may buy solar facilities from winning bidders meeting certain economic and operational criteria.

To qualify for consideration, projects must be located within Kentucky Power's service territory. Qualifying projects must be operational by Dec. 31, 2021.

Currently, Kentucky Power generates about 81 percent of 2,240 megawatts of electricity supplied to its customers using coal and about 19 percent with natural gas.

Kentucky Power provides electric service to about 168,000 customers in 20 eastern Kentucky counties.