Indian government backed public sector unit NLC India Limited had issued tenders to set up PV projects of 500 MW capacity in the state of Tamil Nadu. The tender documents can be bought for $449 until December 19, 2016.
Formerly called Neyveli Lignite Corporation Limited, the company wants to set up 50 MW capacity solar power projects in 10 locations of the state. In a single location, only 50 MW capacity can be developed. Winning solar power developers and operators will have to carry out activities of design, engineering, manufacture, inspection at supplier's works, storage, erection, testing, commissioning, among other tasks. They will also be required to secure relevant approval from Tamil Nadu State Electricity Authorities.
For the next 15 years post commissioning, the company will provide operation and maintenance services.
NLC India has 10 MW of solar power generation capacity, and plans to take it to 3,990 MW. Traditionally a coal based power generation and lignite mining company, it is slowly diversifying into becoming an energy company with focus on renewables as solar and wind.
The company is working on its previously announced 130 MW solar power project in Neyveli of Tamil Nadu, to be commissioned in 2016-17. Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) had won the EPC order for 65 MW of this capacity (see BHEL Bags 80 MW EPC Order). NLC is also apparently working on developing a 50 MW capacity in Andaman & Nicobar Islands as well (see 50 MW PV For Andaman & Nicobar).
There were plans to develop 130 MW PV capacity in Rajasthan as well, but there were reports recently that suggested NLC had dropped these plans for good. Reason suggested was the disinterest among discoms in the state to buy solar power for a rate higher than $0.060 (see NLC Changes Solar Plans).
The tender for NLC's 500 MW Tamil Nadu projects is open until December 20, 2016. Details of the tender can be read on the NLC India website.