As the implementing agency for Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojna (MSKVY) in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co Ltd (MSEDCL) is soliciting bids for the development of 1 GW AC grid connected solar power capacity within the state, with a ceiling tariff of INR 3.30 ($0.040)/kWh.
Under the MSKVY, the stat government procures solar power to be supplied to agricultural consumers during daytime to ensure continuous clean power supply to the farmers and reduce load on the grid.
Minimum individual project capacity will need to be 2 MW, and maximum 10 MW (2×5 MW). Land to be procured by the winner can be sourced from the list compiled by the discom where farmers/group of farmers have applied to rent out their premises for solar power plant development.
Cells and modules for these projects need to be sourced 'only in accordance with' the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's (MNRE) Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM), according to the RFS. While there is no official circular as yet, the MNRE Minister RK Singh recently announced 2-year exemption for projects from using ALMM listed modules only (see Breather For Indian Solar Power Project Developers).
According to the request for selection (RFS) document, MSEDCL will enter 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with winning bidders who will be responsible for design, finance, land procurement, EPC and operation and maintenance (O&M) services.
MSEDCL will be accepting bids for this tender launched on February 16, 2023 till March 17, 2023. Further details are available on its website.