India’s Tamil Nadu Planning 3 GW Solar/Wind Tender

• India's Tamil Nadu seeking approval from electricity commission for solar and wind power tenders of 3 GW capacity
• 1.5 GW solar tender will benchmark a tariff of up to 3.00 INR ($0.046) per kWh
• Commission expected to deliver verdict on March 13

Tamil Nadu in India could soon be tendering 3 GW of solar and wind power capacity. It will be divided equally between the two technologies. The Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO) is awaiting approval from the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC).

TANGEDCO is seeking approval for procurement of solar power of 1.5 GW capacity from project developers for 3.00 INR ($0.046) per kWh as the benchmark tariff. The wind tenders for 1.5 GW, each with a minimum capacity of 25 MW, will be procured through reverse bidding – the upper ceiling limit is 2.65 INR ($0.04) per kWh. TNERC is expected to deliver its verdict on March 13.

According to Mercom India Research, TNERC is struggling to meet its renewable purchase obligation (RPO) target of 5% for the current financial year.

A 1.5 GW tender issued by TANGEDCO in 2017 was oversubscribed by almost 150%, receiving bids for 3,700 MW (see Tamil Nadu Receives Bids For 3.7 GW).