RFS For 2 GW Solar Power Projects In India

• SECI has unveiled a new solar PV tender for 2 GW capacity under ISTS tranche-XI
• It can be set up as multiple projects with minimum 50 MW capacity for a single bid
• Interested bidders stand to win the entire 2 GW which can be established on BOO basis

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has launched tender under tranche-XI of interstate transmission system (ISTS) connected solar PV projects with 2 GW combined capacity for which selected developers will be responsible for arranging land.

A single bid can be submitted for a minimum of 50 MW capacity, and a maximum of 2 GW, to be quoted in multiples of 10 MW only. Entire capacity won can be located at a single location or sub-divided into blocks to be established at multiple locations under the conditions specified in the request for selection (RFS) terms.

Projects need to be set up on build-own-operate (BOO) basis anywhere in India. Modules to be used for these projects will be expected to comply with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's (MNRE) Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). However, the ministry recently gave an extension from sticking to ALMM for module procurement till March 2024 (see India Provides Relief From ALMM Obligation).

Winners will enter into a power purchase agreement (PPA) with SECI for 25 years which will then sell it to different buying entities.

Launched on March 31, 2023, the tender will be open to admitting bids till May 12, 2023. Details are available on SECI's website.