Indian government agency Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has launched 2 separate tenders seeking hybrid project developers for 1,200 MW capacity under tranche-VIII. Another tender is for 900 MW domestically-manufactured solar modules with domestically-produced solar cells. 

1.2 GW hybrid project 

To be connected via the inter-state transmission system (ISTS), this 1.2 GW hybrid solar and wind power capacity can be located anywhere in India. Projects need to be developed on a build-own-operate (BOO) basis along with setting up the transmission network up to the interconnection/delivery point. 

The hybrid project developers (HPD) will need to identify land and secure all requisite approvals. The minimum capacity for a single bidder to bid is 50 MW, and can go up to a maximum of 600 MW.  

The rated capacity of both the solar and wind components must be a minimum of 33% of the contracted capacity to qualify as a hybrid facility. The wind and solar projects under the tender can be located at the same or different locations, including in different states.

SECI will enter into a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the winners for 25 years. 

The tender was launched on February 20, 2024, with the last date of bid submission being April 2, 2024. 

The tranche-VII of hybrid power projects launched by SECI in October 2023 comprised 2 GW grid-connected capacity (see India: SECI Launched Hybrid Wind-Solar PV Tender).  

900 MW solar module tender 

SECI has also opened a call to seek the procurement of 900 MW domestically manufactured solar modules, manufactured with domestically produced solar cells under CPSU Scheme Tranche-III. 

All modules to be supplied need to be from the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). 

Among the technical requirements for modules, SECI says it requires monocrystalline modules with a minimum of 20.9% efficiency and 540 W power rating. The temperature coefficient of power shouldn’t be less than -0.40%/°C.  

The total capacity is divided into 9 packages of 100 MW each. A single bidder can quote for the entire 900 MW capacity. 

Broad scope of work encompasses the manufacturing, testing, packing and forwarding, supply and transportation of 900 MW modules. In addition, the supplier will need to mandatorily supply 0.5% of the awarded package capacity as mandatory spares. 

Delivery must be completed within 9 months from the date of start of delivery. The location of the project site can be anywhere in India. A repeat order will be done on the L1 matched price on the basis of the supplier’s original ranking at the time of bidding.  

For the call for 900 MW modules launched on February 20, 2024, the last date to submit bids is March 12, 2024. Details are available on SECI’s website.