India Wants Consultants For Solar Projects

• SECI wants to hire an agency to conduct soil investigation for 13 GW renewable energy project sites in Leh
• The government firm is also planning to conduct geo-technical study in South Andaman for renewable energy development
• THDC India Limited is seeking consultants to help acquire land for 2 GW solar PV capacity in Rajasthan

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) soliciting bids to select an agency to carry out soil investigation in Leh Union Territory (UT) for 13 GW renewable energy capacity. In a separate notice, THDC India Limited (THDCIL) is looking at acquiring land for the development of 2 GW solar capacity in Rajasthan.

13 GW RE at Leh

Broad scope of work for the Leh tender includes conducting plate load tests at various trial pit locations, conducting electrical resistivity tests, and conducting various laboratory tests on soil samples to determine bulk density and moistyre content, sieve analysis, hydrometer analysis, and the like.

The Union Territory of Ladakh under the Government of India, Leh is planned to host 13 GW renewable energy capacity across various sites. In its FY 2023-24 annual budget, the government announced an interstate transmission system (ISTS) for evacuation and grid integration of 13 GW renewable energy from Ladakh will be built for INR 207 billion, including federal support of INR 83 billion.

The 13 GW Leh tender was launched on July 17, 2023 with bids to be accepted till August 7, 2023, according to SECI.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

On July 14, 2023, SECI also launched a tender to secure the services of an agency to conduct geo-technical study and topography survey for the implementation of renewable energy plan at the UT of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Local authorities have identified an area of 40,1382 hectares as suitable for the establishment of a solar power project, according to SECI.

The proposed renewable energy project is to be located at Mithakari in South Andaman. Last date to submit bids is August 4, 2023.

THDCIL's 2 GW solar UMREPP

Indian hydropower generator THDCIL has issued an expression of interest (EOI) for the empanelment of consultants for its subsidiary TREDCO Rajasthan Limited to acquire land for 2 GW solar PV capacity.

This PV capacity will be developed in Rajasthan under the government's Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Power Parks (UMREPP) scheme. Bids will be admitted till August 10, 2023.

Earlier this year, THDCIL's JV with UPNEDA was looking for consultants to explore the feasibility of an 800 MW UMREPP in Uttar Pradesh (see Consultant Sought For 800 MW Solar Park In India).