MSEDCL’s 500 MW Solar Procurement Tender

• MSEDCL has issued RFS round to source solar power from 500 MW grid connected capacity in the state
• It needs to be established in the multiples of 25 MW, with 25 MW being the minimum capacity for a single location
• MSEDCL aims for this solar power to meet its future power requirements and fulfill its RPPO

The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co Ltd (MSEDCL) has launched a request for selection (RFS) call to select bidders from whom it will source 500 MW grid connected solar power on long term basis making it phase VII of such a call from the state agency.

It aims to meet its future power requirements and fulfil its renewable power purchase obligations (RPPO) through this call for intra-state solar projects.

The minimum project capacity shall be 25 MW at a single location within Maharashtra with minimum bid capacity of 50 MW for projects. A single bidder can stand to win the entire 500 MW with project capacity in the multiples of 25 MW beyond the minimum capacity.

Winning bidders will be required to set up the solar project including transmission network up to the delivery point at their own cost. They will also be expected to identify 100% land required for the project and submit tentative locations with bid submission.

Projects need to be commissioning within 15 months from the date of signing of the power purchase agreement (PPA) for those being set up inside a solar park, and 18 months for those outside of it. MSEDCL will enter into a 25-year PPA with the winning bidders.

Launched on June 8, 2022, the tender will be open for submissions till July 18, 2022. Details of the call are available on MSEDCL's website.

Back in 2021, MSEDCL's 500 MW solar auction phase VI attracted lowest winning bid of INR 2.42 per kWh and was offered by ACME Solar Holdings to win 300 MW, and ReNew Power won 200 MW for INR 2.43 per kWh bid (see India PV News Snippets: MSEDCL, RSEPL, Jakson Group).