A petition has been filed by the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) under the Electricity Act, 2003, requesting the adoption of tariffs for Solar PV Power Projects (Tranche-IX) connected to the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS). SECI, acting as an intermediary agency, initiated the bidding process for 2,000 MW ISTS-connected Solar Power Projects, Tranche-IX, following guidelines set by the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
The bidding process commenced on March 20, 2020, resulting in eleven bids with an aggregate capacity of 5,280 MW, meeting technical criteria. After shortlisting, a reverse auction was conducted on June 30, 2020, where seven bidders with an aggregate capacity of 2,000 MW were selected and issued Letters of Awards. SECI subsequently signed Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with successful bidders, including Solarpack Corporacion Technologica SA, for 300 MW capacity.
Following orders from the Commission, SECI proceeded to execute PPAs and Power Supply Agreements (PSAs) for 1,400 MW capacity out of the remaining balance. SECI then approached the Commission again seeking tariff adoption for the remaining 300 MW capacity, which was tied up under PPAs and PSAs.
The Commission, having previously examined the transparency of the bidding process, observed that the selection of successful bidders and tariff discovery was conducted transparently according to guidelines. Consequently, the Commission restricted tariff adoption to 1,400 MW in earlier orders, granting SECI liberty to approach for the remaining capacity.
SECI’s petition also includes a request to recognize Change in Law events, particularly related to customs duty, GST, and installation of bird diverters, limiting their impact to ₹0.29/kWh. This request aligns with previous agreements made by parties involved, including Solar Power Developers and distribution licensees.
During the hearing, the Commission considered SECI’s petition along with responses from involved parties. Respondents expressed support for SECI’s requests, with PSPCL specifically endorsing the procurement of 300 MW power under PSA dated December 30, 2023.
The Commission, after considering submissions, reserved the matter for further order, allowing parties to file respective replies or rejoinders. SECI’s petition under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003, seeks tariff adoption for Solar PV Power Projects (Tranche-IX) connected to ISTS. The Commission’s previous orders have affirmed the transparency of the bidding process, and SECI now seeks adoption for the remaining 300 MW capacity, along with recognition of Change in Law events. All involved parties have expressed support for SECI’s requests, indicating a consensus on the matter.
Please view the document here for more details.
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