NTPC Green Energy Opens Bids for Comprehensive Maintenance of 225 MW Bilhaur Solar Project

NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) has officially opened the bidding process for the comprehensive operation and maintenance of the 225 MW Bilhaur Solar Power Project. This significant project is divided into two parts: Bilhaur-1, with a capacity of 140 MW, and Bilhaur-2, contributing an additional 85 MW. The contract, which is classified as a service contract, is set to span three years for Bilhaur-1 and approximately 33.5 months for Bilhaur-2, commencing from the date of the Letter of Award (LOA) or as specified in the bidding documents.

The bidding is organized through a single-stage two-envelope system, inviting eligible participants to submit their proposals online. The bid reference is identified as GEM/2024/B/4701274, with NGEL specifically seeking service providers capable of handling the comprehensive needs of both segments of the Bilhaur Solar Power Project. This initiative underscores NGEL’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiencies and sustainability goals.

Key deadlines include the last date and time for bid submission, set for 27 March 2024 at 14:00 hrs, with the technical bid opening scheduled for the same day at 14:30 hrs. The date and time for the opening of price bids will be communicated directly to qualified bidders after the evaluation of their techno-commercial bids through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Portal.

The tendering process is notably streamlined on the GeM portal, with no tender fee required. However, a bid security or Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of ₹20,00,000 (Twenty Lakhs) is mandatory, although exemptions are available for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) registered under UDYAM. Additionally, the bidding documents emphasize the importance of integrity, with an integrity pact needing to be submitted online.

NGEL has clearly stated that joint ventures, consortia, associates, or collaborators are not permitted in this bidding process. Nonetheless, MSEs participating in the bid can avail themselves of specific benefits, including exemptions on EMD, aligning with the broader Public Procurement Policy to support MSEs.

This operation and maintenance contract represents a pivotal step for NGEL in bolstering the performance and reliability of the Bilhaur Solar Power Project, contributing significantly to India’s renewable energy portfolio.