The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has issued a Request for Selection (RfS) for the procurement of 1,000 MW/2,000 MWh Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in India. The main objective of this initiative is to ensure the availability of energy storage facilities for the Buying Entities, allowing them to charge and discharge the BESS on demand.
Under this RfS, the selected BESS Developer (BESSD) will be responsible for setting up the BESS, including the identification of land, installation, ownership, and obtaining necessary connectivity and approvals for interconnection with the ISTS network. The technology used for the battery storage system is flexible as long as it meets the performance criteria defined in the RfS and BESPA documents.
The SECI’s tender for 1000 MW/2000 MWh Battery Energy Storage Systems mandates an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of ₹3,41,000 per MWh. The bid submission deadline is August 7, 2024, with an 18-month project completion period. A Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) of ₹8,52,500 per MWh is required.
The BESS can be charged by any energy source, including conventional sources, but ownership of the energy source by the BESSD is not mandatory. The responsibility for charging and discharging the system lies with the Buying Entity for the capacity under contract with SECI. The selection process for BESS projects will involve e-bidding followed by an e-Reverse Auction.
The total capacity offered for bidding is 1,000 MW/2,000 MWh, and bidders must submit proposals offering a minimum of 50 MW/100 MWh and a maximum of 1,000 MW/2,000 MWh. The project capacity must be quoted in integral values with the system rated for two hours of charging. The selection of project developers will be based on the project capacity offered, and the term “Project” refers solely to the BESS set up to provide the contracted capacity as per the BESPA.
For successful implementation, BESSDs must ensure financial closure and submit detailed completion schedules, including land procurement, grid connectivity, and the status of project components. They must also provide necessary documentation, such as agreements or purchase orders for equipment supply and financial institution certificates confirming fund arrangements.
The Battery Energy Storage Purchase Agreement (BESPA) will be executed between SECI and the selected bidders. The BESSD is required to submit a project configuration proposal as part of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and ensure adherence to the technical specifications and directives provided in the RfS. The SECI’s initiative aims to enhance grid stability and reliability by integrating advanced energy storage solutions, facilitating the effective management of renewable energy resources, and supporting India’s transition towards a sustainable energy future.
 for 1000 MW/2000 MWh Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to enhance grid stability and renewable energy management in India. Bidders must submit proposals by August 7, 2024, with an 18-month project completion period.){kind=link}