The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) has issued a Request for Selection (RfS) for the development of 400 MW ISTS-connected wind-solar hybrid power projects in India under Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding. This initiative, part of SECI’s Tranche-IX, aims to invite hybrid power developers to set up projects on a Build Own Operate (BOO) basis.
SECI, a government enterprise under the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), plays a crucial role in promoting and commercializing solar energy technologies in India. The guidelines for this competitive bidding process were issued by the Ministry of Power (MoP) in August 2023. These guidelines aim to procure power from grid-connected wind-solar hybrid projects, ensuring a long-term supply of renewable energy.
SECI has issued an RfS for 400 MW ISTS-connected wind-solar hybrid projects. The Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) is ₹10,59,480. Bids must be submitted by 31st July 2024. Selected developers will have 24 months to complete the projects, enhancing India’s renewable energy capacity and aligning with national sustainability goals.
The scope of work involves the development of hybrid power projects with a minimum capacity of 50 MW for projects connected to the inter-state transmission system and 10 MW for those connected to the intra-state transmission system. The selected developers will enter into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with SECI for 25 years. SECI, acting as an intermediary nodal agency, will procure power from the hybrid power developers and sell it to various buying entities across India.
Bidders are encouraged to leverage available fiscal incentives such as accelerated depreciation, concessional customs, excise duties, and tax holidays. However, the availability of these incentives will not affect the comparison of bids. Bidders with existing or under-construction hybrid projects can also participate, provided they meet the qualifying requirements and have untied capacity.
SECI emphasizes the importance of adhering to the terms and conditions of the RfS document. Bidders must ensure their proposals are complete and comply with all requirements. SECI reserves the right to modify or amend the RfS document and has clarified that any discrepancies should be reported by bidders within 20 days of issuance.
The bidding process includes a pre-bid meeting to address any queries and provide clarifications. The techno-commercial bid opening and e-reverse auction dates will be communicated to eligible bidders via email. SECI has also provided contact details for assistance with the bidding process.
The RfS underscores SECI’s commitment to fostering renewable energy development in India. By inviting competitive bids for hybrid power projects, SECI aims to enhance the country’s renewable energy capacity, contributing to sustainable growth and environmental conservation. This initiative aligns with India’s National Solar Mission and broader goals to transition to a low-carbon energy future.
SECI’s RfS for 400 MW ISTS-connected wind-solar hybrid power projects represents a significant step towards integrating renewable energy sources into the national grid. Through competitive bidding, SECI seeks to attract capable developers, ensuring the successful implementation of these hybrid projects. This effort will not only bolster India’s renewable energy capacity but also support the nation’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
