The Plantation Corporation of Kerala Ltd. (PCK) has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) and technical bids for developing solar power projects in its Kasaragod and Cheemeni estates, located in Kasaragod district, Kerala. The initiative aims to utilize the non-arable, hard laterite land in these estates to generate solar power, contributing to Kerala’s renewable energy capacity while generating revenue from otherwise underutilized land.
PCK, established in 1962 and owned by the Kerala government, manages 14,135 hectares of plantations across the state. It has identified 32 hectares in the Kasaragod estate for a 20 MW project and 70 hectares in the Cheemeni estate for a 30 MW project. The projects aim to support India’s climate goals under the Paris Agreement, targeting renewable energy growth and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Bidders must meet specific eligibility criteria, including authorization to undertake solar projects in India, relevant experience, and financial capabilities. For the 20 MW project, bidders need experience in solar power generation of at least 10 MW and a turnover of ₹30 crore. For the 30 MW project, the requirements include a minimum capacity of 20 MW and an annual turnover of ₹50 crore. Additionally, bidders must employ qualified engineers, maintain an office in India, and comply with environmental standards.
The EOI/technical bids should be submitted by January 3, 2025, at 5 PM, and will be opened on January 6, 2025, at 3 PM at PCK’s head office in Kottayam. A mandatory pre-bid meeting and site inspection will follow for eligible bidders. Participation in these activities is required to submit financial bids.
PCK has outlined additional conditions for the projects, including a lifespan of 25 years, the restoration of sites to their original condition after project completion, and compliance with environmental guidelines. The successful bidder will bear all risks, including statutory permits, payments, and any liabilities arising during the project. The generated power will be sold at the bidder’s expense and responsibility.
The Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) for the 20 MW project is set at ₹30 lakh, while the EMD for the 30 MW project is ₹50 lakh. A Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) of ₹1 crore for the 20 MW project and ₹1.5 crore for the 30 MW project will also be required.
PCK retains the right to negotiate, terminate, or amend the bidding process without providing reasons. Interested parties are encouraged to inspect the sites and ensure alignment with the outlined requirements before submitting their bids.
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