UPNEDA Invites Expression Of Interest For 2 GW Solar Projects In Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) for the development of 2 GW solar power projects. These projects will be set up on a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) basis across government land parcels located in the districts of Chitrakoot, Jalaun, Jhansi, and Lalitpur in Uttar Pradesh. The government aims to significantly boost the state’s renewable energy capacity by utilizing approximately 8000 acres of government-owned land for solar photovoltaic (PV) plants. The sites for the projects are spread across 158 villages within these districts.

The EoI outlines that developers will have the opportunity to choose their power procurers, facilitating greater flexibility. The land will be leased for 30 years, in alignment with the state’s solar energy policy from 2022. Developers will be responsible for all phases of the project, including survey, design, supply, installation, testing, commissioning, and ongoing operations and maintenance of the solar plants. The projects must also be connected to the nearest State Transmission Utility (STU) or Distribution Company (DISCOM) substation. Furthermore, developers will need to ensure that all required consents, clearances, permits, and approvals are obtained and maintained throughout the lease period.

The timeline for the project is crucial, with key dates including the pre-bid clarifications due by January 22, 2025, and the final submission deadline for the EoI by February 10, 2025. The EoI will be opened on February 11, 2025. Notably, the document processing fee, earnest money deposit, and cost of the EoI document are all waived for the bidders. UPNEDA will assist developers in securing the necessary government land on lease, which will be allocated by the State Level Committee (SLC).

This initiative is expected to not only support Uttar Pradesh’s ambitious renewable energy goals but also help develop solar power plants on previously unused government land, further contributing to the region’s sustainable growth. The successful development of these projects will play an essential role in enhancing the state’s energy security while aligning with national renewable energy targets.