CSPDCL Seeks Approval For 500 MW Wind-Solar Hybrid Power Procurement From SECI In Chhattisgarh

The Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) has filed a petition before the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CSERC) under Section 63 and Section 86(1)(b) of the Electricity Act, 2003. The petition pertains to the procurement of 500 MW power from wind-solar hybrid projects, which are part of a larger 1,200 MW capacity project facilitated by the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI). The initiative aims to ensure an assured peak power supply from ISTS-connected hybrid power projects.

CSPDCL was established as one of the successor entities of the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Board, following the state government’s notification in 2008 and the transfer scheme implemented in 2010. The company is responsible for electricity distribution within its licensed area and is authorized to recover associated charges as per regulatory provisions. SECI, on the other hand, is a government-owned enterprise incorporated under the Companies Act, 1956, and is tasked with implementing India’s renewable energy initiatives, particularly under the National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy.

The petition highlights the need for securing a stable and renewable power supply through competitive bidding. The tariff-based competitive bidding process for the 1,200 MW hybrid power project was conducted by SECI, as per its Request for Selection (RfS) issued on November 2, 2022. The selected developers will establish hybrid renewable projects under the ISTS framework, which enables power transmission across state boundaries without additional transmission charges.

CSPDCL has confirmed its intent to procure 500 MW from this hybrid power initiative. This decision aligns with the state’s energy transition strategy, ensuring a steady supply of renewable energy and reducing reliance on conventional power sources. The state’s commitment was communicated through official correspondence with SECI, confirming its willingness to integrate wind-solar hybrid power into its electricity procurement portfolio.

The petition also includes an affidavit from CSPDCL’s Executive Engineer, affirming the accuracy of the claims and the necessity of regulatory approvals for proceeding with the power purchase. The affidavit underscores the importance of this procurement in fulfilling Chhattisgarh’s growing energy demand while supporting national renewable energy goals.

This initiative reflects the broader push towards increasing India’s renewable energy capacity, promoting hybrid energy solutions, and ensuring state utilities have access to sustainable power sources. The CSERC will review the petition and provide regulatory approvals based on the evaluation of project feasibility, pricing structures, and compliance with statutory requirements.