Army Floats Tender For Solar-Wind Hybrid Systems In Ladakh With Strict Delivery And Quality Norms

The 21 Engineer Regiment, on behalf of the President of India, has invited online bids for the supply and installation of three 50 kW Solar-Wind Hybrid Systems under the FY 2025-26 procurement cycle. These systems are to be installed at various locations within a 350 km radius of Leh, under the Area of Responsibility (AOR) of HQ 14 Corps. The tender outlines comprehensive technical specifications and conditions related to performance, delivery, quality, and post-installation services.

The hybrid systems will consist of 41 kW solar PV and 9 kW wind turbine components along with battery energy storage systems (BESS), inverters, and associated infrastructure. These systems are designed to operate in high-altitude, extreme weather conditions of Ladakh, ranging from -40°C to +40°C. Only ALMM-approved mono-crystalline half-cut solar modules with more than 20% efficiency are permitted. The wind turbine generators must be vertical axis types with a rated wind speed between 15-17 m/s and withstand wind speeds up to 200 km/hr. Each hybrid system will be supported by VRLA gel-based battery banks with 384V 1000Ah capacity and a minimum life of 5000 cycles.

Bidders are required to submit a Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) amounting to 10% of the Supply Order (SO) value. This guarantee will be released in five tranches over five years: 10% each in the first and second years, 25% each in the third and fourth years, and 30% in the fifth year. This staged release ensures accountability during the Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) and warranty period, which spans five years from the date of commissioning.

In addition to the PBG, bidders must also deposit an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) equal to 2% of the estimated tender value. This amount must be submitted in favour of the Commanding Officer, 21 Engineer Regiment, and remain valid for 180 days beyond the final bid validity period. Failure to adhere to EMD or PBG requirements could result in disqualification or blacklisting.

Key timelines are outlined in the tender. Once the contract is awarded, 50% of the stores, including foundational components, must be delivered within 60 days. Complete delivery and installation of all systems must be completed within 120 days. Construction and handing over of the installed systems must be completed within 360 days from the date of the supply order. Delays in delivery could lead to penalties as per the liquidated damages clause, which stipulates a deduction of 0.5% per week of the undelivered value, up to a maximum of 10%.

The systems must include fire protection equipment, surge protection, prefabricated housing shelters, and certified safety features. All components must be Made in India, and OEM certificates will be required for solar panels, wind turbines, inverters, and batteries. The vendor must also maintain a functional service center at Leh and provide complaint redressal within 15 days.

Comprehensive documentation is mandatory, including installation manuals, performance reports, material testing certificates, and service support plans. The vendor must also train the user unit over a one-month period post-installation. This project emphasizes not only renewable energy deployment but also high standards for quality, safety, reliability, and post-installation service in India’s border infrastructure.