NLC India Issues Major Tender To Acquire 1,850 Acres For ISTS-Linked Solar Project

NLC India Limited, a Navratna Government of India enterprise, has issued a major tender to acquire land for a large-scale solar power project that will be connected to the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS). The tender marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its renewable energy footprint and contribute to India’s clean energy goals. The initiative focuses on arranging 1,850 acres of land, which will serve as the foundation for developing a high-capacity solar power project aimed at supporting the nation’s growing electricity demand through sustainable energy sources.

The process is being carried out through Domestic Competitive Bidding (DCB) and includes both e-Tender and e-Reverse Auction mechanisms. This structure ensures transparency, competitiveness, and participation from qualified bidders across the country. According to the tender timeline, the official tender document was made available for online purchase starting 22 November 2025. The document is non-transferable, reinforcing the company’s emphasis on maintaining integrity and fairness throughout the procurement process.

Bidders are required to submit their completed proposals by 16 December 2025, with the deadline set at 14:30 hours. NLC India has scheduled the opening of the bids on the same day at 15:00 hours, allowing for a smooth and timely evaluation process. If required, the e-Reverse Auction will be conducted on 27 December 2025, providing an additional stage for competitive pricing and ensuring optimal value for the project.

The tender carries significant financial criteria that reflect the scale and importance of the land acquisition effort. The estimated cost of the work is ₹22.5 crore, highlighting the level of investment NLC India is prepared to make to advance its renewable energy ambitions. To confirm their commitment, bidders must submit an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of ₹22.5 lakh along with their bid. This requirement serves to filter out non-serious participants and ensures that only dedicated and capable bidders take part in the process.

For the bidder who is ultimately awarded the contract, an additional financial obligation is mandatory. The successful bidder must furnish a Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) equivalent to 10 percent of the contract value. This guarantee acts as a safeguard for NLC India, ensuring that the selected bidder completes the land acquisition work in accordance with the agreed terms and timeline. The company has set a period of 12 months from the date of the award for the completion of the entire contract.

This land procurement marks a crucial milestone for NLC India as it continues to scale up its renewable energy portfolio. The company has been increasingly focused on contributing to India’s transition toward cleaner energy sources and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. By securing the required land for this ISTS-connected solar project, NLC India is laying the groundwork for future solar installations that will feed clean power into the national grid.

The tender reflects the company’s broader vision of creating “wealth for well-being,” aligning economic development with environmental sustainability. As India moves swiftly toward its renewable energy targets, initiatives like this one play an essential role in building the necessary infrastructure for a greener future.