SECI Invites Bids For 700 MW Solar PV Project In Banaskantha, Gujarat Under CPSU Scheme Phase-II

The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) has launched a domestic competitive bidding tender for a major solar project in Gujarat, marking a significant step in India’s renewable energy expansion. The tender calls for the development of a 700 MW (AC) ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Radhanesda, Banaskantha. This project is part of the CPSU Scheme Phase-II, a government-led initiative designed to increase the country’s renewable energy capacity through centralized projects.

The project will follow a “Balance of System” (BoS) model, under which the contractor will be responsible for the complete turnkey execution of the plant. This includes the design, engineering, procurement, and supply of all necessary equipment and materials, except for PV modules and transformers, which will be provided by SECI. The selected contractor will also manage multi-level inspections, packing, forwarding, and site logistics, including the receipt, unloading, and storage of materials. In addition, the contractor will handle all civil works, permits, licenses, and insurance required throughout the project lifecycle.

After the initial erection, testing, and commissioning of the solar plant, the contract includes a comprehensive five-year operation and maintenance period. This extended O&M requirement is intended to ensure the sustained performance of the plant and to support long-term efficiency and reliability.

SECI has set clear timelines and financial requirements for interested bidders. The tender, numbered SECI/C&P/OP/11/023/2025-26, was released on January 8, 2026. A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for January 19, 2026, at 11:00 HRS (IST), allowing potential bidders to clarify technical and commercial aspects of the project. The deadline for both online and offline bid submissions is January 29, 2026, by 14:00 HRS, with the techno-commercial bid opening scheduled for later that day from 16:00 HRS.

Financial requirements for bidders include an Earnest Money Deposit of INR 33.05 crore and a non-refundable tender processing fee of INR 25,000. The successful bidder will also be required to provide a Performance Bank Guarantee after receiving the Notification of Award or Letter of Intent, as specified in the special conditions of the contract.

The project is expected to be commissioned within 19 months from the date of signing the Contract Agreement or as mentioned in the Notification of Award. SECI has advised prospective bidders to conduct a site visit to understand local conditions, which will help in preparing accurate proposals and ensuring smooth project execution.

This 700 MW solar PV project in Banaskantha reflects India’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy growth. By engaging private contractors through competitive bidding while providing government support for critical components, SECI aims to ensure timely completion, high operational standards, and enhanced capacity addition in the solar energy sector. The project is poised to strengthen Gujarat’s position as a key hub for clean energy production in India, supporting the country’s broader energy transition goals.

The tender process, with its structured timelines and clear guidelines, is expected to attract serious participation from experienced developers and contractors, contributing to the nation’s ambitious renewable energy targets.