Chennai Petroleum Corporation Issues Tender For 100 MW Round-The-Clock Renewable Energy Pre-Feasibility Study

Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) has issued a tender seeking a qualified consultant to carry out a pre-feasibility study for a large renewable energy project. The project is designed to supply 100 MW of Round-the-Clock (RTC) power using a combination of wind and solar energy. It is planned to be executed in two phases, each generating 50 MW. This initiative is part of CPCL’s broader strategy to achieve its net-zero goals and reduce energy costs at its Manali refinery.

The consultant selected through the tender will have multiple responsibilities. They will need to assess CPCL’s power demand, study relevant central and state-level policies, and identify the most suitable technology mix of solar, wind, and potentially Energy Storage Systems (ESS). A key part of the study is to recommend the appropriate business model for the project. Options include captive, group captive, or a Joint Venture (JV) arrangement. The consultant is also expected to provide detailed cost estimates with a 10% accuracy margin. The bid submission end date is 27^th January 2026.

Financial details of the project are outlined in the tender. The Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) is set at ₹30,000 and must be submitted online, although exemptions are available for Central Public Sector Undertakings and Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs) with valid Udyam registration. While the specific Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) is not listed in the main notice, the tender follows CPCL’s General Conditions of Contract, which typically require a security deposit or PBG for project performance. The estimated total value of the study is approximately ₹30 lakh.

The tender sets a clear schedule for interested bidders. The pre-feasibility study is expected to be completed within ten weeks from the issuance of the Fax of Acceptance (FOA) or Letter of Acceptance (LOA). Bids must remain valid for six months from the date of opening of the technical bid.

Eligibility criteria require bidders to have an average annual turnover of at least ₹18 lakh over the last three financial years, along with a non-negative net worth. Firms must also demonstrate relevant technical experience, having completed feasibility studies for renewable projects with a combined capacity of at least 500 MW over the past ten years.

The final selection of the consultant will be based on a Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method. Technical quality will carry a 70% weight, while the quoted price will account for 30% of the evaluation. Bidders are required to submit their proposals in a two-bid system, including both techno-commercial and priced parts.

This tender reflects CPCL’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio and moving towards more sustainable operations. By combining wind and solar power with possible energy storage solutions, the company aims to secure a stable power supply while aligning with environmental targets. The pre-feasibility study will play a crucial role in shaping the implementation strategy for this significant renewable energy project.