PFC Consulting Limited (PFCCL), a subsidiary of Power Finance Corporation, has been appointed as the Bid Process Coordinator for setting up a 400 kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) switching station at Igatpuri / Murbad in Thane. The project is part of Maharashtra’s intra-state transmission system and will be developed under the build, own, operate, and transfer (BOOT) model, which allows a private developer to build and operate the asset for a fixed period before handing it over to the state utility.
The project mainly involves the development of a new GIS-based switching station along with the installation of a 125 MVAr bus reactor. This infrastructure is important for maintaining voltage stability and improving the overall reliability of the grid. In addition to the main station, the selected Transmission Service Provider (TSP) will also be responsible for building several 400 kV line bays. These include dedicated bays for projects like JSW Energy’s pumped storage project and other upcoming developers in the region, ensuring proper evacuation and integration of power into the grid.
The scope of work also includes Loop-In Loop-Out (LILO) connections on existing 400 kV transmission lines between Babhaleshwar, Padghe, and Kudus. These connections will help link the new switching station with the existing transmission network, allowing smoother power flow and better grid management. Such integration is important as Maharashtra continues to see growth in power demand and renewable energy capacity.
The bidding process for this project will follow a single-stage, two-envelope system. Interested bidders will first need to qualify based on technical and financial criteria. Only those who meet these requirements will have their financial bids opened. The process will also include an electronic reverse auction, where bidders compete to offer the lowest transmission charges, helping ensure cost efficiency.
The successful bidder will acquire full ownership of a special purpose vehicle (SPV) that is currently being set up for the project. After completion, the TSP will operate and maintain the transmission asset for a period of 35 years. At the end of this period, the project will be transferred to the Maharashtra State Transmission Utility without any cost.
As per the official schedule, the Request for Proposal (RFP) document will be available from March 30, 2026, until one working day before the bid submission deadline. Bids must be submitted by June 2, 2026, by 3:00 PM, and the technical bids will be opened on the same day at 3:30 PM. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months from the effective date.
The RFP document fee has been set at ₹5 lakh plus GST. Bidders are also required to submit an Earnest Money Deposit of ₹56 lakh and a Performance Bank Guarantee of ₹1.40 crore. Additionally, a Pre-Award Integrity Pact must be submitted to ensure transparency in the process. The project is expected to strengthen power transmission in the Thane region and support the growing needs of developers and consumers.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
