Uttar Pradesh Floats Tenders for 2 GW Pumped Hydro Storage Projects

Solarworld and H.G. Infra Win Gujarat’s 500 MW/1,000 MWh BESS Auction

MNRE Releases Draft RLMM Amendments for Wind Turbine Inclusion

Uttar Pradesh Tenders 500 MW Rooftop Solar Projects

Daily News Wrap-Up: Solar Irradiation in India Fell by 3-10% in 2024

Solar Corporate Funding in Q1 2025 Declines 41% as Uncertainty Weighs on Market

Researchers Use Sunlight and Seawater to Produce Low-Cost Green Hydrogen

MENA Weekly Roundup: Iraq Partners with Total, QatarEnergy for 1.25 GW Solar Project

Punjab Draft Policy Aims at 100 KTPA Green Hydrogen Production by 2030

REIL Issues Rate Contract Tender for 1.14 MW Rooftop Solar Projects


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					</table><p>The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation (<a href="https://uppcl.org/uppcl/hi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UPPCL</a>) has invited bids to procure 2,000 MW of pumped hydro storage capacity to be developed on a build, own, operate, and maintain basis for 40 years from the commercial operation date (COD).</p>
<p>The contracted capacity must have a scheduled discharge capability of eight hours per day, with a maximum continuous discharge of six hours.</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by May 16, 2025. Bids will be opened on May 19.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an earnest money deposit of ₹500,000 (~$5,835)/MW, a tender document fee of ₹11,800 (~$137.61), an additional tender processing fee of ₹11,800 (~$137.61), and a bidding fee of ₹20,000 (~$233.40) (excluding GST).</p>
<p>Successful bidders must submit a performance bank guarantee of ₹1.2 million (~$14,004)/MW of the contracted capacity, which must remain valid for 12 months beyond the scheduled COD.</p>
<p>The scope of work entails the survey, investigation, designing, construction, erection, testing, and commissioning the project. It also involves providing operation and maintenance services and obtaining statutory approvals.</p>
<p>Successful bidders must achieve the pumped hydro storage project’s financial closure within 36 months of the agreement date.</p>
<p>Failure to meet the project requirements on time will attract liquidated damages at a rate of 0.2% of the performance security per day of delay, up to a maximum of 120 days.</p>
<p>Bidders must comply with the technical requirements for pumped hydro storage projects per the applicable grid code or Central Electricity Authority (CEA)/ central or state guidelines. They must also provide documentary evidence for compliance, including a detailed project report approved by the CEA, proof of technical tie-ups, and documents detailing adherence to the RLDC/SLDC guidelines for scheduling and dispatch.</p>
<p>The Central Electricity Authority has <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/cea-approves-detailed-project-reports-for-7-5-gw-pumped-storage-projects" target="_blank" rel="noopener">greenlighted</a> Detailed Project Reports of six pumped hydro storage projects with a total capacity of 7.5 GW across Odisha, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s <a href="https://mercomindia.com/product/india-solar-tender-tracker/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Solar Tender Tracker</a> to stay on top of the tender activity in real-time.</p>



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					</table><p><a href="https://www.worldsolar.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Solarworld Energy Solutions</a> and <a href="https://www.hginfra.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">H.G. Infra Engineering</a> have won Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam’s (<a href="https://www.guvnl.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GUVNL</a>) auction to set up a 500 MW/1,000 MWh standalone battery energy storage systems (BESS) under tariff-based competitive bidding (Phase VI).</p>
<p>Solar World won 200 MW at a tariff of ₹280,000 (~$3,288.31)/MW/month, and H G Infra Engineering won 300 MW at a tariff of ₹285,600 (~$3,345.08)/MW/month.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-78742 size-full" src="https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Screenshot-2025-04-21-174555.png" alt="" width="582" height="226" srcset="https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Screenshot-2025-04-21-174555.png 582w, https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Screenshot-2025-04-21-174555-300x116.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 582px) 100vw, 582px" /></p>
<p>The tender was <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/gujarat-standalone-bess-phase-vi" target="_blank" rel="noopener">floated</a> in January this year.</p>
<p>The projects do not qualify for Viability Gap Funding (VGF).</p>
<p>Successful bidders will set up the BESS to make the energy storage facility available to GUVNL for charging/discharging the BESS on an on-demand basis.</p>
<p>Developers must set up the BESS and its interconnection with the state transmission network. The BESS projects must employ commercially established and operational technologies to minimize technology risks and achieve timely project commissioning.</p>
<p>Developers must make BESS available for two operational cycles per day. They should also guarantee a minimum system availability of 95% annually.</p>
<p>Developers must ensure that the BESS can charge and discharge at a C rate of 0.5. The BESS must be capable of being charged or discharged in groups ranging from 50 MW/100 MWh to 100 MW/200 MWh, up to the total rated capacity.</p>
<p>The BESS will be charged by drawing power from Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation (GETCO) and injecting power into the GETCO network based on dispatch instructions issued by SLDC in consultation with GUVNL.</p>
<p>The successful bidders must guarantee AC to AC round-trip efficiency of 85% system monthly.</p>
<p>The developers must take a separate, metered connection for the auxiliary power load of BESS. They mustarrange a separate meter to measure auxiliary consumption, and the distribution company will bill it..</p>
<p>In October 2024, GUVNL <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/gujarat-issues-draft-tender-for-1600-mwh-bess" target="_blank" rel="noopener">issued</a> a draft tender to set up projects of 200 MW/1,600 MWh standalone BESS under tariff-based competitive bidding (Phase V).</p>
<p>In March, the Ministry of Power <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/government-enhances-bess-capacity-target" target="_blank" rel="noopener">directed</a> all states and implementing agencies to award all BESS contracts by June 2025 to enable the VGF program to be completed by May 2027.</p>



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					</table><p>A <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cornell University</a>-led research team has developed a sustainable and low-cost method to produce carbon-free green hydrogen using just sunlight and seawater as inputs.</p>
<p>The team devised a prototype by leveraging one of the drawbacks of photovoltaics —relatively low efficiency.</p>
<p>Most solar cells can only convert up to 30% of solar energy into electricity, and the remaining is dissipated as waste heat. The team was able to harness the waste heat to warm the seawater until it evaporated. Once the seawater evaporates and the desalinated vapor condenses into clean water, it is passed through an electrolyzer. The electrolyzer splits the water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.</p>
<p>“The short-wavelength sunlight interacts with the solar cell to generate electricity, and the longer wavelength light generates the waste heat to power the seawater distillation. This way, all the solar energy can be fully used. Nothing is wasted,” said Lenan Zhang,  lead researcher and assistant professor in the Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell Engineering.</p>
<p>The device also uses a capillary wick that traps the water in direct contact with the solar panel into a thin film. This boosts the evaporation efficiency to more than 90%, allowing for the heating of large volumes of water.</p>
<p>Solar-powered water electrolysis holds significant promise for the mass production of green hydrogen. However, to produce one kilogram of hydrogen, at least nine kilograms of water is required. The huge quantities of water consumed increase the cost of green hydrogen and raise conservation concerns.</p>
<p>The manufacturing costs of green hydrogen production can be roughly 10 times higher than those of regular hydrogen due to the large amounts of water needed for the process.</p>
<p>On the other hand, seawater is an abundant resource for water, but generating green hydrogen from seawater can be challenging.</p>
<p>Zhang was at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology exploring ways to use solar power to convert seawater into potable water through thermal desalination. After arriving at Cornell University, Zhang and his team started working on expanding the technology to produce green hydrogen.</p>
<p>In June 2024, engineers from the University of Illinois, Chicago, <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/researchers-produce-and-agricultural-waste" target="_blank" rel="noopener">developed</a> a novel method to produce hydrogen from water utilizing only solar power and agricultural waste such as manure or husks. This novel technique claimed to reduce the energy required to extract hydrogen from water by 600%.</p>
<p>In 2023, engineers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/mits-design-harness-40-suns-heat-produce-hydrogen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">developed</a> a conceptual design to produce totally green, carbon-free hydrogen fuel with a trainlike system of reactors that is driven solely by solar energy.</p>



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					</table><p>The draft Punjab Green Hydrogen Policy, released by the Punjab Energy Development Agency (<a href="https://www.peda.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PEDA</a>), targets achieving a 100 kilo tons per annum (KTPA) production capacity of green hydrogen and ammonia by 2030.</p>
<p>Per the draft, the existing incentives under the &#8220;Punjab Industrial and Business Development Policy 2022&#8221; will be extended to new green hydrogen and ammonia ventures and the expansion of existing units.</p>
<p>However, the exact benefits will depend on the project category, e.g., a large-scale project might get different incentives than a small-scale one.</p>
<p>The draft policy highlights the regulatory support available under the state’s &#8220;New &amp; Renewable Sources of Energy Policy 2012,&#8221; including a full 100% exemption on electricity duty during the construction phase of projects.</p>
<p>It also proposes waiving the change of land use and external development charges for converting agricultural land for industrial purposes related to green hydrogen production. Additionally, it proposes a 100% exemption on stamp duty for land registration and lease transactions.</p>
<p>The draft policy also includes exemptions on energy-related charges to enhance the economic viability of green hydrogen production. Cross-subsidy and additional surcharge will not apply to green energy consumed in producing green hydrogen and ammonia.</p>
<p>The policy proposes concessions in contract demand charges for entities utilizing green energy and a 50% exemption on intra-state transmission and wheeling charges for the green energy used. It also proposes waiving the inter-state transmission charges levied by the Central Transmission Utility for 25 years for green hydrogen and ammonia manufacturers whose projects are commissioned before December 31, 2030.</p>
<p>Additionally, the policy incorporates the renewable purchase obligation (RPO) framework, allowing obligated entities to meet their RPO targets by purchasing green hydrogen or ammonia, with a mechanism for converting green hydrogen to MWh for RPO compliance.</p>
<p>It also states that the Punjab State Power Corporation (<a href="https://pspcl.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PSPCL</a>) may procure and supply renewable energy to green hydrogen and ammonia manufacturers at tariffs determined by the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (<a href="https://pserc.punjab.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PSERC</a>).</p>
<p>Incentives such as a capital subsidy of up to ₹150 million (~$1.75 million) per project, capped at ₹30 million (~$350,000) ton per day (TPD) for biomass-to-green hydrogen projects with a maximum capacity of 5 TPD are among the incentives proposed. The incentives will be limited to the first 10 such projects.</p>
<p>The policy proposes a 20% capital subsidy, up to ₹5 million (~$58,350) per vehicle, for the initial 100 hydrogen-based fuel cell trucks and buses. It also includes a subsidy of ₹50 (~$0.58)/kg for the first 10 industries in Punjab that consume green hydrogen for five years. It offers a 20% capital cost subsidy, up to a maximum of ₹30 million (~$350,000), for the first 10 hydrogen refueling stations established in the state.</p>
<p>Recently, the Indian government <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/government-launches-pilot-project-for-hydrogen-fueled-buses-and-trucks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">launched</a> five pilot projects under the National Green Hydrogen Mission to introduce hydrogen-fueled buses and trucks.</p>
<p>In October 2024, the government <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/mnre-approves-three-pilot-projects-for-green-hydrogen-use-in-steel-production" target="_blank" rel="noopener">approved</a> three pilot projects to use hydrogen in steel production under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.</p>



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					</table><p>Coal India (<a href="https://www.coalindia.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CIL</a>) has invited bids to set up a 1,000 MW (AC) ground-mounted solar project on a turnkey basis at the Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam’s (<a href="https://energy.rajasthan.gov.in/ruvks/#/home/dptHome" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RVUNL</a>) 2,000 MW solar park in Rajasthan’s Bikaner district.</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by May 7, 2025. Bids will be opened on May 8.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an earnest money deposit of ₹5 million (~$58,368).</p>
<p>The scope of work entails the design, engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning of the project. It also involves conducting the associated civil works and providing comprehensive operation and maintenance services for two years.</p>
<p>The project’s solar modules must have a total capacity of 1,350 MW.</p>
<p>Selected bidders must also ensure a minimum capacity utilization factor of 28% for the project, translating to 2.45 billion units annually, with a yearly degradation limit of 0.5%.</p>
<p>The project must be commissioned within 24 months.</p>
<p>Commissioning delays will attract liquidated damages of 10% of the total contract price.</p>
<p>Bidders must have engineered, procured, and constructed solar projects with a cumulative capacity of 200 MW (AC) on a turnkey basis. Each project must have had a minimum capacity of 50 MW (AC) and they must have been operational for at least six months within the last ten years.</p>
<p>Bidders must have a minimum average annual turnover of ₹14.43 billion (~$168.42 million) in the last three financial years and a minimum net worth of ₹4.81 billion (~$56.13 million) as of March 31, 2024.</p>
<p>In December 2024, CIL <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/coal-india-floats-eoi-for-1-gw-solar-project-in-rajasthan" target="_blank" rel="noopener">invited</a> expressions of interest for developing a 1,000 MW grid-connected solar power project in Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam’s solar park.</p>
<p>In November 2024, CIL Navikarniya Urja, a subsidiary of CIL, <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/cil-navikarniya-urja-floats-epc-tender-for-40-mw-solar-power-project" target="_blank" rel="noopener">issued</a> a tender for the engineering, procurement, and construction of a 40 MW solar project in Madhya Pradesh.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s <a href="https://mercomindia.com/product/india-solar-tender-tracker/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Solar Tender Tracker</a> for timely updates on all solar tenders issued by various agencies in India.</p>


Coal India Floats Tender for 1 GW Solar Project in Rajasthan


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					</table><p>The Rajasthan Solar Park Development Company (RSDCL), a subsidiary of Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation (<a href="https://energy.rajasthan.gov.in/rrecl/#/home/dptHome" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RRECL</a>), has invited bids for the engineering, procurement, and construction of the power evacuation system for its 2,450 MW solar park in Bikaner district.</p>
<p>The project is divided into three lots: Lot-1 (1,000 MW Phase-I), Lot-2 (1,000 MW Phase-II), and Lot-3 (450 MW Phase-III).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by May 13, 2025. Bids will be opened on May 14.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish a bid security of 2% of the estimated procurement cost, a bid document fee of ₹29,500 (~$344.12), and an e-procurement charge of ₹2,950 (~$34.41) per bidder.</p>
<p>The scope of work for all lots entails the survey, design, engineering, supply of equipment and materials, civil works, erection, testing, and commissioning of the projects.</p>
<p>The project’s scope of work per lot is as follows:</p>
<p><strong>Lot-1</strong></p>
<p>The scope of work for this lot involves constructing:</p>
<ul>
<li>A 400/132 kV, 4&#215;315 MVA main park pooling substation (PPS)</li>
<li>Three 132/33kV PPS (one with 6&#215;100 MVA and two with 3&#215;100 MVA capacity each)</li>
<li>A 4 km 400 kV double circuit (D/C) transmission line to RVPN’s grid substation</li>
<li>A 6 km 132 kV quadruple circuit transmission line with a 132 kV single circuit (S/C) loop-in, loop-out line</li>
<li>An 8 km 132 kV D/C transmission line</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Lot-2</strong></p>
<p>The scope of work for this lot includes constructing:</p>
<ul>
<li>A 400/132 kV, 4&#215;315 MVA main PPS</li>
<li>Two 132/33k V, 6x100MVA PPS</li>
<li>A 6 km 400 kV D/C transmission line</li>
<li>Four 7 km 132 kV D/C transmission lines</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Lot-3</strong></p>
<p>The scope of work for this lot includes constructing:</p>
<ul>
<li>Two 220/33 kV, 3&#215;80 MVA PPS</li>
<li>A 22 km 220 kV D/C transmission line with S/C terminations to the PPSs</li>
<li>A 5 km S/C interconnection line</li>
</ul>
<p>Bidders applying for Lots-1 and 2 must have completed at least one air-insulated substation (AIS)/hybrid gas-insulated substation (GIS) with a minimum 400 kV voltage level on a turnkey basis during the last seven years. For Lot-3, bidders must have completed an AIS/hybrid GIS substation of at least 220 kV voltage level with a minimum capacity of 80 MVA on a turnkey basis.</p>
<p>Bidders who are transformer suppliers must have supplied at least five units of 220 kV+ transformers of ≥80 MVA capacity in the past seven years, with a minimum of two units in satisfactory operation for at least one year.</p>
<p>Bidders must have a minimum average annual turnover of ₹4.42 billion (~$51.63 million) for Lot-1, ₹4.27 billion (~$49.89 million) for Lot-2, and ₹1.57 billion (~$18.33 million) for Lot-3 for the last three years.</p>
<p>In December 2024, RREC <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/rajasthan-empanelment-tender-511-mw-rooftop" target="_blank" rel="noopener">invited</a> bids to empanel developers to install 511 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar systems on government buildings in the state.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s <a href="https://mercomindia.com/product/india-solar-tender-tracker/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Solar Tender Tracker</a> to stay on top of real-time tender activity.</p>


Rajasthan Floats EPC Tender for Power Evacuation System of 2.4 GW Solar Park


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					</table><p><strong>Iraq </strong>and the <strong>U.S. </strong> have <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/iraq-us-sign-preliminary-deal-projects-including-24000-mw-power-plants-2025-04-09/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">signed</a> agreements for multiple energy projects with a combined capacity of 24,000 MW in the Middle Eastern country. <strong>Iraq&#8217;s Ministry of Electricity</strong> and U.S. company <strong>UGT Renewables</strong> also signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a 3,000 MW integrated solar energy project.</p>
<p><strong>Egypt</strong> and <strong>France</strong> <a href="https://www.arabnews.com/node/2596264/business-economy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">entered</a> into a €7 billion ($7.6 billion) agreement to develop a large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia production complex near Ras Shokeir on the Red Sea coast. <strong>EDF Renewables</strong> and <strong>Zero Waste</strong> will lead the project in partnership with Egypt&#8217;s General Authority for the Red Sea Ports and its New and Renewable Energy Authority. The project targets producing up to 1 million tons of green ammonia annually in three phases starting in 2029.</p>
<p><strong>Dubai Electricity and Water Authority</strong> <a href="https://www.mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2025/april/09-04/great-success-for-dewa-as-47-global-companies-express-interest-in-developing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced</a> that 47 international companies have been interested in developing the seventh phase of the <strong>Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park</strong>. Based on the independent power producer model, this phase will have a project exceeding 1,600 MW and a 1,000 MW battery storage system providing 6,000 MWh of storage capacity. This project is aimed at increasing the share of clean power in Dubai&#8217;s energy mix to 34%.</p>
<p><strong>Dubai&#8217;s Roads and Transport Authority</strong> (RTA) has <a href="https://filipinotimes.net/latest-news/2025/04/09/rta-installs-solar-panels-in-22-of-its-facilities-to-cut-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">installed</a> solar energy systems across 22 buildings and facilities. These installations are projected to generate approximately 32 million kWh of energy annually. The solar panels have been installed at bus depots, passenger bus stations, maintenance workshops, and metro depots. The solar systems were customized to meet the specific needs of each building and facility.</p>
<p><strong>Morocco</strong> will <a href="https://www.zawya.com/en/projects/utilities/morocco-to-build-giant-energy-storage-facility-ixu1xx8s" target="_blank" rel="noopener">construct</a> a 1,600 MW energy storage facility in its northwest region to support its expanding renewable energy program. Utilizing large-scale batteries, the project will supply power to the city of Kenitra and its surrounding areas. The <strong>National Office for Electricity and Drinking Water</strong> will invite bids for the facility&#8217;s design, operation, and long-term maintenance, with phased commissioning expected to begin in 2026.</p>


MENA Weekly Roundup: Iraq, US Sign Deals for 27 GW of Power Projects


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					</table><p>The Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (<a href="https://orierc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OERC</a>) has determined the aggregate revenue requirement (ARR), wheeling tariff, and retail supply tariff (RST) for the financial year (FY) 2025-26, retaining the existing tariff structure across all consumer categories.</p>
<p>The order applies to the four private distribution companies in Odisha- TP Central Odisha Distribution (TPCODL), TP Northern Odisha Distribution (TPNODL), TP Western Odisha Distribution (TPWODL), and TP Southern Odisha Distribution (TPSODL).</p>
<p>The Commission stated that the FY 2024–25 tariffs would continue unchanged because of inflationary pressures and the need to protect consumers from additional financial burden.</p>
<p>Alongside maintaining tariff stability, the Commission introduced new reconnection charges and application processing fees.</p>
<p><strong>Application Processing Fees</strong></p>
<p>The application processing fees have been standardized to streamline service-related requests. For low tension (LT) consumers, an application fee of ₹50 (~$0.60) will be applicable for services such as change of category, change of contract demand, or any correction in the consumer&#8217;s name, address, or ownership details (excluding changes to email ID or mobile number).</p>
<p>For high-tension (HT) and extra-high-tension (EHT) consumers, the same set of requests will attract a higher application fee of ₹1000 (~$12).</p>
<p><strong>Reconnection Charges</strong></p>
<p>For domestic LT single-phase consumers, the reconnection charge has been fixed at ₹300 (~$3.60), while for the other LT single-phase consumers, it will be ₹800 (~$9.65). LT three-phase consumers must pay ₹1200 (~$14.45).</p>
<p>For HT consumers, the reconnection charge is ₹6000 (~$72.30), and for EHT consumers, it is ₹10,000 (~$120.50).</p>
<p>These reconnection charges will not apply to consumers equipped with smart meters unless the disconnection occurs due to the meter&#8217;s tampering.</p>
<p>The order will be effective from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.</p>
<p><strong>Fixed and Monthly Minimum Fixed Charges (MMFC)</strong></p>
<p>The MMFC for LT consumers have been retained. Domestic consumers will pay ₹20 (~$0.23)/kW for the first kW and each additional kW, while general-purpose LT consumers will pay ₹30 (~$0.35)/kW.</p>
<p>LT industrial (small) consumers will pay ₹80 (~$0.93) for the first kW and ₹35 (~$0.41) for each additional kW, while medium industrial consumers will pay ₹100 (~$1.16) for the first kW and ₹80 (~$0.93) for each additional kW.</p>
<p><strong>Demand and Customer Service Charges for HT and EHT Consumers</strong></p>
<p>For HT and EHT consumers, the demand charge remains ₹250 (~$2.90)/kVA. Additionally, these consumers must pay a customer service charge of ₹700 (~$8.12)/month. These charges help recover the fixed costs incurred by the DISCOMs in maintaining infrastructure and system reliability.</p>
<p><strong>LT Category Energy Charges</strong></p>
<p>LT consumers will be billed at a flat rate of ₹6.20 (~$0.072)/kWh for most categories, including public utilities and industrial services.</p>
<p>For HT and EHT consumers, the energy charges follow a slab tariff structure based on the load factor. Consumers with load factors up to 60% are charged ₹5.85 (~$0.068)/kVAh for HT and ₹5.80 (~$0.067)/kVAh for EHT. Those with load factors above 60% are charged ₹4.75 (~$0.055)/kVAh for HT and ₹4.70 (~$0.054)/kVAh for EHT.</p>
<p><strong>Wheeling Charges and Cross-Subsidy Surcharge (CSS)</strong></p>
<p>Wheeling charges differ across the four DISCOMs. TPSODL has the highest charge at ₹1.74 (~$0.020)/kWh, followed by TPNODL at ₹1.56 (~$0.018)/kWh, TPWODL at ₹1.04 (~$0.012)/kWh, and TPCODL at ₹1.02 (~$0.012)/kWh.</p>
<p>The CSS levied on open access consumers also varies. For HT consumers, TPCODL charges 1.06 (~$0.020)/kWh, TPNODL ₹0.03 (~$0.00035)/kWh, TPWODL ₹0.28 (~$0.0033)/kWh, and TPSODL ₹1.71 (~$0.020)/kWh. For EHT consumers, the surcharge ranges from ₹1.61 (~$0.019)/kWh for the TPWODL to ₹3.56 (~$0.041)/kWh for TPSODL.</p>
<p><strong>Electric Vehicle Charges</strong></p>
<p>Electric Vehicle charging stations will be billed at a uniform rate of ₹5 (~$0.058)/kWh. This rate applies to public charging stations as well as dedicated EV charging units in group housing societies, provided these are equipped with *separate metering connections.</p>
<p>No demand charges will be levied on EV charging infrastructure, ensuring affordability and ease of access for both private operators and residential complexes looking to set up EV charging points</p>
<p><strong>Retail Supply Tariff and Rebates</strong></p>
<p>The RST structure remains unchanged for FY 2025-26. LT consumers are billed on a per kWh basis, while HT and EHT consumers are billed on a kVAh basis to account for the power factor.</p>
<p>The Commission confirmed that no additional surcharge would be imposed on open access users beyond the CSS. It has also approved rebates, including a 20% reduction for HT consumers maintaining a load factor above 85% and a ₹2 (~$0.023)/kWh rebate for mega lift irrigation projects.</p>
<p><strong>Renewable Energy Incentives</strong></p>
<p>The Commission reaffirmed incentives under the Odisha Renewable Energy Policy 2022 to promote renewable energy. Consumers using power from in-state renewable energy projects commissioned during the policy period will receive a 50% CSS exemption, a 25% exemption on wheeling charges, and a ₹0.20 (~$0.0023)/kWh exemption on transmission charges by OPTCL.</p>
<p>These benefits are valid for 15 years and will be extended by five years for projects commissioned before March 31, 2026.</p>
<p>In August 2024, OERC <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/odisha-draft-rpo-regulations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">proposed</a> new regulations to promote energy procurement from renewable sources within the state until the financial year 2029-30.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s real-time <a href="https://mercomindia.com/product/mercoms-renewable-energy-regulatory-updates/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Regulatory Updates </a>to ensure you don’t miss any critical updates from the renewable industry.</p>


Odisha Regulator Retains Existing Power Tariffs for FY 2026


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					</table><p>The Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (<a href="https://www.mahaurja.com/meda/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MEDA</a>) has invited bids for a cumulative capacity of 1.4 MW grid-connected rooftop and ground-mounted solar projects.</p>
<p>The projects span the Gadchiroli, Bhandara, Chandrapur, and Nagpur districts.</p>
<p>The scope of work includes the survey, design, fabrication, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the grid-connected solar projects. A 5-year comprehensive maintenance contract is also a standard requirement for the successful bidders.</p>
<p>A security deposit of 3% of the contract value is applicable.</p>
<p>Bidders must have experience installing and commissioning grid-connected solar projects within the last three years.</p>
<p>The projects must be completed within 90 days from the issue of the work order, although the 32 kW Gadchiroli project has a 60-day timeline.</p>
<p>Penalties for delays are typically outlined at a rate of 1% per month up to a maximum of 10% of the total project cost.</p>
<p><strong>Gadchiroli Projects</strong></p>
<p><strong>Tender 1</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for a 40 kW grid-connected solar project to be installed with rooftop net metering at three locations: the Medical Superintendent, PSA Oxygen Plant Vadsa; Government ST Boys Hostel Armori; and Government ST Hostel Kurkheda, with an estimated cost of ₹2.28 million (~$26,448).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 17, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 18.</p>
<p>Bidders must submit an earnest money deposit (EMD) of ₹22,805 (~$264.54) with a tender document fee of ₹3,540 (~$3,540).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹1.7 million (~$19,720).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 2</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for a 220 kW grid-connected solar project with rooftop net metering, along with the installation of two 9-meter solar LED high masts and twelve solar streetlights at three locations: the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) Offices in Aheri and Gadchiroli and the District General Hospital, Gadchiroli, with an estimated cost of ₹13.8 million (~$160,080).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. The bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹138,044 (~$1,601.31), with a tender document fee of ₹29,500 (~$342.10).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹11 million (~$127,600).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 3</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for a 138 kW grid-connected solar project across nine locations, with an estimated cost of ₹7.57 million (~$87,812).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹75,783 (~$879.08) and a tender document fee of ₹11,800 (~$136.88).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹6.1 million (~$70,760).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 4</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for a 228 kW grid-connected solar project and the development of solar water pumping systems at eleven locations in Gadchiroli. This includes three 10 HP DC solar water pumping systems and four 7.5 HP DC solar water pumping systems.</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bidders must submit an EMD of ₹153,690 (~$1,782.80) and a tender document fee of ₹29,500 (~$342.10).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹12.3 million (~$142,680).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 5</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for a 118 kW grid-connected solar project at seven locations, with an estimated cost of ₹6.44 million (~$74,704).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹64,040 (~$742.86) and a tender document fee of ₹11,800 (~$136.88).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹5.2 million (~$60,320).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 6</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for a 32 kW grid-connected solar project at four locations in Gadchiroli with an estimated cost of ₹1.86 million (~$21,576).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bidders must submit an EMD of ₹18,614 (~$215.92) and a tender document fee of ₹3,540 (~$41.06).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹1.5 million (~$17,400).</p>
<p><strong>Chandrapur Projects</strong></p>
<p><strong>Tender 1</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for 63 kW grid-connected solar projects at four places with an estimated cost of ₹3.88 million (~$45,008).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹38,823 (~$450.35) and a tender document fee of ₹5,900 (~$68.44).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹3.2 million (~$37,120).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 2</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for 55 kW grid-connected solar projects, two 9-meter solar LED highmasts, and eight solar streetlights at the District Jail Chandrapur, with an estimated cost of ₹4.28 million (~$49,648).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 21, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 22, 2025.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹42,809 (~$496.58) and a tender document fee of ₹5,900 (~$68.44).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹3.5 million (~$40,600).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 3</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for 30 kW grid-connected solar projects at the ITDP Office Chandrapur, with an estimated cost of ₹1.88 million (~$21,808).</p>
<p>Bidders must submit an EMD of ₹18,827 (~$218.39) and a tender document fee of ₹3,540 (~$41.06).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 17, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 18.</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹1.5 million (~$17,400).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 4</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for a 25 kW grid-connected ground-mounted solar project at the Gramsewak Training Institute in Sindewahi, Chandrapur, which also includes three 9-meter solar LED highmast lights and ten 40 W solar streetlights, with an estimated cost of ₹3.37 million (~$39,092).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 17, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 18.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹33,656 (~$390.41), and a tender document fee of ₹5,900 (~$68.44).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹2 million (~$23,200).</p>
<p><strong>Bhandara Projects</strong></p>
<p><strong>Tender 1</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for 69 kW grid-connected solar projects across five locations, with an estimated cost of ₹3.90 million (~$45,240).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bids must furnish an EMD of ₹ 39,020 (~$452.63) with a tender document of ₹5,900 (~$68.44).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹3.2 million (~$37,120).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 2</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for 233 kW grid-connected solar projects at ten government offices, with an estimated cost of ₹12.9 million (~$149,640).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 23.</p>
<p>Bidders must submit an EMD of ₹129,145 (~$1,498.08), with a tender document fee of ₹29,500 (~$342.10).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹10 million (~$116,000).</p>
<p><strong>Nagpur Projects</strong></p>
<p>The tender is for 100 kW grid-connected solar projects with rooftop net metering across nine locations in the Nagpur District, with an estimated cost of ₹5.76 million (~$66,816).</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 17, 2025. Bids will be opened by April 18.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹57,690 (~$669.20) and a tender document fee of ₹11,800 (~$136.88).</p>
<p>Bidders must have an average annual turnover of ₹4.6 million (~$53,360).</p>
<p>Recently, MEDA <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/maharashtra-invites-solar-projects-at-government-buildings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">invited</a> bids to commission 1,100 kW of grid-connected ground-mounted and rooftop solar projects with net metering at 49 government and semi-government buildings in Parbhani, Maharashtra.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/product/india-solar-tender-tracker" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Solar Tender Tracker</a> to stay on top of real-time tender activity.</p>


Maharashtra Floats Tenders for 1.4 MW Solar Projects in Four Districts


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					</table><p>As India&#8217;s power grid becomes increasingly complex due to rising renewable energy penetration, the need for a stable grid has never been more pressing. With the growing share of variable solar and wind power in the energy mix, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are emerging as a critical enabler, helping bridge the gap between generation and consumption while maintaining grid balance.</p>
<p>The Ministry of Power <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/cea-clarifies-energy-storage-integration-future-solar-tenders" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mandated</a> that co-located energy storage systems with a minimum two-hour capacity, equivalent to 10% of the installed solar capacity, be included in all future solar tenders. This directive targets strengthening grid reliability and supporting the country&#8217;s goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by the end of this decade.</p>
<p>Integrating storage systems into the grid helps iron out renewable energy output fluctuations. It also ensures that surplus power generated during the day can be deployed during peak evening demand.</p>
<p>Rajesh Zoldeo, Head of Business Development and Commercial for the Renewable Business, <a href="https://sembcorpindia.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sembcorp India</a>, notes, &#8220;The intermittent nature of renewables necessitates the deployment of energy storage systems that can store excess energy during periods of high generation and supply it during times of low generation.&#8221;</p>
<p>The scale of what lies ahead is reflected in the National Electricity Plan issued by the Central Electricity Authority, which estimates that India will require nearly 74 GW of storage capacity—amounting to over 411 GWh—by 2032. This capacity is essential to integrate an anticipated 364 GW solar and 121 GW wind capacity.</p>
<p>Zoldeo indicates that energy storage systems can potentially delay the need for expensive transmission infrastructure upgrades by releasing stored energy when needed most, particularly during the evening hours when solar generation tapers off.</p>
<p>The economic landscape for BESS has also undergone a dramatic shift. In 2022, tariffs hovered above <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/jsw-renew-energy-wins-seci-tender-1gwh-bess" target="_blank" rel="noopener">₹1.08 million (~$12,570)/MW/month</a>. Two years later, prices have fallen to <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/jsw-rays-oriana-among-winners-of-rvunls-500-mw-bess-auction" target="_blank" rel="noopener">₹221,000 (~$2,550)/MW/month</a> in recent tenders, reflecting a sharp cost reduction.</p>
<p>&#8220;The rates discovered in recent tenders for solar, wind, and battery are becoming more competitive, securing tariffs below the levelized cost of thermal power generation, which is a turning point for India&#8217;s renewable energy sector,&#8221; remarked Zoldeo.</p>
<p><a href="https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-78547 size-full" src="https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4.png" alt="" width="1017" height="580" srcset="https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4.png 1017w, https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4-300x171.png 300w, https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4-768x438.png 768w, https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4-650x371.png 650w, https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4-624x356.png 624w, https://mercomindia.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BESS-1-4-600x342.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 1017px) 100vw, 1017px" /></a></p>
<p>This tariff decline has been largely driven by falling lithium-ion battery costs, bolstered by advances in technology and expanded manufacturing capacity. In 2023, lithium-ion battery pack prices had dropped by 14% to $139/kWh, largely due to easing raw material and component prices. The trend accelerated further in 2024, with prices <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/lithium-ion-battery-historic-low-price/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">declining</a> another 20% to $115/kWh, the steepest annual drop since 2017.</p>
<p>Even electricity regulatory commissions have taken note of falling battery costs. In January this year, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/cerc-rejects-tariff-for-secis-1000-mwh-bess-project/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">rejected</a> Solar Energy Corporation of India&#8217;s petition to adopt tariffs for its 500 MW/1,000 MWh standalone BESS pilot projects as battery costs had fallen drastically since the auction. While the bidding process was transparent and guideline-compliant, the Commission ruled that adopting the outdated tariffs would harm consumer interests.</p>
<p>Factors contributing to this decline include overcapacity in cell manufacturing, increased adoption of lithium-iron-phosphate chemistries, and slower electric vehicle demand growth.</p>
<p>These cost reductions have prompted the government to <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/government-enhances-bess-capacity-target/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">scale</a> its viability gap funding (VGF) program for BESS. Initially targeting 4,000 MWh of storage capacity by 2028, the program has expanded its scope to 13,200 MWh.</p>
<p>The financial support, capped at ₹2.7 million (~$32,114)/MWh or 30% of the capital cost—whichever is lower—is designed to enhance the commercial viability of storage projects.</p>
<p>The VGF disbursement structure is spread over five tranches, beginning with an initial 10% release upon financial closure, followed by a 45% share at the point of commercial operation, and concluding with staggered payments of 15% over the following three years. The expanded funding framework is expected to unlock broader participation in the sector while creating a stable foundation for storage-led hybrid energy development.</p>
<p>The Ministry of Power directed all states and implementing agencies to award all BESS contracts by June 2025 to enable the completion of the VGF program by May 2027.</p>
<p>These policy shifts offer developers a range of advantages, from project portfolio diversification to long-term government-backed power purchase agreements. Experts note that the combination of contractual stability and capital assistance makes BESS-integrated tenders compelling for developers with the technical expertise and scale to deliver.</p>
<p>However, the path to scale is not without hurdles. According to industry insiders, despite the declining costs, the high initial investment in BESS technology and the high cost of energy storage continue to remain barriers to its widespread adoption.</p>
<p>With India aiming to scale BESS to match its renewable ambitions, supportive policy frameworks will be vital. Initiatives like waivers on interstate transmission charges and energy storage obligations are good starting points.</p>
<p>One critical regulatory hurdle is the ₹10 (~$0.12)/kWh ceiling on the power exchanges during peak hours, which Zoldeo believes stifles market-based pricing. This cap limits potential revenue from energy arbitrage, reducing the commercial viability of BESS projects.</p>
<p>If this ceiling is removed and true market prices can be discovered during high-demand periods, it would significantly enhance the financial returns of energy shifting. This, in turn, would incentivize many developers to invest in BESS solutions.</p>


Battery Energy Storage Key to India’s Renewable Energy Future


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					</table><p><a href="https://www.jindalstainless.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jindal Stainless</a>’s subsidiary, JSL Super Steel, has announced it will procure 11 MW of power from <a href="https://sunsure-energy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sunsure Energy</a>’s 49 MW solar power project in Augasi, Uttar Pradesh.</p>
<p>JSL Super Steel signed a power purchase agreement with Sunsure Energy worth nearly ₹40 million (~$464,889) to receive 16.5 million units (MU) of power annually. The company said this agreement will help it meet 40% of its energy needs through clean power.</p>
<p>Jagmohan Sood, COO, Jindal Stainless, said, “This deal is part of Jindal Stainless’s short-term goal of reducing 50% carbon emissions by 2035.” The company aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.</p>
<p>Over the next five years, the company plans to invest ₹7 billion (~$81.3 million) in various decarbonization projects.</p>
<p>Per Jindal Stainless’s annual report 2023-24, the company sourced 200,194 J of its energy needs from renewable sources during the year. I</p>
<p>Jindal Stainless said it also commissioned a 7.3 MW floating solar project on a water reservoir in Jajpur and a 6.54 MW rooftop solar project at its Hisar unit.</p>
<p>The company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with renewable energy company Oyster for a wind-solar hybrid renewable project at Hisar for 100 MW of renewable energy. It also signed an MoU with ReNew Power for a 100 MW round-the-clock renewable energy supply for its Jajpur facility.</p>
<p>Additionally, the company plans to install 18.5 MW rooftop solar projects for its multiple entities across different locations.</p>
<p>In September 2024, Jindal Steel and Power (JSP) and Jindal Renewables <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/jindal-to-develop-green-hydrogen-facility-for-use-in-its-steelworks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced </a>they would invest in green hydrogen production for steelmaking in Angul, Odisha.</p>
<p>In February 2024, JSP <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/jindal-commissions-solar-project-at-odisha-steel-mill" target="_blank" rel="noopener">commissioned</a> a 15 MW rooftop solar project at its steel manufacturing plant in Angul, Odisha.</p>


JSL Super Steel to Procure 11 MW Solar Power from Sunsure’s Project


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					</table><p>India’s first commercial standalone battery energy storage system (BESS) project with a 20MW/40MWh capacity at the distribution company level and a tariff approved by the electricity regulatory authority has been commissioned by power sector infrastructure investment trust <a href="https://www.indigrid.co.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IndiGrid</a> in Delhi.</p>
<p>The Kilokari BESS project was awarded to IndiGrid in October 2023 by BSES Rajdhani Power (<a href="https://www.bsesdelhi.com/web/brpl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BRPL</a>).</p>
<p>The project’s levelized annual tariff of ₹5.7 million (~$66,944)/MW/year, nearly 55% lower than the previous benchmark ₹13 million (~$151,089)/MW/year, was <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/delhi-regulator-greenlights-energy-storage-project" target="_blank" rel="noopener">approved</a> by the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission in May last year.</p>
<p>Kilokari BESS is a special purpose vehicle formed by a consortium of IndiGrid 2 and <a href="https://amperehourenergy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amperehour Solar Technology</a>.</p>
<p>The BESS project has been designed to integrate renewable energy into the distribution level grid system, facilitate grid stabilization, manage peak power demand, and address various ancillary needs. It will support in lowering power procurement costs and defer the need to upgrade the capacity at the Kilokari 33/11 kV power substation.</p>
<p>The project is supported by Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet which is targeting 1 GW of BESS commitments in India by 2026, aligning with India’s aim to deploy 47 GW of BESS by 2032.</p>
<p>IndiGrid’s portfolio includes 41 power projects, comprising 49 transmission lines with an approximate length of 8,700 ckm, 15 substations with a transformation capacity of 22,550 MVA, 855 MW of solar generation capacity, and 450 MW/900 MWh of BESS.</p>
<p>India’s total BESS capacity <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/india-battery-storage-capacity-219-mwh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reached</a> 219.1 MWh as of March 2024, according to Mercom India Research’s report, India’s Energy Storage Landscape. According to the report, 1.6 GWh (~1 GW) of standalone BESS, 9.7 GW of renewable energy projects with energy storage, and 78.1 GW of pumped hydro projects were in various stages of development as of March 2024.</p>
<p>Earlier this year, IndiGrid <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/indigrid-revenue-flat-q3-fy25" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported</a> a consolidated revenue of ₹7.72 billion (~$89.53 million) in the third quarter of the financial year 2025, marking a 2.4% year-over-year increase from ₹7.54 billion (~$87.45 million).</p>


IndiGrid Commissions India’s First BESS Project for DISCOM in Delhi


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					</table><p>Himachal Pradesh Energy Development Agency (<a href="https://himurja.hp.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HIMURJA</a>) has floated three tenders for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of 8.5 MW ground-mounted solar projects in Himachal Pradesh.</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 26, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 28.</p>
<p><strong>Tender 1 </strong></p>
<p>This tender is for a cumulative capacity of 4.5 MW.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an earnest money deposit (EMD) of ₹1.2 million (~$13,851.92) and a tender document fee of ₹15,000 (~$173.25).</p>
<p>They must install projects of 500 kW capacity each at Kriti (Theog) and Sharog (Rohru) in the Shimla district, Charang in the Kinnaur district, Kashidhar and Gaahar in the Kullu district, Jagla in the Lahaul and Spiti district, and Bharti (Kasauli), Kendol (Doon), and Navgaon (Arki) in the Solan district.</p>
<p>The projects’ total estimated cost is ₹60 million (~$692,550).</p>
<p>Bidders must have installed and commissioned solar projects with a minimum capacity of 500 kW. However, the cumulative capacity of such projects must have been at least 1 MW.</p>
<p>Bidders must have an annual turnover of ₹20 million (~$230,850).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 2 </strong></p>
<p>This tender is for a cumulative capacity of 2 MW.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹800,000 (~$9,635.20) and a tender document fee of ₹10,000 (~$120.44).</p>
<p>They must install projects of 500 kW capacity each at Kariyan and Challara in the Chamba district, Dhandri (Chintpurni) in the Una district, and Basantpur (Indora) in the Kangra district.</p>
<p>The projects’ total estimated cost is ₹40 million (~$481,408).</p>
<p>Bidders must have installed and commissioned solar projects with a minimum capacity of 500 kW.</p>
<p>Bidders must have an annual turnover of ₹10 million (~$120,352).</p>
<p><strong>Tender 3 </strong></p>
<p>This tender is for a cumulative capacity of 2 MW.</p>
<p>Bidders must furnish an EMD of ₹1.6 million (~$18,432) and a tender document fee of ₹20,000 (~$230.40).</p>
<p>They must install projects of 500 kW capacity each at Thala Uarla (Palampur), Hadoli (Jawalamukhi), and Pargod (Shahpur) in the Kangra district, and Chaloh (Sujanpur) in the Hamirpur district.</p>
<p>The projects’ total estimated cost is ₹80 million (~$921,600).</p>
<p>Bidders must have installed and commissioned solar projects with a minimum capacity of 500 kW. However, the cumulative capacity of such projects must be at least 1 MW.</p>
<p>Bidders must have an annual turnover of ₹20 million (~$230,850)</p>
<p>Selected bidders for all tenders must furnish</p>
<p>All projects must be commissioned within eight months of the award date. They will also have a five-year operation and maintenance period.</p>
<p>The scope of work for all tenders entails the design, engineering, installation, performance testing, and commissioning of the projects. It also involves conducting site feasibility assessments, procurement, logistics operations, and erection of the projects.</p>
<p>Additionally, successful bidders must oversee energy generation from each project, with an expected annual generation of 800,000 kW per system.</p>
<p>In February 2024, HIMURJA <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/himachal-pradesh-floats-rooftop-solar-projects" target="_blank" rel="noopener">invited</a> bids to empanel vendors for the rate contract to design, manufacture, erect, test, and commission rooftop solar projects of capacities ranging from 1 kW to 500 kW under the net metering and net billing program.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/product/india-solar-tender-tracker" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Solar Tender Tracker</a> to stay on top of real-time tender activity.</p>


Himachal Pradesh Floats EPC Tenders for 8.5 MW Solar Projects


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					</table><p>The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (<a href="https://cercind.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CERC</a>) has approved a final levelized tariff of ₹2.68 (~$0.031)/kWh for <a href="https://ntpc.co.in/index.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NTPC</a>’s 92 MW floating solar projects at Rajiv Gandhi Combined Cycle Power Project (RGCCPP) in Kayamkulam, Kerala.</p>
<p><strong>Background</strong></p>
<p>On May 11, 2018, NTPC signed a memorandum of understanding with the Kerala State Electricity Board (<a href="https://kseb.in/ksebhome" target="_blank" rel="noopener">KSEBL</a>) for developing renewable power projects.</p>
<p>It commenced bidding for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts for two phases of 92 MW floating solar projects at the RGCCPP in Kayamkulam.</p>
<p>NTPC signed a draft power purchase agreement (PPA) with KSEBL, proposing a tariff based on the EPC costs discovered through competitive bidding. This draft PPA stipulated a tariff of ₹3.16 (~$0.037)/kWh payable by KSEBL for energy supplied up to 28% capacity utilization factor (CUF). The tariff was contingent upon the Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (<a href="https://www.erckerala.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">KSERC</a>) approval.</p>
<p>KSERC held that the applicable tariff would be the lower value between the tariff determined by CERC and the mutually agreed tariff of ₹3.16 (~$0.037)/kWh between KSEBL and NTPC. CERC initially determined an interim tariff of ₹2.94 (~$0.034)/kWh for the project.</p>
<p>The project’s 22 MW and 70 MW phases were delayed by approximately 19 and 13 months, respectively.</p>
<p>It achieved its commercial operation date (COD) on June 24, 2022.</p>
<p>This development led to petitions to CERC filed by KSEBL requesting a review of the provisional tariff and the final tariff’s determination and NTPC seeking approval of the revised levelized tariff and recovery of various costs caused by the project’s COD delays.</p>
<p><strong>Commission’s Analysis</strong></p>
<p>CERC reiterated that the final tariff would be lower than ₹3.16 (~$0.037)/kWh or the approved tariff.</p>
<p>It approved the final levelized tariff of ₹2.68 (~$0.031)/kWh for the solar projects.</p>
<p>The approved tariff is lower than NTPC’s claimed amount of ₹3.22 (~$0.038)/kWh and lower than the previously determined interim tariff of ₹2.94 (~$0.034)/kWh.</p>
<p>Additionally, the Commission directed NTPC to issue bills for the energy generated from the Kayamkulam project based on the finalized tariff for the full 25-year PPA period.</p>
<p>The Commission also acknowledged that NTPC and KSEBL recognized that force majeure events caused the COD delays. It concluded that NTPC was entitled to an interest during the construction of ₹128.1 million (~$1.47 million) and an incidental expenditure during the construction of ₹44.8 million (~$516,904) for the delays.</p>
<p>The Commission approved a capital cost of ₹4.57 billion (~$54.87 million). However, it dismissed NTPC&#8217;s additional cost claim for a 7 km motorable road, as it was not constructed.</p>
<p>Recently, CERC <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/cerc-approves-tariffs-for-ntpcs-1-gw-wind-solar-hybrid-projects" target="_blank" rel="noopener">approved</a> tariffs ranging from ₹3.43 (~$0.04)/kWh to ₹3.46 (~$0.04)/kWh for NTPC’s 1 GW interstate transmission system-connected wind-solar hybrid power projects.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s real-time <a href="https://mercomindia.com/product/mercoms-renewable-energy-regulatory-updates/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Regulatory Updates</a> to ensure you don’t miss any critical updates from the renewable industry.</p>


CERC Approves Tariff for NTPC’s 92 MW Floating Solar Projects in Kerala


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					</table><p>Indian Oil Corporation (<a href="https://iocl.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IOCL</a>), through its Digboi Refinery under the Assam Oil Division, has floated a tender for the comprehensive annual maintenance of solar projects with capacities of 1,000 kW, 100 kW, and 50 kW.</p>
<p>Bids must be submitted by April 22, 2025. Bids will be opened on April 24.</p>
<p>Bidders must submit a bid security declaration and furnish a security deposit of 10% of the total contract value.</p>
<p>The scope of work entails operating and maintaining the solar panels, measuring string currents weekly, cleaning solar modules fortnightly, and maintaining the supervisory control and data acquisition system. Selected bidders will be responsible for the safety of workers and adherence to safety regulations.</p>
<p>The contract is for two years from the site handover date, whichever is later.</p>
<p>Bidders must have completed three similar works, each costing at least ₹227,737 (~$2,639.41), or two similar works, each costing at least ₹303,650 (~$3,519.71), or one work costing at least ₹ 379,562 (~$4,399.51) within the last seven years.</p>
<p>Bidders must have a minimum annual turnover of ₹455,000 (~$5,273.80), including GST, during any of the preceding three financial years. They must submit financial documents such as audited balance sheets and profit and loss statements, preferably with a UDIN, signed by them and a chartered accountant.</p>
<p>Earlier this year, IOCL <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/indian-oil-issues-tender-to-replace-1-solar-modules-at-jodhpur-project" target="_blank" rel="noopener">issued</a> a tender for replacing 1 MW solar modules along with necessary cabling and connection and integrating it with the existing 5 MW solar power project at Rawra in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.</p>
<p>In October 2024, IOCL <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/iocl-floats-om-tender-for-4-36-mw-rooftop-solar-systems" target="_blank" rel="noopener">invited</a> bids for the annual operation and maintenance contract of the 4,360 kW rooftop solar systems installed at IOCL, Paradip Refinery and Township, in Odisha.</p>
<p>In May, IOCL <a href="https://www.mercomindia.com/indian-oil-consultancy-tender-renewable-projects" target="_blank" rel="noopener">invited</a> bids from technical consultants for project management consultancy services to set up renewable energy projects at various locations across India.</p>
<p>Subscribe to Mercom’s <a href="https://mercomindia.com/product/india-solar-tender-tracker/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Solar Tender Tracker</a> to stay on top of the real-time tender activity.</p>


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