NHPC Limited has floated a tender inviting bidsfor the development of 100 MW solar capacity under the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) model at the Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Power Parkin theKoppal District of Karnataka. This will be a part of the 2.5 GW interstate transmission system connected to ground-mounted projects at the solar park. In addition to providing ten years of comprehensive maintenance, developers will be required to carry out the design, engineering, procurement or manufacturing, supply, installation, and commissioning of the solar capacity. The peak power rating for the individual modules used in the plant must be a minimum 320Wp with no negative tolerance. To be eligible for the competitive bidding process, the bidder must have an annual turnover of Rs 4.34 billion in the last three years. Further, they must have a positive net worth equalling the paid-up equity share capital in three of the last five years. The land will be provided by the Karnataka Solar Power Development Corporation Limited on a sub-lease basis. The project must be commissioned within 12 months of awarding of the contract. The deadline for submission of bids is February 16, 2021.
NHPC Limited announced in June 2020 that it would diversify the company’s business by taking up more solar projects across the country. As of December 2020, NHPC Limited has floated tenders for a cumulative capacity of 2,460 MW of solar power. In October 2020, the company floated an EPC tender for the development of 65 MW of solar projects in the Jalaun district of Uttar Pradesh. In July 2020, NHPC Limited signed a memorandum of understanding with the Green Energy Development Corporation of Odisha Limited to form a joint venture for developing 500 MW of floating solar projects in the state of Odisha.