Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) and Mahatma Phule Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Technology Ltd (MAHAPREIT) have announced a partnership to build 1 GW of solar power in Maharashtra, India. According to the notification, GEAPP and MAHAPREIT will partner to install 500 MW of rooftop solar for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and 500 MW of ground-mounted decentralised solar under the PM KUSUM programme.
GEAPP is a collaboration of foundations, local businesses, governments, and technological, policy, and funding partners. It aspires to assist developing countries in making the transition to a clean energy, pro-growth model that offers universal energy access. Maharashtra is expected to have 8.4 lakh SMEs, accounting for around 8 per cent of all SMEs in the country. Despite the fact that large industries have better access to technical advice and expert support, the sector still seeks financial assistance (loans, credit facilities). However, SMEs do not have the same level of access.
In January 2023, MAHAPREIT floated bids to appoint consultants to establish 10 MW of distributed solar power projects under the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana. According to the tender guidelines, bidders must submit Rs 200,000 as an earnest money deposit. The successful bidder will be required to provide a performance bank guarantee equal to 5 per cent of the contract value. Also, the successful bidder must sign an empanelment agreement with the MAHAPREIT within 15 days of the award letter. The contract will be valid for two years.
