Results for Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited’s (SECI) auction to develop 1,500 MW firm and dispatchable power from inter-state transmission system (ISTS) connected renewable power projects, tranche II, have been announced. The tender for the project was issued in July 2023. Hero Solar Energy (Hero Future Energies) has won 120 MW by quoting Rs 5.59 per kWh. Other companies have won the following capacities: JSW Neo Energy – 180 MW, Serentica Renewables India – 100 MW, and ReNew Solar Power – 80 MW by quoting a tariff of Rs 5.6 per kWh. Of the total tendered capacity, only 480 MW was auctioned.
The chosen renewable energy developers will be responsible for both land and ISTS connectivity. The inclusion of energy storage systems is a mandatory component of the project. The grid connection and metering must comply with the applicable grid code, grid connectivity standards, and regulations regarding communication systems for power transmission. A minimum voltage level of 220 kV is necessary for connecting to the ISTS. The energy acquired from these projects is intended to be sold to Punjab State Power Corporation and Madhya Pradesh Power Management Company. SECI will serve as the intermediary nodal agency for the acquisition and distribution of this power to the purchasing entities entirely on a back-to-back basis. This is contingent upon the satisfactory performance of both the renewable energy developer and the purchasing entities.
Recently, in March 2024, results were declared for SECI’s auction to develop 1,500 MW ISTS connected solar power projects, tranche XIII. JSW Neo Energy has won 700 MW by quoting Rs 2.56 per kWh. Other companies have won the following capacities at the same tariff: Sunsure Solarpark Fourteen– 300 MW and Tejorupa Renewables – 250 MW. NTPC Renewable Energy has won 250 MW by quoting a tariff of Rs 2.57 per kWh.
