Results for the Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) Tranche XV auction to develop 1,200 MW of inter-state transmission system (ISTS) connected solar projects with 600 MW/ 1,200 MWh energy storage system (ESS). The projects will be located anywhere in India. The tender was issued in March 2024. Pace Digitek has won 100 MW by quoting Rs 3.41 per kWh. While other companies have won following capacities by quoting Rs 3.42 per kWh. JSW Neo Energy – 500 MW, Acme Solar Holdings – 350 MW, and Hero Solar Energy – 250 MW.
SECI will sign power purchase agreement with the developers to procure solar power for a duration of 25 years. They are required to establish ISTS-connected solar power projects with ESS, along with the necessary transmission network up to the interconnection or delivery point, to supply solar power to SECI at their own expense. Furthermore, an ESS with a minimum capacity of 0.5 MW/ 1 MW of project capacity must be integrated into the project. This system should be designed to connect with the ISTS/ Intra-state transmission system by existing regulations. Developers are responsible for obtaining all necessary approvals, permits, and clearances for establishing the project and transmission network, including those from state and local authorities. They must handle land identification, installation, project ownership, connectivity, and securing the required approvals and interconnections with the ISTS network.
The declared annual capacity utilisation factor (CUF) should be at least 17 per cent. The winning developers are required to maintain annual CUF ranging between +10 per cent and – 15 per cent of the declared value till the end of ten years. Furthermore, SECI has mandated the use of indigenously manufactured solar modules listed in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers.
