The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has announced the auction results for 1,200 MW of inter-state transmission system (ISTS) connected renewable energy projects for procurement of round-the-clock (RTC) power. A total capacity of 420 MW was awarded, with Hero Solar Energy and Hexa Climate Solutions winning 120 MW and 100 MW, respectively, at a tariff of Rs 5.06 per kWh each. Jindal India Power and Sembcorp Green Infra won 150 MW and 50 MW, respectively, securing a tariff of Rs 5.07 per kWh each. The tender was floated in October 2024.
The successful bidders are mandated to develop the associated transmission infrastructure up to the interconnection point. Furthermore, the project developers are required to identify land, install and own the assets, and secure connectivity and approvals with the ISTS, state transmission utility, or intra-state transmission system. They must also integrate energy storage systems to ensure continuous RTC power supply. The minimum voltage level for interconnection with ISTS is 220 KV. Each developer must meet demand fulfilment ratio (DFR) thresholds of 80 per cent annually, 75 per cent monthly, and 90 per cent during peak hours. Any shortfall in monthly or annual DFR will attract a penalty of 1.5 times the cost of the shortfall in energy terms, while peak hour DFR shortfalls will incur penalties at 2.5 times the same cost, all calculated at the power purchase agreement (PPA) tariff.
Power supply from these projects is set to commence 24 months from the date of signing of the PPA. Developers are permitted to split the awarded capacity into multiple projects if delivered within the specified timeline. Moreover, the tender allows the sale of power above the contracted capacity to third parties or on power exchanges, subject to the SECI’s willingness to purchase it at the PPA tariff. The projects must use type-certified wind turbines listed in the Revised List of Models and Manufacturers issued by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and only deploy commercially established and operational technologies to reduce implementation risks.
