NHPC has launched a tender for 1.2 GW of Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS)-connected solar power projects, including a 600 MW/12,000 MWh energy storage system (ESS). The tender also includes a greenshoe option for an additional 1.2 GW capacity. The deadline for bid submissions is October 18, with the project expected to be completed within 24 to 30 months from the signing of the power purchase agreement (PPA).
The project, to be developed on a build-own-operate basis, will have a 25-year PPA with the winning bidder. The bid capacities range from 50 MW to 500 MW, with a minimum ESS component of 300 MW for projects up to 600 MW. When the greenshoe option is included, the maximum allowed capacity is 1,200 MW.
For projects in northeastern states and Special Categories, the minimum bid capacity is reduced to 30 MW, with at least 15 MW/30 MWh of ESS. Bidders must meet specific financial criteria, including an annual turnover of Rs 6.45 million per MW of quoted capacity and a net worth of Rs 12.9 million per MW in the previous financial year.
In addition to this tender, NHPC recently achieved Navratna status in September 2024 and signed an MoU in July 2024 with Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited to install rooftop solar projects on government buildings across India.