The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has invited bids for 2.7 MW grid-connected floating solar projects with a battery energy storage system (BESS) in Lakshadweep. The projects will be located on Agatti Island (950 kW) and Kavaratti Island (1.75 MW), both featuring a minimum BESS capacity of 2.5 MW/16 MWh. 

Bids must be submitted by April 30, 2025, and will be opened on May 5. The earnest money deposit required is Rs 13.3 million for the Agatti project and Rs 14.1 million for the Kavaratti project, along with a tender fee of Rs 6,000. The expected annual energy output is 6.85 million units (MU) from Agatti and 8.37 MU from Kavaratti. 

The selected bidders will handle the design, engineering, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the projects. They must also manage procurement, civil works, inspections, and regulatory compliance, including permits, licenses, and insurance. Post-commissioning, the bidders will provide operations and maintenance for the entire power purchase agreement period and ensure grid connectivity. 

Projects must be completed within 30 days of the award. Bidders must demonstrate experience with grid-connected solar projects, having commissioned at least 50% of the quoted project capacity over the past seven years and at least two projects with a minimum individual AC capacity of 10% of the quoted project capacity. These projects must have been operational for at least six years. 

Financial requirements include a minimum net worth of Rs 132 million for the Agatti project and Rs 140.26 million for the Kavaratti project. 

In a separate development, SECI has also invited bids for 500 MW of interstate transmission system (ISTS)-connected solar power projects (Tranche XIX), with submissions due by March 17, 2025. 

(Mercom)