NTPC Renewable Energy, a subsidiary of India?s largest power utility, has announced the opening of bids for a significant wind energy project in Karnataka. The project, part of the Interstate Transmission System (ISTS), aims to add 960 MW of renewable energy to the state?s grid under Tranche III.

The bidding process includes two distinct blocks, each requiring separate bids. Block I calls for 164 Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs) with a capacity of 492 MW, while Block II seeks 156 WTGs totaling 468 MW. Interested parties must submit their bids by August 6, 2024, with bid openings scheduled for the same day.

Prospective bidders are required to purchase bidding documents priced at ?22,500 ($269). Additionally, they must meet stringent bid security requirements, including an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of ?500 million ($5.9 million) per block or ?1 billion (~$11.9 million) for both blocks combined.

The scope of the project mandates that successful bidders handle the entire lifecycle of WTGs, from design and engineering to installation, testing, and commissioning. Furthermore, they are accountable for a comprehensive ten-year operation and maintenance period post-commissioning, ensuring uninterrupted power supply and system integrity. This obligation includes the provision of spare parts, consumables, and repairs as necessary.

Crucially, bidders must comply with all statutory approvals for power evacuation, grid connectivity, and coordination with state renewable energy agencies. They are also required to be registered manufacturers of WTGs with a minimum rating of 3 MW, listed in the latest Revised List of Models and Manufacturers by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Financial prerequisites include demonstrating a minimum average annual turnover and positive net worth, ensuring financial stability and capability to undertake such a significant renewable energy initiative.

This call for bids follows recent similar initiatives by NTPC Renewable Energy, including the invitation for Balance of System (BoS) packages for 1 GW ISTS-connected wind energy projects in the Davangere and Bellary regions of Karnataka under Tranche IV and Tranche V, respectively.

The project marks a crucial step towards enhancing Karnataka?s renewable energy capacity and aligning with India?s ambitious clean energy goals.