South Eastern Coalfields Ltd. (SECL) has announced the invitation of bids for the commissioning of a 5 MWac/6.75 MWdc grid-connected ground-mounted solar project at Vivek Nagar Mines, located in Sohagpur, Madhya Pradesh. The project, with an estimated cost of ?448.52 million (~$5.37 million), aims to boost renewable energy generation in the region.

The selected developer will be required to commission the project within nine months from the date of receiving the work order. Additionally, the developer must provide comprehensive operation and maintenance services for a period of ten years.

Key dates for the bidding process include the last day for submission of bids on July 27, 2024, and the opening of bids on July 29, 2024. Prospective bidders must furnish an earnest money deposit of ?5 million (~$59,887) as part of their submission.

Work on the project should commence within 30 days from the issue of the letter of acceptance and submission of performance security, or seven days after the site is handed over, whichever is earlier.

Eligibility criteria for bidders stipulate the completion of three similar projects, each costing at least 20% of the estimated tender cost, two identical projects, each costing at least 25% of the estimated tender cost, or one project costing at least 40% of the estimated tender cost within the last seven years. Similar works include the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of solar photovoltaic grid-connected power projects, which can be ground-mounted, rooftop, or floating.

Financial requirements include an average annual turnover of at least 30% of the estimated tender cost over the last three years ending March 31, 2024. Additionally, bidders must demonstrate adequate working capital (at least 20% of the annualized or estimated value of the work) through certificates, lines of credit, and other financial resources.

This initiative follows a recent bid invitation by the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute for commissioning grid-connected solar power projects with a cumulative capacity of 35 MW, furthering India's commitment to expanding its renewable energy footprint.