Tender Details: The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has released a tender for the development of a 100 MW solar power project integrated with a 50 MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This project is part of India’s strategy to promote renewable energy in isolated regions and reduce dependence on diesel-based power generation.
Project Location: The selected project will be developed in the Kadka region of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This remote island territory, currently dependent on fossil fuels, aims to transition to a greener energy mix and improve power supply reliability with this solar-plus-storage project.
Battery Storage to Enhance Reliability: The 50 MW BESS component is vital to ensuring a stable power supply, as it will store excess energy produced during the day for use at night or during cloudy conditions. This addresses the challenge of intermittent energy production inherent in solar power systems.
Hybrid Solar-Battery Setup: The hybrid nature of the project aims to integrate renewable energy with advanced storage technologies. By combining solar generation with BESS, the project is expected to provide uninterrupted power to the islanders, reducing the need for backup diesel generators.
Bidder Requirements: SECI has set specific eligibility criteria for bidders, including a track record of developing solar projects and experience with battery storage systems. The tender invites participation from both domestic and international companies, aligning with India’s goal to attract foreign investments in the renewable sector.
Environmental and Economic Benefits: This solar project is expected to significantly reduce the region’s carbon footprint by cutting down diesel consumption. Additionally, it will create employment opportunities and foster the development of a sustainable local economy in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Timeline and Bidding Process: Interested bidders must submit their proposals by the specified deadline, with SECI overseeing the evaluation process. The project is expected to be commissioned within a specific time frame post-tender award.
Boosting Renewable Capacity: The tender is part of SECI’s broader effort to boost renewable energy capacity in India’s remote and underserved regions. It reflects India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
India’s Solar Expansion: The project is in line with India’s national target of reaching 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. Developing solar infrastructure in places like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands ensures inclusive growth of renewable energy across all parts of the country.
Conclusion: This SECI tender represents a crucial step towards bringing clean energy to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with the hybrid solar-plus-storage project poised to reduce the region's reliance on fossil fuels while enhancing power reliability.
