NTPC Renewable Energy Limited (NTPC REL) has initiated the bidding process for the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) package of two 325 MW grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in Bikaner, Rajasthan. This development marks a substantial stride in India's ongoing commitment to bolster its renewable energy capacity, reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.
The call for online bids has outlined a comprehensive scope of work, encompassing crucial components such as site grading and clearing, topographical surveys, and geotechnical investigations. The project also involves designing and constructing foundations and erecting Tracker-Based Module Mounting Structures (MMS) for the solar PV panels. This ambitious venture spans various aspects, from securing power and water supply for construction to building inverter rooms and related electrical and civil works for grid interfacing.
One pivotal aspect of the project is power evacuation, extending to the 33 kV Main Pooling Switchgear at the Owner's pooling substation. Additionally, the project entails laying and terminating high-tension (HT) cables, including supply, from the block boundary to the 33 kV Owner's Main Pooling switchgear as per specifications.
The deadline for bid submissions, comprising both Techno-Commercial Bids and Price Bids, is set for December 12, 2023, with the Techno-Commercial Bids to be opened on the same date. It is essential to note that bids lacking acceptable bid security in a separate sealed envelope will be deemed non-responsive and will not be opened. For bids with electronic fund transfer (EFT) for bid security, proof of e-payment must be enclosed in a separate sealed envelope.
Prospective contractors vying for eligibility to bid must meet specific qualifications. They should possess experience in designing, supplying, erecting, and commissioning solar PV-based grid-connected power plants with a cumulative installed capacity of 40 MWp or higher. At least one of these plants should boast a capacity of 10 MWp or higher and must have been in successful operation for a minimum of six months prior to the Techno-Commercial Bid opening date.
Furthermore, bidders should have executed an industrial project in the last decade within sectors such as power, steel, oil and gas, petrochemical, fertilizer, cement, coal mining, or other process industries. The project should meet the specified financial criteria and have been in successful operation for at least one year or six months before the Techno-Commercial Bid opening.
In addition, bidders should have experience in executing at least one electrical substation of 33 kV or higher voltage level, equipped with circuit breakers and power transformers. This substation should have been in successful operation for at least one year or six months before the Techno-Commercial Bid opening.
Lastly, bidders are required to demonstrate a minimum average annual turnover for three financial years, as detailed in the bidding documents.
It is noteworthy that bidders meeting these qualifications will be enlisted by NTPC REL for future solar EPC packages with project sizes of 50 MW or more for a period of three years from the date of opening of Price Bids.
This tender reflects a substantial investment in India's renewable energy infrastructure, underlining the nation's steadfast commitment to augmenting its clean energy capacity. Furthermore, it presents qualified contractors with opportunities to contribute to India's journey towards a more sustainable energy future.
NTPC-650-EPC-Tender_Rajasthan
