Ayana, Fortum bag 600 MW Solar Power Auctions for Gadag, Koppal in Karnataka

Leading solar power companies Project Eight Renewable Power Private Limited (Ayana) and Solar One Energy Private Limited (Fortum) have won 600 MW in Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) solar power auctions. This particular bid was for the Gadag Sub-Station. Talking about individual success of both the players, Ayana has won 300 MW capacity at Rs 2.35 kwh and Fortum too secured 300 MW at a price of Rs 2.36 for the remaining capacity of the sub-station. The tender was the remaining 600 MW of the 1200 MW tender by SECI. The results of the first 600 MW has also gone in their favour, albeit at a marginally higher price. Thus, Ayana and Fortum have shared 600 MW each finally.

In July 2021, the SECI had floated the tender for the development of 1200 MW of interstate transmission system (ISTS) connected solar power projects in the state of Karnataka – another key state with immense solar insolation resources. SECI had held that a maximum of 600 MW was to be injected at ISTS substations of Gadag and Koppal districts of the state.

The projects are expected to be commissioned within 18 months from the date the power purchasing agreement (PPA) becomes effective. There are certain responsibilities bestowed upon the solar power developers. SECI had held that identification of land, installation, connectivity, ownership of project, long term access, necessary approvals, interconnection with the ISTS and subsequent supply of solar power to SECI will have to be done by the developers.

Once the letters of awards are issued to the players, both SECI and Karnataka State Power Development Corporation (KSPDCL) will facilitate the developers in land acquisition on a ‘sub-lease’ basis. This land will come from KSPDCL. The Karnataka agency will sign lease agreements with the farmers and the land area will be provided to the solar power developers at the quantum of four acres for every MW.

As far as application for connectivity is concerned, the developers will have to make the necessary move within 30 days from the date of issuance of letters of awards. They will have to furnish the copies of the application with the SECI as well.