CLP India, Suzlon form JV for 100MW solar project in Telangana

CLP India, one of the largest foreign investors in the Indian power sector, and Suzlon Group have formed joint venture for a 100 MW solar project at Veltoor in Telangana.

As per the agreement signed between CLP India and Suzlon, CLP India acquired 49% stake in SE Solar, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) set-up by Suzlon for Rs.73.5 crore.. CLP India has the option to acquire the balance 51% in future.

The Veltoor project in Telangana is expected to be commissioned by May next year and will be funded 80% by debt and 20% by equity.

The wholly-owned subsidiary of CLP Holdings Ltd, CLP India in a statement said India is a primary growth market for CLP and the Veltoor solar project will make an important contribution to the company’s expansion plan. The project will help CLP to meet its target of having 20% of power generated by renewable energy by 2020.  PPA has a fixed tariff for 25 years at Rs. 5.59/kWh and Offtaker will be Telangana Southern Power Distribution Company Limited.

Recently, CLP India also signed a MoU with the State Government of Haryana to set up a 132 MW solar project at its Jhajjar power station.

Suzlon won solar projects of 210 MW in Telangana through a competitive bidding process and the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for the same were signed in February, 2016. These include one project of 100 MW, one of 50 MW and four projects of 15MW each.

Rajiv Mishra, Managing Director, CLP India, said, “Our approach to the market evolves around the kind of opportunities available as well as the prevailing policy framework. We have been keen to invest in solar in India to complement our Wind portfolio, and have evaluated projects that will be value-enhancing for our shareholders, whilst being attractive for our customers. The Veltoor solar project meets both the criteria. We believe that the state of Telangana has a favourable solar policy, which creates a conducive environment for us. We remain keen and will continue to explore such projects to expand our renewable energy footprint in Telangana and across India.”

 “Globally, renewable energy is witnessing a paradigm shift from being considered alternate to mainstream source of energy. Investments in both wind and solar have garnered traction owing to the improving cost competiveness enabled through technology advancements and the need to transition from fossil fuel dominated energy architecture. The target of 175 GW renewable energy by 2022 outlined by the government of India, offers an opportunity of over 100 GW solar in the next 6 years. I am confident, with the conducive policy environment and public-private partnership we will seize this opportunity to ensure sustainable, affordable and reliable energy for all. We look forward to continuing our long-standing relationship with CLP and contribute towards Nation’s energy security,” said Tulsi Tanti, Chairman and Managing Director, Suzlon Group.