Maharashtra Issues Tender For Solar Steam Cookers

The Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) has initiated plans to introduce solar steam cooking systems across the state. In a pilot project, the agency aims to meet the cooking needs of five State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) centers using this clean energy technology.

To support this initiative, MEDA has issued a tender inviting bids. The tender outlines the use of solar cookers to provide lunch and dinner for 2,600 people. These SRPF units are located in Ramtekdi and Daund in Pune. The deadline for submitting bids is January 8, 2025.

According to the tender, bidders are responsible for the supply and commissioning of the solar cooking systems, along with a five-year Comprehensive Maintenance Contract.

Scope of work

“Design, Manufacture, Supply, Installation, Testing and Commissioning with Five Years Comprehensive Maintenance Contract of Solar Steam Cooking System with 16 sq. meter each Scheffler dish Suitable for cooking daily meals for lunch and dinner of total 2600 Peoples at: Mess Building, State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Group No. 1, Ramtekdi Pune (250 Peoples), Mess Building, State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Group No. 2, Ramtekdi Pune (300 Peoples), Mess Building, State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Group No. 5, Daund, Pune (300 Peoples), Mess Building, State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Group No. 7, Daund, Pune (250 Peoples), Training Institute, Nanvij, State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Daund, Pune (1500 Peoples), in the State of Maharashtra,” the tender specifies.

Timeline for project

Bidders are required to complete the project within three months of receiving the work order. MEDA has stated that solar module manufacturers, solar thermal or solar steam cooking system manufacturers, and EPC firms are eligible to participate in this project.

Solar cookers have been piloted in various regions of India. Notable examples include installations at the Muni Seva Ashram in Gujarat and in Madhya Pradesh, where the Macgiligan Foundation has actively promoted the use of solar cooking systems.