Odisha Mulls Min 4 Service Centers For Solar Pump OEMs

Odisha Mulls Min 4 Service Centers For Solar Pump OEMs

The Odisha government has announced plans to require a minimum of four service centers for solar pump Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the state. The Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA), the state’s nodal agency, has issued its latest Expression of Interest (EOI) to facilitate this initiative. The EOI invites OEMs to apply for empanelment, ensuring better service accessibility for solar pump users across the state.

Service Center Requirements for OEMs

OREDA has specified that OEMs can either establish their own service centers or collaborate with service partners within Odisha. In cases where firms lack existing service centers, they must commit to setting up the required units to comply with the new mandate.

Mandatory Service Assistance Units
“The manufacturers shall have a minimum of four service assistance units/service partners in Odisha State. The manufacturers should provide the details of service assistance units/service partners, including address, name of the contact person, mobile number, and email ID (Bid Form 1). If the manufacturer does not have a service assistance unit/service partner in OREDA, the firm should provide an undertaking stating that they will establish one or arrange a service partner in OREDA upon empanelment,” the EOI states.

Boosting Off-Grid Solar Growth Under PM-KUSUM

The move aligns with Odisha’s push to expand its off-grid solar initiatives under the PM-KUSUM (Component-B) scheme. The state has recently issued tenders to promote solar irrigation solutions and plans to release more in the coming days. This latest EOI is seen as a step toward strengthening the state’s solar infrastructure.

Several OEMs, including Shakti Pumps, Oswal Pumps, and Solartive, have previously partnered with various state governments to support solar irrigation schemes. The new mandate is expected to further strengthen collaboration between OEMs and Odisha’s renewable energy initiatives.

Additional Requirements for OEM Empanelment

Beyond service center requirements, the latest EOI from OREDA also outlines essential criteria such as test reports, IEC certifications, and compliance standards that OEMs must meet to qualify.

Certification and Compliance
“The empanelment is valid as per the validity of the corresponding certifications (IEC/IS, etc.), provided the OEMs renew their empanelment status by paying the annual fee. All IEC certifications listed are mandatory. During the selection process, OREDA may request clarifications within a specified deadline. Qualified OEMs will be empanelled, notified, and published,” the EOI states.

By enforcing stricter service and compliance requirements, Odisha aims to enhance solar pump maintenance and efficiency, ultimately supporting its renewable energy goals.