Powergrid Seeks Bids To Build Solar Powered Green H2 In Rajasthan

Powergrid recently released a tender to develop a transmission and distribution pilot project. The tender provides Package GH2-01 for the establishment of a solar PV-powered Green Hydrogen plant and a fuel cell-based microgrid pilot project. This project is located at the 400/220/33kV Neemrana substation in Rajasthan and includes Operation and Management (O&M) for 10 years. The last date for bid submission is December 28.

Through this tender, Powergrid envisions the design, engineering, manufacturing, construction, installation, integration, commissioning, and testing of the pilot project. The scope also includes obtaining statutory approvals, training personnel, and providing mandatory spares. The tender specifies that the price bid quantities are to remain constant unless there are changes in the scope of work by the employer.

Scope & Applicability

The tender sets a 12-month timeline for the project completion. It includes developing a 1,500 kW solar project, establishing green hydrogen production and storage facilities, installing a fuel cell, and integrating these with the auxiliary load. The developer will also be responsible for operating and managing the project for the subsequent 10 years.

The tender mandates bidders to submit a bid document fee of Rs. 25,000. It also requires the bidder to undertake EPC activities and provide mandatory spares. Additionally, bidders must obtain statutory approvals and prepare all necessary drawings and documents.

The project must also be designed to accommodate a hydrogen refueling station for potential future expansion. Space utilization, plant layout, and the associated balance of plants should be planned accordingly. Only mono-crystalline half-cut solar modules with a minimum capacity of 545 Wp, listed in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) notified by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, are permitted for use in the project.