Rajasthan Discom Issues Tender Under PM-KUSUM (Component-A)

AVVNL Issues EOI To Expand Decentralized Energy Under Comp A In Rajasthan

In a bid to expand the growth of solar power under PM-KUSUM, the Ajmer Discom, Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam (AVVNL) has issued a tender, inviting proposals from interested applicants to set up decentralized solar power plants with capacities from 0.5 MW to 2 MW, to be connected to 33/11 kV substations as identified by Ajmer Discom.

This project falls under component A of PM-KUSUM. The last date for bid submission is 29th November 2024. This indicated the growing popularity of the decentralized segment, which includes, Ground/ Stilt Mounted Grid Connected Solar or other Renewable Energy based Power Plants.

The PM-KUSUM  tender mentioned the selected bidder of the tender would be fully responsible, at its own cost and expense, for installing the necessary solar panels and associated equipment to achieve a minimum CUF of 17%. To meet this requirement, the selected bidder must conduct its study and investigation of Global Horizontal Irradiation (GHI) and other factors affecting power generation in the area. The electricity generated under this scheme will be purchased by AVVNL, with the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed with RUVITL (on behalf of AVVNL), at a levelized cost of Rs. 3.04 per kWh for a period of 25 years, with no escalation permitted.

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The tender document under the PM-KUSUM said that the project requirements include the creation of a site layout plan for the Inspecting Authority, clearly indicating the identified location for the installation of the solar power plant and control room. Detailed time-bound planning for smooth project execution. The bidder would be expected to undertake the performance testing for completion and successful commissioning of the project.

The AVVNL tender to boost the expansion of solar power under PM-KUSUM said that it would also be responsible for undertaking the operations and maintenance (O&M) plan for the plant and 11 kV line for 25 years from the COD to ensure faultless operation. It would also undertake an inventory plan to ensure spare parts availability, minimizing downtime for the project and 11 kV line during the PPA term. The tender doesn’t allow part commissioning of the project will not be allowed. The project would be expected to be commissioned within nine months from the date of issue of LOA, the tender said.

Metering And Grid Connectivity

Metering and grid connectivity for the projects will be the responsibility of the solar power generator, following DISCOM and/or CEA guidelines. Additionally, the SPG would be responsible for providing SIM cards, recurring communication charges and maintaining communication connectivity of more than 96% and data availability of 99% for 25 years

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Salient Features of Component A

Under component – A of PM-KUSUM, the tender expected the developer to build the decentralized solar power plants with capacities of 500 kW to 2 MW to be set up on unused or barren land owned by farmers, located within a 5 km radius of 33/11 kV substations operated by distribution corporations. Additionally, the tender doesn’t offer any subsidy or financial assistance will be provided by the Central or State Government for setting up solar power plants. The solar power generated will be purchased by DISCOMs at a pre-fixed levelized tariff.