SECI Issues Bids For Procuring 260 MWp Solar Modules

Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has floated a tender for the procurement of domestically manufactured solar modules with a capacity of 260 Wp. These solar solar modules are destined for projects in Badnawar, Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. The tender mandates the use of domestically produced solar cells. Bids are open until May 20, 2025.

Suppliers must provide 0.5% of the awarded package capacity as mandatory spares, in addition to the main supply. The modules to be supplied include Monocrystalline Silicon (monofacial or bifacial) and Thin Film CdTe solar technologies. To qualify under Route I, bidders must have an operational and producing PV module manufacturing facility. A manufacturer with a minimum installed capacity of 390 MWp can submit bids for the 260 MWp package. Bidders are also required to submit proof of enlistment in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM).

The financial eligibility criteria include a minimum average annual turnover (MAAT) of Rs 224.75 crore over the past three financial years — FY 2021–22, 2022–23, and 2023–24. The minimum package capacity awarded under the tender will be 234 MWp, and the maximum is capped at 286 MWp.

Scope and Component Specifications

SECI, under the component specifications, outlined that the project will include Crystalline Silicon Modules. For Glass/Polymer modules, the glass must be heat-strengthened with a light transmittance above 90% and a minimum thickness of 3.2 mm.

For Glass/Glass modules, SECi in its tender mentioned that the glass on each side must be heat-strengthened, with a minimum thickness of 2 mm and transmittance above 90%. In the case of Thin Film modules, the glass must include a Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) layer, be heat-strengthened, and have a minimum thickness of 2 mm on each side, with light transmittance also above 90%.