The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a tender for the facility management and comprehensive maintenance of a 1.5 MW grid-connected rooftop solar power project at the Integrated Cargo Complex of Chennai Airport.
This two-year contract highlights AAI’s ongoing commitment to sustainable energy initiatives within its operations. The deadline for submitting bids is June 24, 2024, with the bids scheduled to be opened the following day. This project, estimated to cost ₹12.9 million (~$155,960), continues AAI’s efforts to ensure the efficient operation of its solar installations, following a similar tender issued in 2021 for a three-year maintenance period until July 31, 2024. Prospective bidders are required to pay a tender processing fee of ₹1180 ($14.15) and submit an earnest money deposit of ₹259,953 ($3,119). The scope of work for the contract includes providing labour, materials, tools, plants, equipment, and transportation necessary for the complete execution and completion of the project. This encompasses handling materials, hoisting, setting, fitting, and fixing the equipment in place.
To qualify, bidders must have substantial experience in similar projects. Specifically, they need to have completed three works each valued at ₹2.54 million ($30,551), two works each valued at ₹3.18 million ($38,190), or one work valued at ₹5.09 million ($61,104) in the last seven years. Additionally, bidders should have an average financial turnover of ₹1.9 million ($22,913) over the past three years and a minimum net worth of ₹954,846 (~$11,456). This tender is part of AAI’s broader strategic initiatives to incorporate carbon emission reduction measures into airport operations. For instance, AAI recently issued a tender for the annual operation and maintenance of a 1.2 MW ground-mounted solar power project at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi for a 24-month period.
In March last year, the Ministry of Civil Aviation urged state authorities to ensure that carbon emission reduction measures are integrated into the design and standards of greenfield airport development proposals. These measures are to be included in detailed project reports and airport master plans before submission to the nodal ministry. The 1.5 MW solar power project at Chennai Airport represents a significant step in AAI’s sustainability journey, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint and enhance the operational efficiency of its infrastructure. By leveraging renewable energy sources, AAI is not only promoting environmental stewardship but also setting a benchmark for the aviation industry in India. Through this tender, AAI continues to demonstrate its dedication to sustainable development and operational excellence, paving the way for future renewable energy initiatives in the aviation sector.
