The Ministry of Railways has unveiled an ambitious plan to harness solar energy with the release of a Request for Qualification (RFQ) and Request for Proposal (RFP) for the development of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in Bihar.
This move signifies a significant step towards the integration of renewable energy solutions within the Indian Railways infrastructure, aligning with the nation’s broader sustainability objectives. Issued on May 3, 2024, the tender invites credible agencies to participate in the bidding process, structured as a single-stage, two-packet centralised procedure. Prospective bidders are required to demonstrate their technical and financial qualifications through the RFQ, while submitting price bids through the RFP. Notably, the entire process will be conducted on an e-bidding portal, devoid of any subsidy or Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) or the Railways.
The selected bidders will undertake the implementation of rooftop solar PV systems in Bihar, with a primary focus on generating and supplying solar power through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Indian Railways for a duration of 25 years. The scope of work encompasses various stages, including engineering, design, procurement, installation, testing, commissioning, and operation and maintenance of the solar PV systems. To qualify for participation, bidders must demonstrate technical prowess by showcasing prior experience in installing a minimum of 200 KW of grid-connected solar rooftop systems or 1000 KW of any grid-connected systems. Financial eligibility criteria necessitate an average turnover of Rs. 150 lakh per year over the preceding three years, coupled with a positive net worth during the same period. Key milestones in the bidding timeline include a pre-bid conference scheduled for May 11, 2024, and the subsequent opening of techno-commercial bids on May 30, 2024. Successful bidders will be obligated to furnish a performance security of Rs. 16.02 lakh per MW and a bid security of Rs. 10.68 lakh per MW.
This initiative underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to leveraging renewable energy sources for sustainable development while bolstering energy security and operational efficiency. As the bidding process unfolds, stakeholders anticipate a transformative impact on Bihar’s energy landscape, paving the way for a greener and more resilient future.
