The Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) has issued a tender for the empanelment of firms to commission 38 solar-powered cold storage units with a capacity of 10 metric tons each. Selected bidders will be responsible for the comprehensive maintenance of these units for a period of five years. The number of projects can be increased to 100 units, and the price bid will remain valid for one year.

Bids must be submitted by December 20, 2023, and will be opened on December 22.

The tender aims to promote the use of solar energy and provide additional income sources for farmers in the state. OREDA plans to install solar-powered cold storage units to extend the shelf life and value of crops, leading to increased income for farmers.

The solar-powered cold storage units will be grid-connected and equipped with multiple chambers. OREDA expects the initiative to increase the shelf life of crops, enhance their value, provide infrastructure for additional income generation for farmers, and reduce crop waste.

Selected bidders will be responsible for the transportation, installation, and commissioning of the cold storage units at the beneficiaries' sites. They will also be responsible for corrective and breakdown maintenance upon receiving a service request from the Energy Research Centre (ERC), OREDA, or the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Empowerment. Service requests can be submitted through the ReSolve Mobile App or any other medium specified by OREDA or the Department.

Bidders must possess a valid test certificate from either an MNRE- or NABL-accredited test laboratory.

OREDA's tender for solar-powered cold storage units aligns with the state government's commitment to promoting sustainable energy solutions and empowering farmers to improve their livelihoods.