The Sonpur Division of East Central Railway has announced the invitation for bids for the state-wise empanelment of agencies. The purpose is to implement 1.24 MW grid-connected rooftop solar power projects at its electric loco shed in Barauni Junction. This will be done through a public-private partnership and on a design, build, finance, operate, and transfer basis.

It has been specified that the projects will be developed in two capacity ranges. The first range is above 10 kW and up to 100 kW, amounting to a total of 140 kW. The second range is above 100 kW and up to 500 kW, totaling 1,100 kW. Bidders are allowed to quote for either one or all of the capacities.

It is a requirement that the projects be commissioned within 240 days of receiving the work order. Additionally, the developers are obligated to provide comprehensive operation and maintenance services for duration of 25 years.

The deadline for submitting bids is set for February 12, 2024, and bids will be opened on the same day.

Bidders are expected to furnish an earnest money deposit of Rs 1.07 million per MW of the quoted capacity.

The selected bidders, upon signing the power purchase agreement, must submit a performance security of Rs 1.6 million per MW within 30 days.

The empanelment's validity is for one year, with the potential for an extension of another year. This extension will be based on the developer's performance and requests from zonal railways.