CERC approves tariff for SECI's 600 MW wind projects

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) announced its approval for the tariff of Rs 2.90)/kWh (100 MW) and Rs 2.95)/kWh (500 MW), with a trading margin of Rs 0.07/kWh, for Solar Energy Corporation of India's (SECI) 600 MW wind power projects (Tranche-XIII). It was stated that the projects would be linked to the interstate transmission system (ISTS), and developers for the projects had been chosen through a competitive bidding process. Background information revealed that SECI had submitted a petition seeking to adopt a tariff for the wind projects. Respondents in the case included GRIDCO, SJVN, Teq Green Power XI (O2 Power), SJVN Green Energy, and Scatec India Renewable One (Scatec). SECI emphasised that the implementation of the wind power projects would assist distribution licensees in fulfilling their Renewable Purchase Obligations requirements, besides providing power at highly economical rates. Following the conclusion of the e-reverse auction, the successful bidders were announced: - SJVN secured 100 MW at a tariff of Rs 2.90/kWh. - Scatee India II B.V. secured 300 MW at a tariff of Rs 2.95/kWh. - Teq Green Power XI secured 200 MW at a tariff of Rs 2.95/kWh. Letters of Award were issued to the selected bidders on January 19, 2023. In the Commission's analysis, it was noted that as per Clause 5.1(b) of the guidelines, the procurer was required to inform the appropriate Commission about the start of the bidding process. Accordingly, SECI notified the Commission about commencing the competitive bidding process under the tender dated January 12, 2022, through a letter dated January 31, 2022. Upon the request of distribution licensees, SECI assigned the 600 MW capacity to GRIDCO.