HPPCL seeks bids for 50 MW solar projects across Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation (HPPCL) is seeking proposals for the development of 50 MW solar power projects across the state. The project entails comprehensive responsibilities, encompassing design, supply, construction, erection, testing, and commissioning. Additionally, the selected project developer will oversee the operation and maintenance (O&M) of these projects for a duration of eight years post-commissioning. Interested parties must submit their bids by January 21, 2024, with bid opening scheduled for the same day. A tender fee of Rs 25,000 (~$300.56) is required for submission. To qualify, bidders must demonstrate a minimum average annual turnover of Rs 1.5 billion (~$18.03 million) from operations over the past three financial years. Financial viability is a key criterion, requiring evidence of access to liquid assets, unencumbered real assets, lines of credit, and other financial means to meet specified cash-flow requirements. Bidders are also expected to have a track record in solar project execution. This includes having successfully completed at least one solar project contract valued at over Rs 900 million (~$10.82 million) in the last decade, with a minimum capacity of 15 MW. Alternatively, bidders can showcase experience in executing two solar projects of 10 MW each, or three projects of 5 MW each, meeting specified participation values. Furthermore, bidders must have executed an O&M contract for a solar project with a minimum capacity of 12.5 MW for a year within the past ten years. Notably, HPPCL has recently invited bids for survey agencies to conduct detailed topographical surveys of solar power project sites in various districts of Himachal Pradesh. In June, the World Bank approved a $200 million loan to support Himachal Pradesh in achieving its target of adding 10 GW of renewable energy capacity and implementing power sector reforms.