The Municipal Corporation of Jabalpur is taking a significant step towards a sustainable future by inviting proposals from eligible consultants to establish 10 MW solar projects under the captive/net metering mode. The primary objective is to supply power to high-tension (HT) connections, marking a crucial transition towards solar energy within the existing regulatory framework. Bidding Details: The corporation has set the deadline for submitting bids on February 29, 2024, with bid opening scheduled for March 1. The transition is especially critical for the corporation, which is responsible for supplying water to residents through multiple water pumping stations equipped with electrical connections at 132/33 or 11 kV Voltage. Consultant Requirements: Eligible consultants, whether firms or companies, are encouraged to participate, with consortium bidding not permissible. Bidders must submit an earnest money deposit of ?80,000 ($964). To ensure a robust selection process, the successful bidder is required to provide a performance bank guarantee of ?1 million ($12,050) upon the issuance of the Letter of Intent and before the work order is issued. Qualification Criteria: To qualify, bidders must have a minimum turnover of ?10 million (~$120,507) from consultancy services in the preceding three financial years, and they should not be a loss-making entity. The designated member of the consulting team must possess a minimum of 10 years of work experience in renewable energy-based power projects, with at least seven years specifically in solar systems-based power projects. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of work experience in the power sector, particularly within the government sector, is required. Contract Duration and Payment Structure: The contract duration spans from successful commissioning to 18 months of effective plant operation. The project development fee, calculated at ?40 million (~$482,033)/MW (excluding 18% GST), will be paid in stages. Payments will be facilitated through the successful bidder of the solar project, with specific percentages allocated at various project milestones, including the letter of award, module supply, commissioning, and one year post-commissioning. This initiative aligns with the broader trend of municipalities in India embracing solar energy to meet their power needs sustainably. Recently, Vadodara Municipal Corporation invited bids for solar projects in Gujarat, and in January, Rajkot Municipal Corporation initiated plans for a 4 MW ground-mounted off-grid solar power project. The move towards renewable energy sources reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability and a reduction in carbon footprint across the municipal landscape.