JREDA (Jharkhand Renewable Energy Development Agency) has opened bids for 14 MW grid-connected solar power projects in Palamu and East Singhum districts. The bidding process encompasses design, engineering, procurement, supply, construction, and operations and maintenance (O&M) for a duration of 25 years. The estimated project cost is Rs 1.47 billion (~$17.7 million), with a completion timeline of 18 months for the successful bidder. Key Details: Bid Submission: The deadline for bids is March 20, 2024, with bid opening scheduled for March 22. Commissioning Deadline: Projects must be commissioned 548 days from the date of the letter of intent (LoI), with the operational acceptance test set at 578 days from the LoI. Financial Obligations: Bidders must pay a non-refundable tender fee of Rs 25,000 (~$301.5) and an earnest money deposit of Rs 27,380,000 (~$330,214.80). Additionally, a security deposit-cum-performance bank guarantee of 10% of the EPC contract price is due within fifteen days from the LoI. Performance Guarantee: A performance bank guarantee against solar module warranty totalling Rs 1 million (~$12,060)/MW of the module (DC capacity) for 25 years from the date of the O&M initial period is mandatory. Experience Criteria: Bidders must demonstrate expertise in ground-mounted solar photovoltaic grid-connected power projects completed within the past seven years, meeting specific cost thresholds: ? Successful completion of three comparable projects with costs at least 40% of the estimated project cost. ? Successful completion of two comparable projects with costs at least 50% of the estimated project cost. ? Successful completion of one comparable project with a cost of at least 80% of the estimated project cost. Financial Requirements: The average annual turnover for the preceding three financial years (FY 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23) must be at least 30% of the estimated project cost. The net worth of bidders for the last financial year must be positive. In addition to the aforementioned solar power projects, JREDA has solicited bids for the installation and commissioning of 8,000 off-grid solar pumping systems under Component B of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan program. This initiative aims to enhance energy accessibility and sustainability in rural areas. Furthermore, in June of last year, JREDA commenced bidding procedures to empanel agencies to install and commission 12 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar projects within the Giridih Municipal Area as part of the Solar City program. These endeavours underscore JREDA's commitment to advancing renewable energy infrastructure and fostering environmental sustainability across various regions.