The Jharkhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (JREDA) has invited expressions of interest (EoI) to develop 3 GW of grid-connected, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic projects in the state. These projects will operate on a build-own-operate basis. Interested bidders must submit their applications by January 15, 2025, with the bids scheduled to be opened on January 17. Successful bidders will be responsible for identifying suitable land, designing, constructing, and building the necessary energy evacuation facilities. As part of the agreement, bidders will sign a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the state distribution companies (DISCOMs) and secure all necessary approvals and clearances for the project duration of 25 years. Projects must have a minimum capacity of 500 kW, and bidders are required to identify the nearest evacuation point within the state transmission utility or DISCOM network through preliminary studies. Applications will be accepted in three capacity categories: • 500 kW to 2 MW (Category A) • 2 MW to 10 MW (Category B) • Above 10 MW (Category C) The power generated will be procured by state DISCOMs at tariffs determined through the bidding process. This initiative aligns with the Jharkhand State Solar Policy 2022, which targets 4,000 MW of solar capacity by 2027, including 3,000 MW of utility-scale solar projects. In September 2024, JREDA issued requests for proposals for 14 MW of grid-connected solar projects on government land in Palamu and East Singhbhum districts. Jharkhand, a state with a strong presence of coal-fired thermal power plants operated by entities such as Damodar Valley Corporation, NTPC, and Tata Power, is also exploring floating solar projects. The state has identified 31 reservoirs with a combined potential of 1,160 MW for such projects. The cumulative target for floating solar capacity under the state policy is 900 MW, with Damodar Valley Corporation and NTPC actively issuing tenders for these initiatives. (Mercom)