Maharashtra Regulator Approves 5,991 MW of Solar Power Procurement

25 Sep 2024 CW Team

The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has given the green light for the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution (MSEDCL) to procure an additional 5,991 MW of solar power through competitive bidding. The decision aims to meet the state’s Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) and provide daytime power to farmers across Maharashtra. The procurement is part of the Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana 2.0 (MSKVY 2.0), a government initiative to solarize at least 30% of agricultural feeders by December 2025. The program is designed to help MSEDCL meet its RPO targets, reduce overall power procurement costs, and improve the quality of electricity supplied to agricultural consumers during the day. The competitive bidding process will be conducted through MSEB Solar Agro Power (MSAPL), a subsidiary of MSEB Holding Company. The procurement will be split into two categories: 5,745 MW under Open Tender & 246 MW in Cluster Tender The additional solar capacity is expected to replace the nighttime supply from conventional sources, potentially leading to significant reductions in overall power purchase costs. This transition will also help improve coal stock management by reducing reliance on thermal power plants during peak daytime hours. The procurement will assist MSEDCL in meeting its increasing RPO targets, which are set to rise from 29.91% in 2024-25 to 43.33% by 2029-30. The distributed RPO component is slated to increase from 1.50% to 4.50% during this period. The solar power procurement will allow MSEDCL to rationalize its dependence on the Koyna hydroelectric power plant, reserving its limited capacity for peak loads and emergencies. This is expected to enhance Maharashtra’s energy security. In May, the Commission approved MSEDCL’s proposal to procure 150 MW of solar power at ?3.3 (~$0.040)/kWh from projects under MSKVY 2.0.

Infrastructure Energy

19 Sep 2025

J&K CM Rules Out Power Privatisation, Focuses on Sector Reform

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has dismissed speculation regarding privatisation of electricity in the Union Territory, emphasising that his priority is to strengthen and reform the power sector.“We are not discussing privatisation. By reducing losses, improving billing efficiency, and enhancing revenue, there will be no need for it. My vision is to strengthen and reform the power sector in J&K,” Abdullah stated.He addressed the gathering at the 58th Engineers’ Day at SKICC on Monday evening, an event honouring Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya for his pioneering contri..

Mumbai’s Sassoon Dock to Get Tech-Driven Modernisation with Finland

The Maharashtra government, in collaboration with Finland, will modernise Mumbai’s historic Sassoon Dock using advanced technology, state minister Nitesh Rane announced on Wednesday.Rane met a delegation of Finnish officials and representatives of Finnish companies at the dock to discuss strategic plans for upgrading the facility in south Mumbai, according to an official statement.Built in the 19th century, Sassoon Dock is one of Mumbai’s oldest and busiest fishing harbours. Operations currently exceed its original capacity, raising concerns over hygiene, odour, fish handling standards, an..

Agarwal Industrial Wins Rs 3.3 Billion IOCL Bitumen Tender

Agarwal Industrial Corporation rose 3.84 per cent to Rs 945.65 after announcing it had secured a prestigious tender from Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) worth Rs 3.3 billion.In a regulatory filing during market hours, the company confirmed it had won the tender to supply Bulk Bitumen (VG-30 and VG-40 grades) to IOCL’s Kakinada locations.The firm quantity under the award totals around 60,500 tonnes across 11 parcels, while the optional quantity is approximately 33,000 tonnes across six parcels. This brings the total awarded quantity to roughly 93,500 tonnes. At current market prices, the firm o..