NTPC Renewable Energy (NTPC REL) has initiated the bidding process for the development of 2 gigawatts (GW) of interstate transmission system (ISTS)-connected solar power projects in Barmer, Rajasthan. The invitation extends to both land acquisition and power evacuation, encompassing stringent requirements for interested bidders. Interested parties have until March 28, 2024, to submit their bids, with the evaluation slated to occur on the same day. Essential criteria for bidders include securing land parcels adjacent to the Barmer ISTS substation, with an allocation of five acres per megawatt (MW). The land, whether government-owned or private, must be procured on a freehold or leasehold basis, with leases extending for a minimum of 29 years and 11 months. Additionally, government land usage is capped at 10% of the total project area. Furthermore, bidders must conduct thorough topography surveys and ensure 95% compaction of the land to meet specified slope requirements necessary for the installation of tracker-based mounting structures. The bid entails the commissioning of AIS pooling substations with appropriate tie transformers and the construction of high-voltage transmission lines connecting the pooling substation to the ISTS substation. Operational considerations extend to three years of comprehensive maintenance for the pooling substation and associated equipment, transmission lines, and terminal bays at the ISTS end. In addition to meeting technical specifications, bidders must demonstrate a track record in renewable energy projects, with prior experience in grid-connected solar or wind energy projects, with capacities totaling 100 MW or more, including at least one project of 50 MW or higher. Financial prerequisites demand a minimum average annual turnover based on the quoted capacity. This call for bids follows NTPC REL's earlier invitation for land and transmission system packages for up to 2 GW of ISTS-connected solar power projects in Rajasthan (Tranche-III). For the latest updates on solar tenders and renewable energy developments in India, interested parties are encouraged to subscribe to Mercom?s India Solar Tender Tracker. This initiative by NTPC REL underscores India's ongoing commitment to expanding renewable energy infrastructure, particularly in regions conducive to solar power generation like Barmer, Rajasthan.