CESC Invites Bids for 40MW/80MWh Standalone BESS Project in West Bengal

In a significant leap, West Bengal has stepped into the battery storage space, as the Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation issues a request for selection (RfS) to set up the region’s first standalone battery energy storage system (BESS) of 40MW/80MWh. The project will be located at the New Cossipore Generating Station.

Bids must be submitted before September 18, 2025. 

Project Model and Technicalities 

The project will follow a BOOT (Build-Own-Operate-Transfer) model, with CESC providing the land and handling both charging as well as power offtake. The power purchase agreement will last for 12 years. Storage units must connect at a minimum voltage level of 33 kV.

The scope of work encompasses site survey, planning, design, engineering, transportation, unloading, handling, supply, storage, installation, integration, testing, and commissioning of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). Additionally, it includes grading the project site, executing civil works, and demonstrating integration for project acceptance.

Performance and Compliance

The battery system is expected to operate up to two full charge-discharge cycles daily. These can be either two-hour cycles or broken into multiple shorter sessions. However, to ensure consistent performance, the operator must maintain 95% monthly availability. A failure to ensure the same would entail penalties equal to double the agreed tariff.

Pegged at 90% monthly, efficiency is equally non-negotiable, with financial repercussions for dipping below 70%.

The project allows for an annual degradation of 2.5%. However, a failure to meet the minimum dispatchable capacity will result in commercial deductions calculated based on the average DAM peak market-clearing price.

The project must be commissioned within 18 months, with a 6-month extension allowed. However, delays beyond the original deadline would incur a penalty. Financial closure is required within 9 months of signing the Battery Energy Storage Purchase Agreement (BESPA).

Pricing and Contract Requirements 

Bidders must quote an all-inclusive price in INR per MW per month. If the BESPA is not signed within 12 months of the bid award, the agreement can be canceled by mutual consent.

The bidders are required to have a minimum net worth of 600 million at the end of the previous financial year or seven days before the bid submission deadline.