NTPC Defers 2,000 MW Solar Projects Auction

The decision came on the backdrop of letter written to Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) by the Solar Power Developers Association. The association had sought extension of solar auctions till the issue related to grant of connectivity through inter-state transmission system is not resolved.

As developers have raised their concerns and have sought resolution of inter-state connectivity issue, state run power giant has delayed the auction of 2,000 MW solar capabilities. The auction will held in the first week of June.

Furthermore, the date for bid submission for the auction will also be likely be extended by Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).

The decision came on the backdrop of letter written to Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) by the Solar Power Developers Association. The association had sought extension of solar auctions till the issue related to grant of connectivity through inter-state transmission system is not resolved.

Last week the pre-bid meeting with MNRE and SECI, Solar Power Developers Association had raised the issue as well.

In its order on 15 May 2018, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) had approved the procedure for grant of connectivity through inter-state transmission system.

However, the industry has not responded to the draft of CERC yet. The feedback from the industry would highlight whether all issues and concerns have been resolved in the final order or not.

In the years 2018-19 and 2019-20 the government has planned to auction 60 GW solar capability projects. This would add to the government’s ambitious goal of having 100 GW solar capability by the year 2022.

It is really important to auction 60 GW solar capacity by March 2020 because from the time of signing power purchase agreement it takes 15 months to implement solar project.