Punjab Issues Tender To Solarise Govt Buildings

In a significant move toward clean energy and institutional sustainability, the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) has initiated a project to install 30 megawatts (MW) of grid-interactive rooftop and ground-mounted solar projects on government buildings across Punjab and Chandigarh.

The project is aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity and enhancing the energy self-sufficiency of public infrastructure.

Under the rate contract scheme, PEDA will oversee the design, manufacture, supply, erection, testing, and commissioning of solar power systems, coupled with a 10-year comprehensive maintenance contract. This includes the replacement of defective modules, inverters, and other components, as well as annual insurance coverage for fire, theft, and breakage — all to be borne by the implementing companies.

“This initiative aligns with Punjab’s vision of a cleaner, greener public sector and a transition to renewable power sources for institutional buildings,” PEDA said.

Project Specifications and Timelines

The installations will span a wide range of capacities — from 1 kilowatt-peak (KWp) systems for small buildings to 1,500 KWp systems for larger facilities — deployed on rooftops or ground, depending on site availability, the PEDA tender said.

Key project timelines include:

• Completion within 150 days from issuance of the Work Order

• Factory test reports to be submitted within 60 days

• Pre-dispatch inspections called by 75 days

• Material delivery at site within 100 days

• Full commissioning by the 150-day deadline

All quoted rates must be inclusive of installation, commissioning, taxes, and 10-year warranty and maintenance, and must remain valid until March 31, 2026.

Performance and Insurance Requirements

PEDA has mandated a minimum annual Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF) of 15% for a 10-year period. If the CUF falls short, the executing firm must compensate for the shortfall at Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) tariff rates, or face deductions from their bank guarantees or pending payments.

Supplied goods must be insured during transit, storage, and commissioning, and must also remain insured annually for the entire maintenance contract period.

Bidding Structure and Financial Requirements

The bidding process is split into Technical and Financial bids. Bidders must commit to a minimum aggregate capacity of 3 MW and a maximum of 30 MW. A security deposit of ₹8 lakh per MW is mandatory, requiring a minimum Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of ₹24 lakh for a 3 MW bid. Conditional or non-compliant bids will be disqualified.

All official communications, including amendments or clarifications, will be posted exclusively on the e-tender portal www.eproc.punjab.gov.in. PEDA retains the authority to accept or reject any or all bids without stating a reason.

The initiative marks one of Punjab’s most ambitious clean energy undertakings for public infrastructure and aligns with India’s broader commitment to renewable energy deployment under the National Solar Mission.