Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (UHBVN), a Haryana power distribution company, has issued an expression of interest (EoI) to empanel agencies to install grid-connected rooftop solar systems between 1kW-500 kW in residential premises.

These projects are expected to be developed in nine operation circles of UHBVN, namely,  Ambala, Kaithal, Kurukshetra, Yamunanagar, Karnal, Panipat, Sonepat, Jhajjar, and Rohtak.

The scope of work would include the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning, including warranty, spare parts, and comprehensive maintenance for five years. The projects will qualify under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s (MNRE) subsidy program if the modules are procured domestically.

The benchmark cost for the projects have been set as per the MNRE guidelines:

• For projects between 1-10 kW – ₹54 ($0.75)/W
• For project between 10- 100 kW – ₹48 ($0.67)/W
• For projects between 100 to 500 kW – ₹45 ($0.63)/W

The last date for the submission of bids is slated to be October 10, 2019.

Earlier this year, the state amended its guidelines for megawatt-scale ground-mounted and rooftop solar projects meant for captive consumption or third-party sale. Under the policy guidelines, developers can install at any location in the state, but they must interconnect these projects with stations of 11 kV capacity or higher. Haryana Renewable Energy Development Agency (HAREDA) has amended a provision related to the exemption of wheeling, transmission, cross-subsidy charge, and additional surcharges.

In May 2019, state-owned Navaratna enterprise, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), invited bids for the supply, installation, and commissioning of grid-connected solar rooftop PV projects of cumulative capacity 170 kW in Haryana.

In January 2019, HAREDA issued a tender for 20 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar projects to be developed across the state.