JSW Neo Energy (JSW Energy), Powerica, and Torrent Power were declared winners in Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) auction to set up 1.35 GW inter-state transmission system (ISTS)-connected wind power projects with a 700 MW greenshoe option (Tranche-XVI).

For projects to be set up in Gujarat, JSW won 350 MW at a tariff of ₹3.61 (~$0.0431)/kWh. JSW was also awarded an additional 350 MW at a tariff of ₹3.61 (~$0.0431)/kWh under the greenshoe option.

Powerica quoted a tariff of ₹3.70 (~$0.0442)/kWh to win 50 MW.

For projects to be set up in Karnataka, Torrent won 100 MW at a tariff of ₹3.60 (~$0.0430)/kWh.

JSW quoted a tariff of ₹3.68 (~$0.0440)/kWh to win 150 MW. JSW was also awarded an additional 175 MW at a tariff of ₹3.60 (~$0.0430)/kWh under the greenshoe option.

The tender was floated in December 2023.

SECI will enter into a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the developers to acquire wind power for 25 years.

To connect to the grid and measure electricity, the project developer must adhere to the relevant grid code, grid connectivity standards, communication system regulations, and other rules issued by the appropriate commissions and Central Electricity Authority.

The minimum voltage level for an ISTS connection should be 220 kV.

The declared or revised annual capacity utilization factor (CUF) should always be above 22%. The developer must sustain electricity generation to achieve an annual CUF between 80% and 120% of the declared or revised value throughout the 25-year PPA period.

Only well-established technologies must be deployed to reduce technological uncertainties and ensure timely power generation from the projects.

Only wind turbine models certified in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s Revised List of Models and Manufacturers must be used.

In May, SECI invited bids to select wind power developers to set up 500 MW ISTS-connected projects anywhere in India under Tranche-XVII.