West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) has invited bids for comprehensive operation and maintenance (O&M) of a 10 MW solar project at Haptiagachh, Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal.

The contract value of the tender is around ₹10.43 million (~$139,825).

The last date to submit bids is February 11, 2022. Technical bids will be opened on February 16. The pre-bid meeting will take place on January 24.

Bidders need to furnish an earnest money deposit (EMD) of ₹209,000 (~$2,801) by February 15. In addition, the successful bidder must submit a performance bank guarantee of not less than 10% of the contract value within 15 days from the date of the issuance of the letter of award.

The scope of work includes two years of O&M with safeguarding a 10 MW solar project with associated equipment and materials. It also consists of the supply of spare parts, replacement of damaged equipment and accessories, and cleaning of solar modules within 15 days throughout the year.

If the contractor fails to repair or replace any damaged material or equipment, 2% of the annual O&M charge for every week will be deducted, subject to a maximum of 10%.

To participate in the competitive bidding process, bidders must have executed a solar power project or other non-solar project costing not less than an amount equal to 50% of the estimated amount of the projects applied for the bidding process. Alternatively, bidders should have completed two projects, each costing amount not less than 40% of the estimated amount of the projects applied for the bidding process, or three projects each costing amount not less than 30% of the estimated amount.

Bidders must have a minimum average annual turnover at 30% of the contract value in the last three financial years.

WBSEDCL said the contractor must provide all reliable tools and tackles for the proper execution of work. WBSEDCL would not be responsible for supplying any tools to implement the work.

In August 2021, WBSEDCL invited bids to empanel agencies to install 50 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar projects on residential buildings in West Bengal. The successful bidder was also expected to provide a comprehensive O&M service of the projects for one year.

According to Mercom’s India Solar Tender Tracker, WBSEDCL has invited bids for 189 MW of solar projects to date.