The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML), a public transport service provider, has floated an expression of interest (EoI) for 10 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar projects under the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model for its sites.

The RESCO model is a system where the developer owns the solar project, and the consumer only has to pay for the energy generated. The projects will be installed at its bus depots, workshops, bus rapid transit terminals, and charging stations.

Interested bidders are expected to make an earnest money deposit (EMD) of ₹200,000 (~$2,730). PMPML specified a non-refundable EoI processing fee of ₹15,000 (~$205). The last date for the submission of bids is November 18, 2020. A pre-bid meeting will be held on October 28, 2020, to clarify any queries bidders might have.

The scope of work includes the design, engineering, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the projects. Selected bidders are also expected to provide 25 years of comprehensive operation and maintenance services for the rooftop and elevated solar projects under the RESCO model at project locations across the state.

Mercom has tracked over 243 (273.90 MW) rooftop solar tenders based in Maharashtra.

In June, Mercom India Research’s Q2 2020 India Solar Market Update report ranked Maharashtra the third-best state for rooftop solar installations. The state held a 9% market share of overall rooftop solar installations in the country. The state has commissioned 260 MW of rooftop solar projects as of Q2 2020.

Meanwhile, the PMPML recently invited bids for 150 electric buses under the FAME program for electric mobility. The buses should be 12-meter-long, air-conditioned, and compliant with Bus Rapid Transit.

Pune is fast becoming a hotspot for development in Maharashtra after Bombay. Mercom previously reported that the Pune airport was all set to get a 100 kW of grid-connected rooftop solar project. The tender was announced by the Airport Authority of India that comes under the Ministry of Civil aviation.