The West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company (WBSEDCL) has issued a tender for the comprehensive operation and maintenance of six ground-mounted solar power projects with a combined capacity of 60 MW. The projects, each with a capacity of 10 MW, are located in Dhaka I and Dhaka II in Birbhum, Santaldih and Chharrah in Purulia, and Sankrail in Jhargram districts. The deadline for bid submission is February 22, 2025.
According to the tender guidelines, the bidders are required to submit a deposit of Rs 1 million and a performance bank guarantee amounting to 10 per cent of the total contract value. The estimated project cost stands at Rs 150.4 million. The selected bidders will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, and security of the projects, as well as the upkeep of the power evacuation systems at 33 kV. Additionally, they must maintain records of all maintenance activities and provide assistance in training WBSEDCL personnel. Delays or failure to comply with project requirements will result in penalties, including liquidated damages and forfeiture of the deposit in cases of bid withdrawal or non-performance.
According to the eligibility criteria, the bidders are required to have previously installed and commissioned a 10 MW grid-connected solar project. Alternatively, they must have executed a comprehensive O&M contract, including an annual maintenance contract for major equipment at a grid-connected solar power project, within the past seven years. Moreover, the bidders must also demonstrate a minimum average annual turnover equivalent to 30 per cent of the estimated project cost over the last three consecutive financial years, maintain a positive net worth, and provide income tax returns for the last three assessment years along with a clearance certificate from the appropriate authority.