NHPC Limited has announced results for its Tranche-XI auction to set up 1,200 MW of interstate transmission system-connected solar power projects combined with 600 MW/2,400 MWh of energy storage systems (ESS). Reliance Infrastructure secured 390 MW, JBM Renewables won 150 MW, PNC Infratech secured 300 MW, and SAEL Industries won 300 MW, all at a tariff of Rs 3.13 per kWh each. Navayuga Engineering Company secured 60 MW of its quoted 200 MW capacity under the bucket filling method, also at Rs 3.13 per kWh. The tender was issued in March 2025, with provision for an additional 1,200 MW capacity under the greenshoe option.
The developers will implement the projects on a build-own-operate basis. The awarded projects must include ESS with at least 0.5 MW/2 MWh for every 1 MW of contracted solar capacity. The developers can set up projects across multiple locations, with each project having a minimum capacity of 50 MW and a minimum ESS component of 25 MW/100 MWh. The cumulative capacity developed by a single bidder is capped at 600 MW, including a minimum ESS component of 300 MW/1,200 MWh, excluding any greenshoe allocation.
The ESS must be charged entirely using solar power, with up to 5 per cent of annual charging permitted from renewable power sourced through the green market or bilateral agreements. Furthermore, all projects must use commercially established and operational technologies to minimise risks and achieve timely project commissioning. Only cells and modules from the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers are allowed.
