In a major development in India’s renewable energy sector, Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd (TPREL), a subsidiary of Tata Power and one of the largest renewable energy players in the country, has achieved a significant milestone. The company announced on Tuesday that it had secured a 200 MW firm and dispatchable renewable energy (FDRE) project from SJVN Ltd, marking a strategic collaboration in the industry.
The awarded project is set to provide round-the-clock power supply, supporting the distribution companies (discoms) in fulfilling their Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) and Energy Storage Obligation (ESO). This initiative is crucial for enhancing India’s renewable energy capacity and ensuring a more stable and sustainable power supply across the country.
SJVN Ltd, an Indian public sector undertaking involved in hydroelectric and renewable power generation and transmission, has been designated as the Renewable Energy Implementing Agency (REIA) by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). This designation aligns with the national goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
The 200 MW FDRE project will feature a meticulously sized hybrid combination of solar, wind, and battery storage capacities. This combination is strategically designed to dispatch energy as needed by discoms, particularly during peak hours, thus contributing to grid stability.
This project marks TPREL’s first win in the FDRE power tender category, showcasing its commitment to providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions. Notably, the tender includes a Greenshoe option, which allows for an expansion of capacity beyond the initial 200 MW, highlighting the potential for further growth and development in the renewable energy sector.
The project’s strategic collaboration with SJVN is a significant step in TPREL’s journey to expand its portfolio and contribute to India’s sustainable energy goals. The project is anticipated to be commissioned within 24 months from the date of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) execution. The competitive bidding process, followed by a reverse e-auction, led to the awarding of this project.
The environmental impact of this project is substantial, with the installation expected to offset approximately 9 lakh metric tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. This contribution to reducing carbon emissions is a critical aspect of India’s commitment to combating climate change and promoting sustainable development.
With this achievement, TPREL’s total renewables capacity reaches 8,314 MW. This capacity includes 4,100 MW of projects in various development phases and an operating capacity of 4,214 MW, which comprises 3,200 MW in solar projects and 1,014 MW in wind projects, thus reinforcing Tata Power’s position as a leader in the renewable energy sector in India.