AMU Launches Tender for Solar Plant Maintenance

Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), operating under the Ministry of Education's Department of Higher Education, has announced a tender for the comprehensive annual maintenance of its 3MW ground-mounted solar power plant.

The bid aims to secure a reliable contractor for the long-term operational efficiency of the university's renewable energy infrastructure. This initiative underscores AMU's commitment to sustainable energy practices.

The tender specifies a deadline of April 8, 2025, for bid submissions, with the opening scheduled on the same day. Prospective bidders are required to maintain the validity of their offers for 90 days from the closing date. The scope of the contract extends beyond the solar plant itself, encompassing the maintenance of a 33 KV transmission line and associated high-tension panels.

Eligibility criteria for potential contractors include a minimum of three years of experience in similar service provisions, particularly with governmental or public sector organizations. The university is offering turnover exemptions for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), adhering to government guidelines promoting small business participation. However, startup exemptions for experience and turnover are not applicable.

Financial aspects of the tender include an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of INR 52,050 and a Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) of 5 percent of the contract value, valid for 15 months. The university is also prioritising 'Make in India' products and MSE participation, reflecting national procurement policies. A pre-bid meeting has been scheduled for March 24, 2025, to address any queries from interested parties.

The contract will operate on a two-packet bid system, with the evaluation based on the total value of the offers. A key component of the tender is the inclusion of Comprehensive Maintenance Charges (CMC), ensuring long-term service beyond the warranty period. The CMC charges will be factored into the overall evaluation, with a discounting mechanism applied for net present value calculation.

AMU has also stipulated specific technical requirements, including a one-year comprehensive maintenance warranty and a two-year post-warranty maintenance duration.

The university emphasises compliance with all applicable laws, including labor regulations, and reiterates the importance of adhering to the 'Make in India' policy. Bidders from countries sharing a land border with India are reminded of the requirement for registration with the Competent Authority, in line with government directives.