JAKEDA Issues Tender for Rooftop Solar Projects in Jammu and Kashmir

The Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) has issued a Request for Selection (RfS) document for the empanelment of solar power developers to set up grid-connected rooftop solar PV projects on government buildings across the Union Territory under the RESCO model through a tariff-based competitive bidding process.

The RfS document was released on February 8, 2025. The last date for bid submission is February 28, 2025, while technical bid opening is scheduled for March 1, 2025.

The project involves survey, design, engineering, financing, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning, along with comprehensive operation and maintenance (O&M) for 25 years for the sale of solar power to government departments. Bidders must submit a non-refundable tender fee of INR 50,000. Notably, no exemptions will be provided, including for MSMEs, government, semi-government, or public sector units (PSUs).

Additionally, an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of INR 5,00,000 per MW is required in the form of an FDR or bank guarantee, valid for one year. Successful bidders must also furnish a Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) as per the terms outlined in the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

Companies and LLPs are eligible to participate independently or as part of a consortium, with the condition that the lead member of a consortium must form a project company under the Companies Act, 2013, before signing the PPA. Foreign companies are not allowed to participate directly or as part of a consortium, and bidders from countries sharing a land border with India must be registered with the Competent Authority as per government norms.

From a technical perspective, bidders must adopt commercially established solar technologies to ensure minimal risk and timely execution. The modules used must be listed under MNRE's List-I or subsequent orders, valid on the invoicing date. Only Monoperc Half Cut, Monoperc Half Cut Bifacial, or higher efficiency technologies like Topcon are allowed (both DCR and Non-DCR modules permitted).

Bidders must also demonstrate past experience in designing, supplying, installing, and commissioning at least 1 MW of grid-connected solar power projects within the last seven financial years, with proof of operation for at least one year, backed by relevant commissioning certificates and beneficiary endorsements.

Bidders must have a net worth of at least INR 50 lakh per MW of quoted capacity, as per the latest financial year records. They should also demonstrate a minimum average annual turnover of INR 1.10 crore per MW over the past three financial years, excluding 'Other Income.' Additionally, bidders must show working capital or a line of credit of at least INR 1 crore per MW for the last financial year.

Other eligibility conditions include the requirement for Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) if an LLP or consortium is awarded the contract, adherence to ownership restrictions, and a declaration that the bidder or its affiliates are not wilful defaulters or involved in major litigations that could impact project execution.

With a significant push towards renewable energy, this initiative is expected to enhance Jammu and Kashmir’s solar power capacity, drive sustainability goals, and attract investments in the clean energy sector.