SECI postpones its first major hybrid tender for 1200MW

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has postponed the hybrid tender for the fifth time. It was first major hybrid tender for 1200MW floated by SECI. The auction was scheduled on October 26, however now it is set for November 14.

It is said that the developers’ poor response triggered to postpone the auction. According to ET developers stayed away mainly because SECI had set a tariff ceiling for the auction at Rs 2.60 per unit, which they felt was too low.

SECI Managing Director J. N. Swain speaking to the publication said “We do not feel the ceiling price we set is low,” He added “If developers set up solar and wind projects at the best sites in a 50:50 ratio, a tariff of Rs 2.60 per unit is definitely feasible.” He further added “This is the first time we are trying out a hybrid tender so some delays are to be expected,” he said.

“Developers who specialize only in one kind of renewable energy, either wind or solar, are having to tie up with those who have the other specialisation and all this is taking time. We have been taking valid suggestions from developers and modifying bid conditions accordingly,” he said.

In May this year SECI announced the hybrid tender for 2500MW , however since then scaled down to 1200MW along with postponements.