The state government and APTRANSCO are asking solar developers to submit applications for solar projects on or before September 30.
As part of its efforts to develop green power, particularly solar, the state government and the AP Transmission Corporation (APTRANSCO) are giving solar developers, including those who haven't participated in the recently concluded competitive bidding for 1000 MW, an opportunity to submit their applications to execute solar projects at Rs. 6.49 per unit, as was decided by the Group of Ministers (GoM) earlier.
Disclosing the above details, APTRANSCO CMD Suresh Chanda, while reviewing the progress of solar power projects bidding on Saturday, with P Ramesh (JMD, APTRANSCO) and other senior officials, said that APTRANSCO has issued guidelines for prospective solar power developers to submit their applications along with a non-refundable processing fee of Rs. 2 lakhs per location, to execute the solar project at a fixed tariff of Rs. 6.49/unit for a period of 20 years.
The last date for submission is September 30. Before the review meeting, the CMD informed M Sahoo, Spl. Chief Secretary (Energy), about the opportunity being extended to all solar developers.
The CMD further said, "A total of 109 substations were offered under this open bid. However, the solar developers will also be allowed to connect to any other substation in the state, subject to technical feasibility. Also the draft Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), a list of substations, and the detailed guidelines, are available on APTRANSCO's website, i. e., www.aptransco.gov.in."
This decision gives solar power developers who have not participated in the bidding process earlier, another chance. They now have a chance to submit their bids subject to the tender specifications issued earlier.
It is pertinent to note here that the GoAP had issued a Solar Power Policy in the state, G.O. Ms. No. 39 read with G.O. Ms. No. 44, to encourage solar power projects under captive / 3rd party sale. APTRANSCO and DISCOMs are in the process of issuing technical feasibility clearances commissioned under this policy.
Approximately 1200 MW has been sanctioned for grid connectivity. Further, G.O. Ms. No. 46 directs APTRANSCO to ensure the setting up of 1000 MW solar power plants through the competitive bidding route.
The CMD said that power utilities are fully committed to the encouragement & promotion of non-renewable energy, and to put in efforts to make AP a role model in solar power.
The state government has also decided to pay 20% subsidy from the state budget for the installation of rooftop systems of upto 3 MW capacity in the domestic sector. The state subsidy is in addition to the eligible central subsidy. (INN)