Maharashtra's 6600 MW power tender under regulatory scrutiny
POWER & RENEWABLE ENERGY

Maharashtra's 6600 MW power tender under regulatory scrutiny

The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company (MSEDCL) has issued a 6,600 MW tender for long-term power procurement, now under review by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC). MSEDCL applied for approval for deviations in the standard bidding documents, but MERC, in a June 25 order, questioned why this approval was not sought before the bidding process began. MERC directed MSEDCL to quantify how the proposed deviations benefit consumers.

In March, MSEDCL issued a tender for 1,600 MW of thermal power and 5,000 MW of solar power in Maharashtra, just before the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections was enforced. The power procurement is intended to meet the demand for 2033-34, a decade from now.

MERC's order required MSEDCL to clarify whether the early commissioning, starting in 2 to 4 years, would result in any stranded capacity. The regulator also sought confirmation that MSEDCL had secured sufficient power to meet projected demand before 2033-34. Additionally, MERC asked MSEDCL to explain the rationale for combining solar and thermal power procurement from a single entity and whether future thermal power procurements would follow this approach.

According to sources, MSEDCL aims to finalize the tender by July, before the state election code of conduct is issued for the October 2024 elections. An industry source indicated that projects of this magnitude would need around Rs 400 billion in investment. Interested parties must secure offers from equipment suppliers, arrange financing, and procure essentials such as land, water, and transmission for participation in the tender.

The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company (MSEDCL) has issued a 6,600 MW tender for long-term power procurement, now under review by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC). MSEDCL applied for approval for deviations in the standard bidding documents, but MERC, in a June 25 order, questioned why this approval was not sought before the bidding process began. MERC directed MSEDCL to quantify how the proposed deviations benefit consumers. In March, MSEDCL issued a tender for 1,600 MW of thermal power and 5,000 MW of solar power in Maharashtra, just before the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections was enforced. The power procurement is intended to meet the demand for 2033-34, a decade from now. MERC's order required MSEDCL to clarify whether the early commissioning, starting in 2 to 4 years, would result in any stranded capacity. The regulator also sought confirmation that MSEDCL had secured sufficient power to meet projected demand before 2033-34. Additionally, MERC asked MSEDCL to explain the rationale for combining solar and thermal power procurement from a single entity and whether future thermal power procurements would follow this approach. According to sources, MSEDCL aims to finalize the tender by July, before the state election code of conduct is issued for the October 2024 elections. An industry source indicated that projects of this magnitude would need around Rs 400 billion in investment. Interested parties must secure offers from equipment suppliers, arrange financing, and procure essentials such as land, water, and transmission for participation in the tender.

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

USA Mortgage Rates Reach 6.95%

In July 2024, the average mortgage rate in the USA rose to 6.95%, marking a significant increase and impacting homebuyers nationwide. This upward trend in mortgage rates is attributed to several economic factors, including inflationary pressures, shifts in the Federal Reserve?s monetary policy, and broader market dynamics. The rise in mortgage rates presents challenges for potential homebuyers, making borrowing more expensive and potentially slowing down the housing market. Higher rates can lead to increased monthly payments for homeowners, reducing affordability and potentially deterring new ..

Next Story
Real Estate

Toronto Home Sales Increase 4.2%

In June 2024, home sales in Toronto experienced a notable rise, increasing by 4.2% compared to the previous month. This growth highlights a positive trend in the Toronto real estate market, indicating robust buyer activity and a favorable environment for sellers. Several factors contribute to this uptick, including attractive mortgage rates, strong demand for housing, and a stable economic backdrop. The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) reported this increase, pointing to heightened buyer confidence and competitive market conditions. Despite rising interest rates in other parts of Nor..

Next Story
Real Estate

New Zealand Boosts Home Construction

New Zealand is set to implement regulatory changes aimed at boosting home construction to address the nation's housing shortage. The government plans to streamline building consent processes, reduce construction costs, and increase the supply of affordable housing. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to make housing more accessible and alleviate the pressure on the housing market. Key elements of the regulatory overhaul include simplifying the approval process for new housing projects and reducing bureaucratic hurdles that often delay construction. By cutting red tape, the government..

Hi There!

Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Click on link below, message us with a simple hi, and SAVE our number

You will have subscribed to our Construction News on Whatsapp! Enjoy

+91 81086 03000

Join us Telegram