Coal India Limited (CIL) has invited domestic competitive bids for the development of a 20 MW (AC) grid-connected floating solar photovoltaic power plant at Chilwa Taal in the Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh. The project forms part of the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its renewable energy portfolio and diversify beyond coal-based power generation.
As per the tender details, the project will be executed on an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) basis. The scope of work includes design, detailed engineering, procurement and supply of equipment, construction, installation, testing, and commissioning of the floating solar PV plant, along with associated electrical works and grid connectivity for power evacuation. Coal India has specified that the project must be developed with a minimum DC overload capacity of 40 percent to enhance plant utilisation and energy output.
The tender also outlines performance expectations, with the project required to generate a minimum net electrical energy of 38,544,000 units in the first year of operation. In addition to project execution, the successful bidder will be responsible for comprehensive operation and maintenance of the plant for a period of five years following commissioning. This is intended to ensure reliable performance, proper upkeep of floating structures and electrical systems, and compliance with safety and operational standards.
The total contract period for the project is 72 months, comprising 12 months for construction, testing, and commissioning, followed by 60 months of O&M support. The estimated project cost is ₹140.35 crore, inclusive of goods and services tax. Bidders are required to submit an Earnest Money Deposit of ₹50 lakh through online payment modes such as net banking or NEFT/RTGS. Performance security and retention money provisions will apply as per the tender conditions, with the total not exceeding 10 percent of the contract value.
Coal India has also defined technical and financial eligibility criteria for bidders. Eligible companies must have executed a cumulative solar EPC capacity of at least 7 MW (AC), including at least one project of 2 MW (AC) or more, in the past seven years. Financially, bidders must have an average annual turnover of at least ₹42.105 crore over the last three financial years and a minimum net worth of ₹14.035 crore.
All key dates related to the tender process, including bid submission timelines and pre-bid meetings, are available on Coal India’s official e-procurement portal. Interested bidders must hold a valid Digital Signature Certificate to participate in the online bidding process.
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