NTPC invites bids for 250 MW/1,000 MWh BESS at Kayamkulam

NTPC Green Energy Ltd., a subsidiary of NTPC, has launched a tender for a 250 MW/1,000 MWh grid-connected Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at its existing Kayamkulam Thermal Power Station in Kerala. Issued in early May 2025, this project highlights NTPC’s growing commitment to integrating large-scale battery storage with conventional power plants to handle peak demand and support the increasing use of renewables.

The system is to be delivered in two equal blocks of 125 MW each, each with 500 MWh storage capacity. Block 1 will connect via 33 kV solar pooling switchgear, while Block 2 will interface with the 220 kV switchyard. The EPC contract includes full design, procurement, installation, commissioning, plus 15 years of Operation & Maintenance (O&M). NTPC has specified that each BESS container must have at least 5 MWh DC capacity, designed to meet NFPA-compliant fire safety standards.

In addition to construction, the tender requires bidders to conduct grid studies, implement reactive power control, and ensure power quality compliance up to 220 kV or 400 kV, in line with regulatory standards. The initiative underlines NTPC’s vision for hybrid power plants that can help balance the grid, reduce fossil-fuel dependence, and enable better integration of solar and wind power.

Key deadlines and process dates include:

Tender Issued: May 1, 2025
Document Sale Period: May 20–June 3, 2025
Bid Submission Deadline: June 24, 2025
Bid Opening: June 24, 2025

With a zero earnest money deposit (EMD) policy and a tender fee of ₹25,000, NTPC has made it accessible for experienced storage providers. However, eligibility is limited to firms that have delivered at least 10 MWh of grid-connected energy storage capacity over the past three years, ensuring strong technical capability.

By investing in a large-scale BESS as part of a coal-based plant, NTPC demonstrates a strategic approach toward cleaner transitional energy systems. The Kayamkulam BESS will charge during off-peak hours or from solar generation, and discharge during peak periods—supporting grid resilience and reducing the need for fossil-fuel peaking plants.

This move is in line with national priorities to scale battery storage capacity, targeting 30 GW of energy storage by 2030. Once commissioned, the Kayamkulam BESS will serve as a benchmark for clean, hybrid plant design in India.

Capacity	250 MW / 1,000 MWh BESS Block 1: 125 MW / 500 MWh (33 kV switchgear) Block 2: 125 MW / 500 MWh (220 kV switchyard)
Location	Kayamkulam, Kerala, India
Results	Not declared yet. Results will likely be shared after technical and financial bid evaluations post-June 24, 2025.