NTPC is set to develop a 56 MW floating solar power project along with a 60 MW / 240 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at its North Karanpura facility. The project will be executed on a turnkey basis, encompassing design, engineering, supply, installation, commissioning, and maintenance. It aims to establish a fully operational grid-connected floating solar PV system integrated with large-scale battery storage to enhance grid stability and energy reliability.
The appointed contractor will handle all phases of the project—from design and transportation to installation and final testing. This includes unloading, storage, and erection of all necessary equipment. The BESS may be configured as either AC or DC coupled, offering flexibility to bidders. Integration with the 220 kV switchyard and development of the power evacuation infrastructure are also part of the contractor’s responsibilities.
Each BESS container must have a minimum DC capacity of 5 MWh and comply with NFPA fire safety standards. The system should support a single daily charge-discharge cycle over a 15-year design life, meeting strict annual performance benchmarks including discharge capacity and round-trip efficiency. The successful bidder will also manage the complete operation and maintenance of the BESS system for 15 years post-trial run.
The project scope includes grid compliance studies, reactive power compensation, and adherence to power quality norms up to the 220/400 kV grid interface point. Key components such as the Battery Management System (BMS), Energy Management System (EMS), SCADA, power conversion and protection systems, transformers, fire suppression, and auxiliary systems must be included to ensure smooth and safe functioning. All related electrical, mechanical, and civil works for grid integration are covered under the contract.
The entire system must conform to Indian and global standards including IS, IEC, and IEEE. The floating solar segment must align with the latest CEA, CERC, and LDC technical guidelines. The floating solar and power evacuation systems will also be maintained for five years following commissioning.
The contractor must guarantee a minimum power output from the floating solar plant and handle site grading, vegetation clearing, and provision of construction utilities. Construction of control rooms, switchgear facilities, and security infrastructure is also included.
Additional tasks include providing design documentation, site acceptance plans, training for operators, and supplying specialized tools for long-term upkeep. A comprehensive warranty for the BESS and related systems is required, ensuring the reliability and performance of the project. This initiative underlines NTPC’s strong focus on advancing innovative clean energy solutions through the integration of solar power and battery storage technologies.
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