Rajasthan's Mega Leap: India's Largest 2,450 MW Solar + 6,400 MWh Storage Tender Unveiled! Published By Anupam Nath Rajasthan has just launched India's biggest integrated solar-plus-storage project, setting a new benchmark in renewable energy. This 2,450 MW solar power tender paired with 6,400 MWh battery storage at Pugal Solar Park in Bikaner promises round-the-clock green power, especially during evening peaks. With investments eyeing ₹16,000 crore, it's a game-changer for India's clean energy goals.Project OverviewThe Rajasthan Solarpark Development Company Ltd (RSDCL) issued this landmark tender, divided into two lots for competitive bidding under a build-own-operate (BOO) model. Developers can bid for one or both lots, with minimum and maximum capacity limits to ensure broad participation. Power will be procured by Rajasthan Urja Vikas and IT Services Ltd (RUVITL) for state discoms, backed by RSDCL's land, transmission infrastructure, and grid connectivity. The battery system offers four-hour storage with one daily cycle, perfectly timed for peak evening demand when solar output dips. Commissioning is targeted within 24 months of the power purchase agreement, with minimal extensions allowed.Why It Matters for India's Energy TransitionThis project transforms intermittent solar into firm, dispatchable green power, aligning with the Ministry of Power's guidelines for renewables with storage. It mandates ALMM-listed solar modules, cybersecurity compliance, and advanced monitoring—ensuring reliability and quality. Ajitabh Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary (Energy), highlighted it as a shift from variable renewables to stable supply, boosting grid reliability and enabling 24/7 clean energy. Rajasthan Renewable Energy Ltd (RRECL) is already investing over ₹1,000 crore in park development, including surveys, civil works, and power evacuation systems. Rohit Gupta, RRECL's Chairman, confirmed contracts are in place, with transmission underway.Economic and Strategic ImpactExpected to attract ₹16,000 crore in investments, the Pugal project strengthens Rajasthan's renewable hub status, rivaling leaders like Gujarat and Karnataka. It supports India's 500 GW non-fossil fuel target by 2030, addressing peak demand challenges that plague discoms. Major players like Adani Green, NTPC Green, and ACME Solar may bid, sparking competition and driving down tariffs. For energy analysts and investors, this signals booming prospects in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), with Rajasthan emerging as a solar-storage powerhouse. Evening peak reliability reduces reliance on costly fossil fuels, cutting discom losses and carbon emissions.Future OutlookThis tender isn't just infrastructure—it's a blueprint for hybrid renewables nationwide. As BESS costs fall and policies evolve, expect more such mega-projects. Rajasthan's desert advantage, coupled with proactive tenders, positions it to lead India's green revolution. Track bids and tariffs for investment cues; this could redefine solar economics.
