Follow India Renewable Energy News on WhatsApp for exclusive updates on clean energy news and insights

BERC Clears Procurement of 200 MW Solar Power with 400 MWh Storage from SECI

The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) has approved Bihar State Power Holding Company Ltd.’s proposal to procure 200 MW of solar power integrated with a 100 MW/400 MWh energy storage system under SECI’s ISTS Tranche-XV program. SECI had quoted a tariff of Rs 3.42/kWh, which the Commission accepted along with a trading margin of Rs 0.07/kWh.

BSPHCL told the Commission that the procurement is essential to meet rising renewable purchase obligations (RPOs) and address severe evening peak power shortages, which can reach up to 2,100 MW during April–October. The state currently depends on power exchanges during peak hours—an option that has proven unreliable and cost-intensive.

The utility highlighted that Bihar faces a significant RPO shortfall in the coming years and that procuring this bundled solar-plus-storage power would be more economical than relying on renewable energy certificates and short-term market purchases. The proposal is also in line with the Central Electricity Authority’s long-term plan, which recommends major additions to solar and battery storage capacity in the state by 2033-34.

SECI informed the regulator that ACME Solar Holdings will develop the project, which is expected to be commissioned before June 30, 2027. The agreement includes penalties for shortfalls, ensuring four hours of assured evening supply between 6 PM and 12 AM.

Approving the petition, BERC noted that the storage-backed solar supply will strengthen Bihar’s power reliability, reduce dependence on costly exchange purchases, and support long-term RPO compliance. The Commission added that timely execution of the power sale agreement will be crucial to realizing the expected benefits.