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DRDO Seeks Proposals for 5 MW Grid-Connected Solar Project with Battery Storage in Odisha
Jan 02, 2026
The Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE), operating under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) for the development of a 5 MW grid-connected solar power project integrated with a battery energy storage system (BESS) at Chandipur in Odisha’s Balasore district.
Interested bidders must submit their proposals by January 30, 2026, with bid opening scheduled for the same day.
Under the EoI, the selected developer will be responsible for the end-to-end execution of the project, including design, engineering, financing, procurement, installation, testing, and commissioning of the solar plant and the associated BESS. The scope also covers the power evacuation system, grid interconnection, and adherence to all applicable statutory, safety, and environmental regulations.
The successful bidder will additionally undertake the operation and maintenance (O&M) of the solar facility and storage system for the full duration of the power purchase agreement (PPA). The project is to be implemented under a 25-year long-term PPA, with a stipulated completion timeline of 24 months.
As per the tender requirements, the project must be connected to the grid at an interconnection voltage of 33 kV or above. Energy accounting will be carried out at the main availability-based tariff (ABT)-compliant energy meter installed at the state transmission utility substation.
The tender specifies the use of MNRE-approved solar module technologies, including crystalline silicon, thin-film, or CIGS modules.
To qualify, bidders must demonstrate experience in developing grid-connected solar projects totaling at least 25 MW, including one project of a minimum 5 MW capacity at a single location. In addition, bidders must have operated and maintained a grid-connected solar plant of at least 5 MW for a minimum period of six months. At least one completed 5 MW solar project must be certified by either the project developer or the power offtaker. The EoI also requires bidders to maintain a positive net worth.