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MNRE Appoints SECI as Exclusive Agency for Renewable Energy Procurement Bids

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has designated the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) as the sole Renewable Energy Implementing Agency (REIA) responsible for issuing renewable energy procurement bids. The move aims to streamline the bidding process and improve coordination in the sector.

While SECI will now handle all new bid issuances, existing REIAs—NTPC, NHPC, and SJVN—will continue to manage and fulfil their responsibilities for projects where bids have already been floated. This includes progressing with power sale agreements (PSAs) and power purchase agreements (PPAs) linked to previously awarded contracts.

MNRE has directed these agencies to review cases where PSAs remain unsigned despite considerable time having passed since the issuance of Letters of Award (LoAs). Such cases are to be categorised based on the likelihood of PSA finalisation, enabling a clearer assessment of project viability.

For projects where PSA execution appears unlikely, agencies have been advised to identify instances where developers have not initiated connectivity applications through approved routes. In such situations, appropriate steps, including phased cancellation of LoAs, may be undertaken to prevent project stagnation.

The ministry has also emphasised the importance of maintaining discipline in the bidding process by discouraging tariff renegotiations after tenders have been finalised. It has called for stronger demand assessment through closer coordination with states and end procurers before issuing bids, ensuring better alignment with actual energy requirements.

Additionally, REIAs have been instructed to avoid including green shoe options in bids unless prior regulatory approval is obtained, reinforcing adherence to established competitive bidding guidelines.

Overall, the directive is intended to bring greater efficiency, transparency, and accountability to India’s renewable energy procurement framework.