KPCL looks for JV partners for solar power stations

The Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) is looking for the joint venture partners for setting up the large solar power plant in the state. As told by a senior official, the state owned power producer that recently commissioned for the two pilot projects based solar power plants of 3Mw in Kolar and Belgaum district of the state is now moving ahead with setting up another unit of 3Mw in Raichur district, tenders for which have already been floated.

The corporation also intends to set up a 10 MWp solar power plant at an estimates cost of 150- 200 crore depending on the technology chosen. Once the current process of identifying the land is completed, expressions of interest will be invited for V partners. The official told media that the corporation is interested in collaborating with a company that can collaborate as a financial partner or a finance-cum-technology partner.

The company official told media that they would like to make use of the opportunity and increase production thorough new and renewable energy sector, in line with the MNRE policy. The success of the pilot project in Kolar and Belgaum has encouraged to state to go in for a bigger project. Various companies have shown interest in becoming the JV partners, which include L&T, BHEL, Aston Field and Solar Semiconductor.

KPCL is also planning to set up small solar plants in many other places by the next financial year. Places that have adequate sunlight for at least 300 days in a year have been identified for this such as Bijapur, Gulbarga, Tumkur. The corporation is also looking at opportunities to set up solar units at its thermal stations in Raichur and Bellary to cater to the power requirements of these areas.

Source: Business Standard