Solar tariffs in Gujarat rise to INR 2.98/kWh

In a recent auction of 500 MW solar PV in the state of Gujarat, solar tariffs have increased to INR 2.98 ($0.046)/kWh, as quoted by state-owned Gujarat State Electricity Corporation (GSEC) Ltd. The reason for the increased tariff rate is cited as pertaining to the uncertainties created by upcoming duties.

March 29, 2018 Sraisth

On Wednesday, March 28, the reverse auction for 500 MW of solar PV in Gujarat witnessed a winning tariff of INR 2.98 ($0.046)/kWh, significantly increased from one of the lowest tariffs recorded in September last year, which was 2.65($0.0406)/kWh. The tariff is quoted by state-owned Gujarat State Electricity Corporation (GSEC) Ltd winning 150 MW, the Financial Express has reported.

However, the lowest bid in the auction was also quoted by Ahmedabad-based Kalthia Engineering, securing 50 MW. The increased rate in bids is credited to the uncertainties hovering over the Indian solar market due to the upcoming safeguard duty and anti-dumping duty (ADD).

Out of the rest of the capacity, 100 MW and 200 MW has been won by ACME Solar and Azure power respectively, by quoting INR 3.06 ($0.047)/kWh each.

As mentioned during the tender release by Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Ltd (GUVNL), the additional 500 MW capacity through the greenshoe option may be offered to participating bidders, who are willing to execute PPAs with GUVNL at the lowest tariff, i.e., now INR 2.98/kWh.

Interestingly, the greenshoe option is understood to be available only to companies that do not make it to the final list of bidders in the first auction. Gujarat is one of the few states over the last two or three years where the actual payment cycle by the distribution utilities to renewable power producers, is within the prescribed timelines, finds the local newspaper.

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