(FE)
State-run Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has invited bids from wind and solar plants to supply 5,000 mega-watt (MW) power under a round-the-clock scheme. The scheme involves purchases of renewable energy, along with coal-based power, so that buyers have the assurance of uninterrupted electricity supply. Renewable power may include a combination of solar, wind and small hydro power with or without any energy storage system.
It also aims to provide a leg-up to the renewable energy sector by addressing the issues of intermittency, limited hours of supply and low capacity utilisations of solar and wind power plants, and make them more attractive for state-owned power distribution companies (discoms). As earlier reported by FE, it is also seen to provide some relief to lenders by enabling stressed coal power plants to find buyers for their electricity, thereby reducing the quantum of non-performing assets.
