In a bid to increase solar potential in the state, the Rajasthan Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd recently announced Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (AVVNL), commonly known as Ajmer DISCOM, as the implementing agency for the Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar (GCRTS) program. The programme was brought forth by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in 2019 to offer solar plants at affordable prices at residential properties.
Marking a crucial milestone, AVVNL revealed the lowest (L1) bids for 55 MW of rooftop solar projects under the capital expenditure (CAPEX) model for three power distribution companies (DISCOMs) in Rajasthan.
1kW solar plant will cost ₹43,500 in Jaipur
Reportedly, the three distribution companies listed in the tender were Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam (JVVNL), Jodhpur Vidyut Vitran Nigam (JdVVNL), and AVVNL.
As we already know, solar energy doesn’t require an outside supply to work, so its energy production costs are practically zero. However, the only cost associated with the use of solar energy is the manufacture, installation and maintenance of the components. This initially requires a large investment, but in the long run, the minimal cost associated with its use offers quick cost recovery.
Along the same principle, the lowest bid for installing solar systems was claimed by Jaipur DISCOM at just ₹43,500/kW for up to 3kW units, for 3kW to 10 kW the cost was set at ₹40,991/kW. Similarly, for 10kW to 100 kW, the price was adjusted to ₹36,000/kW, and for 100kW to 500 kW, the cost was set at ₹35,000/kW.
Ajmer and Jodhpur DISCOMs have also announced the cost for these four categories. Reportedly, several private companies will have to match the L1 prices for all the four categories for each DISCOMS within two weeks. Post approval, the empanelled vendors will be required to carry out the design, supply, testing, commissioning and including regular maintenance for five years of grid interactive rooftop solar systems.
Solar subsidy scheme
Under this flagship programme of the union government, vendors will also be required to make all the necessary arrangements for evacuation and injection of surplus power to the grid. Notably, the three DISCOMS included in the scheme will execute rooftop solar projects in their operational areas through the empanelled vendors under the newly announced tender prices.
Furthermore, in order to ensure a good number of applications, and to attract more people to adopt solar power as the primary source of energy, the MNRE will also provide central financial assistance (CFA) up to 40% for rooftop solar systems up to 3 kW capacity. For rooftop systems of capacity above 3 kW, CFA up to 20% will be applicable.
-With inputs from Mercom
