New Delhi: NTPC Mining Limited (NML), a wholly owned subsidiary of state-run NTPC Limited, has invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the development of ground-mounted solar photovoltaic projects with a cumulative capacity of 50 MWp (DC) / 40 MW (AC) across two locations under its mining operations in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.
The initiative is part of NML’s clean energy transition strategy and aims to integrate renewable power into its operational infrastructure while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
The selected developer will also be responsible for the comprehensive operation and maintenance (O&M) of the solar projects for 25 years.
Solar Projects to Be Developed Under RESCO Model
The proposed projects will be implemented under the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model.
Under this arrangement, the selected developer will be responsible for:
- Financing the solar power projects
- Designing and engineering the plants
- Procuring equipment and materials
- Constructing the solar facilities
- Owning and operating the plants
- Maintaining the projects throughout the agreed period
This model allows NML to procure renewable electricity without making a significant upfront capital investment in the solar infrastructure.
Read also: NTPC Invites MSEs for One-Year Dry Fly Ash Lifting from Kanti Thermal Power Plant in Bihar
NML to Purchase Entire Solar Power Generated
Under the proposed arrangement, NML will purchase the entire electricity generated by the solar projects for captive consumption.
The power will be supplied under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) at a pre-agreed tariff determined through a competitive bidding process and/or reverse auction.
The structure is expected to provide long-term revenue visibility to the selected developers while enabling NML to secure renewable power for its operations.
40 MW Solar Capacity Planned Across Mining Operations
The EOI covers a cumulative installed solar capacity of 40 MW (AC), equivalent to 50 MWp (DC).
The projects are planned across two locations associated with NML’s mining operations in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.
The initiative is expected to help integrate renewable energy into mining operations and support NML’s efforts to reduce its reliance on conventional power sources.
Opportunity for Solar Developers and EPC Companies
The EOI is expected to provide an opportunity for companies with experience in utility-scale renewable energy projects.
Potential participants include:
- Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractors
- Independent Power Producers (IPPs)
- Solar project developers
- Companies with expertise in utility-scale renewable energy
The locations are also expected to provide access to industrial electricity demand, potentially supporting project execution and grid connectivity.
EOI Submission Deadline Is September 1, 2026
Interested companies have until September 1, 2026, to submit their Expressions of Interest. Following the evaluation of the submissions, NTPC Mining is expected to shortlist eligible participants before moving towards the detailed Request for Proposal (RfP) stage.
The EOI serves as a preliminary market assessment to understand industry interest and identify potential developers capable of implementing the proposed solar projects.
RESCO Model Gains Importance in Industrial Renewable Energy
The RESCO model is increasingly being adopted by public sector enterprises and large industrial consumers seeking to expand renewable energy capacity without making substantial upfront investments.Under the model, the developer takes responsibility for financing and operating the project, while the consumer secures renewable electricity through a long-term contractual arrangement.
About NTPC
NTPC Limited is India’s largest integrated power utility and a public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Power. The company operates across power generation and related energy businesses and is expanding its portfolio in renewable energy as part of its long-term clean energy and decarbonisation strategy. NTPC Mining Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary focused on coal mining and related operations for NTPC’s power generation requirements.
Read also: NTPC Green Energy Wins 200 MW/800 MWh BESS Project in West Bengal at ₹4.35 Lakh Tariff
