Mumbai: The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) for the procurement of 220 MW of solar power backed by a 110 MW/440 MWh Energy Storage System (ESS). The agreement is aimed at supporting BEST’s renewable energy requirements while improving its ability to manage peak power demand.
SECI-BEST Agreement Covers 220 MW Solar Power
Under the agreement, BEST will procure solar power through SECI at a tariff of around ₹2.87 per unit for a period of 25 years. The renewable electricity will be sourced from renewable energy projects in Maharashtra.
The agreement forms part of BEST’s efforts to meet its Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) requirements and increase the contribution of renewable energy in its overall power portfolio.
The agreement was signed on August 31 by BEST General Manager Dr Sonia Sethi, along with SECI Executive Director Atulya Naik and Deputy General Manager Sanjeev Singh, in the presence of senior officials from BEST’s electricity department.
Read also: SECI Signs 25-Year PPA with CPDL for 50 MW Solar Power and Battery Storage in Chandigarh
BEST’s Renewable Energy Share to Rise to 43%
BEST currently meets around 33% of its total electricity requirement, of nearly 1,000 MW, through renewable energy sources.
With the additional solar power procurement, BEST expects its renewable energy share to increase to approximately 43%. The arrangement is also expected to support the undertaking’s long-term shift towards cleaner sources of electricity.
Key Highlights
- Buyer: BEST
- Renewable energy procurer: SECI
- Solar capacity: 220 MW
- Energy storage: 110 MW/440 MWh
- PPA tenure: 25 years
- Tariff: Around ₹2.87 per unit
- Current renewable energy share of BEST: Around 33%
- Expected renewable energy share: Around 43%
- Agreement signed: August 31, 2026
110 MW/440 MWh Storage to Support Peak Demand
The 110 MW/440 MWh Energy Storage System is a key component of the agreement. It will allow electricity to be stored and supplied during periods when demand is high.
The storage capacity is particularly expected to support BEST during evening peak hours, when solar generation declines while electricity demand can remain elevated. This can provide greater flexibility in managing renewable power and reduce dependence on costlier peak-period power procurement.
SECI Agreement to Support Cost and Clean Energy Goals
The long-term arrangement is expected to help BEST secure renewable electricity at a competitive tariff while supporting its RPO and future energy-storage requirements.
The combination of solar generation and energy storage can also help improve the availability of renewable power beyond daylight hours. BEST expects the initiative to contribute to lower power procurement costs and reduced carbon emissions.
About SECI
Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) is a central public sector enterprise under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. It plays a key role in developing and facilitating renewable energy projects and supporting India’s clean energy transition.
About BEST
Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) is a civic undertaking of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation that operates electricity distribution and public transport services in Mumbai. The undertaking is increasing its focus on renewable energy and cleaner power procurement.
Read also: SECI Invites Bids for 50 MW/100 MWh Energy Storage System to Strengthen Grid Operations
