Chandigarh: The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) for the supply of 50 MW of solar power along with battery energy storage for Chandigarh.
The agreement is expected to provide around 135 million units (MUs) of electricity annually, helping Chandigarh meet its growing power demand through cleaner and more reliable energy.
50 MW Solar Power to Support Chandigarh’s Growing Demand
Under the agreement, CPDL will procure 50 MW of solar power along with energy storage support.
The arrangement is designed to ensure that renewable electricity is available beyond periods of solar generation, helping the distribution company manage fluctuations in the city’s electricity demand.
Key details include:
- Solar power capacity: 50 MW
- Annual electricity supply: Around 135 million units (MUs)
- PPA duration: 25 years
- Beneficiary: Chandigarh
- Power buyer: Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL)
- Power supplier: Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)
- Storage: Battery Energy Storage System
Read also: SECI Invites Bids for 50 MW/100 MWh Energy Storage System to Strengthen Grid Operations
Battery Storage to Provide Power After Sunset
The project combines solar generation with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to provide greater flexibility in power supply.
During the daytime, solar power will primarily be used to meet electricity demand. When solar generation is available in excess of immediate demand, the battery storage system can store the electricity.
The stored energy can then be supplied during:
- Night-time hours
- Periods when solar generation is unavailable
- Other periods of changing electricity demand
This integrated system is expected to help CPDL manage Chandigarh’s electricity requirements more effectively while improving the reliability of renewable power.
Project Signed Under ISTS Tranche XX
The agreement has been signed under SECI’s Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) – Tranche XX.
The ISTS framework enables electricity generated in one part of the country to be transmitted and supplied to consumers in another part through the national power transmission network.
Chandigarh to Get First Solar Power Connected to ISTS
The project marks a significant development for Chandigarh as it will provide the city with its first solar power connected to the Inter-State Transmission System.The initiative is expected to increase the share of renewable energy in Chandigarh’s electricity supply and support the city’s efforts towards adopting cleaner sources of power.
The combination of solar generation and battery storage can also provide greater flexibility in meeting demand throughout the day.
SECI-CPDL Agreement to Strengthen Clean Energy Supply
The long-term PPA represents an effort to balance Chandigarh’s growing electricity demand with the need for cleaner energy.
By combining renewable generation with energy storage, the arrangement is expected to help CPDL improve power management while reducing dependence on conventional sources during periods when solar power is unavailable.
The initiative underlines CPDL’s focus on power reliability, renewable energy adoption and cleaner electricity supply for Chandigarh.
About Solar Energy Corporation of India
Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) is a Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India. SECI plays an important role in the development and implementation of renewable energy projects and supports the expansion of solar and other clean-energy capacity across India.
About Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL)
Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) is the electricity distribution company responsible for supplying and distributing power to consumers across Chandigarh. It focuses on ensuring reliable and efficient power distribution, improving the electricity network, and supporting the Union Territory’s growing energy requirements.
