PEDA Invites Bids for Solarization of 200 Agricultural Pumps Under PM-KUSUM Component-C1

The Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) has formally invited electronic bids (e-bids) for the solarization of approximately 200 grid-connected agricultural pumps under Component-C1 of the PM-KUSUM scheme. This pilot project, initiated under the guidelines of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), focuses on the transition of existing individual agricultural connections to solar power through a vendor-led implementation model.

Key Tender Highlights

Operational Scope and Technical Requirements

The tender specifies a comprehensive technical mandate for selected vendors, requiring adherence to both state and central energy standards. The operational requirements include:

• Feeder-Specific Deployment: Implementation is restricted to consumers served by three specific 11 kV agricultural feeders: Kurali (PSPCL Sub-Division Banur), Peerkot (Sub-Division Sub Maur), and Sadhowal (Sub-Division Rangian).
• Energy Efficiency Mandate: A core requirement of the tender is the mandatory replacement of all existing grid-connected AC pumps with energy-efficient models rated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).
• Comprehensive Project Lifecycle: Selected vendors are responsible for the site survey, design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
• Post-Commissioning Maintenance: The contract includes a five-year comprehensive maintenance period, during which vendors must ensure system performance.
• Data Integration: Vendors must provide and maintain Remote Monitoring System (RMS) integration to facilitate real-time data sharing with the KUSUM portal as per MNRE technical specifications.
• Market-Driven Outreach: While PEDA has already identified an initial group of participating farmers, successful bidders are required to employ a market-driven approach to engage with additional consumers, facilitate registrations, and secure the necessary work orders to meet the target volume.

Implementation Framework and PM-KUSUM Component-C1 Background

Component-C1 of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme provides a regulatory framework for the solarization of grid-connected agricultural pumps at the individual connection level. Under this framework, the solar PV system is sized to meet the annual power requirements of the specific pump, allowing for the offset of grid consumption.

The project involves a bifurcated administrative structure between state agencies. PEDA, acting as the State Nodal Agency (SNA), is responsible for the vendor selection process, project allocation, and the facilitation of Central Financial Assistance (CFA) from the MNRE. Conversely, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) is responsible for grid connectivity, technical approvals of the evacuation infrastructure, and the administration of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for any surplus power injected into the grid.

This 200-pump project serves as a pilot phase for connection-level solarization in Punjab. The administrative mechanics established during this phase are intended to form the basis for a potential phased expansion across other agricultural feeders within the state.

Bid Submission Logistics

Prospective bidders must comply with the following procedural timeline:

• Submission Deadline: All electronic bids must be uploaded to the official portal by August 6, 2026.
• Document Access: The Request for Selection (RfS) and technical specifications are available on the Punjab Government’s e-procurement portal.
• Bid Opening: The opening of technical bids will take place on August 7, 2026, one day after the submission deadline.

The official portal for accessing the tender documents, checking bidding details, and submitting online bids for the solarisation of approximately 200 agricultural pumps is the Punjab Government’s e-procurement portal:

https://eproc.punjab.gov.in

According to the official Request for Selection (RfS) document issued by the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA), this portal is the mandatory site for:

• Downloading the RfS document, Implementation Agreement (IA), and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
• Submitting online bids, including techno-commercial and financial offers.
• Accessing corrigenda, addenda, or schedule updates.
• Participating in the e-reverse auction process.

Additionally, you can find further information and announcements regarding this and other renewable energy projects on the official PEDA website: https://www.peda.gov.in

Official Sources and Reference Links

For official documentation, comprehensive scheme guidelines, and to access the live bidding portal, please refer to the following government resources:

• Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA): The state nodal agency overseeing the implementation and promotion of renewable energy projects in Punjab.
  https://www.peda.gov.in
• Punjab Government e-Procurement Portal: The mandatory platform for downloading the Request for Selection (RfS) documents, checking technical specifications, and submitting electronic bids.
  https://eproc.punjab.gov.in
• Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE): The central authority providing the national framework, comprehensive guidelines, and Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for the PM-KUSUM scheme.
  https://www.mnre.gov.in
• Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC): The state body responsible for the approval of project deviations and the adoption of tariffs discovered through the competitive bidding process.
  http://www.pserc.gov.in