HESCOM Invites Bids for 303.5 MW Feeder-Level Solar Capacity Under CM-SKY Scheme

Hubballi Electricity Supply Company (HESCOM) has invited bids for 303.5 MW of distributed solar capacity under Karnataka’s Chief Minister’s Solar Krushi Yojana (CM-SKY). Part of the state’s agricultural de-dieselization strategy, the project aims to solarize irrigation feeders to reduce subsidy burdens and shift energy loads to reliable daylight hours. This installment represents a critical 10% of Karnataka’s total 3 GW substation-level target. Interested developers must submit their proposals by the final deadline of August 27, 2026.

Key Tender Parameters

Tender Summary: HESCOM/2026-27/SE0759

Project Scope and Operational Requirements

Selected Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and developers are mandated to manage the comprehensive project lifecycle, including:

• Full Lifecycle Scope: Responsibility for the design, survey, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the solar plants.
• Operation and Maintenance: A 25-year comprehensive O&M commitment throughout the duration of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
• Grid Infrastructure: Construction of associated 11kV lines to link the solar plants to the designated interconnection point at the substation busbar.
• Remote Monitoring: Mandatory installation of a Remote Monitoring System (RMS) at each plant for real-time performance analytics.
• Normative Parameters: A minimum annual capacity utilization factor (CUF) of 19% is required, as this performance benchmark serves as a normative parameter for the state’s tariff calculations.

Scheme Context and Domestic Content Rules

The CM-SKY Initiative is Karnataka’s primary vehicle for executing PM-KUSUM Component C, which focuses on feeder-level solarization. By integrating distributed solar at the substation level, the state aims to fulfill its broader ambition of commissioning 3,000 MW (3 GW) at facilities operated by the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL). This 303.5 MW tender marks a significant progress point toward that goal.

To strengthen the domestic supply chain, the tender enforces strict Domestic Content Requirements (DCR). Developers must utilize Indian-manufactured solar cells and modules. Furthermore, all components must be selected from the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) maintained by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

Tariff Benchmarks

The procurement comes amid a shifting pricing landscape in the state. For the upcoming control period spanning July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has proposed a levelised tariff of ₹2.65 per unit.

This figure represents a notable downward trend in solar procurement costs when compared to the previous ₹2.89 per unit regulatory ceiling. Historical data from HESCOM’s prior 95 MW auction—which attracted specialist firms such as Solar91 Cleantech and Sri Srinivasa Constructions—showed discovered tariffs between ₹2.76 per kWh and ₹2.85 per kWh. Analysts view the new, lower proposed rate as a reflection of the commission’s expectation regarding falling module prices and improved photovoltaic efficiencies in the 2026–29 window.

Bidding Instructions and Authority Information

Prospective bidders are advised to utilize the following channels for participation:

• Application Portal: All documents and bids must be submitted through kppp.karnataka.gov.in.
• Bid Offer Validity: Proposals must remain valid for 180 days from the submission date.
• Authority Contact: Superintending Engineer (PMC), HESCOM Corporate Office, Hubballi.

The official portal for accessing and participating in the bidding process for this tender is the Karnataka Public Procurement Portal (KPPP):

https://kppp.karnataka.gov.in/,.

To find the specific 303.5 MW tender for agricultural feeder solarisation under the CM-SKY scheme, you can search the portal using the following official details:

• Tender ID: HESCOM/2026-27/SE0759.
• Organization: Hubballi Electricity Supply Company Limited (HESCOM),.
• Submission Deadline: 27 August 2026,.

Bidders are required to register on this platform to download official documents, view technical specifications, and submit their bids,.