Andaman & Nicobar Tenders 20 MWh Battery Storage

The Andaman and Nicobar administration has invited bids for a 20 MWh grid-connected Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Dollygunj, Port Blair. The project aims to strengthen grid stability and support greater integration of renewable energy within the island's electricity system.

Battery storage can help manage fluctuations in renewable generation. It shifts electricity between periods of surplus and peak demand. This improves overall power reliability. The tender represents another step towards deploying storage capacity in island grids, where balancing generation and demand is particularly important for reducing dependence on conventional power sources.

Uttarakhand Seeks Standalone Battery Storage

Separately, Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) has invited bids for the development of standalone Battery Storage System projects across the state. The proposed facilities are expected to strengthen Uttarakhand’s electricity network. They will provide greater flexibility for balancing supply and demand while supporting renewable power integration.

Battery storage is becoming increasingly important as Uttarakhand develops its renewable power ecosystem. The state regulator has already introduced benchmark cost norms and storage charges for BESS projects. The latest procurement reflects growing utility interest in storage as a key component of future grid planning.

NLC India and OREDA Form Renewable Energy Joint Venture

NLC India Renewables Limited and the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) have formed a joint venture to develop renewable power projects in Odisha. The partnership creates a dedicated platform to advance green power development.

The venture combines NLC India’s renewable project capabilities with OREDA’s state-level expertise. It reflects the increasing use of partnerships between central public-sector renewable companies and state agencies to accelerate project development and expand clean power capacity across India.

REC Transfers Transmission Project SPV

REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL) has handed over Luhri Power Transmission Limited to Terralight Solar Energy Tinwari Private Limited. This followed a tariff-based competitive bidding process.

RECPDCL transferred its entire shareholding of 50,000 equity shares along with the Special Purpose Vehicle's associated assets and liabilities. The transaction was completed for approximately ₹14.13 crore. This sum included applicable taxes, professional fees and expense reimbursements.

Following the transfer, Luhri Power Transmission ceased to be a subsidiary of RECPDCL and its parent REC. Terralight now assumes responsibility for developing the transmission project.

Regulatory Reviews in Bihar

The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) is reviewing two separate matters involving the East Central Railway (ECR). In one proceeding, BERC has sought clarification from ECR regarding an additional 70 MW Long-Term Access (LTA) No Objection Certificate in Bihar. The regulatory proceedings concern ECR’s electricity arrangements and the associated documentation.

BERC’s intervention seeks further clarity before progressing. It reflects the Commission’s scrutiny of transmission access and open-access arrangements for large electricity consumers. The case is significant as railways increasingly procure electricity through alternative supply arrangements and renewable power sources.

In a parallel dispute, BERC has sought additional clarifications from Bihar’s distribution companies and East Central Railway concerning open-access charges. The proceedings relate to the charges applicable to ECR’s electricity procurement arrangements. They require further submissions from the parties before the Commission reaches its decision.

The case highlights the continuing importance of clear open-access rules for large consumers seeking alternative electricity procurement options. Regulatory clarity on applicable network charges will remain important as commercial and industrial consumers increasingly explore open-access and renewable power procurement.