NEW DELHI: The government’s latest tender for grid-scale energy storage includes several changes from the 2021 version. These cover simpler entry rules, a focus on battery efficiency rather than energy density, and reduced subsidies per kilowatt-hour.
The new 10 GWh tender forms the final segment of the 50 GWh initiative under the ₹18,100-crore production-linked incentive scheme for advanced chemistry cells. It was issued on 15 July and reflects updated policy priorities, based on tender documents seen by Mint.
Bids close on 13 October and will be opened on 14 October, the ministry of heavy industries said. A pre-bid meeting is set for 29 July.
In 2021 the first round awarded 50 GWh to four bidders: Ola Electric, Reliance Industries, Rajesh Exports and Hyundai Global Motors. The award to Hyundai Global Motors was later withdrawn after clarification that it was unrelated to the Korean automaker.
Ten GWh of the withdrawn capacity went to Reliance New Energy in September 2024. The remaining 10 GWh was reserved for grid-scale storage, with bids invited on 15 July.
The ministry of new and renewable energy stated that bid limits were lowered to 1-4 GWh to widen participation while keeping the original ratio. The per-kWh subsidy was cut to ₹1,500 from ₹2,000 to match falling global cell costs.
Evaluation now prioritises energy efficiency over energy density. The ministry noted that efficiency and cycle life matter most for stationary storage, where space and weight are not key constraints.
Experts welcomed the efficiency focus but observed that the structure still resembles the 2021 tender, likely resulting in three or four winners for the full capacity.
