An intrastate transmission system (InSTS) scheme in Odisha to be awarded under the TBCB framework has come up for rebidding.
Bid process coordinator PFC Consulting Ltd (PFCCL) recently initiated the re-bidding process of an InSTS scheme in Odisha known as “Construction of 400/220/132kV grid substation at Joda/Barbil with associated transmission lines.”
Interestingly, the re-bidding has come even after developers were recently shortlisted for opening of initial price bids.
Though no official reasons are available for the retendering, an informed source indicated that the project is being rebid due to changes in project design.
By current timelines, the last date of submission of technical and financial bids is April 25, 2024. The price bids of the technically qualified bidders will be opened on the same date.
During the previous round of bidding initiated way back in August 2023, the bid submission date was extended over 15 times. Finally, in mid-December 2024, three bidders – Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL), Adani Energy Solutions Ltd (AESL) and Techno Electric & Engineering Company Ltd (TEECL) – qualified for opening of price bids.
The previous bidding process was delayed for several reasons including relocation of the proposed site of the Joda/Barbil substation and change in the substation type from AIS to GIS. The overall project involves construction of a 400/220/132kV grid substation with associated transmission lines at Joda/Barbil and LILO of the existing 400kV double-circuit Kaniha-Bisra line at the proposed 400kV Joda substation.
This intrastate scheme housed under project SPV “Joda Barbil Transmission Ltd” is significant as it represents Odisha’s first attempt at developing its intrastate grid by awarding projects under the TBCB modality.
TBCB in Odisha
Odisha, in late 2022, announced its intention of trying the TBCB model for development of intrastate transmission lines. This was done with a view to achieve commercial efficiency vis-à-vis projects developed by Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Ltd (OPTCL) under the RTM mechanism. Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC), in August 2021, also published a consultation paper on development of intrastate transmission system in Odisha through the TBCB route.
Accordingly, OPTCL, in December 2022, appointed PFC Consulting Ltd (PFCCL) to act the bid process coordinator for the Joda-Barbil intrastate scheme.
Featured photograph is for representation only
