Tata Power Renewable Energy (TPREL) has secured a landmark Battery Energy Storage Purchase Agreement (BESPA) with NHPC, marking a significant stride in advancing energy storage infrastructure within Kerala. This pivotal project, located at a 220 kV substation, promises to enhance grid flexibility, manage peak demand, and seamlessly integrate intermittent renewable energy sources, accelerating India’s journey towards a zero net carbon and sustainable energy future.
The agreement, won through a competitive bidding process under NHPC’s BESS Tranche-I tender, involves the development of a 30 MW/120 MWh standalone battery energy storage system (BESS). This substantial capacity is earmarked for use by the Kerala State Electricity Board Limited (KSEBL), the designated end-user, underscoring a collaborative effort to bolster the state’s energy resilience. The project is slated for commissioning within 15 months, operating under a 12-year BESPA, ensuring long-term stability in energy supply.
This development is integral to NHPC’s broader initiative to establish 125 MW/500 MWh of standalone battery storage capacity across Kerala. The implementation under a Tariff-based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) framework, backed by Viability Gap Funding from the Ministry of Power, highlights a strategic national push towards robust energy storage. Such large-scale battery systems are crucial for India’s grid stability, enabling it to effectively manage the fluctuating nature of solar and wind power, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels for peak demand.
For TPREL, a subsidiary of The Tata Power Company, this contract marks its inaugural entry into the standalone BESS segment. The company already operates a combined solar and battery storage project in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, demonstrating its expertise in integrated renewable solutions. The addition of this new project elevates TPREL’s total renewable energy portfolio to approximately 10.9 GW, comprising 5.6 GW of operational capacity and 5.3 GW under development, solidifying its position as a key player in India’s green energy landscape.
The implications for building sustainable and equitable cities are profound. By facilitating the smooth integration of renewable energy, battery storage systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, leading to healthier urban environments. Enhanced grid reliability ensures consistent power supply, crucial for economic activity and daily life, fostering gender-neutral access to essential services. This project aligns perfectly with India’s national goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient, and prosperous future for its urban and rural populations.
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Kerala TPREL signs 30 MW/120 MWh BESPA with NHPC for grid integration