NIWE extends EoI deadline for 1 GW offhshore wind energy

National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) has extended the deadline for submission of expression of interest to June 8 from May 25 and also relaxed eligibility norms for 1GW offshore wind capacities to be set up off the Gujarat coast.

The NIWE, which is an autonomous body under Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, had invited expression of interest (EoI) last month for 1GW offshore wind capacities to be set up off the Gujarat coast.

In corrigendum issued today, the NIWE said the interested bidder can submit their EoI proposal by 1700hrs on June 8, 2018 instead of May 25, 2018.

Relaxing the eligibility criteria, the corrigendum stated that the global entities having experience of installing offshore wind projects of more than 250 MW will be eligible.

Initially, the NIWE had said the global entities having experience of installing offshore wind projects of more than 500 MW will be eligible.

The EoI notice provided that the final selection of developer of the first offshore wind farm will be taken up through competitive bidding only. But now the shortlisted parties will be consulted for preparation of bidding documents.

Earlier, the coordinates were given for setting up the offshore wind capacities. Now, it provides that the project site may not be restricted to the coordinates given earlier. The interested bidder may select any location within the EEZ (exclusive economic zone) of India subject to clearance from concerned ministries/departments as per National Offshore Wind Energy Policy.