CERC Approves Tariffs for SECI’s 2,000 MW Solar Projects with Integrated Energy Storage

CERC Approves Tariffs for SECI’s 2,000 MW Solar Projects with Integrated Energy Storage

March 25, 2026

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has officially approved the tariffs discovered through a competitive auction for 2,000 MW of interstate transmission system (ISTS)-connected solar projects. These projects are uniquely integrated with a massive 1,000 MW/4,000 MWh energy storage capacity, a critical setup designed to provide firm and dispatchable renewable energy to the national grid. The approved tariffs range between ₹3.52 and ₹3.53 per unit, reflecting the market’s competitive response to the growing need for 24/7 clean power.

This regulatory milestone follows a transparent bidding process conducted by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), which attracted significant interest from top-tier developers. Major players, including Reliance, Sembcorp, NTPC Renewable Energy, Hero Solar Energy, and Solarcraft Power, were awarded capacities after a rigorous e-reverse auction. By combining large-scale solar generation with advanced storage systems, these projects address the inherent variability of renewable energy, ensuring consistent power supply during peak demand hours.

In its final order, the Commission also approved a trading margin of ₹0.07 per unit, provided that SECI maintains robust payment security mechanisms for the power generators. If these security instruments, such as letters of credit or escrow accounts, are not fully provided, the trading margin will be capped at a lower rate. This decision brings much-needed regulatory certainty to the developers, allowing them to proceed toward financial closure and project execution. As India continues its shift toward a storage-backed renewable grid, these projects set a new benchmark for reliable green energy procurement at scale.