Chennai Petroleum Seeks Study for 100 MW Round-The-Clock Renewable Power Plan

Chennai, Tamil Nadu – Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd (CPCL) has invited bids for a pre-feasibility study to evaluate options for supplying 100 megawatts (MW) of round-the-clock renewable energy to its Manali refinery, the company said, aiming to support its transition to cleaner power and reduce long-term energy costs. The study will explore wind and solar energy combinations and assess the most effective business structure for delivering continuous green electricity.

Under the tender, consultants will first examine CPCL’s current and projected electricity needs and then identify suitable configurations of solar and wind power that can deliver reliable energy throughout the day and night. The initiative is part of CPCL’s broader sustainability strategy, including its net-zero commitments and efforts to minimise energy expenses while supporting renewable integration at the refinery.

The project is proposed to be developed in two phases, with each phase targeting 50 MW of renewable capacity to meet the full 100 MW requirement. As part of the assignment, bidders will be required to review relevant regulations and policy frameworks and recommend the most viable commercial model to implement the renewable power solution, including examining options such as captive, group-captive, or joint venture structures.

The selected consultant’s work will help shape CPCL’s future renewable energy plans, offering insights into technology mixes, cost implications, regulatory considerations, and practical business arrangements. This preparatory study is a critical step toward potentially deploying a large-scale clean energy system for the refinery in line with India’s expanding renewable energy infrastructure goals.