Hydropower project tenders: HPSEB refuses qualification dilution
Hydropower project tenders for Sai Kothi-I show HPSEB holding the line on strict technical and financial qualification despite bidder pressure. The 15MW project at Tissa in Chamba district is being procured under German Financial Cooperation through KfW Procurement No. 513785. Hydropower project tenders in this case involve prequalification for civil and hydro-mechanical works, with strong emphasis on water-conveying tunnels, gates, hoists and penstock systems. EnergylineIndia.com highlights this update for readers tracking Hydro EPC tenders and Hydro power project opportunities. HPSEB retained the EUR 15 million similar-contract experience requirement and refused to permit JV, consortium or association participation. It also rejected requests to reduce the 1.5km concrete-lined water-conveying tunnel requirement or accept cavern experience as a substitute. Hydropower project tenders from this process show that market participants mainly sought eligibility relaxation rather than technical-scope changes. HPSEB also refused to recognise lift water supply schemes as similar works because they lack weir or barrage components. Hydropower project tenders will therefore favour single-entity contractors with direct hydro, irrigation, tunnelling or underground works credentials. Hydropower project tenders from Sai Kothi-I attracted four bids despite the restrictive framework.
