CLP India and Suzlon enter into a Joint Venture for the Veltoor solar project in Telangana

CLP India and Suzlon Group have announced their joint venture for a 100 MW solar project at Veltoor in Telangana, India.

Under the signed agreement, CLP India acquired 49% stake in SE Solar, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) set-up by Suzlon. CLP India has the option to acquire the balance 51% in future. The project is expected to be commissioned by May 2017 and will be funded 80% by debt and 20% by equity.

The Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) has been signed with Telangana Southern Power Distribution Company Limited with a fixed tariff for 25 years at INR5.59/kWh.

Suzlon won solar projects of 210 MW in Telangana through a competitive bidding process and the PPAs for the same were signed in February, 2016. These include one project of 100 MW, one of 50 MW and four projects of 15 MW each.

Mr. Rajiv Mishra, Managing Director, CLP India, said:

“Our approach to the market evolves around the kind of opportunities available as well as the prevailing policy framework. We have been keen to invest in solar in India to complement our Wind portfolio, and have evaluated projects that will be valueenhancing for our shareholders, whilst being attractive for our customers. The Veltoor solar project meets both the criteria. We believe that the state of Telangana has a favourable solar policy, which creates a conducive environment for us. We remain keen and will continue to explore such projects to expand our renewable energy footprint in Telangana and across India.”

Mr. Tulsi Tanti, Chairman and Managing Director, Suzlon Group, said:

“Globally, renewable energy is witnessing a paradigm shift from being considered alternate to mainstream source of energy. Investments in both wind and solar have garnered traction owing to the improving cost competiveness enabled through technology advancements and the need to transition from fossil fuel dominated energy architecture. The target of 175 GW renewable energy by 2022 outlined by the government of India, offers an opportunity of over 100 GW solar in the next 6 years. I am confident, with the conducive policy environment and public-private partnership we will seize this opportunity to ensure sustainable, affordable and reliable energy for all. We look forward to continuing our long-standing relationship with CLP and contribute towards Nation's energy security.”