Written by: Basant El-Farmawy
The Renewable Energy Agency in the Indian state of Odisha has launched a request for proposals to select a specialized consultant to conduct an environmental and social impact assessment for a floating solar project integrating a battery energy storage system. The step aims to study the environmental and operational aspects of the anticipated project.
Project Details and Geographical Location
The 225 MW project aims to utilize the area of the Indravati reservoir located across the Nabarangpur and Kalahandi districts in Odisha state. The scope of work includes infrastructure associated with power evacuation and transmission lines necessary to connect the project to the grid, to ensure efficient renewable energy integration.
Environmental and Social Assessment Criteria
The selected consultant will be required to conduct detailed technical, physical, biological, social, and economic assessments, in line with Indian regulations and the International Finance Corporation's 2012 Performance Standards, in addition to the World Bank Group's Environment, Health, and Safety guidelines. The studies include water quality assessment, aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, as well as conducting hydrodynamic modeling for water quality and potential transformer leakage risks.
Risk Management and Safety Plans
The project focuses specifically on assessing the safety of energy storage batteries, including fire risks, thermal runaway, and hazardous waste management. A climate change risk assessment will also be prepared to identify appropriate adaptation measures, alongside the development of administrative and social plans including the environmental and social management plan, stakeholder engagement, and the protection of vulnerable communities.
Timeline for Bid Submission
The request document has been officially issued, with inquiries to be received and introductory meetings for applicants to be held at a later date, leading up to the deadline for electronic bid submission in mid-November 2026. The regulatory body plans to announce the winning contractor in early December and sign the contract before the end of the year, according to specific financial and insurance terms that include submitting performance guarantees valid for a specific period according to regulatory terms.
