The Government of India recently announced a 25 GW solar mission plan which is to be implemented in three phases by 2023. The first phase is of 1000 MW by 2013, the second phase is 9000 MW by 2018, and the balance by 2023. The tariff from these solar plants would be as per CERC regulation and the proposal is that all the power that is generated would be purchased by NTPC‘s trading arm NVVN. Some of the key updates of the National Solar Mission are as follows.

First the developers who have already initiated solar projects with respective states would be considered for migration in to the new scheme. A draft MoU would be signed with the eligible developers by February 2010.

Secondly, a proposed implementation process and timeline for the new projects under the new National Solar Mission has also been issued by the government through its nodal agency NVVN and suggestions have now been invited from solar developers and other stakeholders.

Thirdly, according to the proposed timeline, expression of interest from developers are then expected by March 10th, 2010 with readiness of PPAs which is expected to be there by October 31st, 2020.

Fourthly, the tariff that has been suggested by CERC is at about Rs.18.44 per unit for PV based generation and Rs.13.45 per unit solar thermal project. Lastly CERC also can approve project specific tariffs on case by case basis.