India Inc. may ban Chinese firms to participate in Ladakh solar project

India is likely to ban Chinese firms to participate in the project amid aggravating border tensions.

India Inc. may ban Chinese firms to participate in Ladakh solar project. However, India Inc. is exploring ways to ban. Chinese firms from participating in a mega 7.5 gigawatts (GW) solar project in Ladakh . Which is including a 900-km strategic transmission link to transport surplus power. Also to other parts of the country, said two people aware of the development.

State-run Solar Energy Corp. of India (SECI) is running the selection process. Furthermore, for setting up the 7.5GW of grid connected solar projects in Leh and Kargil districts. And will sign a 35-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with the successful bidders. Bids can be submitted until 31 July.

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“The tender is yet to be finalized. While it is an international competitive bid. Whatever is needed to discourage Chinese firms from getting involved. Which is in this critical project to be done. We are working on it,” said a senior government official, requesting anonymity.

Ladakh Solar Project

The solar project is planned to be set up. In blocks of 2.5GW each. And will supply power to the residents. Which shall be of Leh and Kargil districts. Besides defence establishments, during harsh winters. While transmiting surplus power to the rest of India. It will be a boon to provide integration and accessibility of the Union Territory with the rest of the country. The plant will be set up in Zanskar sub division and Taisuru block of Kargil district, and Hanley Khaldo area of Nyoma sub-division in Leh district.

However, a senior SECI official said that it has not “received any directions” from the government. “We can’t comment on whether India is banning Chinese companies from participating in this tender. As on date, the bid is open to all global players.”

India’s economic strategy is against Chinese aggression in Ladakh and the LOC. India has evolved into a ‘Boycott China’ campaign and go ‘Vocal for Local’. The plan also involves procuring equipment and material locally and increase domestic capacity.