Patna: In a major step towards strengthening Bihar’s clean energy mix and addressing future power requirements, the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) has approved the procurement of 300 MW of renewable energy. The approval was granted by BERC chairman Amir Subhani and member P.S. Yadav for sourcing power from solar, wind, hydropower and other non-conventional energy sources.
According to an order issued by the commission on Monday, the renewable energy will be procured through the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) under a long-term agreement spanning 25 years. Following the regulatory approval, Bihar’s power utilities are expected to enter into formal agreements with SECI shortly. The supply is expected to commence within 24 months of signing the agreement, with power being procured at a competitive tariff of Rs 3.25 per unit.
The move is aimed at enabling Bihar to meet its Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) targets. During the current financial year, nearly 35.95 per cent of the total electricity supplied in the state is required to come from renewable sources, including wind, hydropower and other non-conventional energy. Failure to achieve these targets could result in substantial penalties for power distribution companies.
Officials estimate that Bihar may face a power deficit of around 7,936 MW in 2026-27, making renewable energy a key component of the state’s long-term power strategy. At present, Bihar has power purchase agreements with a total capacity of 11,764 MW, out of which 4,021 MW is sourced from renewable energy.
Meanwhile, the state is also expanding its own renewable generation capacity. Bihar currently generates 54.3 MW of hydropower through 13 projects located on the Son, Gandak and Kosi canal systems. Additionally, the first phase of the 185 MW solar power project at Kajra in Lakhisarai has already begun commercial operations.