The Indian state of Gujarat has launched a major tender for the deployment of 2,000 MW / 4,000 MWh standalone Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), inviting bids through a Request for Selection (RfS) issued by Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) on July 23, 2025.

The projects will be developed under a tariff-based competitive bidding process and will receive Viability Gap Funding (VGF) from the Power System Development Fund (PSDF). The storage systems are designed for “on-demand” power usage, helping to balance electricity supply during peak and off-peak hours across the state.

The bidding will follow a single-stage, two-envelope e-tendering format. Successful bidders will be required to build, own, and operate the BESS assets. GUVNL will enter into long-term Battery Energy Storage Purchase Agreements (BESPAs) with selected developers.

Key technical criteria include:

· Ability to perform two full charge-discharge cycles per day

· Minimum 95% annual system availability

· Minimum round-trip efficiency of 85%

· Penalties for failure to meet performance standards

The deadline to submit queries is August 8, 2025 (5:00 PM), and a pre-bid meeting will be held virtually on August 13, 2025 (12:00 PM).

This tender signals a strong move by Gujarat toward modernizing its power infrastructure and enhancing grid flexibility through large-scale battery storage.