India’s renewable energy sector is witnessing one of its busiest tender cycles in recent years, with government agencies issuing a record volume of utility-scale solar tenders in the final quarter of 2025. Industry analysts say the surge is driven by aggressive targets for FY 2026, falling module prices, and strong interest from IPPs (Independent Power Producers).

Developers are competing intensely to secure land-banked zones, transmission-ready locations, and hybrid tender opportunities combining solar, wind, and storage.

Large-Scale Tenders Surge Across States

Multiple state agencies and central bodies have floated sizeable tenders over the past eight weeks, including:

• Utility-scale parks in Rajasthan and Gujarat
• Hybrid (solar + wind) zones in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu
• Storage-integrated solar bids in Maharashtra
• Floating solar invitations from central PSUs

Industry estimates suggest that combined tender capacity released in Q4 2025 may exceed previous quarterly records.

Why Developers Are Rushing for 2026 Pipelines

Key factors fueling the rush include:

• Sharp decline in module prices — improving project IRRs
• Better transmission readiness at major renewable parks
• Improved demand from DISCOMs seeking long-term PPAs
• Push for hybrid projects to stabilize grid output

Experts say that 2026 will be a defining year for India's utility-scale capacity addition as states accelerate tenders ahead of upcoming policy revisions.

Growing Focus on Storage and Hybridization

Several tenders released in November–December 2025 include provisions for:

• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
• Round-the-clock renewable supply
• Flexible scheduling windows
• Peak power support requirements

This reflects India’s broader shift toward firm and dispatchable renewable energy.

Outlook for 2026

Industry bodies expect that utility-scale solar capacity awarded through these tenders will significantly boost the project pipeline for 2026–2027, pushing India closer to its medium-term renewable targets.

SolSetu will continue tracking tender announcements and developer participation trends throughout 2026.