The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), a key government agency promoting renewable energy, has revised its tender issuance process to mitigate corruption risks following allegations of bribery by U.S. authorities. SECI’s decision comes amid claims that bribes were paid to unidentified officials between 2021 and 2022 in solar power deals involving Adani Group and several states. However, SECI itself has not been accused of any wrongdoing.
The Adani Group, a prominent ports-to-power conglomerate, has firmly denied the allegations, calling them baseless. While SECI continues to state that there is “no basis so far” to investigate the matter and no violations of its agreements have been identified, the agency is proactively altering its bidding practices.
Previously, around 90% of SECI’s bids for renewable power were initiated by seeking power suppliers first through tenders and later finding buyers, a method that increased the risk of manipulation. Power producers could allegedly influence state-level buyers to sign deals for electricity they did not necessarily require. To address this concern, SECI now plans for 75% of its new bids to be based on specific demand from states, ensuring greater accountability and transparency.
An official familiar with the matter, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue, highlighted that the new framework reduces the opportunity for undue influence. The agency has not found grounds for an independent investigation into past projects, nor has it been approached by any Indian or international regulatory body.
The move signifies SECI's commitment to maintaining credibility and transparency within India’s growing renewable energy sector. By aligning tenders directly with state-level power demand, SECI aims to improve efficiency and eliminate opportunities for misconduct. This shift is particularly significant as India works toward its ambitious renewable energy goals, while maintaining investor confidence in the sector.
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