Patna: In a significant move to address future power shortages, Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) chairman Amir Subhani and member P S Yadav have approved the procurement of 300 MW of renewable energy, including solar, wind, hydropower and other non-conventional sources, to strengthen the state’s clean energy portfolio and meet future demand.As per the order issued by the commission on Monday, the renewable power will be procured through the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) under a 25-year long-term agreement. Following regulatory clearance, Bihar’s power utilities are expected to sign formal agreements with SECI soon. Supply is likely to begin within 24 months of the agreement. The power will be purchased at a competitive tariff of Rs 3.25 per unit.The BERC’s move aims to help Bihar meet its Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) targets. In the current financial year, nearly 35.95% of the total electricity supplied in the state must come from renewable sources, including wind, hydropower and other non-conventional energy. Failure to meet these targets can attract substantial penalties for power companies.Officials estimate that Bihar could face a power deficit of around 7,936 MW in 2026–27, making renewable energy a crucial component of the state’s future energy strategy. Currently, Bihar has power purchase agreements totalling 11,764 MW, of which 4,021 MW is sourced from renewable energy.The state is also expanding its own renewable generation capacity. Bihar currently produces 54.3 MW of hydropower from 13 projects on the Son, Gandak and Kosi canal systems. In addition, a 185 MW solar power project at Kajra in Lakhisarai has begun commercial generation under Phase I.
