Global Tender Launched: MHI Aims to Secure Energy Future as Giants Bid for 10 GWh Advanced Chemistry Cell Manufacturing

Global Tender Launched: MHI Aims to Secure Energy Future as Giants Bid for 10 GWh Advanced Chemistry Cell Manufacturing​

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has initiated a major global tender, inviting bids from international and domestic players. The purpose is to select beneficiaries capable of establishing giga-scale Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) manufacturing facilities in India. This initiative targets the production of 10 GWh under the framework of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for ACC Battery Storage.

This move signals a determined national push toward strengthening domestic capabilities in high-capacity battery technology. The specific capacity earmarked is dedicated to Grid Scale Stationary Storage (GSSS) applications. This focus addresses the nation's burgeoning energy storage requirements driven by rapid renewable energy deployment.

Inviting Global Players for ACC Facility Setup​

The tender invites companies worldwide to participate in establishing these advanced manufacturing facilities. The 10 GWh target is critical to bolstering India’s energy security profile. It directly supports the goal of reducing dependence on imported ACC batteries.

By securing this domestic production capacity, the government intends to cultivate a globally competitive battery manufacturing ecosystem within the country. This strategic investment provides foundational support for future industrial growth and stability.

Understanding the PLI ACC Scheme Ecosystem​

The bidding process is part of the wider national commitment established in May 2021 by the Union Cabinet. The overarching initiative is the "National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage."

This comprehensive scheme carries a total budgetary outlay of ₹18,100 crore. Its initial goal is to achieve an ACC manufacturing capacity of 50 GWh across India. While this tender focuses on 10 GWh for Grid Scale Stationary Storage, the overall program aims at self-sufficiency.

Of the total targeted 50 GWh capacity under the PLI scheme, 40 GWh has been allocated to domestic manufacturers. This structured approach ensures a balanced development path in battery manufacturing infrastructure.

Timeline and Bidding Process Details​

The entire bidding process is set up as a transparent two-stage Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) mechanism. The selection process will be conducted entirely online through the Central Public Procurement (CPP) Portal.

Potential bidders can access the tender documents starting from 15 July 2026. A pre-bid conference has been scheduled for 29 July 2026. Companies must submit their bids by the deadline, which is set for 13 October 2026. Technical bids are scheduled to be opened on 14 October 2026.