Projects Today reported that nine companies have been declared qualified bidders for the 1,320 MW Rajpura coal based thermal power unit at Rajpura in Patiala district of Punjab.

The nine companies are
1. Reliance Power
2. TATA Power
3. Lanco Infratech
4. Essar Power
5. L&T Power Development
6. Gujarat Paguthan Energy Corporation
7. Sterlite Energy
8. Indiabulls Power Generation
9. Consortium of JSW Energy and Infrastructure Development Finance Co

These qualified bidders will now have to submit their proposals by November 7th 2008. The project will involve an investment of INR 5,000 to INR 6,000 crore and is proposed to be awarded to developers on BOO basis, through tariff-based international competitive bidding. Power Finance Corporation is the consultant for selection of developer of the project.

Nabha Power, a SPV formed by Punjab State Electricity Board will implement the project. The SPV will be responsible for ensuring linkages for coal, water and to undertake studies for transportation, hydrological, topographical, other studies and surveys necessary for preparation of project report.

The site of the proposed project has been cleared by the Central Electricity Authority and around 1,085 acres of land has been identified. The state government has also initiated the process of acquisition.