Indian state-owned power utility NTPC is calling for expressions of interest in a pilot project to evaluate grid-connected sodium ion energy storage systems. The BESS systems would be deployed at some of NTPC’s existing thermal power plants and office buildings.

NTPC issued the call for expressions of interested on September 9, saying it wanted to hear from companies and tech providers capable of designing, supplying, installing and commissioning the systems.

Two capacity options for the pilot project have been proposed.

Under the first option, the BESS would need a usable energy capacity of 100kWh at the point of interconnection.

Under the second option, applicants can propose their own capacities based on their standard configuration and scale of the demonstration.

Safety and fire protection systems should form part of applications in line with statutory requirements.

Applicants would also need to indicate the technology readiness level of their proposal, although those below technology readiness level (TRL) 4 will not be considered. For TRL 4 or TRL 5, applicants must contribute a minimum of 50% of the total project cost.

For TRL 6 and above, there would be no mandatory minimum contribution. However, the amount would be agreed with NTPC on application.

Preference may be given to those who offer a higher financial contribution, the power company said.

NTPC will provide land and site support for the pilot project and will also provide a feeder for charging and discharging the BESS and auxiliary power if required.

Applicants will retain the intellectual property related to the technology although IP generated through the pilot demonstration will be jointly owned with NTPC, with special provisions for commercialisation in the case of TRL4-5 technologies.

The last date for submissions to NTPC is October 15, 2026.