Ministry Of Power Grants TP Saurya Limited Authority To Lay Transmission Line For 300 MW Bikaner Solar Project

TP Saurya Limited has applied for authorization under Section 164 of the Electricity Act, 2003, to lay an overhead transmission line for its 300 MW Solar Power Project in Bikaner. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) granted prior approval for the transmission line, which was published in local newspapers for public review. After receiving no objections, TP Saurya Limited requested authority under Section 164 to lay the transmission line.

The request aims to confer upon TP Saurya Limited the powers possessed by the telegraph authority under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, for placing telegraph lines and posts. The transmission line is essential for providing connectivity to the solar power project and will be routed through various villages, towns, and cities in Rajasthan.

After careful consideration, the Ministry of Power, Government of India, granted TP Saurya Limited the authority to lay the overhead transmission line under Section 164 of the Electricity Act, 2003. However, the approval comes with certain terms and conditions.

Firstly, the approval is granted for a duration of 25 years. TP Saurya Limited must obtain consent from relevant authorities such as local bodies, Railways, National Highways, and State Highways before erecting the transmission line. The company is also required to adhere to regulations and codes framed under the Electricity Act, 2003, regarding transmission, operation, and maintenance, as well as open access.

Furthermore, TP Saurya Limited must operate the line only after obtaining approval from the Electrical Inspector or Chief Electrical Inspector of the Central Government. The approval is subject to compliance with the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003, and its associated rules by the applicant.

Additionally, TP Saurya Limited must submit clearances to the Central Electricity Authority after obtaining them from concerned authorities like Civil Aviation and Defense during the electrical inspection process. In cases where the transmission line intersects with the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) potential zone marked by the Hon’ble Supreme Court order dated April 19, 2021, TP Saurya Limited must adhere to the directives of the Supreme Court regarding undergrounding the transmission line or installing bird diverters, as per the technical committee’s recommendations. TP Saurya Limited’s authorization to lay the overhead transmission line underscores its commitment to renewable energy expansion. The approval process reflects the importance of complying with regulatory standards and environmental considerations in infrastructure development for sustainable energy projects.

Please view the document below for more details.