Enhancing Renewable Integration: CERC Grants Transmission License For 400kv Project At Parli Substation

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) in New Delhi issued an order in Petition on July 2024. The petition was filed by POWERGRID Parli Transmission Limited (PPTL), seeking the grant of a separate transmission license for the implementation of a 400 kV line bay at the 765/400 kV Parli (New) substation to interconnect a renewable energy (RE) project through the “Regulated Tariff Mechanism” (RTM) mode.

The petition named several respondents, including Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited, MP Power Management Company Limited, Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited, Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited, Goa Electricity Department, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman Power Distribution Corporation Ltd., Electricity Department of Daman & Diu, ReNew Pawan Shakti Private Limited, and the Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL).

The petitioner, represented by legal counsel and other officials, presented their case, emphasizing the necessity of the project and the compliance with regulatory requirements. CTUIL supported the petition, indicating the project’s alignment with national transmission plans and its importance for the grid’s stability and efficiency.

The CERC considered the petition under Section 14 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and the associated regulations. They noted that PPTL, originally named Gadarwara (B) Transmission Limited, was incorporated as a special purpose vehicle for implementing transmission projects on a Build, Own, Operate, and Maintain (BOOM) basis. The petition sought the commission’s approval to proceed with the transmission scheme, which was part of a broader initiative to enhance the grid’s capacity to integrate renewable energy sources.

The scope of the project included the construction of a 400kV line bay at the 765/400kV Parli (New) substation, with an estimated cost of ₹18 crore and an expected completion date of 31st December 2025. The project aimed to facilitate the interconnection of renewable energy projects, contributing to the national goal of increasing the share of clean energy in the power mix.

The CERC highlighted the procedural compliance by PPTL, including the publication of a public notice in major newspapers to invite suggestions or objections from the public. No objections were received, and CTUIL recommended granting the transmission license. The CERC also acknowledged the regulatory framework governing the grant of transmission licenses, including the need for competitive bidding and adherence to technical standards and grid codes.

After reviewing the petition, submissions, and supporting documents, the CERC decided to grant the transmission license to PPTL. They emphasized the importance of adhering to the stipulated regulations and directed the petitioner to ensure timely execution of the project. The CERC also instructed CTUIL and the Central Electricity Authority to monitor the project’s progress and report any lapses to the commission.

The CERC’s order granted PPTL the necessary license to implement the 400kV line bay project, marking a significant step towards enhancing the transmission infrastructure to support renewable energy integration in India. The order underscored the commission’s commitment to facilitating the development of a robust and resilient power grid capable of meeting the nation’s growing energy needs sustainably.

Please view the document here for more details.