GERC Hears Plea For Extension On 30 MW Wind-Solar Hybrid Project Due To Unforeseen Delays

Imandra Solar Pvt. Ltd. filed a petition before the Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission seeking an extension of time for completing its 30 MW wind-solar hybrid power project evacuation infrastructure at the 66 kV Jafrabad substation. The company requested the extension on account of several unforeseen events that hindered project execution. Their advocate argued that although the project developer took all necessary steps such as acquiring land, submitting bank guarantees, and starting construction, they faced delays due to clarification issues on banking policies, delivery challenges for critical components like circuit breakers and power transformers, and supply chain disruptions.

Initially, connectivity was granted by GETCO in two stages, and Imandra Solar complied with the regulations to obtain both Stage I and Stage II connectivity. According to the 2024 tariff order, developers must complete evacuation infrastructure within 12 months of being granted transmission capacity, but the same order allows for an extension in case of unforeseen circumstances. Imandra Solar claimed that they encountered issues including ambiguity in the interpretation of banking regulations, which caused investment delays. The Ministry of Power later clarified the matter in August 2024, followed by GUVNL’s letter in the same month, helping remove the confusion. However, the delay had already affected project timelines.

In addition to policy-related confusion, the project was delayed due to the late delivery of circuit breakers. The supplier Synergy Infra, contracted by Shridhar Infratel Pvt. Ltd., cited a global surge in demand and supply chain disruptions. Similarly, the delivery of power transformers ordered through a joint venture SPV also experienced delays. Despite efforts and follow-ups, the unforeseen delays impacted project completion. Imandra Solar highlighted that they had completed 18 of 27 tower foundations, achieved 60% of civil work and 30% of electrical work for the pooling substation, and had acquired 100% of the required land.

The petitioner stated that it had made considerable financial investment and demonstrated due diligence but was impeded by circumstances beyond their control. They requested the Commission to take any coercive action by GETCO, such as encashment of the submitted bank guarantees or cancellation of connectivity. They argued that revocation of connectivity would cause irreparable loss and delay the commissioning of renewable capacity, which aligns with national policy goals.

GETCO, represented by its counsel, did not object to admitting the petition but contested the interim relief, pointing out that delays in component deliveries and regulatory interpretations do not justify an extension under the category of unforeseen reasons. GETCO argued that the petitioner did not approach the Commission in time and failed to substantiate claims of disruption with sufficient documentation.

The Commission acknowledged that some work had been done and investments made and scheduled a final hearing for April 16, 2025, while allowing the petitioner time to submit a rejoinder. Until then, the matter remains pending, and the Commission will consider both parties’ arguments regarding the validity of unforeseen circumstances and the justification for an extension.