The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has granted a transmission license to POWERGRID Koppal Gadag Augmentation Transmission Limited, formerly known as Gadag II and Koppal II Transmission Limited. This decision was announced through an order dated June 27, 2025. The license allows the company to develop and operate the interstate transmission project titled “System Strengthening at Koppal-II and Gadag-II for integration of renewable energy generation projects” on a Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis.
The project involves several transmission elements, including the installation of transformers and bays at Koppal-II and Gadag-II pooling substations. Specifically, at Koppal-II, there will be augmentation of 3×1500 MVA, 765/400kV transformers, and 5×500 MVA, 400/220kV transformers, along with associated bays. Additionally, 220kV line bays will be installed to connect with renewable energy developers. Similar infrastructure will be set up at Gadag-II, including a 400kV double circuit line between the two substations. The scheduled commissioning of these components spans from December 2025 to June 2027.
PFC Consulting Limited (PFCCL), acting as the Bid Process Coordinator, conducted the competitive bidding process under guidelines from the Ministry of Power. Power Grid Corporation of India Limited was selected as the successful bidder with the lowest annual transmission charges quoted at ₹1,966.91 million.
In its earlier order on May 26, 2025, the Commission had proposed the grant of the licence and called for public suggestions through notices in newspapers. No objections were received, and CTUIL recommended the issuance of the licence. In light of this, the Commission found the petitioner eligible under Section 15 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and the relevant regulations.
The granted transmission licence will be valid for 25 years from the date of issue. Conditions of the licence include compliance with relevant CERC regulations, prohibition on electricity trading, timely payment of licence fees, adherence to grid standards, and provision of open access. The licensee must also ensure that the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts are awarded through a competitive bidding process.
CERC has directed that the Central Transmission Utility of India (CTUIL), its appointed independent engineer, and the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) will monitor the project implementation. Any lapses in meeting scheduled timelines must be reported for further action. The petitioner is also required to follow all conditions laid out in the Request for Proposal (RfP) and the Transmission Service Agreement (TSA).
The petition was officially allowed, and copies of the order have been sent to CTUIL, CEA, and PFCCL for necessary action.
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