Delhi Unveils ₹215 Crore Power Upgrade Plan With 55.5 MW BESS

The Delhi government has launched a major plan to upgrade the city’s power system to meet its energy needs for the next 50 years. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta recently inaugurated several projects aimed at improving safety, reliability, and clean energy adoption across the capital.

One of the key projects focuses on undergrounding electricity cables in Old Delhi. The ₹160 crore project will cover 28 major roads and streets in the Chandni Chowk area, including Kucha Mahajani, Bhagirath Palace, Jama Masjid Road, and Nai Sadak. Around 52.5 kilometers of overhead wires will be shifted underground. The government said this move will reduce fire risks, prevent power cuts caused by bad weather, and improve the overall appearance of the historic area. To avoid inconvenience to shopkeepers and residents, most of the work will be carried out at night.

The Chief Minister said that strengthening the power network is important for Delhi’s shift toward green energy. As the use of electric vehicles increases, electricity demand is expected to rise sharply. Upgrading the grid now will help the city handle higher loads in the future without major disruptions.

Apart from the Old Delhi project, a new 66/11 kV Gas Insulated Switchgear indoor grid will be set up in Mandoli at a cost of ₹55.5 crore. This facility will improve the power supply in Northeast Delhi and benefit nearly 1.5 lakh consumers. It will also ensure reliable electricity for key installations such as Mandoli Jail and the Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital.

In addition, the government will install four standalone Battery Energy Storage Systems in South and West Delhi. With a combined capacity of 55.5 MW, these systems will manage peak-hour demand and improve voltage stability for over 2.5 lakh consumers. The use of digital twin technology will allow real-time monitoring and timely maintenance of the upgraded network.

All projects are expected to be completed by March 2027. The government said these steps will make Delhi’s power system safer, stronger, and ready for future growth.