GERC Grants 30-Day Extension For 11.88 MW Gujarat Solar Project Connectivity

The Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) has granted a 30-day extension to VMS TMT Limited for completing the evacuation infrastructure of its 11.88 MW captive solar power project connected to the 66 KV Kotda Substation in Gujarat. The decision was issued in response to Petition No. 2655 of 2026 and an interlocutory application filed by the company, which sought additional time to prevent penal action by the Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO).

VMS TMT Limited had earlier received stage connectivity approval for its captive solar project and was required to complete the dedicated transmission infrastructure within the timeline prescribed under the applicable regulations. Following earlier regulatory relaxations, the final deadline for completion had been extended until April 28, 2026. However, the company was unable to complete the required works within that period, prompting GETCO to consider revoking the project’s grid connectivity and encashing the bank guarantee of ₹1.188 crore submitted by the developer.

In its petition before the Commission, VMS TMT Limited requested a further 30-day extension from the date of the order. The company argued that project execution had been delayed due to force majeure events beyond its control. It pointed to geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which disrupted global shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the company, these developments led to port congestion, airspace restrictions, and delays in the delivery of essential equipment such as HT/LT cables, 33 KV switchboard panels, and structural steel required for the project.

GETCO opposed the request and argued that the company had previously withdrawn a similar extension petition without obtaining permission to file it again. The transmission utility also maintained that general supply chain disruptions and delays by equipment suppliers could not be treated as force majeure under the applicable regulations. It stressed that adherence to connectivity timelines is necessary to ensure efficient utilization of transmission infrastructure and avoid unnecessary delays in grid planning.

After examining the submissions, the Commission rejected the company’s force majeure claim, stating that broad global disruptions and supplier delays alone do not automatically exempt a developer from fulfilling its contractual obligations unless supported by clear and direct evidence.

However, the Commission also noted that the project had made significant progress. It observed that key activities, including meter sealing and Real-Time Terminal Unit (RTU) data integration, had already been completed jointly with GETCO and Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Limited (UGVCL) in May 2026. Since the project was substantially complete and ready for grid integration, the Commission concluded that cancelling connectivity at this stage would unfairly affect a nearly operational renewable energy project.

Invoking its powers under Section 86(1)(e) of the Electricity Act, 2003, which promotes renewable energy development, the GERC directed VMS TMT Limited to complete all remaining procedural formalities within 30 days. It also instructed GETCO to facilitate physical grid connectivity upon compliance. The Commission clarified that the relief was granted considering the specific facts of the case and that the order should not be treated as a legal precedent for future matters.