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Solapur Transmission Limited (STL) has received the green light for a major power transmission project in Maharashtra. The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has approved STL’s application for a transmission license, which will facilitate the evacuation of 1,500 MW of renewable energy from projects within the Solapur SEZ. This approval followed a comprehensive competitive bidding process managed by PFC Consulting Limited (PFCCL), which named Torrent Power Limited as the winning bidder with an annual transmission charge of ?500 million.
Torrent Power subsequently acquired STL and now holds the responsibility for the establishment and operation of the inter-state transmission system. The project, set to be developed on a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) basis, encompasses several critical infrastructure elements. Key components include a 400/220 kV substation with multiple transformer bays, bus reactors, and line bays to ensure robust connectivity and efficient power evacuation.
The project is planned to be completed within 24 months from the effective date of acquisition, targeting a completion date around March 2026. This timeline is in alignment with the expected commissioning schedules of various renewable energy projects in the region, ensuring a synchronized development and operational timeline.
CTUIL (Central Transmission Utility of India Limited) and other relevant authorities have endorsed the project, acknowledging that STL has complied with all regulatory requirements. Moreover, STL has put in place stringent quality control measures to ensure that the construction and operational phases adhere to the highest standards. This includes a manufacturing quality plan for materials and a field quality plan for construction activities, overseen by independent engineers.
Public feedback was solicited through notices in leading newspapers, but no objections were raised, indicating broad support or acceptance of the project. The approval marks a significant milestone in enhancing the power infrastructure in Maharashtra, particularly for renewable energy integration, which is crucial for meeting India’s growing energy demands sustainably.
With the support of CTUIL and adherence to the Transmission Service Agreement (TSA), STL is poised to deliver a project that not only meets technical specifications but also aligns with broader policy goals of increasing renewable energy capacity and improving grid reliability. The project’s successful implementation will contribute significantly to the region’s energy infrastructure, supporting economic growth and sustainability efforts.
STL’s transmission project represents a critical advancement in Maharashtra’s power sector, facilitating the efficient evacuation of renewable energy and contributing to the region’s sustainable development goals. The regulatory support and absence of public objections underscore the project’s importance and the trust placed in STL’s capabilities to deliver on this ambitious initiative. |
