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The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has updated its Manual on Transmission Planning Criteria, effective from April 1, 2023, including Amendment-I issued in January 2025. This manual outlines the guidelines and methodologies for planning a reliable and efficient power transmission system across India, addressing both inter-state and intra-state transmission systems. The primary focus is to ensure grid security, accommodate renewable energy integration, and provide a framework for transmission expansion that meets growing power demands. A key update in the manual is the inclusion of Chapter 7, which details procedures for planning electric power transmission systems. Additionally, the parameters for certain transmission conductors have been revised. These updates align with the evolving energy landscape, considering factors like increasing renewable energy capacities, rising load demands, technological advancements, and the challenges of right-of-way constraints. The manual emphasizes uniform transmission planning to enable smooth interconnectivity and reliable operation of the National Grid, which synchronously links the Northern, Western, Southern, Eastern, and North-Eastern regions. It also incorporates the General Network Access (GNA) framework, introduced under the Electricity (Transmission System Planning, Development, and Recovery of Inter-State Transmission Charges) Rules, 2021. This framework aims to streamline transmission planning by aligning generation and load growth while minimizing stranded investments. The manual outlines planning criteria, including permissible limits for voltage and thermal loading, reliability standards, and contingency criteria. It also specifies the requirements for modeling power systems for transmission studies, addressing scenarios like high renewable energy penetration and seasonal variations in demand. Special provisions are included for planning renewable energy evacuation systems and addressing issues like voltage stability and reactive power compensation. System studies, such as load flow, short-circuit, and stability analysis, are crucial for ensuring the reliability and adequacy of transmission systems. The manual highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate potential risks, including load shedding, generation rescheduling, and the implementation of system protection schemes. CEA also stresses the importance of coordination among stakeholders, including State Transmission Utilities (STUs), distribution licensees, and renewable energy developers. Provisions for the upgradation and modernization of existing systems are included, ensuring compatibility with new technologies and compliance with regulatory standards. Overall, the updated manual provides a comprehensive roadmap for transmission planning, addressing current and future challenges in India’s power sector while promoting a secure, sustainable, and resilient grid. The complete manual, including Amendment I, is available on the CEA website for reference by stakeholders. |
