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Khavda IV C Power Transmission Limited (KIVCTPL) has filed a petition seeking the grant of a transmission license for establishing an inter-state transmission system in Gujarat. This system will help evacuate power from a renewable energy zone in the Khavda area, which is part of the Phase-IV expansion, aimed at handling 7 GW of renewable energy. The petition, submitted under Sections 14, 15, and 79(1)(e) of the Electricity Act, 2003, follows the procedures outlined by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) for the grant of transmission licenses. The transmission system, which includes multiple high-capacity electrical components, is planned to operate on a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) basis. Specific elements of the transmission infrastructure include 765 kV and 400 kV substations, 765 kV and 400 kV line bays, reactors, and STATCOMs (Static Synchronous Compensators) to enhance grid stability. This setup will be crucial in evacuating power from the renewable energy zones in the Khavda region, ensuring that the infrastructure can handle the growing demand and supply from these renewable sources. The project will be developed in phases, with a completion deadline set for 24 months from the effective date, which is scheduled for October 15, 2024. Among the primary components are 765 kV and 400 kV lines and reactors at various substations in Gujarat. In addition, the project will integrate a series of important infrastructures, including a ±200 MVAR STATCOM at critical locations to stabilize voltage levels and improve the efficiency of power transmission. The bidding process for the project was conducted through competitive bidding, and Sterlite Grid 38 Limited emerged as the successful bidder. They offered the lowest quoted transmission charges of ?13,148.08 million annually. The bidding process was transparent and carried out following the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Power, Government of India. Despite some challenges such as land acquisition issues and rising commodity prices, the project is critical due to its role in the timely evacuation of power from the Khavda renewable energy zone, which is linked with other parts of the expansion. After reviewing the petition and the details of the project, the Commission proposed granting a transmission license to Khavda IV C Power Transmission Limited. A public notice was issued, inviting objections or suggestions from the public, but no responses were received. Following a hearing, the Commission agreed that the company met the requirements outlined in the Electricity Act and the Transmission License Regulations, 2024, and decided to grant the license. The transmission license will be valid for 25 years, with conditions that include compliance with the regulations on performance standards, open access provisions, and reporting requirements. The licensee is also required to ensure that the project is implemented according to the technical standards set by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). The project will be monitored by the Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL) and the CEA to ensure that the execution proceeds as per the agreed schedule. The successful completion of this project is vital for supporting the renewable energy transition in India, particularly in the Khavda region of Gujarat, which has been identified as a major renewable energy hub. By facilitating the evacuation of renewable energy, the project aligns with India’s broader goals of increasing the share of renewable energy in the national grid and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. |
