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The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has issued an order regarding the grant of a transmission license to Bikaner B Power Transmission Limited. This petition was filed under Sections 14 and 15 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and the related CERC regulations. Bikaner B Power Transmission Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, is responsible for implementing the “Transmission System for Evacuation of Power from Rajasthan REZ Phase IV (Part 3: 6 GW) [Bikaner Complex]: Part B” on a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer basis. The project includes several key elements, such as the establishment of a 765/400 kV substation at Siwani, along with multiple transformers, bus reactors, and interconnecting transmission lines. It also involves laying a 765 kV double-circuit line between Bikaner-IV and Siwani and constructing a 400 kV double-circuit transmission line from Siwani to Sonipat and Jind. Additionally, a Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) will be installed at Siwani to improve power quality and stability. The bidding process for selecting the Transmission Service Provider (TSP) was conducted by REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited. The competitive bidding process attracted major industry players, including Adani Energy Solutions, Tata Power, Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, and Sterlite Grid. After the bidding and reverse auction process, Power Grid Corporation emerged as the successful bidder, quoting the lowest transmission charges of Rs. 5,093.13 million. Following its selection, Power Grid acquired 100% equity in Bikaner B Power Transmission Limited and submitted the necessary performance guarantees. CERC reviewed the petition and verified compliance with regulatory requirements, including notices, approvals, and financial commitments. The project is a crucial part of India’s renewable energy strategy, supporting the evacuation of 6 GW of renewable power from Rajasthan. The Commission also noted that the project aligns with the broader plan for integrating renewable energy zones into the national grid. During the hearing, it was observed that no objections were raised by stakeholders. The Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL) recommended granting the license, confirming that the transmission system would facilitate power evacuation from renewable energy zones in Rajasthan. The project was discussed and approved in key meetings, including the National Committee on Transmission and the Northern Regional Power Committee. CERC directed that a public notice be published to invite any further suggestions or objections before final approval. The petitioner has undertaken to complete the project as per the agreed timelines and technical standards, ensuring compliance with grid regulations and safety standards. The Commission has scheduled a hearing for March 18, 2025, to finalize the approval. The project is expected to enhance the reliability of the transmission network and support India’s renewable energy transition by ensuring efficient power evacuation from solar and wind projects in Rajasthan. |
