Key facts
- India's Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has issued standard implementation timelines for interstate transmission system (ISTS) projects.
- The new timelines aim to synchronize power transmission infrastructure with new electricity generation, especially for renewable energy.
- Greenfield 765 kV and 400 kV substations are to be completed within 36 months.
- Greenfield 220 kV and 132 kV substations will have a 24-month implementation timeline.
- HVDC systems are expected to be completed within 48-54 months.
- Direct current transmission lines of 765 kV will have timelines of 30-36 months, and 400 kV lines 24-30 months.
India is implementing standard timelines for power transmission projects to address persistent delays in power evacuation infrastructure, particularly for renewable energy. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has issued these guidelines to better align the development of substations and transmission lines with the commissioning of new electricity generation capacity.
Transmission projects typically require 36-60 months for completion, significantly longer than the 12-18 months needed for renewable energy projects. The new framework sets specific timelines for various types of infrastructure: greenfield 765 kV and 400 kV substations are slated for completion within 36 months, while 220 kV and 132 kV substations will have a 24-month timeline. High-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems, including lines and substations, are expected to take 48-54 months. For direct current (DC) transmission lines, 765 kV lines will have timelines of 30-36 months, and 400 kV lines 24-30 months.
Stakeholders, including developers, distribution companies, and bulk consumers, are advised to integrate these schedules into their planning, financial closure, and procurement processes. Challenges such as 'right of way' issues, land acquisition, and obtaining environmental clearances have historically contributed to delays, with a significant percentage of projects facing delays of one year or more.