Transmission and transformation capacity additions exceed targets in FY25

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) reports that transmission and transformation capacity additions in the first seven months (April-October) of FY25 have surpassed planned targets. This marks the first instance of exceeding the target in FY25.

A total of 4,337 circuit kilometres (ckm) of transmission lines were added, 10% higher than the planned 4,762 ckm. Similarly, 33,265 MVA of substation capacity was achieved, surpassing the target of 30,780 MVA by 8%.

Central government utilities, led by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL), outperformed their targets, adding 18% more transmission lines and 20% more substation capacity than planned. 

State utilities exceeded their transmission line targets but fell slightly short on substation targets. 

The private sector also surpassed its transmission line target, achieving 812 ckm against the planned 808 ckm, with 3,320 MVA of substation capacity meeting the exact target. Much of this contribution came from Sterlite Power through its projects like Mumbai Urja Marg Ltd and Nangalbibra-Bongaigaon Transmission Ltd.

In October 2024, the CEA revised FY25 transmission infrastructure targets downward. The planned addition of transmission lines was reduced by 8.5% to 15,253 ckm, from the original 16,667 ckm. Transformation capacity targets were reduced by 3.5%, from 116,490 MVA to 112,435 MVA. 

Despite this, PGCIL is expected to contribute 35% of the line additions and 45% of new transformation capacity in FY25.

Comparatively, FY24 saw the addition of 14,203 ckm of transmission lines and 70,728 MVA of substation capacity. The revised FY25 targets indicate a 7.4% growth in transmission line additions and a substantial 59% increase in substation capacity additions.