CERC issues interstate licence to Powergrid Bhadla Bikaner Transmission

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has granted an interstate transmission licence to Powergrid Bhadla Bikaner Transmission Ltd (PBBTL), a subsidiary of Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL). The licence, valid for 25 years, is subject to regulatory conditions.

PBBTL is developing the “Transmission system strengthening for interconnections of Bhadla-III and Bikaner-III complex” scheme in Rajasthan. This ISTS-TBCB project is based on a build, own, operate & transfer (BOOT) model and is expected to cost Rs 13.82 billion with a completion target of February 2026.

The project includes constructing a 765kV double-circuit line spanning about 150 km between the Bhadla-III and Bikaner-III pooling stations. It also involves two 765kV line bays at each station. The scheme is designed to enhance power transfer flexibility and improve transmission resilience within the Bhadla and Bikaner renewable energy complexes.

PGCIL acquired PBBTL from PFC Consulting Ltd (PFCCL) on August 30, 2024, after winning the bid under the TBCB mechanism. PGCIL emerged victorious with an annual transmission tariff bid of Rs 979.7 million, besting three other bidders: Sterlite Power, Adani Energy Solutions, and Techno Electric & Engineering Company.