CTU finalises procedure for ISTS connectivity and network access

The Central Transmission Utility of India (CTU) has issued a “Detailed Procedure” for the grant of Connectivity and General Network Access (GNA) to the inter-state transmission system (ISTS). The framework takes effect from the date of notification, replacing the 2022 procedure, and introduces provisions on reallocation of transmission rights, changes in renewable energy sources, and stricter application scrutiny.

The procedure, issued under the CERC (Connectivity and General Network Access to the inter-State Transmission System) Regulations, 2022, sets binding rules for developers, distribution licensees, and bulk consumers connecting to the national grid. It covers all ISTS-linked projects, including solar, wind, battery storage, and conventional generation.

Eligibility and application process

Applicants are required to submit requests through the National Single Window System (NSWS) and pay the fee online. The CTU will process applications received in a month together, with priority based on timestamp. Applications with major deficiencies will be closed with 20% fee forfeiture, while minor deficiencies can be rectified within seven working days. A minimum eligible quantum applies, with limited flexibility for existing connectivity holders seeking enhancement.

Planning studies and consultation meetings

The CTU will undertake technical interconnection studies, including power flow analysis, to assess the need for ISTS augmentation. Monthly Consultation Meetings for Evolving Transmission Schemes (CMETS) will be held to evaluate applications and develop schemes. Timelines for in-principle connectivity are set at 60 days where no augmentation is required and 90 days where augmentation is involved, counted from the end of the application month. Scheme approvals will follow prescribed cost-based authority thresholds.

Reallocation of connectivity rights (Regulation 11C)

The procedure defines a framework for reallocation of connectivity rights within ISTS substation clusters, subject to approval of clauses 7 and 8 by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC). Reallocation may arise from revocation, closure, or relinquishment of connectivity. Vacated margins are reassigned based on application priority, while margins below 50 MW are only disclosed and do not trigger reallocation.

Change in renewable energy source

Connectivity grantees are permitted a one-time change in renewable energy source within 18 months of in-principle grant or 18 months before the firm start date, whichever is later. The total connectivity quantum remains unchanged. Non-solar hour access may be revised subject to available margins. Conversion between ESS and solar or wind is not allowed.

Bank guarantees and financial compliance

Applicants are required to submit unconditional and irrevocable bank guarantees in prescribed formats, including Conn-BG1, BG2, BG3, and Land-BG. Conn-BG1 is linked to full-capacity COD, while BG2 and BG3 carry an initial validity of 18 months and require timely extension. Non-payment of transmission charges beyond three months can result in encashment of guarantees and revocation of connectivity. Land-BG applicants are required to submit land documents for at least 50% of the required area at a later stage.

Connectivity and GNA agreements

Successful applicants are required to sign the Connectivity Agreement (Cat-1) within 30 days of grant. At least one year before physical interconnection, technical data is to be submitted, followed by issuance of connection details and execution of the Cat-2 agreement. Physical connection is allowed only after Cat-2 execution. Distribution licensees and bulk consumers granted GNA are required to pay a one-time charge of Rs 1 lakh per MW and furnish a letter of credit one month before the start date.

Change in control and transfer of connectivity

The procedure permits change in control of a connectivity grantee before COD under defined conditions, subject to prior CTU approval. Grounds include insolvency proceedings, statutory transfers, lender step-in rights, and exit of foreign entities from India. Applications are to be filed at least 90 days in advance. Any unapproved change in control will lead to revocation of connectivity and encashment of bank guarantees.

The procedure is available on the CTU website and applies to new and pending applications in line with transitional provisions under the third amendment to the GNA Regulations.

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