CTUIL releases draft procedure for connectivity and GNA applications

The Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL) has released a draft “Detailed Procedure for Grant of Connectivity and General Network Access” for public consultation. The document gives effect to the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) Connectivity and General Network Access to the Inter-State Transmission System Regulations, 2022. It will replace the procedure issued in October 2022. CTUIL has invited comments until 27 December 2025.

The draft runs 97 pages and sets out the process for generators, renewable energy parks, energy storage systems, distribution licensees and bulk consumers to apply for connectivity to the Inter-State Transmission System and for GNA. All applications are required to be filed through the National Single Window System portal.  

The draft formalises the Consultation Meetings for Evolving Transmission Schemes. These meetings are held every month at the regional level and allow stakeholder consultation on transmission proposals based on interconnection studies. The agenda for each meeting is expected to list the available power transfer margin in the Inter-State Transmission System and at the relevant substation or pooling station for all applications under review. CTUIL classifies applications as having major or minor deficiencies. Major deficiencies lead to summary rejection and forfeiture of 20 per cent of the application fee.

The draft outlines the process for the grant of in-principle connectivity. CTUIL aims to issue a decision within 60 days if no augmentation is needed. The timeline extends to 90 days if augmentation of the transmission system is required. Applicants need to submit unconditional bank guarantees payable on demand. CTUIL proposes a monitoring framework through monthly status updates and quarterly Joint Coordination Committee meetings to track project progress.

The draft includes rules for reallocating connectivity within notified clusters of Inter-State Transmission System substations. It sets the conditions for a one-time change in the renewable energy source of a project. It also details the steps for seeking CTUIL approval for any change in control of a connectivity grantee before commissioning. Requests for change in control are required at least 90 days before the proposed change.

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