Author: Power Peak Digest Team Pub Date: October 24, 2024
Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) has received letters of intent (LoIs) for two interstate transmission system (ISTS) schemes for evacuating renewable energy from Rajasthan’s Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Phase IV (6 GW) [Bikaner complex]. The LoIs were issued on October 21, 2024, with PGCIL confirming the notifications on October 22, 2024.
The two schemes are:
Transmission system for evacuation of power from Rajasthan REZ Phase IV (Part-3: 6 GW) [Bikaner complex]: Part A- Involves the establishment of a 765/400/220kV Bikaner IV Pooling substation with STATCOM and additional equipment. It includes 765kV and 400kV double-circuit lines across Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, as well as bay extension works at substations in Haryana and Punjab.
Transmission system for evacuation of power from Rajasthan REZ Phase IV (Part-3: 6 GW) [Bikaner complex]: Part B – Entails the construction of a new 765/400kV Siwani substation with STATCOM and related equipment, along with 765kV and 400kV double-circuit lines in Rajasthan and Haryana, and bay extension work in these states.
Project Details and Cost
The two projects are housed under special purpose vehicles (SPVs) “Bikaner A Power Transmission Ltd” and “Bikaner B Power Transmission Ltd,” which are currently owned by REC Power Development & Consultancy Ltd (RECPDCL). These will be transferred to PGCIL in due course. The National Committee on Transmission (NCT) estimates the total project cost at approximately Rs 113.25 billion, with a 24-month gestation period for each scheme from the SPV transfer date. Both projects are expected to be commissioned simultaneously.
PGCIL’s Track Record
In FY25, PGCIL has been the leading developer in the ISTS-TBCB sector, securing ten schemes and receiving LoIs for four additional projects, including the two schemes discussed here. PGCIL is also competing for four other ISTS-TBCB schemes, including “Khavda V-A Power Transmission Ltd,” valued at nearly Rs 250 billion. Key contenders like Sterlite Power and Adani Energy Solutions Ltd are also vying for these projects, with Tata Power in contention for one.