Power Sector News Roundup for December 15, 2025

India

CEA issues draft SOP for mandatory third-party fire safety audits of BESS

The Central Electricity Authority has issued a draft Standard Operating Procedure for mandatory third party fire safety audits of Battery Energy Storage Systems. Stakeholder comments are open until 11 January 2026. The draft outlines audit frequency, responsibilities of system owners and auditors, and minimum qualification requirements. It aims to reduce fire risks and improve safety across grid connected storage installations.

CTUIL releases draft procedure for connectivity and GNA applications

CTUIL has published a draft procedure to operationalise CERC’s Connectivity and General Network Access Regulations, 2022. The proposal replaces the October 2022 procedure and invites public comments until 27 December 2025. It standardises application timelines, consultation meetings, and deficiency checks. All applications will move through the National Single Window System portal.

CEA seeks industry inputs to localise 73 critical power sector imports

CEA has asked industry stakeholders to provide data to support localisation of 73 imported power sector items. Inputs are due by 29 December 2025 and will cover costs, volumes, and support needs. Sixteen items have been prioritised for immediate action, while 57 require detailed assessment. The exercise is intended to reduce import dependence and supply chain risks.

Waaree adds 1.5 GW module capacity at Samakhiali

Waaree Energies has started operations at a new 1.5 GW solar module facility in Samakhiali, Gujarat. The addition takes the site’s total capacity to 3 GW. The company reported producing over 1 GW of modules in a single month in November 2025. Waaree’s total module capacity now stands at 22.3 GW across India and the USA.

SJVN commissions 100 MW segment of Bikaner solar project

SJVN Limited has commissioned a 100.56 MW segment of its Bikaner Solar Power Project in Rajasthan. The capacity was added by its subsidiary SJVN Green Energy Limited. With this milestone, the project’s operational capacity has reached 830.70 MW. The remaining capacity is expected to be commissioned shortly.

Adani Energy acquires Khavda phase V transmission SPV

Adani Energy Solutions has acquired KPS III HVDC Transmission Limited from PFC Consulting Limited. The transaction was completed on 12 December 2025 for Rs. 20,32,54,965. The SPV was created to develop transmission infrastructure for renewable energy evacuation from the Khavda region. The company stated that the acquisition supports its inorganic growth strategy.

NLCIL expands renewable push with JV, green loan, and new solar projects

NLC India Limited has formed a joint venture with PTC India to develop up to 2,000 MW of renewable energy projects. It has also secured a $100 million green loan from SMBC to fund renewable capacity through its subsidiary. Separately, NLCIL received approval for a 110 MW captive solar project in Uttar Pradesh. The company also signed an MoU with OREDA for renewable projects in Odisha.

JSW Energy signs 400 MW PPA and clears plan to raise up to Rs 10,000 crore

JSW Energy Utkal Limited has signed a 25 year PPA for 400 MW supply with Karnataka distribution companies. The company has also approved fundraising plans including a preferential issue and an enabling resolution of up to Rs 10,000 crore. A new Chief Financial Officer will take charge from 1 January 2026. JSW Energy said the PPA improves long term revenue visibility.

KEC International wins Rs 1,150 crore orders

KEC International has secured new domestic orders worth Rs 1,150 crore. The wins include a large transmission project involving a 765 kV line and substation, along with civil works at a thermal power plant. The company said the transmission order will support renewable energy evacuation. Year to date order intake has crossed Rs 18,000 crore.

SJVN invites bids for 2 GW pumped storage projects

SJVN has issued a tender to develop 2 GW of pumped storage capacity across India. The projects will be implemented on a build own operate basis with eight hours of discharge. Developers will be responsible for land acquisition, approvals, and transmission connectivity. Bids are due by 27 January 2026.

Cabinet clears SHANTI Act to open nuclear power sector

The Union Cabinet has approved the Atomic Energy Bill, 2025, known as the SHANTI Act. The bill allows private sector participation in nuclear power for the first time. It proposes regulatory reforms, an independent safety authority, and changes to liability provisions. India aims to scale nuclear capacity to 100 GW by 2047.

Global

EMEC completes world-first tidal power, battery storage and hydrogen trial

The European Marine Energy Centre has completed a global first trial integrating tidal power, battery storage, and hydrogen production. The demonstration took place in Orkney, Scotland using technologies from Orbital Marine Power, Invinity Energy Systems, and ITM Power. The system balanced variable tidal output while maintaining stable hydrogen production. The trial was supported by European and Scottish public funding.