Record 94 GW demand exposes Delhi-NCR transmission constraints
Record electricity demand in the Northern Region has intensified stress on key transmission corridors supplying Delhi-NCR, with GRID-INDIA flagging reliability violations, transformer overloading and severe low-voltage conditions at critical substations. The constraints were discussed at the 42nd meeting of the National Committee on Transmission (NCT), which called for faster implementation of planned transmission reinforcements.
The Northern Region recorded an all-time high demand of approximately 94 GW on June 29, 2026, according to GRID-INDIA, with demand expected to rise further. At the same time, increasing renewable energy flows from Rajasthan are placing additional pressure on transmission infrastructure that carries power towards major load centres in Delhi-NCR.
Grid constraints
Among the key concerns identified by GRID-INDIA is non-compliance with the ‘N-1’ contingency criterion at the Bhiwani and Moga substations. The standard requires the transmission system to continue operating reliably even after the loss of a major network element, making the violations particularly significant during periods of high demand.
At the Bhiwani (PG) substation, the 765/400 kV transformers are facing high loading. The constraint extends into the downstream 400 kV network, where the Bhiwani-Jind and Bhiwani-Kabulpur lines are also unable to meet the required reliability standard during peak solar hours.
Pressure is also building at the Jhatikara (PG) substation, another important supply point for the National Capital Region. GRID-INDIA identified constraints involving the 765/400 kV transformers and the Jhatikara-Bamnoli transmission line, with the stressed network contributing to severe low voltages at stations across Delhi-NCR.
Rajasthan power flows
The transmission challenge has become more pronounced as additional renewable energy from Rajasthan enters the Northern Region network.
The 765 kV Beawar-Dausa transmission line was commissioned on June 29, 2026. Its commissioning increased renewable power flows from Rajasthan into the region by 1,500 MW, but the additional transfer has also increased loading on the already constrained transformers at Bhiwani.
The combination of record demand in the Northern Region and higher renewable energy injection from Rajasthan has therefore increased the urgency of strengthening the transmission network around Delhi-NCR.
Immediate measures
Following the assessment, the NCT directed the Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL) to prioritise and expedite measures that can relieve the existing constraints.
A major near-term requirement is the commissioning of the third 1,500 MVA transformer at Jhatikara, along with the new 400 kV Jhatikara-Dwarka double-circuit transmission line. These additions are expected to strengthen the network serving Delhi and provide additional capacity around Jhatikara.
The committee also emphasised faster implementation of the Rajasthan Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Phase-IV transmission system. The project includes new transmission lines connecting Bikaner IV with Siwani, Jind, Sonipat and Fatehabad and is currently anticipated to be commissioned during April-June 2027. CTUIL has been asked to explore ways to accelerate the schedule.
Another identified measure involves the Moga-Kishenpur 765 kV transmission line, which is currently being operated at 400 kV. Upgrading the line to operation at its designed 765 kV voltage would increase power transfer capability and help address constraints in the Northern Region network.
Longer-term relief
GRID-INDIA also identified measures that could provide relief beyond the immediate transmission additions. Upcoming hydropower projects in the Chenab Valley are expected to support the Northern Region during periods of high electricity demand and reduce pressure on some of the constrained corridors.
Further transmission augmentation will nevertheless be required to address the longer-term increase in demand and changing power-flow patterns associated with renewable energy integration. The committee also suggested examining interim arrangements that could alleviate the most pressing constraints until the planned transmission infrastructure becomes operational.
The featured photograph is for representation only.
