India has launched an ambitious National Electricity Plan (Transmission) led by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), aiming to boost renewable energy capacity. The plan targets 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 and over 600 GW by 2032. The announcement was made by Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal during a meeting in New Delhi on October 14-15, 2024.
Goals of the Plan
- Renewable Energy Expansion: More than 600 GW of renewable energy by 2032.
- Energy Storage Systems: The plan focuses on 47 GW of Battery Energy Storage Systems and 31 GW of Pumped Storage Plants to manage excess energy efficiently.
Power Transmission and Renewable Energy Integration
The plan aims to build a robust transmission network that will efficiently deliver renewable energy, including to Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia production hubs in coastal regions like Mundra, Kandla, and Tuticorin.
Infrastructure Development
- 1,91,000 circuit kilometers (ckm) of transmission lines by 2031-32.
- 1270 GVA transformation capacity for power conversion and usage.
- 33 GW of HVDC bi-pole links to carry large amounts of electricity over long distances.
Inter-Regional Transmission Expansion
- 119 GW of transmission capacity today to 143 GW by 2027.
- 168 GW by 2032 for improved inter-regional energy transfer.
Cross-Border Interconnections
India plans to enhance energy connections with Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, as well as with Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Technological Innovations
- Hybrid Substations for streamlined equipment management.
- Monopole Structures for efficient land use.
- Insulated Cross Arms to reduce tower sizes.
- Dynamic Line Rating and High-Performance Conductors to increase electricity flow efficiency.
- Higher voltage levels of up to 1200 kV AC for larger electricity capacity.
Investment Opportunities
This transmission plan is set to attract investments of INR 9,15,000 Crores (around $110 billion) by 2032, offering significant opportunities for investors in new transmission projects.
