Current Affairs

Sign in
GeographyGS3
GS3

Powergrid Wins INR 3244 Crore Project for Renewable Energy Evacuation

Source:solarquarter ↗

Why It Matters

Crucial for understanding large-scale renewable energy integration, transmission infrastructure, and Rajasthan's growing role as a clean energy hub in India's green transition.

Summary

POWERGRID has secured a ₹3,244 crore transmission project via tariff-based competitive bidding to evacuate 6,000 MW of renewable power from Rajasthan, boosting the state's green energy infrastructure and evacuation capacity.

Key Points

  • Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) has won a major transmission project worth approximately ₹3,244 crore through tariff-based competitive bidding (TBCB).
  • The project aims to evacuate 6,000 MW of renewable energy power from Rajasthan.
  • This infrastructure development strengthens interstate transmission systems to support India's ambitious clean energy and green transition goals.

Important Terms

Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID)

A Maharatna Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Power, serving as India's principal electric power transmission utility responsible for inter-state transmission systems.

UPSC context

Important for Economy (Infrastructure, PSEs) and Environment (Renewable Energy Grid Integration). Tests knowledge of India's power transmission infrastructure.

Source
Central Transmission Utility (CTU)

A statutory body designated under the Electricity Act, 2003, responsible for planning and coordinating the inter-state transmission system (ISTS) for smooth electricity evacuation.

UPSC context

Important for Polity and Economy (Power Sector Reforms, Electricity Act, 2003). Tests institutional mechanisms governing grid connectivity and transmission planning.

Static Concepts Connected

Economy Infrastructure Energy

What are the key institutional frameworks governing inter-state power transmission in India?

  • CTU Mandate: Central Transmission Utility (CTU) plans and coordinates inter-state transmission systems, operating as a distinct entity independent of POWERGRID since structural unbundling.
  • TBCB Mechanism: Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) replaced cost-plus tariff determination to drive cost-efficiency in private and public transmission project development.
  • BOOT Model: BOOT model (Build, Own, Operate, Transfer) is the primary PPP framework utilized for executing large-scale interstate high-voltage transmission lines.

Cross-Topic Patterns

  • Rajasthan Renewables + National Grid Integration

    Interstate transmission corridor projects connect Rajasthan renewable energy hubs directly to industrial centers like Maharashtra, linking state energy geography with national grid stability policies.

Expect multi-statement questions on HVDC corridors, TBCB mechanisms, and REZ Phase-IV Barmer-II transmission infrastructure in RPSC RAS.

Linked PYQs · 2

Linked PYQs · 2

  • 2023RPSC_PRELIMSGS1

    Which agency has been given the responsibility of implementing the PM-KUSUM scheme (Component A) in Rajasthan, which involves the establishment of solar power plants with a capacity of 0.5 MW to 2 MW?

  • 2021RPSC_PRELIMSGS1

    In which year was the Rajasthan Solar Energy Policy announced?