Role of Transmission in India's Power Sector | Gist of Rajya Sabha TV / RSTV (now Sansad TV) - UPSC PDF Download

What is the Context?

• India boasts one of the largest synchronized power grids globally, spanning over 4 lakh circuit kilometers of transmission lines.
• As the nation aims for 500 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030, modernizing and expanding the power transmission network is crucial.
•  Transitioning to a unified smart grid will improve efficiency, reliability, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the national grid.

What are the Fundamentals of Power Transmission? 

About: Power Supply System

GenerationTransmissionDistribution

• Generation: Electricity is produced at power plants and smaller renewable energy facilities. This process is crucial for delivering electricity efficiently to homes, industries, and businesses.
• Transmission: Plays a vital role in India’s economic growth and clean energy transition. An advanced transmission network helps reduce energy wastage, lower costs, and improve grid stability.
• Distribution: Involves the final delivery of electricity to consumers.

India’s Renewable Energy Goals

• India aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. Integrating this capacity into the national grid requires a highly efficient transmission network.
• Modernizing transmission infrastructure is crucial for ensuring a seamless flow of electricity from generation hubs to consumption centers.

Smart Grid & Technology Integration

• India is transitioning towards a smart grid to enhance efficiency and reliability. A smart grid uses automation, communication, and IT systems to monitor and control power flows in real-time.
• Advanced technologies like 765 kV AC transmission lines and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) lines are facilitating seamless power transfers between surplus and deficit regions, reducing inefficiencies and ensuring a stable power supply.

What are the Challenges in the Transmission Sector? 

Right of Way (RoW) Issues:

• Land acquisition and Right of Way approvals are progressing slowly, leading to delays in transmission projects.
• Private sector players need clearer cost pass-through mechanisms to ensure financial viability.

A cost pass-through involves adjusting output prices to reflect changes in input costs.

Supply Chain Constraints:

• An increase in project bids has resulted in shortages of crucial transmission equipment.
• Restrictions on importing equipment from certain countries have further limited availability, posing additional challenges.

Deficiencies in Infrastructure:

• A significant portion of India's transmission infrastructure is outdated and requires upgrades, impacting the overall reliability and efficiency of power distribution.
• In many regions, especially rural and remote areas, transmission networks are either inadequate or nonexistent, leading to electricity losses and difficulties in reaching consumers.

Losses in Transmission:

• Losses occur due to the resistance of transmission lines, resulting in energy wastage.
• Theft or pilferage of electricity, particularly in urban slums and rural areas, is a significant concern, contributing to financial losses and grid instability.

Way Forward 

Right of Way Solutions:

• The government has increased compensation for land acquisition from 15% to 30%, now linked to market rates.
• Revised compensation guidelines in 2024 have doubled the tower base area and corridor compensation.

Supply Chain Improvements:

• Efforts are underway to address equipment shortages and import restrictions affecting transmission projects.
• There is a strong focus on improving supply chains for critical materials like CRGO steel, essential for constructing transformers to support renewable energy initiatives.

Modernization and Upgradation of Infrastructure:

• Invest in upgrading outdated transmission infrastructure with advanced technology to enhance reliability, efficiency, and reduce power losses.
• Strengthen and expand transmission networks, particularly in rural and remote areas, to ensure equitable electricity access and minimize distribution challenges.

Private Sector Investments and Expansion Plans:

• An estimated investment of USD 100 billion is anticipated in the transmission sector over the next 7–8 years.
• Plans to expand the transmission network from 4.9 lakh circuit kilometers to 6.5 lakh circuit kilometers by 2032.
• Private Transmission Service Providers (TSPs) currently manage 15% of the Interstate Transmission System (ISTS) networks, with projections to increase to 50% in the coming years.
• States like Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra are proactively implementing bidding processes for their transmission projects, demonstrating a commitment to infrastructure development.

Conclusion 

India is significantly expanding its power transmission sector to meet ambitious renewable energy targets. Key strategies include:

• Competitive bidding to ensure cost-effective solutions.
• Private sector participation to enhance investment and innovation.
• AI-driven solutions for improving efficiency, reliability, and security of the transmission network.
• By tackling policy challenges and improving coordination among stakeholders, India aims to build a sustainable and robust power infrastructure.
• This development is crucial for supporting economic growth and facilitating the transition to cleaner energy sources.