CTUIL Revokes 6.3 GW Renewable Energy Connectivity Over Developer Delays

The Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL) has cancelled transmission connectivity for a significant portion of green energy projects, citing developer delays as the primary reason. Union Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik disclosed this development in a written response to the Rajya Sabha on Monday.

According to the minister's statement, "Since 2022, Central Transmission Utility of India Ltd (CTUIL) has revoked connectivity of 24 grantees with a renewable energy (RE) capacity of 6,343MW. The cancellations are on account of developer delays and not due to transmission side delays."

The revocations have triggered regulatory intervention, with 16 petitions currently pending before the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC). These petitions have been filed by power generators seeking regulatory protection against the connectivity revocations.

Transmission Infrastructure Development Continues

Despite the revocations, the government is advancing its transmission infrastructure plans. About 259 GW of transmission capacity is connected to the grid so far. An Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) for evacuating 172 GW of renewable energy is under construction, with bidding underway for an additional 19 GW capacity. The Centre is also coordinating with state governments to develop intra-state transmission systems for 152 GW of renewable energy evacuation.

The minister added, "These efforts, together with the planned transmission systems for integrating hydro, nuclear, and other non-fossil capacities, collectively provide a clear implementation plan for achieving the 500 GW non-fossil capacity target."

India's power-transmission network is expanding slower than the rapid growth of its renewable power, as per a report by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA). The report highlighted over 50 GW of stranded renewable power, causing project delays and increasing transmission costs.