Karnataka: Bijapur REZ Gets Fillip For Boosting Transmission Web

Karnataka: Bijapur REZ Gets Fillip For Boosting Transmission Web

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has granted a transmission licence to Bijapur REZ Transmission Limited (BRTL) for developing an inter-state transmission system (ISTS) project in Karnataka. BRTL is a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) of PFC Consulting. Bizapur REZ is among Karnataka’s six designated renewable energy zones (REZs) from the southern state.

The other REZs include Gadag, Tumkur, Bellary, Koppal, Chitradurga and Devengere. The new transmission licence is likely to aid the evacuation of renewable energy from the renewable-rich region in Karnataka.

The licence allows BRTL to implement the “Transmission Scheme for integration of Bijapur Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) in Karnataka” on a Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis. The project includes a 400/220 kV pooling station near Bijapur, a 400 kV double-circuit transmission line to Raichur, and associated reactive power compensation infrastructure.

The six designated Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) in Karnataka. Source: CEA

Project Awarded Through Bidding 

The project was awarded through a competitive bidding process conducted by PFC Consulting Ltd. G R Infraprojects Ltd emerged as the successful bidder, quoting an annual transmission charge of ₹1,077 million.

In a preliminary order issued on May 14, the Commission had observed that BRTL met the eligibility conditions for the grant of the licence. It subsequently invited public objections through notices published in national dailies, but received no objections by the May 26 deadline.

The Central Transmission Utility of India Ltd (CTUIL) had also recommended the grant of the licence in a letter dated January 28.

Transmission Licence For 25 Years 

The licence will remain in force for 25 years, and BRTL must adhere to various compliance conditions, including technical and performance standards, timely fee payments, and maintenance of open access for other users. The company is barred from electricity trading and must award engineering contracts through competitive bidding.

CERC has directed CTUIL, along with the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), to monitor the project’s execution and report any lapses.

With this approval, BRTL is now formally authorised to carry out the development of transmission infrastructure to support renewable energy integration in Karnataka.