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The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has approved a transmission license for Rajasthan IV 4B Power Transmission Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dineshchandra R. Agrawal Infracon Private Limited. This approval allows the company to develop the “Transmission system for evacuation of power from Rajasthan Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Phase IV (Part-4: 3.5 GW): Part B” on a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) basis. This transmission system is essential to integrate renewable power into the national grid and meet India’s growing electricity demands sustainably. The scope of the project includes establishing a major substation, Merta-II, with multiple high-capacity transformers and advanced switchgear. It involves setting up a 765/400 kV substation with 2×1500 MVA interconnecting transformers, bus reactors, line bays for renewable energy connectivity, and sectionalized bays. The infrastructure is designed to handle future expansion needs, with space provisioned for additional transformers and line bays. In addition, the project includes transmission lines such as the 765 kV double circuit line between Barmer-I Power Station and Merta-II, with 330 MVAr switchable line reactors at both ends. It also comprises the Merta-II to Beawar 400 kV double circuit line, and the Merta-II to Dausa 765 kV double circuit line, equipped with 240 MVAr switchable line reactors on both ends. These elements together support the efficient and secure evacuation of electricity from renewable sources in Rajasthan to the national grid. The license was granted after a competitive bidding process conducted by REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL). Dineshchandra R. Agrawal Infracon Private Limited emerged as the successful bidder with the lowest annual transmission charge of ?5556.25 million. A public notice was issued as per statutory requirements, and no objections were received from stakeholders, allowing the Commission to proceed with the grant of the license. During the hearing held on April 22, 2025, the petitioner confirmed the absence of objections, and the Commission acknowledged that all regulatory conditions had been met. Accordingly, a 25-year transmission license was granted to Rajasthan IV 4B Power Transmission Limited, subject to conditions such as timely execution, compliance with technical standards, and adherence to regulatory obligations under the 2024 Transmission Licence Regulations. The licensee is expected to follow rules related to open access, reporting, payment of license fees, and non-engagement in electricity trading. The company must also follow standards set by the Central Electricity Authority and respond to directions from Load Despatch Centres. Importantly, the project’s engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract must be awarded through competitive bidding to ensure transparency and cost efficiency. Execution and progress of the project will be monitored by the Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL) and the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), who will report any delays or issues to the Commission. The project is scheduled for completion within 24 months from the date of the special purpose vehicle (SPV) transfer, with a target date of December 30, 2026. This decision marks another step in strengthening India’s transmission infrastructure and supporting the country’s renewable energy goals. |
