The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has granted a transmission license to Solapur Transmission (STL) to establish an inter-state transmission system for the evacuation of 1,500 MW of power from renewable energy projects in the Solapur Solar Energy Zone (SEZ) in Maharashtra.

The project will be developed on a build, own, operate, and transfer basis.

Background

Solapur Transmission was selected as the successful bidder through a tariff-based competitive bidding process conducted by PFC Consulting, the bid process coordinator. The Letter of Intent (LoI) was issued to STL on March 30, 2023, and the company acquired a special purpose vehicle to execute the project on May 12, 2023.

The proposed transmission system includes the establishment of a 3×500 MVA, 400/220 kV pooling station at Solapur, 400 kV D/C Solapur Pooling Station-Solapur line, and four 220 kV line bays at Solapur Pooling Station.

Commission’s Analysis

The Commission analyzed STL’s application to ensure compliance with the transmission license regulations.

It noted that STL provided detailed information on its shareholding pattern, demonstrating adherence to the guidelines. The company also submitted affidavits to prove it had not been disqualified under Section 16 of the Electricity Act.

The Commission found STL’s credentials satisfactory for developing the transmission system.

It also directed STL to execute the transmission service agreement with the Central Transmission Utility within one month of the order. It must also secure the transmission charges and approvals.

STL must approach the Commission to determine tariffs per Section 62 of the Electricity Act.

The CERC recently directed that a transmission license be granted to Pachora Power Transmission to establish the Transmission System for Evacuation of Power from RE Projects in Rajgarh (1,000 MW) SEZ in Madhya Pradesh.

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