PM Gatishakti Master Plan expands power transmission network

According to the “Gati Shakti Master Plan” of the Prime Minister, the power transmission network will be expanded from 4,25,500 circuit kilometres to 4,54,200 circuit kilometres (ckm) by 2024–2025, adding almost 28,700 ckm. The Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) network at a voltage level of 220 kV and above has recommended this addition.

According to the thorough survey, several transmission line lengths have undergone changes. Some transmission system components will probably last beyond 2024–2025. New transmission projects have also been taken into consideration. Therefore, the transmission network to be added by 2024–2025 is roughly 27,000 ckm compared to the planned expansion of transmission lines of 28700 ckm. These developments are expected to cost roughly ₹ 75,000 Crores. Since many projects involve interstate transmission and are not limited to a single state or UT, it is not feasible to estimate costs at the state or UT level.

India has a strong national grid that enables reliable, secure, and seamless power transfer from resource-rich regions to the nation’s major load centres. It is possible to transfer power from surplus regions or states to deficit regions or states. To keep pace with the increase in power output and demand, National Grid is continuously increasing its capacity.

As of February 28, 2023, the Indian transmission network consists of 11,58,875 MVA of substation transformation capacity (220 kV and above voltage level) and 4,68,977 ckm of transmission lines (220 kV and higher voltage level). The National Grid has an interregional capacity of 1,12,250 MW.

The nation has sufficient transmission capacity. In some cases, power outages are recorded as a result of limitations in the distribution and state line transmission networks or due to budgetary limits with specific distribution companies. The projected transmission projects under PM Gati Shakti’s National Master Plan are anticipated to significantly simplify the transfer of electricity from generation projects while enhancing the nation’s power system network’s dependability.