As a part of its transmission network expansion plan, PowerGrid Corporation of India (PGCIL) has proposed an investment outlay of R17,000 crore for implementation of various projects during the current financial year. It is in the process of setting up nine transmission corridors which would have ultra high transmission voltages such as 1,200 kv AC, which is the highest in the world, for bulk transfer of power across long distances. In the process, it is also working on a PPP model for indigenous manufacturing to make the country a manufacturing hub for electrical equipment for transmission and distribution targeting developing countries such as Sarrc and ME countries.
?We are in the process of setting up nine transmission corridors. To meet the requirements, we will be raising funds through all routes including external commercial borrowings, loans, internal accruals, suppliers? credit, etc,?? SK Chaturvedi, CMD, PGCIL said. Further, it plans to capitalise about R12,000 crore from its order book as a return on money and about 0.5% from the regulator for completing the projects on time. The PSE is hopeful of achieving its said target of 23% growth in revenues and 30% growth in net profit with the proposed projects.
For the development of inter-state transmission system, he said that an investment of about R55,000 crore as planned by PGCIL during the 11th Plan, is on track. The 1,200 kV technology is being developed through a public private partnership model with an investment of R100 crore. ?We have established a test station at Bina in western region for the ultra high voltage transmissions in collaboration with 34 manufacturers for indigenous development,?? he said. The 1,200 kv transformers are tested by Bhel and Vijay Electricals for despatch and installation. It is also in the advance stage for manufacturing by Crompton Greaves and Transformers and Reactors, Ahmedabad. The first 1,200 kv test line along with 1,200 kv bay is expected to be charged by early September 2011.
Based on the requirement of transmission system under central sector as per proposed generation capacity of about 1,00,000 mw in 12th Plan, an outlay of about R1,00,000 crore has been envisaged by PowerGrid in 12th Plan which includes addition of transmission lines, 70 substations and transformation capacity of 1,36,000 mva. As on June 30, it owns 83,400 kms of transmission lines, 138 numbers of EHV and HVDC substations and transmission capacity of about 93,400 mva.
PowerGrid wheels about 50% of total power generated in the country through its transmission network. After commissioning and operating 765 kv transmission system, it is now working on next higher transmission voltages of 1,200 kv UHVAC and 800 kv HVDC systems to increase power transfer capability for transfer of bulk power over long distances. In fact, a 6,000 mw HVDC bipole between north eastern region to northern region (Agra) has already commenced.
Meanwhile, PGCIL has an order booksize of R1,20,000 crore to be implemented over a period of five to seven years.