The expansion of India’s power transmission network has slowed down due to challenges such as acquiring land and obtaining the right of way. According to data from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), in the fiscal year 2024-2025 (FY25), the addition of new transmission lines was significantly lower than the previous year. Only 8,830 circuit kilometers (ckm) of transmission lines were added in FY25, which is a 38% decrease from the 14,203 ckm added in FY24.
As of now, India’s power transmission network spans a total of 495,405 ckm. However, to meet the country’s growing energy demands, a substantial expansion of the transmission infrastructure is required. The National Electricity Plan has estimated that an additional 191,000 ckm of transmission lines will be needed by FY32 to ensure a reliable and efficient supply of electricity.
The slowdown in transmission line addition is a concern, as it may impact the country’s ability to achieve its energy goals. The lack of progress in land acquisition and right of way issues is a major bottleneck in the development of new transmission projects. To address this, the government and regulatory bodies need to work together to streamline the process of land acquisition and obtain the necessary clearances for transmission line construction.
The expansion of the transmission network is crucial for India’s energy security and economic growth. A robust transmission infrastructure will enable the efficient transfer of power from generation sources to consumption centers, reducing energy losses and improving the overall reliability of the grid. Additionally, it will also facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, which is essential for achieving India’s renewable energy targets.
In conclusion, the slowdown in transmission line addition is a challenge that needs to be addressed urgently. The government and regulatory bodies must work together to resolve the issues related to land acquisition and right of way to ensure that the transmission network expands at a pace that meets the country’s energy demands. With a planned addition of 191,000 ckm of transmission lines by FY32, India has a significant opportunity to strengthen its energy infrastructure and achieve its energy goals.