Maharashtra has proposed to adopt the tariff-based competitive bidding (TBCB) modality for developing transmission projects within the state.
State transmission utility Maharashtra State Transmission Company Ltd (MSETCL or Mahatransco) has appointed PFC Consulting Ltd (PFCCL) to act the bid process coordinator for three power transmission projects to be developed under the TBCB mode.
This is believed to be the first instance for Maharashtra adopting the TBCB framework for developing power transmission infrastructure.
The three projects are officially termed as:
- Network expansion scheme in Maharashtra for removal of transmission constraints in Pune region-I (765/400kV Pune East)
- Network expansion scheme in Maharashtra for providing supply to data centre loads in Navi Mumbai
- Network expansion scheme in Maharashtra for evacuation of RE power from Dharashiv, Beed district
PFCCL, it is learnt, has begun initial work on the project and very recently appointed N.K. Enterprises as the technical consultant for each of the three aforementioned projects. The technical consultant, among other tasks, will conduct the project survey and prepare a survey report.
Project scope
Taken together, the three projects envisage substantial transmission infrastructure, including some in the 765kV class. For instance, project #1 listed above involves setting up of a new 765kV Pune (East) GIS substation, and a 150-km line connecting this to the upcoming Pune-III GIS substation being set up by Pune-III Transmission Ltd, a TBCB subsidiary of Adani Energy Solutions Ltd. This project also entails a 400kV line from the new Pune (East) substation to the existing 400kV Karjat substation of MSETCL. Project #3 will entail a new 400kV substation at Washi and a 150-km 400kV line connecting this to the new Pune (East) substation. Project #2 involves a new 765kV GIS substation at Navi Mumbai and a 60-km connection to PGCIL’s existing 400kV Padghe substation.
TBCB policy
It may be noted that MSETCL in December 2024 issued draft guidelines for selection of transmission projects within Maharashtra, to be executed under the TBCB framework. It is believed that the three projects discussed in this story represent the first instance of TBCB projects under the new guidelines.
Editor’s Note: The three projects discussed in this story appear to be part of the intrastate transmission system (InSTS) of Maharashtra. However, more clarity will be available when these projects come up for bidding for developer selection. MSETCL could not be reached for comments.
Featured photograph is for representation only
