Maharashtra has planned to develop two more intrastate transmission system (InSTS) schemes under the tariff-based competitive bidding (TBCB) framework. This is in addition to three such schemes planned earlier.
State utility Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Ltd (MSETCL) has engaged REC Power Development & Consultancy Ltd (RECPDCL) to act as the bid process coordinator for the development of two InSTS schemes.
RECPDCL, on its part, has recently begun the bidding process for selection of developer under the tariff-based competitive bidding (TBCB) mechanism.
The two schemes are:
- Network expansion scheme in Maharashtra for removal of transmission constraints in Pune region, and providing supply to data centre loads
- Establishment of 400/220kV Velgaon substation (GIS)
By current timelines, technical bids are expected to be opened on May 16, 2025.
The first scheme aims at improving reliability of the state’s transmission infrastructure in the Pune Ring Main by creating an additional source point in the 400kV network. The scheme will involve putting up a 400kV double-circuit line connecting the existing GIS substations at Jejuri and Hinjewadi. Two 400kV line bays each will also be developed at the two substations.
The second scheme entails putting up a new 3×500 MVA, 400/220kV GIS substation at Velgaon, with provision for future expansion. The scheme seeks to create an additional source point to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), thereby addressing overloading on interconnecting transformers (ICTs) of the existing 400/220kV Boisar substation of Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL). This scheme will assume significance in the event of non-availability of embedded generation in Mumbai.
Three schemes to PFCCL
As already reported by T&D India on February 28, 2025, Maharashtra initiated the TBCB modality to develop three intrastate schemes, with PFC Consulting Ltd (PFCCL) as the bid process coordinator. While bidding for these schemes was yet to begin as of March 20, 2025, PFCCL recently appointed a technical consultant for the three schemes.
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. The three schemes allotted to PFCCL are believed to the first instance of Maharashtra deploying the TBCB modality for intrastate grid development.
Featured photograph (source: GE Vernova T&D India Ltd) is for representation only
