We are committed to building India’s next-generation power infrastructure: Hartek Group
- July 4, 2025
Hartek Group has been a driving force in transforming India’s energy sector, pioneering EPC solutions since 1991, leading the charge in power systems, renewable energy, and delivering advanced power distribution products. Hartek Group has moved up the value chain and is today executing GIS as well as EHV substations. We have Simarpreet Singh, Executive Director & CEO, Hartek Group, sharing keen insights on the group’s current operations and future plans. Simarpreet Singh asserts that the future looks promising for Hartek Group as India’s energy sector enters a high-growth phase driven by ambitious renewable targets and infrastructure expansion.
What is Hartek Group’s current portfolio in terms of EPC of solar plants – rooftop and grid-connected?
Hartek Group’s current portfolio in the EPC of solar plants reflects its comprehensive capabilities in both rooftop and grid-connected segments. The company has successfully executed 300 MW of solar EPC project on time, showcasing its strong presence in utility-scale grid-connected solar infrastructure.
Simultaneously, Hartek is also delivering 10 MW of rooftop solar project specifically for one of the leading C&I customer. This dual focus highlights Hartek’s ability to cater to large-scale grid-connected projects as well as distributed generation needs, reinforcing its commitment to supporting clients in achieving decarbonization and net-zero emission targets.
From a technical perspective, how is the evacuation infrastructure associated with solar plants different from that for conventional plants?
Evacuation infrastructure for solar plants is generally more decentralized and operates at lower voltage levels compared to conventional thermal plants, which rely on high-capacity centralized evacuation. Solar evacuation systems often involve dedicated pooling substations and smaller transmission corridors. The variability of solar power also demands more flexible grid integration and real-time monitoring solutions.
We understand that Hartek Group is very actively involved with several GIS substation projects, especially in Punjab. Tell us more.
Yes, Hartek Group has been at the forefront of developing substations in urban and space-constrained regions such as Punjab and beyond. GIS technology, with its compact design, lower maintenance needs, and enhanced safety, is well-suited for modern power systems. We have successfully executed numerous projects for both state utilities and private clients, enabling efficient power distribution with a minimal land footprint. Our deep engineering expertise and turnkey execution capabilities have established us as a preferred partner for advanced substation infrastructure across northern India.
Speaking of GIS substations, what measures need to be adopted to check for SF6 gas leaks? Are these measures being strictly adhered to across power utilities?
SF₆ gas, though highly efficient for insulation, poses environmental risks due to its high global warming potential. To mitigate this, utilities must adopt regular gas leak detection using thermal sensors and infrared cameras, alongside automated monitoring systems integrated with SCADA. Periodic gas refilling audits and proper handling protocols are also essential. At Hartek, we adhere to stringent safety standards in all our projects, ensuring full compliance with environmental regulations and maintaining the reliability of the substations we build.
Of late, we learn that Hartek Group is also executing 765kV-related power transmission infrastructure for Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL). Tell us more.
Yes, Hartek Group is actively contributing to India’s power grid expansion through a 765kV project awarded by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL), valued at Rs.117 crore. The project involves the extension of a 765kV AIS substation along with 400/220kV substation work in Gujarat.
This development is a significant step toward enhancing the country’s transmission capacity to meet increasing energy demands. It also reinforces Hartek’s commitment to delivering reliable and high-quality power solutions that support better transmission efficiency and renewable energy integration.
Importantly, 765kV substations today account for around 23 per cent of India’s total transformation capacity, which stands at 12,53,040 MVA — highlighting the strategic importance of this segment in strengthening the national grid.
With 765kV substations accounting for nearly a quarter of India’s total transformation capacity, our involvement underscores Hartek’s growing role in building robust, future-ready power infrastructure.
How is Hartek Group planning to further its presence in the 765kV space? Please elaborate.
The 765kV segment plays a vital role in India’s long-distance, high-load power transmission strategy — and Hartek Group is strategically scaling its capabilities to strengthen its presence in this space. We are investing in advanced engineering talent, technology collaborations, and robust supply chain systems specifically designed for 765kV projects. Our forward strategy includes turnkey EPC solutions for substations, enabling faster execution and improved grid stability. With the growing demand for high-voltage corridors driven by renewable energy expansion, Hartek is well-positioned to be a trusted partner to both central and state utilities.
What are the challenges being faced by the industry for import of HVDC equipment?
India’s HVDC transmission projects are facing serious delays due to acute supply-side constraints. Only two domestic OEMs provide LCC technology, while global vendors and OEMs in Europe and the US are fully booked until 2030due to high global demand. This restricted market is pushing project costs upward and extending execution timelines.
The CERC has acknowledged these constraints, justifying higher L1 bids relative to levelised norms. Notably, it took 19 months just to conclude bids for two HVDC projects with a 54-month execution window.
Does Hartek have any medium or long-term plans of entering the HVDC power transmission space? While on the subject, what is your overall view on the challenges being faced especially due to paucity of HVDC equipment, and the impact of Rule 144 (XI) of GFR, 2017 that inhibits imports?
Hartek Group is actively exploring long-term participation in the transmission and distribution sector as part of our commitment to building next-generation power infrastructure. While we continue to expand our footprint in the 400kV and 765kV segments, we also recognize the strategic significance of HVDC in enabling long-distance renewable power evacuation and enhancing grid stability.
However, sectoral growth is currently hindered by equipment scarcity, heavy reliance on a limited number of global OEMs, and import restrictions under Rule 144(xi). Addressing these policy and supply chain bottlenecks is essential for India to achieve its transmission goals outlined in the National Electricity Plan. As a committed industry stakeholder, Hartek strongly advocates for collaborative efforts that enhance India’s self-reliance in advanced grid technologies.
To enable faster import of HVDC equipment and ensure timely execution of transmission projects, a key step is providing a temporary exemption from Rule 144(xi) of the General Financial Rules. This rule restricts procurement from countries sharing land borders with India, thereby blocking access to cost-effective Chinese HVDC equipment despite India’s limited domestic manufacturing capacity.
The Electric Power Transmission Association (EPTA) has recommended exempting HVDC equipment imports from this rule until December 2030 to tackle existing supply bottlenecks. This is crucial as only two domestic OEMs supply LCC technology, and global OEMs are booked till 2030, leaving few procurement options.
Without easing these restrictions, bid delays, cost escalations, and execution timelines for HVDC projects will continue to undermine India’s transmission buildout and renewable energy integration goals.
How do you see the road ahead for Hartek Group given that both solar power and power T&D are witnessing unprecedented high levels of capital investment?
The future looks promising for Hartek Group as India’s energy sector enters a high-growth phase driven by ambitious renewable targets and infrastructure expansion. Backed by over 30 years of industry experience, our Mission 2030 outlines a clear path to Rs.10,000 crore in sales by the end of the decade. What sets us apart is our integrated capability—ranging from building 765kV substations and executing 300 MW utility-scale solar EPC projects to delivering 10 MW rooftop solar systems and manufacturing 33kV power distribution products.
To accelerate this journey, we are expanding our presence in utility-scale solar with a dedicated vertical, strengthening our Power Systems division, and scaling our rooftop solar offerings for commercial and industrial clients. We are also tapping into emerging sectors such as smart cities, green hydrogen, battery energy storage systems, and data centres. These focus areas will help us drive meaningful progress toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future.