19 Oct 2023
In a major push for renewable energy, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given the go-ahead to the ambitious Green Energy Corridor (GEC) Phase-II – Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) project in Ladakh. This project is set to transform India's renewable energy landscape by establishing a massive 13-gigawatt (GW) renewable energy initiative in the challenging terrain of Ladakh
Reshaping Renewable Energy
The primary aim of the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) Phase-II project is to create a colossal 13 GW renewable energy project in Ladakh, a region known for its complex geography, harsh weather conditions, and defense sensitivities. The project is estimated to cost ₹20,773.70 crore, with 40 percent of this cost, amounting to ₹8,309.48 crore, to be covered by Central Financial Assistance (CFA).
Implementing Agency: Power Grid Corporation of India
Given Ladakh's unique challenges, the Power Grid Corporation of India (Power Grid) has been entrusted with the task of implementing this monumental project. Cutting-edge technology, including Voltage Source Converter (VSC) based High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) and Extra High Voltage Alternating Current (EHVAC) systems, will be used to ensure reliable and efficient transmission.
Transmission and Integration
The transmission line designed for evacuating the power generated by this project will traverse through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab before connecting with the National Grid in Kaithal, Haryana. An interconnection is also planned to link the Ladakh project to the existing Ladakh grid, ensuring a stable power supply to the region.
Boosting Power Supply with a 713 km Transmission Network
This comprehensive approach involves 713 km of transmission lines, including a substantial 480 km of HVDC line. Additionally, the project includes the installation of 5 GW capacity HVDC terminals at both Pang (Ladakh) and Kaithal (Haryana).
Energy Security and Environmental Sustainability
Beyond its impressive technical specifications, this project is pivotal in enhancing the nation's long-term energy security while contributing to ecologically sustainable growth by significantly reducing the carbon footprint. Moreover, it is set to generate substantial employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers, particularly in the Ladakh region, aligning with the broader vision of socioeconomic development.
An Additional Milestone
The Ladakh project complements the ongoing Intra-State Transmission System Green Energy Corridor Phase-II (InSTS GEC-II), already in progress in several Indian states. This scheme focuses on integrating the grid and evacuating approximately 20 GW of renewable energy power and is expected to conclude by 2026.
Expansion on the Horizon
The endeavor also targets the addition of 10,753 circuit km (ckm) of transmission lines and 27,546 MVA capacity of substations, with an estimated project cost of ₹12,031.33 crore, supported by a CFA at 33 percent, amounting to ₹3,970.34 crore.
This green energy corridor project represents a significant stride toward India's commitment to a sustainable and eco-friendly energy future, revolutionizing the renewable energy landscape in Ladakh and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting venture as it unfolds.