India’s power transmission sector is entering a massive growth phase to support hundreds of GW renewable energy integration by expanding electrical transmission network, adopting AI/ML for grid intelligence and upgrading high voltage direct current (HVDC) systems adoption of which will enhance grid stability and smart monitoring.
How has the company’s strategy evolved in recent years to respond to emerging trends and challenges in the power infrastructure and transformer industry?
I started my journey in power transmission sector in 1989 by joining in Raj. State Electricity Board (now RRVPNL).
During the period 1989-2024, I worked in the Nigam as JEn, AEn & XEn and handled maintenance work of 132, 220 & 400kV GSS as well as protection system for almost 4 years.
After getting promoted as Superintending Engineer in 2024, I executed installation & commissioning work of EHV equipments. In a Short span of 18 months, carried out augmentation work of 10 no. 132/33kV Transformers & successfully completed installation and commissioning work of 2 nos. 132kV GSS alongwith associated lines. Commissioning work of 500MVA and 200MVA transformers and one 132kV GSS is underway.
What are some of the key projects executed by RVPNL in recent years that have significantly strengthened the state’s transmission network?
In order to strengthening the state’s transmission network, RVPNL have executed some projects for evacuating power from India’s largest solar park at Bhadla and other renewable energy zones in Western Rajasthan which includes:
Development of 400/220/132kV GSS & 400/220kV ,2X315 MVA GSS at Bhadla plus commissioning of 500MVA transformer at Bhadla and Bikaner. Development of 400kV, 220kV and 132kV GSS at various places.
Implementation of a smart grid project to remotely monitor more than 500 substations from control centres in Jaipur, Ajmer & Jodhpur with more than 100 GSS have already been connected. Recently RVPNL carried out uprating of 220kV and 132kV EHV lines by replacing conventional conductor to HTLS conductor mostly in Western Rajasthan.
Could you highlight any recently completed or on-going projects that are contributing to improved grid reliability and efficiency?
Recently completed projects to improve grid reliablity and efficiency are commissioning of 500MVA transformers at 400kV GSS Bhadla and Bikaner. Commissioning of 220kV and 132kV GSS at various places.
What are the major upcoming transmission projects planned by RVPNL, and how will they support future power demand?
In order to strengthening the state’s transmission network, RVPNL have executed some projects for evacuating power from India’s largest solar park at Bhadla and other renewable energy zones in Western Rajasthan which includes:
Development of 400/220/132kV GSS & 400/220kV ,2X315 MVA GSS at Bhadla plus commissioning of 500MVA transformer at Bhadla and Bikaner.
Development of 400kV, 220kV and 132kV GSS at various places. Implementation of a smart grid project to remotely monitor more than 500 substations from control centres in Jaipur, Ajmer & Jodhpur with more than 100 GSS have already been connected.
Recently RVPNL carried out uprating of 220kV and 132kV EHV lines by replacing conventional conductor to HTLS conductor mostly in Western Rajasthan.
How is RVPNL incorporating advanced technologies and digital solutions in its transmission infrastructure?
By implementing Smart Transmission Network and Asset Management System (STNAMS). Use of Drones for accurate route survey and tower spotting to reduce RoW disputes.
What are the key challenges faced during project execution in the transmission sector, and how do you address them?
High demand for EHV equipments viz. Transformers, Circuit Breakers, Current Transformers and Insulators etc. which has led to shortages. Due to some bottlenecks, renewable capacity faces risks despite of growth in the sector.
Right of Way issues during construction work of EHV lines which requires policy reform for faster clearance. RoW delay and slow compensation processes contribute to substantial time and cost overrun.
Local opposition compensation disputes with farmers and landowners for land usage leads to litigation and work stoppages. Work is often stalled during monsoon seasons in certain regions leading to further scheduling slippages
Environmental and statutory clearance like forest clearance and tree cutting permission, NHAI, Railway crossing permission etc. involves lengthy and multi-agency processes. Use of HTLS conductor technology requires skilled personnel who are short in supply
From your perspective, what is the future outlook of the power transmission sector in India, and what role will RVPNL play in it?
India’s power transmission sector is entering a massive growth phase to support hundreds of GW renewable energy integration by expanding electrical transmission network, adopting AI/ML for grid intelligence and upgrading high voltage direct current (HVDC) systems adoption of which will enhance grid stability and smart monitoring. The power transmission sector is experiencing a significant capex cycle driven by high electricity demand and the grid is being designed to handle large scale intermittent Solar and Wind with interregional capacity expected to reach hundreds of GW in next five years.
