India has set a formidable target of achieving 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030. To realize this vision, the country must significantly enhance its electricity grid. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) estimates that an investment of over ₹9.15 lakh crore is necessary to expand and modernize the transmission network, ensuring it can accommodate the influx of renewable energy sources.
Current Transmission Infrastructure Faces Challenges
Despite the addition of nearly 180,000 kilometers of transmission lines in the past decade—a 70% increase—India’s grid infrastructure is still not capable of keeping up with the constantly accelerating growth of renewable energy projects. The International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that transmission development is lagging, which may slow the country’s clean energy ambitions.
Strategic Investments and Technological Advancements
The National Electricity Plan outlines the addition of over 1,91,000 circuit kilometers of transmission lines and 1,270 GVA of transformation capacity by 2032. This expansion includes integrating 47 GW of battery energy storage systems and 31 GW of pumped storage plants to manage renewable energy’s intermittent nature.
High-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is also being adopted to transmit large volumes of power over long distances with minimal losses. A notable example is the 800 kV HVDC line between Gujarat and Maharashtra, designed to evacuate up to 8 GW of renewable power, set to be operational by 2026.
Mobilizing Private Capital for Grid Expansion
In order to finance the humongous investment needs, the Indian government is summoning private sector involvement. States are being requested to monetize transmission assets and use the funds to invest in new initiatives. Power regulators should create price mechanisms such that they offer investors some return, and thereby bring in private capital into the sector.
India’s shift to a renewable energy future depends on change at gigantic scale of its electric power grid. With its ambitious 2030 target, the country needs to speed up grid expansion, embrace leading-edge technologies, and bring in private investment to provide a secure and sustainable power supply.
