POWERGRID Wins 2.7 GW ISTS Transmission Project in Karnataka

Background and Context

As India accelerates its transition toward a cleaner energy mix, the strengthening of the interstate transmission system (ISTS) has become a top priority. In a significant development for the national grid, the Power Grid Corporation of India (POWERGRID) has emerged as the successful bidder for an ISTS project tendered by PFC Consulting. The project aims to bolster the network at the Tumkur-II substation in Karnataka, specifically designed to facilitate the evacuation of an additional 2.7 GW of renewable energy capacity.

Key Details

The scope of the project, which was originally tendered in November 2025, is extensive. POWERGRID is tasked with the design, engineering, construction, and testing of all associated infrastructure. A primary requirement is the augmentation of the Tumkur-II pooling station, which involves the installation of 400/220 kV, 3×500 MVA ICTs (5th to 7th) and additional 400/220 kV, 3×500 MVA ICTs (8th to 10th). Furthermore, the developer must establish the Tumkur-II – Madhugiri 400 kV (quad) D/C line and install a ±300 MVAr static synchronous compensator. The project also mandates the construction of six 220 kV line bays to terminate dedicated transmission lines from renewable energy developers. The entire infrastructure must be completed within a 24-month timeframe.

What This Means for EPCs and Developers

For EPC contractors and renewable energy developers, this project represents a vital piece of the puzzle in Karnataka’s energy landscape. The augmentation of the Tumkur-II substation ensures that future solar and wind projects in the region have a reliable evacuation pathway. POWERGRID is responsible for the entire project lifecycle, including land surveys, detailed project reports, financing, and securing necessary clearances. Developers operating in the vicinity should note that the generation-pooling substation must be located within a 3 km radius of the project site, with specific distance requirements for load-serving and intermediate substations.

What Happens Next

POWERGRID must now proceed with obtaining project consents, transmission licenses, and permits. A critical next step involves seeking approval from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) under Section 164 of the Electricity Act. This win follows a series of recent successes for the utility, including an ISTS project in January to integrate 250 MW at Davanagere and 2.75 GW at Bellary. As the India renewable energy sector continues to expand, such transmission infrastructure projects remain the backbone of the country’s ambitious decarbonization goals, ensuring that generated power successfully reaches the national grid.