The Indian Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for the second phase of the inter-state transmission system connected Green Energy Corridor (GEC) project, which involves a 13 GW renewable energy project. The project is situated in Ladakh. The project will be established by the fiscal year 2029-30, with a total estimated cost of Rs 207.73 billion. Additionally, it will receive 40 per cent of the project cost as central financial assistance (CFA), equaling Rs 83.09 billion.
The Power Grid Corporation of India Limited will take on the role of implementing this project, considering the challenging topography, harsh weather conditions, and security concerns in the Ladakh region. Furthermore, technology such as the voltage source converter based High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) system and extra high voltage alternating current systems will be utilised for the project.
The power transmission line will extend through the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab until it reaches Kaithal in the state of Haryana, where it will be linked to the national grid. Moreover, there are plans to establish a connection from this project in Leh to the current Ladakh grid to guarantee a reliable energy supply for Ladakh.
Additionally, it will be linked to the Leh-Alusteng-Srinagar line to supply energy to Jammu & Kashmir. The project involves the installation of 713 km of transmission lines, including a 480 km HVDC line, along with two HVDC terminals, each with a capacity of 5 GW, located at Pang in Ladakh and Kaithal in Haryana.
REGlobal’s Views: Ladakh has significant untapped potential for renewable energy uptake. However, the challenging geographical conditions, the remoteness of the region and the grid limitations have hindered renewable energy growth, till now. With this planned transmission project, the renewable power generated in Ladakh can be transported to demand centres within the country, and will help in promoting future energy security of the nation.
