Maharashtra Government Approves New Transmission Lines to Boost Electricity Supply

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution (GR) granting the Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Ltd (MSETCL) permission to construct 10 new power transmission lines to bolster the state's grid and ensure a smoother electricity supply. The approval was granted under Section 68 of the Indian Electricity Act, 2003, which governs the laying of overhead lines and related works.

The new lines will be constructed at MSETCL's own cost, as part of a larger expansion plan. The utility has embarked on an ambitious program to set up 118 transmission lines and an equal number of substations over the next five years. This initiative is crucial for meeting the increasing electricity demands, especially in the Mumbai region, where peak demand exceeds 4000 MW during the summer and is projected to cross 4500 MW and rise to around 5000 MW in the coming years.

"With generation within the city below 2000 MW, the balance must be wheeled in from outside Mumbai, requiring a stronger transmission corridor," an official from the energy department said. The network strengthening will also benefit other districts, including Nashik, Ahilyanagar, Beed, and Pune.

The GR stipulates that the work on the 10 new transmission lines across the state must be executed using prescribed, certified methods and under the guidance and supervision of experts. The transmission utility will operate and manage these lines on its own. The government has also made it clear that the new lines must be used only for the purpose for which MSETCL planned them. Prior permission from the competent authority will be mandatory before the lines are implemented or charged.

The GR places responsibility on MSETCL to address any complaints from landowners or farmers that may arise during construction or after commissioning. Such grievances will have to be resolved appropriately in consultation with the competent authority. Additionally, MSETCL will be required to obtain all other necessary permissions and comply with prescribed criteria and prevailing rules of the relevant government authorities and departments, including the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC), along with any conditions the government may prescribe from time to time.

This initiative is expected to significantly improve the reliability and efficiency of the power supply in Maharashtra, enhancing the quality of life for residents and supporting the state's economic growth.