By Varun Bhatia, Vice President, Electronics Sector Council of India
India is tackling one of the greatest global challenges—climate change—through an ambitious renewable energy mission. The nation aims to generate over 600 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2032. Yet, the real challenge lies not in generation, but in transmission—delivering electricity to every home, business, and remote village. Transmission infrastructure, though often unnoticed, forms the backbone of India’s modern energy system.
Transmission: The Backbone of India’s Power Network
India’s energy framework relies on three essential pillars—generation, transmission, and distribution. Transmission lines carry electricity from distant plants to cities and villages at ultra-high voltages of 220, 400, 765 kV, and ±800 kV HVDC.
By early 2025, India had built 4.92 lakh circuit kilometers (ckm) of lines above 220 kV, with a transformation capacity of 1,269 GVA—creating one of the largest synchronized grids in the world. This grid enables power exchanges of up to 118,740 MW, reducing the national energy deficit from 4.2% in 2014 to just 0.1% in 2025, making India a net power exporter.
However, progress faces challenges. Only 8,830 ckm of lines were added in 2024–25, the lowest in a decade. The Right-of-Way (RoW) issue remains a key obstacle, as land acquisition often meets local resistance and delays. Recognizing this, the government amended the RoW policy in June 2024 and introduced new guidelines in March 2025 to ensure fair compensation and transparency.
Why Vision 2032 Matters
The National Electricity Plan (NEP) – Transmission, 2024 sets ambitious goals. By 2032, India aims to expand its network to 6.48 lakh ckm, boost transformation capacity to 23.45 lakh MVA, and raise HVDC capacity to 66,750 MW. Achieving these milestones will require an estimated ₹9 lakh crore investment.
Government reforms—faster approvals, public-private partnerships (PPP), and state-level coordination—have made this sector increasingly attractive to investors. Private players now bring technology, efficiency, and cost savings, making transmission growth more sustainable and scalable.
Transmission: Powering Economic Growth
Transmission is more than just moving electricity—it drives economic development. Every industrial corridor, technology park, and rural enterprise depends on stable power. Projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor thrive because of strong transmission networks.
By February 2025, India’s Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) linked the nation with 2.13 lakh ckm of lines. This connectivity has also transformed rural life. Through schemes like Saubhagya, millions of households gained electricity access. Rural schools are now digital, health centers use modern tools, and farmers power irrigation systems—all thanks to robust transmission.
Electricity has become a force of inclusion and empowerment, bridging the gap between urban and rural India.
Technology and Innovation in Transmission
India’s next leap in transmission will come through technology-driven innovation. Digital substations, predictive analytics, and AI-powered monitoring systems will make grids smarter and more resilient.
Since renewable sources like solar and wind fluctuate, future grids must adapt dynamically. Technologies like satellite-based monitoring and remote sensing can help detect faults early and optimize load management.
India is also exploring underground and undersea transmission to overcome land challenges. Its leadership in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) corridors already serves as a global model for advanced transmission engineering.
Transmission as a Global Benchmark
India’s achievement in building one of the world’s largest synchronized grids provides a powerful example for emerging economies. The country’s ability to integrate renewable energy while maintaining stability showcases its technical and policy strengths.
With continued innovation, investment, and collaboration, India can position itself as a global leader in green energy transmission solutions. The path to Vision 2032 is not just about powering industries—it is about empowering people, ensuring that every home and business shares in the nation’s progress.