Adani Energy Solutions expands renewable energy infrastructure with 7GW Khavda transmission project

Adani Energy Solutions Ltd (AESL), India’s largest private transmission and distribution entity, has made a landmark advancement in the country’s renewable energy landscape with the acquisition and development of the Khavda Phase-IV Part-A transmission project. This initiative is set to bolster India’s energy infrastructure and significantly contribute to the country’s decarbonization efforts.

Major Investment in Renewable Energy Infrastructure

In a strategic move to enhance India’s renewable energy capabilities, AESL has secured the Khavda Phase-IV Part-A transmission project, valued at approximately ₹4,091 crore (around CAD 645 million). The project involves the construction of a ~298 km (596 ckm) transmission network designed to evacuate an impressive 7 GW of renewable energy from the Khavda Renewable Energy (RE) Park into the National Grid. This development marks a significant step in AESL’s mission to lead India’s energy transition and solidify its position as the country’s largest private sector transmission company.

Innovative Technology and Project Features

The Khavda Phase-IV Part-A project will feature the installation of a groundbreaking 300 MVAr Grid-Forming Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM), marking a global first. This state-of-the-art technology will enhance the stability and reliability of the power system by efficiently managing sudden power imbalances and ensuring a consistent energy supply. The project will also include the construction of 765 kV double circuit transmission lines connecting Khavda to Lakadia and Bhuj in Gujarat. Additionally, the infrastructure will incorporate a substantial transformation capacity of 4,500 MVA, vital for managing high volumes of energy transfer.

The project’s infrastructure will include:

• 300 MVAr STATCOM: To provide advanced voltage support and maintain grid stability.
• 3×1500 MVA 765/400 kV Inter-Connecting Transformers (ICTs): For efficient energy conversion and transmission.
• 1×330 MVAr 765 kV and 1×125 MVAr 420 kV Bus Reactors: To manage reactive power and support grid stability.

Project Execution and Timeline

AESL won the project through a Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) process. The company will undertake the development on a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) basis, with the project slated for completion within the next 24 months. AESL will maintain and operate the infrastructure for a period of 35 years, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

The project will be executed by Khavda IVA Power Transmission Ltd, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) established by REC Power Development and Consultancy Ltd (RECPDCL). This SPV is specifically tasked with the development of the Khavda Phase-IV Part-A transmission network, further reinforcing AESL’s role in the project’s successful execution.

Strategic Importance and Environmental Impact

The Khavda Renewable Energy Park is the world’s largest renewable energy park, with a planned total generation capacity of 30 GW. This massive scale underscores the importance of robust transmission infrastructure to efficiently evacuate and integrate renewable energy into the national grid. The Khavda Phase-IV Part-A project will play a crucial role in supporting India’s ambitious renewable energy targets and accelerating the country’s transition towards a cleaner energy future.

By transforming Khavda from a barren land into a pivotal node in India’s net-zero journey, AESL is demonstrating its commitment to advancing clean energy solutions. This project aligns with the Indian government’s goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and supports the broader objective of reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.

Future Prospects

The successful implementation of the Khavda Phase-IV Part-A project will not only enhance AESL’s portfolio but also significantly impact India’s energy infrastructure landscape. The project is expected to improve the efficiency of renewable energy transmission, support grid stability, and contribute to the overall sustainability of the energy sector.

As India continues to expand its renewable energy capacity, AESL’s investment in the Khavda project represents a crucial step towards achieving the country’s energy goals and supporting global climate objectives.