Grid India Proposes New Rules to Optimize Transmission Capacity and Impose Operating Charges

• Published
• By Anupam Nath

The Grid Controller of India (Grid-India) has proposed significant amendments to the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (CERC) draft procedure for granting Temporary General Network Access (T-GNA) to the interstate transmission system. This proposal aims to ensure optimal utilization of transmission capacity, transparent scheduling, and greater accountability within India’s rapidly evolving power grid.

Mandating Transmission Margin for Full Capacity Scheduling

Under the new proposal, Grid India plans to mandate an adequate margin in the transmission system. This change will enable power projects to schedule and transmit energy up to their full T-GNA capacity. The initiative addresses a key issue faced by power producers—limited scheduling flexibility due to transmission bottlenecks.

By introducing this margin system, the regulator intends to create a more reliable and predictable grid operation mechanism, ensuring that renewable and conventional generators alike can deliver power more efficiently.

Bi-Monthly Clearance System for T-GNA Applications

One of the most noteworthy updates in the proposal is the introduction of a bi-monthly standing clearance mechanism for T-GNA applications. The Regional Load Dispatch Centers (RLDCs) will grant T-GNA approval based on available transmission margins.

Applicants seeking clearance between the 1st and 15th of a month must apply within 24 hours of the 25th of the previous month, while those seeking clearance between the 16th and the month-end must apply by the 10th day of the current month. This structured, time-bound process ensures fairness and avoids congestion during scheduling.

Renewable energy projects connected via deemed T-GNA will be treated at par with those already granted GNA, promoting equal opportunities across different energy sources, including hybrid systems and those with energy storage capabilities.

Operating Charges and Payment Discipline

Grid India’s proposal also introduces operating charges for all T-GNA users. Applicants for bilateral and collective T-GNA must pay these charges to the host RLDC in compliance with the Interstate Transmission System (ISTS) payment timelines.

If applicants fail to make payments on time, their access will be automatically blocked through the National Open Access Registry (NOAR). This move aims to instill payment discipline and enhance the financial stability of the power grid infrastructure.

Additionally, specific rates have been outlined — ₹1,000 per day for bilateral transactions and ₹1 per MWh (up to ₹200/day) for collective transactions. Regional entities already paying RLDC fees will be exempt from duplicate charges.

Strengthening India’s Grid for a Renewable Future

The proposed changes align with India’s broader goal of integrating more renewable energy into the national grid while maintaining operational stability. By ensuring sufficient transmission margins and transparent fee structures, Grid India is paving the way for a more robust, reliable, and sustainable energy network.

With feedback invited from stakeholders until October 30, 2025, these reforms could mark a new chapter in India’s grid modernization

and regulatory transparency.