The 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 aims to 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 Himachal Pradesh and Punjab until it reaches Kaithal in 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.
This project will play a pivotal role in reaching the goal of achieving 500 GW of electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by the year 2030. Furthermore, it will enhance the nation’s long-term energy security and advance environmentally sustainable growth by reducing the carbon footprint. Moreover, the project will create substantial employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, for individuals with various skill levels in the power sector and related fields, with a special focus on the Ladakh region.
