Andhra Pradesh is implementing targeted measures to modernise and strengthen its power transmission network to meet expanding industrial growth, urban expansion and renewable energy integration, Special Chief Secretary for Energy K Vijayanand said after a virtual review meeting. The meeting assessed 400 kV, 220 kV and 132 kV extra high voltage projects being executed by Andhra Pradesh Transmission Corporation (APTRANSCO). Officials reported that the review aimed to identify bottlenecks and accelerate project delivery ahead of peak demand periods.

APTRANSCO has completed 35 major transmission projects, comprising four 400 kV, 10 220 kV and 21 132 kV installations, which added 2,215 MVA transformation capacity and 613 circuit kilometres (CKM) of transmission lines. The completed works were described as improving regional power transfer capability and reducing congestion on critical corridors. The upgrades included substation augmentation and line reconductoring to enhance resilience.

60 major transmission projects are currently under way across the state at an estimated cost of Rs 50.92 billion (bn), and these projects are expected to add 14,296 MVA capacity and 1,760 circuit kilometres to the grid. The programme is intended to enhance grid stability and inter regional connectivity to support industrial and urban load growth. Project execution timelines and resource mobilisation were reviewed during the meeting.

To secure uninterrupted supply and to prevent network congestion ahead of next summer, 24 major projects valued at Rs 35.07 bn are expected to be commissioned over the next six months. A further 72 projects are in the planning stage and tenders are due to be floated over the next three months to streamline integration of conventional and renewable generation. The Special Chief Secretary said the government was prioritising advanced grid technologies.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar were said to be giving top priority to the upgrades as part of a broader economic strategy. Officials indicated that the investment and project pipeline would support long term economic growth and system reliability. The review concluded with directives to monitor progress and expedite procurement where necessary.