India’s power transmission network will require significant changes to support the country’s renewable energy ambitions and rising electricity demand, according to a report by management consulting firm Kearney. India is targeting 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, while peak electricity demand is projected to reach 459 GW by FY2036.

The report identifies five structural challenges for the transmission sector. These include weak coordination between central and state utilities, slower progress on transmission projects than renewable generation, and underutilisation of assets operated by the Central Transmission Utility. Allocating connectivity without adequately considering capacity utilisation factors can leave infrastructure underused and increase transmission charges.

Right-of-way constraints, lengthy regulatory approvals and supply chain limitations are also delaying projects. Land access, permissions and other clearances have left hundreds of circuit kilometres stalled, while shortages of transformers and high-voltage conductors have affected execution. Traditional construction practices are adding to project timelines, and limited digital adoption is restricting real-time visibility of grid conditions and changing power flows.

Kearney’s proposed five-pillar framework begins with network planning over 15 to 20 years, incorporating renewable generation, battery energy storage systems, pumped hydro storage and changing demand patterns. It also recommends improving asset utilisation through co-located storage, Flexible AC Transmission Systems and dynamic line-rating technologies.

The framework further calls for a corridor-based delivery model with pre-cleared national transmission corridors, standardised community compensation and time-bound approvals. Strategic procurement, multiyear equipment agreements, stronger domestic manufacturing and digital project management are proposed to reduce supply and construction risks. Digital Centres of Excellence, alongside wider deployment of real-time monitoring systems and phasor measurement units across state networks, would strengthen operational responsiveness and support a more flexible and resilient transmission system.