Andhra Pradesh Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar announced on Wednesday that the state is accelerating a Rs 149.6 billion transmission network expansion to meet rising electricity demand.At a review meeting with APTRANSCO officials, the minister stressed the need for quality execution, strict monitoring, and timely delivery of projects across the 400 kV, 220 kV, and 132 kV grids. He set a goal of completing Rs 60 billion worth of projects by 2027, with regular reviews to address implementation challenges.Priority will be given to port-linked infrastructure, industrial zones, and the capital region, while also supporting aqua farmers and addressing statewide tripping concerns.The minister reviewed power requirements for proposed metro projects in Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam, while urging substations to back data centres and industries in Visakhapatnam. He also called for the modernisation of ageing substations and greater use of underground cabling in the CRDA region to ensure long-term efficiency.Plans are underway to supply 132 kV power to Machilipatnam Port and an extra-high tension line to Ramayapatnam Port. APTRANSCO is also advancing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), with tariff-based bidding for a 2,000 MWh project sanctioned by the Ministry of Power. The minister said this would position Andhra Pradesh as a leader in large-scale energy storage.To meet Amaravati’s growing demand, two 220 kV GIS substations are being developed at Nelapadu and Lingayapalem, alongside an upgrade of the Tadepalli substation to 220/132/33 kV capacity.The minister reassured renewable energy investors of single-window clearances and local skill training initiatives.Axis Energy outlined a Rs 305 billion solar project with Brookfield for 3,000 MW capacity, creating 3,500 jobs.Suzlon detailed Rs 120 billion in wind projects, including upgrades at its Anantapur facility, which will employ 1,700 workers.Reliance announced plans for 500 compressed biogas (CBG) plants across five districts, with an investment of Rs 650 billion and the creation of 250,000 jobs.The projects collectively highlight Andhra Pradesh’s ambition to strengthen its energy infrastructure, support industrial growth, and reinforce its role as a renewable energy hub.