The energy sector in India is witnessing a significant shift, with Adani Energy Solutions Limited (AESL) securing a monumental interstate transmission project in Maharashtra. The Rs16.6bn ($194.2m) project, managed by the newly transferred special-purpose vehicle WRNES Talegaon Power Transmission, is set to facilitate the evacuation of 1.5GW of renewable energy from upcoming hydro pumped storage projects in Raigad to Mumbai and its neighbouring regions. This development is not just about expanding AESL’s transmission network but also about setting a precedent for renewable energy integration in India.
The project involves the installation of 3,000 megavolt-amperes (MVA) of substation capacity and related transmission infrastructure. Upon completion, expected by January 2028, AESL’s transmission network will expand to 26,696 circuit kilometres (ckm) and 93,236MVA of transformation capacity. This expansion is crucial for India’s renewable energy goals, as it will enable the efficient transmission of clean energy to high-demand regions.
AESL secured this project through the tariff-based competitive bidding (TBCB) process, coordinated by REC Power Development and Consultancy (RECPDCL). This method ensures that the project is cost-effective and transparent, setting a benchmark for future transmission projects. “This project is a testament to our commitment to building a robust and efficient transmission network that supports India’s renewable energy ambitions,” said an AESL spokesperson.
The project’s significance extends beyond Maharashtra. It is part of AESL’s broader strategy to bolster its transmission and distribution capabilities across India. In March 2025, AESL won a Rs28bn power transmission project in Gujarat. This project, also to be completed by 2028, aims to support the production of green hydrogen and green ammonia in Mundra. It involves upgrades to the Navinal (Mundra) electrical substation and the installation of a 75km long 765kV double-circuit line linking it to the Bhuj substation.
These projects highlight AESL’s role in India’s energy transition. Operating under the diversified Adani portfolio, AESL is active in power transmission, distribution, smart metering, and cooling solutions. In the retail electricity distribution sector, AESL serves 13 million consumers in metropolitan Mumbai and the industrial hub of Mundra SEZ. Its transmission order book currently stands at Rs616bn, reflecting its significant role in India’s energy infrastructure.
The Maharashtra project is a game-changer for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the importance of interstate transmission systems (ISTS) in integrating renewable energy into the grid. Secondly, it demonstrates the effectiveness of the TBCB process in securing cost-effective and efficient transmission projects. Lastly, it sets a precedent for future projects, encouraging other players in the sector to adopt similar strategies.
However, the project also raises questions. How will AESL manage the integration of such a large amount of renewable energy into the grid? What challenges might it face, and how will it overcome them? These are questions that the industry will be watching closely.
The Maharashtra project is a significant step forward for AESL and the Indian energy sector. It is a testament to the potential of renewable energy and the importance of a robust transmission network. As the project progresses, it will be interesting to see how it shapes the future of energy in India.