The Andhra Pradesh Transmission Corporation (AP Transco) has unveiled an ambitious blueprint to significantly enhance the state's power infrastructure, setting a comprehensive target to complete approximately 55 major transmission projects with a staggering investment of Rs 9,319.30 crore. This strategic initiative represents a major leap forward in strengthening Andhra Pradesh's energy backbone and ensuring reliable electricity supply across all regions.
Major Capacity Expansion Through Strategic Projects
During the Republic Day celebrations at Vidyut Soudha in Vijayawada, Joint Managing Director G Surya Sai Praveenchand detailed the corporation's transformative plans. These extensive transmission projects are designed to add a substantial 8,853 MVA (megavolt-ampere) of transformation capacity along with 1,558 circuit kilometres of new transmission lines to the state grid. This expansion will dramatically improve power distribution capabilities and reduce transmission bottlenecks that have historically affected various regions.
Strategic Substation Development Across Key Locations
AP Transco is currently developing new 400/220/132 kV substations at several strategic locations that are crucial for industrial growth and residential power needs. These include Kakinada SEZ, Achutapuram, Gudivada, and Ainavalli – all areas identified as vital for economic development and population centers requiring enhanced power infrastructure. This development underscores the state government's firm commitment to providing reliable, quality power supply 24/7 throughout Andhra Pradesh, addressing both current demands and future growth projections.
Leadership-Driven Infrastructure Modernization
Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, with dedicated support from Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar and expert guidance from Chief Secretary K Vijayanand, Andhra Pradesh's power utilities are prioritizing comprehensive transmission infrastructure expansion. The focus extends beyond mere capacity addition to include systematic modernization of existing networks and implementation of advanced technologies. This multi-pronged approach aims to position Andhra Pradesh's power sector as the most efficient and reliable in the country, setting new benchmarks for other states to follow.
Current Infrastructure and Recent Achievements
AP Transco currently operates an impressive network of 380 substations and 1,030 power transformers with a total capacity of 71,049 MVA. The corporation manages over 33,000 circuit kilometres of high-voltage transmission lines that crisscross the state. In recent years, the transmission utility has commissioned and augmented 3,240 MVA of extra-high voltage (EHV) substation capacity while adding nearly 950 circuit kilometres of new transmission lines. These enhancements have markedly improved system reliability and voltage profiles across the state, reducing power fluctuations and ensuring consistent electricity supply.
Technological Advancements and Efficiency Improvements
Through strategic digitization initiatives, real-time monitoring systems, and comprehensive network optimization, AP Transco has achieved a remarkable reduction in transmission losses, bringing them down to a historic low of 2.60 percent. This represents one of the most efficient transmission systems in the country and translates to significant cost savings and improved power availability for end consumers.
Battery Energy Storage and Renewable Integration
Looking toward the future, AP Transco is advancing ambitious battery energy storage system (BESS) projects totaling 1,500 MW/3,000 MWh, to be implemented in phased manner. These storage solutions will play a crucial role in enhancing grid stability, seamlessly integrating renewable energy sources, and effectively managing peak demand periods. The storage infrastructure will help balance the intermittent nature of renewable power generation with consistent grid requirements.
Generation Capacity Enhancement and Clean Energy Focus
Praveenchand highlighted that APGENCO, the state's power generation corporation, is simultaneously enhancing generation capacity to meet rising electricity demand. On January 3, the corporation achieved a record peak thermal generation of 6,009 MW through improved coal supply chains, enhanced maintenance protocols, and operational efficiency improvements. APGENCO is prioritizing both pumped storage projects and renewable energy expansion, with six pumped storage projects totaling 6,020 MW currently progressing through joint ventures with NHPC.
Clean Energy Transition and National Recognition
The New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP) is driving the state's clean energy transition under the comprehensive AP Integrated Clean Energy Policy-2024. This policy targets massive investments of Rs 10 lakh crore in large-scale renewable energy projects, pumped storage facilities, and advanced battery storage systems. The AP State Energy Conservation Mission recently received the prestigious National Energy Conservation Award, recognizing its outstanding efforts in promoting energy efficiency across various sectors.
This comprehensive approach to power infrastructure development – encompassing transmission expansion, generation enhancement, storage solutions, and clean energy integration – positions Andhra Pradesh as a leader in India's energy sector transformation. The state is building a robust, future-ready power ecosystem that will support economic growth, industrial development, and improved quality of life for all residents while maintaining environmental sustainability through increased renewable energy adoption.
