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RECPDCL Cancels Bidding for Interstate Transmission System in Himachal Pradesh

Bid process coordinator REC Power Development & Consultancy Ltd (RECPDCL) has annulled the bidding process for an Interstate Transmission System (ISTS) project meant for evacuating power from upcoming hydropower projects in Himachal Pradesh.

The cancelled bid pertained to the "Transmission system for evacuation of power from Shongtong Karcham HEP (450 MW) and Tidong HEP (150 MW)," which was housed under Shongtong Power Transmission Ltd.

Key Details:

• The ISTS project was designed to facilitate power evacuation for upcoming hydropower projects in Himachal Pradesh.
• Three bidders—Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL), Sterlite Power (now Resonia), and Adani Energy Solutions Ltd (AESL)—were shortlisted in September 2024 for the opening of initial price bids.
• The cancellation of the bidding process raises questions about the future of power evacuation infrastructure in the region.

Potential Implications

• Uncertainty for upcoming hydropower projects, which rely on transmission infrastructure for power distribution.
• Possible re-tendering or restructuring of the project to align with new regulatory or commercial considerations.
• Increased focus on improving transmission planning to avoid similar disruptions in future tenders.

The cancellation of such a crucial transmission project underscores the challenges in India’s power infrastructure development, particularly in the hydropower sector.