Bhubaneswar: Odisha is embarking on a transformative journey to significantly bolster its power transmission network, a critical initiative being championed by Principal Secretary Energy, E&IT, Vishal Dev. Building upon an already impressive infrastructure that ensures 99% availability across 51 lines and 198 EHV (Extra High Voltage) grids, the state is making substantial investments to integrate a surge in green energy and meet burgeoning industrial demands.
Under Shri Dev’s proactive leadership, the Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited (OPTCL) is set to establish 34 new grid stations and undertake major upgrades to 30 existing ones. This monumental project, with an estimated outlay of ₹7,532 crore, is a key component of the ambitious Green Energy Corridor Phase III. The enhanced network is strategically designed to efficiently evacuate and transmit power from a diverse range of new energy sources, including a rapid expansion of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, upcoming wind and hydro power projects, and the escalating energy needs of the state’s thriving aluminium sector.
Principal Secretary Shri Dev has been a vocal advocate for this expansion, consistently highlighting the indispensability of a resilient and modern power transmission system for Odisha’s sustainable growth. “Our focus is not just on meeting today’s energy requirements, but on building a future-ready grid that can seamlessly support our transition to a cleaner, greener energy landscape,” stated Shri Dev in a recent address. He further emphasized the importance of ensuring reliable power supply to support industrial growth, particularly in energy-intensive sectors like aluminium, while simultaneously facilitating the integration of renewable energy.
The drive for this robust grid is further supported by Odisha’s commitment to renewable energy development. Only recently, under Shri Dev’s decisive and futuristic leadership, the Single Window Committee cleared fresh renewable energy projects totaling 178 MW with an estimated investment of ₹869.8 crore, signaling the state’s proactive approach to green investments. These projects, which include solar parks and wind power installations across various districts, will significantly contribute to Odisha’s total renewable energy capacity, which has now soared to an impressive 1,844.86 MW, attracting cumulative investment commitments of ₹12,599.79 crore.
The ongoing projects under OPTCL’s construction wing include critical initiatives like the conversion of radial systems to ring systems for enhanced reliability, such as the 132 kV S/C line from Padampur to Ghens and the line connecting Kantabanji to Patnagarh. These projects, among many others across various regions of the state, aim to improve voltage profiles and ensure uninterrupted power supply, particularly in the western parts of Odisha.
The comprehensive strategy, championed by Principal Secretary Vishal Dev, underscores Odisha’s unwavering commitment to achieving its Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) and contributing significantly to India’s overarching climate goals. This expansion of the power transmission network is not merely a technical upgrade; it’s a strategic investment in Odisha’s future, promising not only energy security and environmental benefits but also substantial socio-economic opportunities through job creation and infrastructure development. The state’s forward-looking approach, under Shri Dev’s guidance, is positioning Odisha as a leading example in India’s transition towards a cleaner, more prosperous energy future.