The Transfer of Connectivity to the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) is a regulatory approval process mandated by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) under the Connectivity and General Network Access (GNA) Regulations, 2022. This approval is required when an entity, known as the Connectivity Grantee, wishes to transfer its granted connectivity rights to another eligible entity. Such transfers may be necessary due to a change in project ownership, mergers, acquisitions, internal restructuring, or when the original grantee is unable to execute the project and wants to allow another party to take over.

The primary objective of this regulation is to maintain transparency and reliability in the management of the inter-state power transmission network. It ensures that only qualified and eligible entities are granted access to the ISTS, and that any changes in connectivity do not compromise the stability or planning of the national grid. This regulatory framework also discourages speculative holding of transmission capacity and promotes optimal utilization of the transmission system.

As per Regulation 15 of the CERC Regulations, the applicable form for initiating this process is titled “Application for transfer of connectivity to ISTS under Regulations 15”. The Central Transmission Utility (CTU) is the nodal agency responsible for handling such applications. The CTU evaluates the submitted application, verifies technical feasibility, and ensures that the transferee meets all the eligibility criteria laid down in the regulations. The process involves submission of relevant documents, including agreements between the transferor and transferee, board resolutions, technical details of the project, and any other documents requested by the CTU.

Once the application is received, the CTU carries out a thorough review, which may include requests for clarifications or additional information. If the application meets all the requirements and there are no technical or regulatory objections, the CTU grants the transfer of connectivity. The decision is then communicated to both parties and other concerned agencies such as the Regional and State Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs and SLDCs). In case of a rejection, the CTU must provide valid reasons for the same.

This process is particularly relevant in scenarios such as project takeovers, ownership changes, or financial restructuring within companies developing renewable or conventional power projects. It facilitates business continuity without compromising the integrity of the transmission grid. However, it is important to note that even with mutual consent between the transferor and transferee, the transfer is not automatic; it requires official approval from the CTU based on regulatory compliance and grid planning principles.

Overall, the approval for transfer of connectivity plays a vital role in the efficient functioning of the power sector. It ensures that only committed and capable developers can access the national transmission infrastructure while upholding transparency, accountability, and system security across India’s inter-state transmission network.