The Approval of Connectivity is a mandatory regulatory step for entities wishing to access the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) in India. It is required by power generators, transmission licensees, captive plants, and bulk consumers who intend to inject or draw power from the national grid. This approval is granted by the Central Transmission Utility (CTU) in accordance with the guidelines laid out by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) under the Connectivity and General Network Access (GNA) Regulations, 2022. It ensures that only technically and financially qualified applicants are connected to the ISTS, maintaining the stability and reliability of the grid.

Under the umbrella of the PM Gati Shakti Scheme, this approval is a part of the government’s broader push for integrated and fast-tracked infrastructure development. PM Gati Shakti is a national master plan aimed at enhancing multi-modal connectivity and improving coordination among various ministries and departments. Within this framework, connectivity approval facilitates the timely execution of energy projects, especially in renewable power generation, by aligning power infrastructure planning with other sectors like transport, logistics, and industrial development.

This streamlined approval process helps reduce project delays, improve grid integration, and promote ease of doing business in the energy sector. It is also crucial for achieving national goals related to renewable energy, energy access, and sustainable development. By ensuring fair and non-discriminatory access to the transmission network, the Ministry of Power—through this connectivity approval—plays a vital role in strengthening India’s power sector and supporting its long-term infrastructure vision under PM Gati Shakti.