Prior approval for installation of overhead transmission line (and dedicated transmission line)
What is Approval of Prior approval for installation of overhead transmission line (and dedicated transmission line)?
Before installing an overhead transmission line or a dedicated transmission line, prior approval from the relevant authorities is mandatory to ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. The approval process is governed by the Indian Electricity Act, 2003, and the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) regulations, which mandate that any entity intending to lay a transmission line must obtain permissions from the respective State Transmission Utility (STU), the Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL), and local government bodies. This approval is necessary to prevent disruptions to existing infrastructure, protect public safety, and ensure the efficient transmission of electricity without interference.
The process typically involves submitting a detailed application, including technical specifications, route alignment plans, environmental impact assessments, and land acquisition details, if applicable. Authorities review the application based on factors such as right-of-way clearance, proximity to residential and environmentally sensitive areas, and adherence to prescribed safety standards. In the case of a dedicated transmission line—used by industrial units or specific consumers—the applicant must also demonstrate the necessity of a dedicated connection instead of relying on the existing transmission network. If the proposal meets all the criteria, a no-objection certificate (NOC) or a formal approval is issued, allowing the construction of the transmission line to proceed.
Once approval is granted, the project must adhere to the stipulated conditions, including maintaining specified clearance distances, installing safety measures, and conducting regular inspections to ensure operational integrity. Non-compliance with the approved guidelines can lead to penalties, project delays, or even revocation of approval. Additionally, post-installation approvals such as testing and commissioning clearance from electrical regulatory authorities may be required before the transmission line is energized. Therefore, obtaining prior approval is a crucial step to ensure smooth execution while adhering to legal and technical standards.
Who Can Apply for This Certificate?
The prior approval for the installation of an overhead transmission line (including dedicated transmission lines) can be applied for by various entities depending on their specific needs and regulatory requirements. The key applicants typically include:
Power Transmission Companies – Entities responsible for building and maintaining the electricity transmission network, such as Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) or State Transmission Utilities (STUs).
Industrial and Commercial Enterprises – Large manufacturing plants, refineries, IT parks, and special economic zones (SEZs) that require a dedicated transmission line to ensure a stable and high-capacity power supply for their operations.
Renewable Energy Developers – Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power producers needing transmission infrastructure to evacuate generated electricity to the grid or directly to consumers.
Government and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) – Organizations engaged in infrastructure projects requiring dedicated power supply, such as railways, metro rail projects, and defense establishments.
Independent Power Producers (IPPs) – Private power generation companies that need to establish transmission lines to deliver electricity to distribution companies (DISCOMs) or direct consumers through open access.
Each applicant must comply with regulatory requirements and submit a formal request, along with technical and environmental assessments, to obtain approval from the respective state or central electricity authority.
Documents Required for This License
- Request letter giving name of transmission scheme and the details of overhead transmission line included in the scheme.
- Single Line Diagram wThe board resolution for authorized signatory.ith Metering and Protection
- Copy of the Connectivity granted by CTUIL/STU, for generation projects.
- Copy of Gazette notification/Ministry office order, for the ISTS transmission schemes to be implemented through TBCB/RTM mode.
Act and Rules
Role of Shamkris and Process of Prior approval for installation of overhead transmission line (and dedicated transmission line)
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to ensuring compliance with the mandatory requirements for obtaining the Application. With a simple and guided methodology, Shamkris helps organizations achieve the necessary application in a timely and cost-effective manner. Shamkris offers 100% support in advisory, guidance, and compliance, ensuring smooth processing for obtaining the application.
The Application acquisition process described below:
Advisory for the document required
Preparation of documents as per application & list of documents.
Certificate File
Inspection by the department if required
Certificate department
Certificate issued
Yearly Compliance if Applicable
Renewal when due
Who can issue the Prior approval for installation of overhead transmission line (and dedicated transmission line)
FAQ
Prior approval is the official permission required from regulatory authorities before installing an overhead transmission line or a dedicated transmission line. It ensures compliance with safety, environmental, and technical standards as per the Electricity Act, 2003 and Central Electricity Authority (CEA) regulations.
Entities such as power transmission companies, industrial and commercial enterprises, renewable energy developers, government bodies, and independent power producers (IPPs) must obtain approval before installing transmission lines.
Approval is granted by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), State Transmission Utilities (STUs), Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL), and local government agencies based on the project’s location and scale.
Applicants typically need to submit route alignment plans, technical specifications, environmental impact assessments, right-of-way clearances, and land acquisition details (if applicable).
The approval timeline varies based on project complexity and regulatory requirements, but it generally takes a few months, depending on the authorities involved and any environmental or land-related clearances required.
A dedicated transmission line is a privately owned power transmission line set up for a specific consumer or entity, such as industrial plants or large commercial facilities, to ensure a stable and uninterrupted power supply.
- Yes, all transmission lines must adhere to the safety standards set by the CEA, which include minimum ground clearance, proper insulation, electromagnetic field limits, and protection against physical hazards.
- Installing a transmission line without approval may result in legal penalties, project suspension, fines, or even demolition of the unauthorized infrastructure.
Yes, renewable energy developers need approval to construct transmission lines to evacuate power to the grid or directly to consumers. The process may also involve approvals from state electricity regulators and grid operators.
Yes, approvals typically come with a validity period, and the project must commence within the stipulated timeframe. If not, re-approval or an extension may be required from the concerned authorities.