Two solar energy developers have filed petitions with the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) seeking financial compensation, citing delays in the commissioning of transmission infrastructure. The CERC has formally admitted the cases, initiating a regulatory review that could affect the broader renewable energy sector in India.
Losses tied to lack of power evacuation
ACME Solar Holdings Ltd and AMPIN Energy reported significant financial losses, stating they were unable to transmit electricity from their solar projects due to delayed operational readiness of transmission lines. According to filings submitted to CERC, the delays prevented the sale of generated power. Gurugram-based ACME Solar is seeking over INR210 million ($2.52 million) in compensation. AMPIN Energy has not disclosed the value of its claim.
Commission-led inquiry under way
CERC has instructed Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd, the state-run operator, and the Central Transmission Utility of India to submit detailed reports within six weeks on the infrastructure in question, commissioning timelines, and the causes of the delays. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for November 27. Neither Power Grid nor the Central Transmission Utility has responded to requests for comment so far.
Broader impact on the national grid
India’s rapid expansion of renewable energy projects is increasingly challenged by network saturation. The country has recently curtailed solar output in certain regions to maintain grid stability and manage congestion, directly affecting power producers.
According to the Rajasthan Solar Association, nearly 4 gigawatts of green energy capacity have been curtailed in the state in recent months, resulting in estimated financial losses of INR2.5 billion ($28.16 million).
