CEA Standardizes Implementation Timelines for ISTS Projects

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA), vide Office Memorandum bearing reference no. CEA-PS-12-13(16)/2/2022-PSPA-II Division dated June 12, 2026 (the “Circular”), has introduced standardised implementation timelines for various categories of Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) projects. The timelines were approved by the National Committee on Transmission (NCT) in its 40th meeting held on April 15, 2026, and are intended to enhance planning certainty, facilitate coordinated development of transmission infrastructure and improve alignment between generation and transmission projects.

As a key measure, the Circular prescribes uniform benchmark timelines for major transmission assets and infrastructure components. The prescribed timelines include:

1. 36 months for greenfield 765 kV and 400 kV AIS/GIS/Hybrid substations;
2. 24 months for greenfield 220 kV and 132 kV AIS/GIS/Hybrid substations;
3. 30 months for 765 kV double-circuit transmission lines up to 100 km and 36 months for lines exceeding 100 km;
4. 24 months for 400 kV double-circuit transmission lines up to 50 km and 30 months for lines exceeding 50 km;
5. 24 months for 220 kV and 132 kV transmission lines;
6. 30 months for augmentation works at existing AIS substations of 400 kV and above and GIS/Hybrid substations of 132 kV and above, and 24 months for augmentation works at AIS substations of 220/230 kV and below; and
7. 48 to 54 months for HVDC terminal stations and associated transmission systems, depending upon project configuration.

Recognising the practical challenges associated with projects located in difficult terrain, the circular permits an additional implementation period of 6 to 12 months for projects situated in the North-Eastern Region, Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, depending on project-specific requirements.

The Circular further clarifies that in cases where a transmission scheme includes a combination of different project types, the timeline for the activity requiring the longest duration shall apply to the scheme as a whole. At the same time, the framework allows compressed implementation schedules to be considered in exceptional cases where project requirements warrant accelerated execution.

Importantly, CEA has advised transmission developers, distribution licensees (DISCOMs), bulk consumers and other stakeholders to incorporate these benchmark timelines while planning generation schedules, load growth projections, financial closure, equipment procurement and other project milestones.