The Central Electricity Authority (CEA), under the Ministry of Power, has released its Manual on Transmission Planning Criteria, 2026, introducing updated guidelines for the planning and development of India’s transmission infrastructure. The revised manual came into effect on October 15, 2026, and applies to new transmission systems planned after that date.
The updated framework addresses the evolving requirements of India’s electricity grid amid rising power demand and increasing renewable energy capacity. It includes provisions for 1,150 kV ultra-high-voltage alternating current (UHVAC) transmission systems, renewable energy integration, battery energy storage systems (BESS), high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology and grid stability.
The manual also strengthens planning requirements for transmission reliability, network modelling, substation capacity, reactive power management and system stability. It highlights the importance of coordinating interstate and intrastate transmission development to ensure that electricity generation can be delivered reliably to consumers.
With solar and wind capacity expanding across India, the updated criteria aim to support a stronger, more reliable and efficient transmission network capable of accommodating changing generation patterns and future electricity demand.
