M/s. Morjar Renewables Pvt. Ltd. approached the Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) seeking relief regarding the continued use of a temporary 220 kV GIS Feeder Bay at Kalavad Substation. The company had already begun supplying 127.3 MW (64.8 MW wind + 62.5 MW solar) of renewable power through this temporary arrangement, which was initially allowed by the Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO) due to delays in the construction of a permanent bay.
The petitioner cited several uncontrollable challenges that led to the delay. Initially, GETCO allowed temporary bay use until June 30, 2024, which was later extended until December 31, 2024, and finally until March 31, 2025. These extensions were sought because the permanent bay construction, though actively pursued by Morjar Renewables, faced technical hurdles involving different GIS systems—Siemens and Chint—requiring adapter modules, redesigns, and precise measurements. The presence of Chint’s representatives was mandatory for measurements, but repeated non-responsiveness from Chint caused over three months of delay.
Even after placing orders with Siemens in August 2023 and making efforts to secure drawing approvals, delays in approvals from GETCO and coordination issues among the four renewable energy developers (Cleanmax, Suzlon, OP Wind, and Morjar) caused further setbacks. The electrical commissioning of the permanent bay depends on the completion of all four bays due to the interconnected design of the busbar system. The end cap for testing can only be installed after the fourth bay is completed, which means all bays must be ready for testing and commissioning to proceed together.
Morjar emphasized that despite its advanced progress and substantial investment, the delays were entirely beyond its control and largely due to vendor delays, uncoordinated approvals, and a lack of timely response from GETCO-approved vendors. They urged the Commission to allow continued use of the temporary bay until the other developers complete their work. The company feared that without this extension, the renewable capacity would become stranded, harming both the company and consumers who rely on cleaner energy.
Further, GETCO warned of disconnection after March 31, 2025, unless all approvals, testing, and commissioning of the permanent bay were completed. Morjar responded with detailed representations, asserting that disconnection due to delays not caused by them would be unfair and against the spirit of clean energy promotion. The company requested protection from coercive actions, continued connectivity, and equitable consideration from GERC.
The petition concluded that the project is a must-run renewable plant, supplying clean and affordable energy. If forced to disconnect, not only would the petitioner suffer unjustly, but Gujarat’s consumers would also be deprived of renewable power. The Commission was urged to direct GETCO to maintain temporary connectivity until full commissioning of all permanent bays is achieved.
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
