Cabinet approves ₹1.86 trillion green energy corridor with battery storage

The Union Cabinet has approved the third phase of the Green Energy Corridor (GEC-III) initiative, a ₹1.86 trillion investment to strengthen the nation's renewable energy transmission infrastructure. The scheme represents a critical step in India's commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity while addressing the challenge of efficiently transporting clean power across state boundaries.

Under GEC-III, the government will enable the evacuation of 135 GW of renewable energy—primarily from wind and solar projects—across inter-state and intra-state transmission networks by 2032-33. This substantial capacity augmentation is designed to facilitate the integration of renewable energy projects, particularly in high-potential zones, ensuring that generated power reaches consuming regions without congestion or losses.

Complementing the transmission infrastructure, the scheme provides for the deployment of 50 GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) across the country. These storage facilities will help stabilize the grid by managing the variable nature of renewable energy generation, enabling better load management and grid reliability during peak and off-peak hours.

The GEC initiative builds on previous phases and reflects India's broader energy transition strategy, which targets 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. Industry analysts view the investment as essential to supporting India's renewable energy ambitions while maintaining grid stability and ensuring reliable power supply across regions.