Massive Infrastructure Push Underway
The Transmission Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Limited (APTRANSCO) is undertaking a substantial transformation of its power grid. This initiative involves the completion of 55 major transmission projects valued at approximately Rs 9,319.30 crore. These projects are set to augment the state's grid with an additional 8,853 MVA of transformation capacity and 1,558 circuit kilometres of transmission lines. The corporation currently manages a network comprising 380 substations, 1,030 transformers with a total capacity of 71,049 MVA, and over 33,000 circuit kilometres of high-voltage transmission lines.
Recent efforts have already seen the commissioning and augmentation of 3,240 MVA of EHV substation capacity and the laying of nearly 950 circuit kilometres of new transmission lines, aimed at bolstering system reliability and voltage stability across Andhra Pradesh. New 400/220/132 KV substations are being established at critical points including Kakinada SEZ, Achutapuram, Gudivada, and Ainavalli.
Focus on Grid Stability Through Energy Storage
A significant component of APTRANSCO's modernization strategy involves the integration of energy storage solutions. The corporation has finalized auctions for 1,000 MW / 2,000 MWh standalone Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. These projects, distributed across seven substations, will be developed under a Build–Own–Operate (BOO) model.
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The BESS will provide on-demand services to State DISCOMs and the SLDC, aiming to enhance dispatch flexibility and ensure grid stability!
The auction saw tariffs ranging from ₹1.48 lakh to ₹1.65 lakh per MW per month. Companies such as Ecoren Energy, Bondada Engineering, POWERGRID, Bhagwati Group, and Legion Energy Products submitted bids. The Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme is supporting these projects, capped at ₹18 lakh per MWh. These systems are designed for daily operation with two full charge–discharge cycles, and each system block will be configured at 50 MW / 100 MWh or 75 MW / 150 MWh.
Recruitment and Talent Acquisition
In parallel with its infrastructure expansion, APTRANSCO is actively engaged in recruitment processes to fill various positions. The corporation has advertised for Corporate Lawyer posts and is expected to invite online applications for 708 vacancies of Assistant Engineer (Electrical, Electronics & Communication Engineering, and Civil).
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The recruitment drives suggest a strategic effort to bring in new talent, potentially to manage and operate the increasingly sophisticated grid infrastructure. The Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) exam syllabus reportedly has considerable overlap with the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), indicating a focus on technical and analytical capabilities among applicants.
Background and Context
APTRANSCO, the state transmission utility of Andhra Pradesh, emerged following the bifurcation of the former Andhra Pradesh. The organization has been committed to improving its transmission loss levels, achieving figures around 3 percent, which has earned it several accolades. The current focus on advanced technologies and infrastructure expansion aligns with broader national objectives for grid modernization and renewable energy integration. Andhra Pradesh currently has a total installed power capacity of 21,153 MW, with renewable energy contributing 37 percent to this capacity.
