RECPDCL Issues RFP for Major 765kV Transmission Project to Strengthen Eastern Region Power Grid

New Delhi, July 2026:  In a significant step towards enhancing power transmission reliability in India's Eastern Region, REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of REC Limited, has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) under the Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) route for the ERES-47: Nawada – Durgapur – Jeerat (New) 765kV Corridor.

The project aims to complete the 765kV ring in the Eastern Region, improve power supply to Kolkata and surrounding areas, and support growing demand from Bihar and West Bengal.

Project Overview & Scope

The inter-state transmission system includes:

• New 765/400/220 kV Substation at Nawada (Bihar) with multiple ICTs, bus reactors, line bays, and future expansion provisions.

• New 765kV Switching Station at Durgapur (West Bengal) with provision for 765/400kV level.

• LILO of Gaya-Ballia 765kV S/c line at Nawada.

• Nawada – Durgapur (New) 765kV D/c line.

• Durgapur (New) – Jeerat (New) 765kV D/c line.

• Extension at Jeerat (New) 765/400kV Substation.

Scheduled Commercial Operation Date (COD): 31 March 2029.

The project will be implemented on Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis for 35 years, after which assets transfer to CTU at zero cost.

Key Highlights for Bidders

• Bid Process: Single-stage, two-envelope (Technical + Financial) via MSTC electronic platform.

• Bid Submission Deadline: 11 August 2026 (15:00 IST).

• Technical Bid Opening: 11 August 2026 (15:30 IST) at Central Electricity Authority.

• RFP Document Fee: ₹5,00,000 + 18% GST (or US$7,000 + GST).

• Pre-Award Integrity Pact required immediately after RFP purchase.

• Bid Bond: ₹55.32 Crore (Bank Guarantee / Surety Bond / POI).

Qualified bidders will participate in e-reverse auction for the lowest transmission charges.

Strategic Importance

This corridor addresses long-standing reliability issues in the Eastern Region. It will:

• Strengthen 765kV interconnection to Kolkata.

• Facilitate 1200 MW ISTS connectivity to NTPC’s Nabinagar Stage-II.

• Support BSPTCL’s drawal requirements through associated 220kV lines.

• Form part of the planned 765kV ring: Ranchi–Medinipur–Jeerat–Gokarna–Banka–Gaya.

The project was recommended by ERPC, TCC, and the 38th National Committee on Transmission (NCT) meeting.

Who Can Participate?

Bidders (single company or consortium) must meet RECPDCL’s technical and financial qualification criteria detailed in Section 2 of the RFP. Experience in large transmission projects, net worth, and technical capabilities are key.

Interested parties can download the RFP from www.recindia.nic.in and www.recpdcl.in. Clarifications can be sought until 29 June 2026.

How This Project Benefits India’s Power Sector

• Enhances grid stability and reduces congestion in Eastern Region.

• Supports renewable integration and industrial growth in Bihar & West Bengal.

• Promotes competitive bidding, ensuring cost-effective transmission tariffs for consumers.

• Aligns with India’s target of robust inter-state transmission infrastructure under the Electricity Act, 2003.