India, Rajasthan: REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL) has initiated the selection of a Transmission Service Provider (TSP) for the enhancement of the Kankani substation in Rajasthan. Known as Package 3 (P3), the project aims to upgrade the existing 400 kV substation to a 765 kV facility and includes construction of associated transmission lines to improve power evacuation and grid stability.
The upgrade involves building a new 765 / 400 kV AIS substation in Jodhpur, installation of 1500 MVA Interconnecting Transformers (ICTs), 765 kV ICT bays, and 400 kV interconnecting bays for integration with the Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Prasaran Nigam (RVPN) network. The scope also covers two 765 kV line bays at Phagi and a 765 kV double-circuit Kankani-Phagi line using Hex Zebra AL-59 conductors. These enhancements are expected to significantly strengthen transmission efficiency and reliability.
The TSP will be selected through a tariff-based competitive bidding process, following a single-stage, two-envelope system. Technical evaluations will precede financial offers, with the final selection via an e-reverse auction to identify the lowest transmission charges. The winning bidder will hold 100 % equity in Kankani Power Transmission Limited, financing, constructing, and operating the project for 35 years before transferring the assets back to the state.
The RFP was issued on 14 January 2026 and can be purchased until 17 March 2026 for a non-refundable fee of Rs. 5,00,000. Online bid submissions are due 18 March 2026, with technical bids opened the same day and financial offers reviewed on 1 April 2026. Completion is expected within 30 months.
Upgrading Kankani to 765 kV will enhance Rajasthan’s grid capacity, reduce transmission losses, support renewable energy integration, and ensure reliable power for industrial, commercial, and residential consumers.
Source: Solar Quarter
