India’s expanding renewable energy capacity is creating a growing need for transmission infrastructure that can move electricity efficiently across long distances. Addressing this requirement, GE Vernova has been selected by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) to deliver advanced High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology for the 6 GW Barmer II-South Kalamb transmission link.
The project will connect Barmer II in Rajasthan with South Kalamb in Maharashtra through a ±800 kV bipolar HVDC link designed to transmit 6,000 MW of electricity. The system will be configured in two 3,000 MW blocks, supporting the transfer of large volumes of power from a renewable energy-rich region to the wider national grid.
The project was booked in the fourth quarter of 2026 and represents a significant addition to India’s power transmission infrastructure.
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Connecting Renewable Energy Hubs to the National Grid
Rajasthan has emerged as a major centre for renewable energy development, particularly solar and wind power. However, generating electricity is only one part of the energy transition. Efficiently transmitting that power to regions where demand is high is equally important.
The Barmer II–South Kalamb link is intended to strengthen this connection by providing a high-capacity transmission route between Rajasthan and Maharashtra. Advanced HVDC technology will support the movement of electricity over long distances while helping manage the demands of an increasingly renewable-powered grid.
As renewable energy capacity grows, transmission systems must be capable of handling changing generation patterns and delivering reliable electricity across regions. Projects of this scale are therefore becoming increasingly important to India’s evolving power infrastructure.
Inside GE Vernova’s HVDC Technology Scope
GE Vernova’s scope covers the design and delivery of the HVDC system, including new converter stations and major equipment supply. The work also includes site erection, testing and commissioning.
The project will use Line Commutated Converter (LCC) technology, a proven HVDC approach suited to high-capacity bulk power transmission.
An important part of the project is the manufacturing of LCC converter valves at GE Vernova’s Pallavaram facility in India. This brings a domestic manufacturing component into a major transmission infrastructure project and highlights the role of Indian facilities in supporting advanced power technology.
The system will also incorporate GE Vernova’s eLumina control system to manage power flows and support the operation of the HVDC link.
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The Role of HVDC in Building a Stronger Power Grid
High-Voltage Direct Current technology is particularly useful for transmitting large quantities of electricity over long distances. Unlike conventional alternating current (AC) transmission, HVDC systems can offer greater control over power flows and can help reduce transmission losses over suitable long-distance routes.
Converter stations at either end of an HVDC link convert electricity between AC and DC, enabling power to travel through the DC transmission system before being converted back for integration into the receiving grid.
For a country such as India, where renewable energy generation centres can be located far from major consumption centres, such infrastructure can play an important role in connecting supply with demand.
The growing share of solar and wind power also makes grid flexibility and reliable transmission increasingly important. High-capacity HVDC links can help move electricity from resource-rich regions and strengthen the overall transmission network.
GE Vernova Highlights Grid Reliability and Renewable Integration
Commenting on the project, Philippe Piron, President and CEO of GE Vernova’s Electrification Segment highlighted India’s rapid renewable energy integration and the changing requirements of its power grid. He described the project as a long-term investment in the reliability and future readiness of the country’s power system, with advanced transmission technology helping connect renewable generation with electricity demand across the country.
Sandeep Zanzaria, CEO and Managing Director of GE Vernova T&D India emphasized the importance of developing robust, high-capacity transmission infrastructure as India accelerates its renewable energy expansion. He noted that the Barmer–South Kalamb HVDC corridor is strategically important for integrating large-scale renewable capacity from Rajasthan into the national grid. He also highlighted the role of advanced transmission technologies in strengthening the power network and supporting reliable electricity supply.
Strengthening India’s Energy Transition Infrastructure
India’s renewable energy ambitions depend not only on adding generation capacity but also on building the transmission infrastructure needed to integrate that electricity into the national grid.
The Barmer II-South Kalamb project reflects this growing emphasis on high-capacity transmission solutions. By connecting a renewable energy-rich region with the wider power network, the HVDC link is expected to support the efficient movement of electricity and strengthen grid infrastructure.
With advanced converter technology, Indian manufacturing involvement and sophisticated power-flow control, the project underlines the growing importance of transmission investments in India’s energy transition.
As the country’s renewable energy capacity continues to expand, projects that connect generation centres with consumption hubs will remain central to building a reliable, flexible and future-ready power system.
