Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) 2026
The Union Cabinet has approved the Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) scheme to strengthen the intra-state transmission system and support large-scale integration and evacuation of renewable energy across States and Union Territories.
The scheme has a total project outlay of ₹1,86,405 crore and is targeted for implementation by FY 2032-33. It also includes deployment of 50 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
What is Green Energy Corridor Phase-III?
Green Energy Corridor Phase-III is an infrastructure-focused government initiative designed to strengthen intra-state power transmission networks so that renewable electricity generated from sources such as solar and wind can be evacuated and integrated more effectively into the power grid.
The scheme will also support Battery Energy Storage Systems to improve grid flexibility, manage renewable energy intermittency, reduce congestion and curtailment during peak periods, and help meet electricity demand during non-solar hours.
Key Highlights of GEC-III 2026
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme | Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) |
| Approval Date | 30 September 2026 |
| Total Project Outlay | ₹1,86,405 crore |
| Intra-State Transmission Component | ₹1,36,378 crore |
| Battery Energy Storage Systems | 50 GWh |
| BESS Component | ₹50,000 crore |
| Central Financial Support | ₹54,082 crore |
| Renewable Energy Evacuation Capacity | Up to 135 GW |
| Target Completion | FY 2032-33 |
How Much Investment is Planned?
The total project outlay under GEC-III is ₹1,86,405 crore. Of this, ₹1,36,378 crore is allocated for development of the Intra-State Transmission System, while ₹50,000 crore is allocated for 50 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems.
The scheme includes ₹54,082 crore of Central Financial Support (CFA). According to the Government, this support will help offset intra-state transmission charges and help keep power costs lower.
135 GW Renewable Energy Integration
One of the major objectives of GEC-III is to strengthen transmission infrastructure capable of evacuating up to 135 GW of renewable energy across States and Union Territories.
The stronger transmission network is intended to help connect renewable power generation with the wider electricity grid and improve the ability of the system to handle increasing renewable generation.
50 GWh Battery Energy Storage Systems
GEC-III also includes deployment of 50 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). These systems may be deployed at the renewable energy developer or generator end or at other locations important for grid flexibility.
Why is Battery Storage Important?
- Managing intermittency of renewable energy generation.
- Reducing transmission congestion.
- Reducing peak-hour renewable energy curtailment.
- Supporting electricity demand during non-solar hours.
- Improving flexibility and reliability of the electricity grid.
How Will GEC-III Projects Be Implemented?
Greenfield projects under the Intra-State Transmission System component will be implemented through Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB).
Brownfield upgradation and network-strengthening works will be executed under the Cost Plus Basis (CPB).
- State Transmission Utilities (STUs): Overall implementing agencies.
- Transmission Service Providers (TSPs): Participation through TBCB projects.
- BOOM Model: Transmission Service Providers will participate under Build-Own-Operate-Maintain arrangements.
Who Will Benefit From GEC-III?
GEC-III is primarily an electricity transmission and grid infrastructure programme rather than an individual cash-benefit scheme. Its benefits are expected to extend across the power ecosystem.
- Renewable energy developers and generators.
- States and Union Territories developing renewable energy capacity.
- Transmission utilities and grid operators.
- Battery energy storage and related domestic industries.
- Power consumers through improved grid infrastructure and transmission support.
- Power-sector, manufacturing, construction and grid-management employment.
Is There an Online Application for GEC-III?
No. GEC-III is a government infrastructure and transmission programme and is not a direct individual beneficiary scheme for which citizens need to submit an online application.
Implementation will be carried out through the designated State Transmission Utilities, transmission service providers and other institutional mechanisms specified under the scheme.
Expected Impact of the Scheme
- Strengthening of intra-state transmission infrastructure.
- Evacuation and grid integration of up to 135 GW of renewable energy.
- Greater use of battery storage for grid flexibility.
- Support for Indias long-term renewable energy and non-fossil capacity targets.
- Improved energy security and grid management.
- Employment generation in power, manufacturing and construction sectors.
- Development of the domestic energy-storage ecosystem.
GEC-III and Indias Clean Energy Transition
The Government has stated that GEC-III will contribute to the broader objective of achieving 900 GW of installed non-fossil capacity by 2035. By strengthening transmission infrastructure and adding energy storage, the scheme is intended to support greater integration of renewable electricity into the grid.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GEC-III?
GEC-III stands for Green Energy Corridor Phase-III. It is designed to strengthen intra-state transmission systems and support renewable energy integration.
What is the total cost of GEC-III?
The total project outlay is ₹1,86,405 crore.
How much renewable energy can GEC-III help evacuate?
The scheme is designed to enable evacuation of up to 135 GW of renewable energy across States and Union Territories.
How much battery storage is included?
The scheme includes 50 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems.
What is the Central Financial Support under GEC-III?
The scheme involves Central Financial Support of ₹54,082 crore.
Can citizens apply for GEC-III?
No. GEC-III is an infrastructure programme and does not have a direct individual online application process.
Official Government Source
For the official Cabinet approval and detailed scheme information, visit the Press Information Bureau (PIB) official release .
