India’s first-ever project for deploying synchronous condenser (SynCon) units under the tariff based competitive bidding (TBCB) framework has received approval from the National Committee on Transmission (NCT).

The project, titled “Installation of 2 Nos. of Synchronous Condenser (SynCon) units at 765/400/220kV Fatehgarh-II PS,” aims to enhance grid stability in the Northern Region, especially in view of high renewable energy penetration in Rajasthan. Estimated to cost Rs 1,157.45 crore and slated for completion in 30 months, the scheme will be implemented at the Fatehgarh-II Pooling Station.

PFC Consulting (PFCCL) will act as the bid process coordinator. As the project exceeds Rs.500 crore, it awaits concurrence from the Union Power Ministry before bidding can commence. Notably, this is a qualitative scheme, requiring no new lines or substations, but focused solely on dynamic reactive compensation for grid stability. Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) will provide the space for installing the SynCon units and associated infrastructure.