The Pugalur HVDC project is a 2,000 MW transmission link in India, connecting Pugalur in Tamil Nadu with Trichur in Kerala. Commissioned in 2021, it is India’s first Voltage Source Converter (VSC)-based HVDC project and plays a key role in strengthening the southern regional grid.
The project helps balance renewable generation, improves grid reliability, and enables power transfer across southern states, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Project Facts Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | ~165 km (submarine + overhead) |
| Capacity | 2,000 MW |
| Voltage | ±320 kV HVDC |
| Investment Size | ~$800 million |
| Companies | Hitachi Energy (TYO: 6501), ABB Ltd (SWX: ABBN) |
| Status (2025) | Operational (since 2021) |
| Expected Completion | Completed, in service |
Background
- Location: Links Pugalur (Tamil Nadu) with Trichur (Kerala), crossing both land and subsea terrain.
- Ownership: Developed by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (NSE: POWERGRID), India’s state-owned transmission operator.
- Purpose: Enhance power flows in southern India, integrate renewable generation, and reduce transmission bottlenecks.
- Strategic significance: First operational VSC-based HVDC project in India, showcasing modern HVDC technology for regional grids.
Investor Angle
Although the project is state-owned, investors gain exposure through listed suppliers:
- Hitachi Energy (TYO: 6501): Supplied VSC-based converter stations.
- ABB Ltd (SWX: ABBN): Provided critical components (legacy technology before ABB’s HVDC division was integrated into Hitachi).
- Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (NSE: POWERGRID): Listed utility, operator of the project, with regulated returns.
Investor relevance:
- Marks Hitachi Energy’s growing footprint in India, a key growth market for HVDC.
- ABB benefits through ongoing supply of components and service contracts.
- POWERGRID provides indirect listed exposure to HVDC buildout in India.
FAQ
Q: What is the Pugalur HVDC project?
It is a 2,000 MW HVDC transmission system linking Tamil Nadu and Kerala, India, operational since 2021.
Q: Why is Pugalur HVDC important?
It is India’s first VSC-based HVDC project, enhancing grid stability and renewable integration.
Q: Which companies were involved?
Hitachi Energy (converter stations), ABB (components), and Power Grid Corporation of India (operator).
Q: How long is the Pugalur HVDC line?
Around 165 km, including subsea and overhead sections.
Q: Can investors gain exposure?
Yes, indirectly via Hitachi (TYO: 6501), ABB (SWX: ABBN), and Power Grid Corporation of India (NSE: POWERGRID).