POWERGRID Commissions India’s First 315 MVA Synthetic Ester Oil-Filled Transformer at Bhiwadi
Digital desk
Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), a Maharatna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Power, has commissioned the country’s first 315 MVA, 400/220/33 kV synthetic ester oil-filled power transformer at its Bhiwadi Sub-station, marking a major advancement in India’s power transmission technology.
The facility was inaugurated by Dr. R.K. Tyagi, Chairman and Managing Director of POWERGRID, in the presence of senior board members and top executives from the corporation’s corporate office. The commissioning positions POWERGRID at the forefront of adopting environmentally responsible and fire-safe solutions in high-voltage transmission infrastructure.
The newly installed transformer uses synthetic ester insulating oil, a biodegradable and low-flammability alternative to conventional mineral oil. The technology significantly reduces fire risk and environmental impact, making it particularly suitable for densely populated and environmentally sensitive areas. With a capacity of 315 MVA, the transformer is designed to manage high load conditions while maintaining operational efficiency and system reliability.
According to officials, the initiative aligns with India’s broader transition towards sustainable energy infrastructure and global best practices in green transmission systems. Synthetic ester oil also offers improved thermal performance and longer equipment life, supporting long-term operational resilience.
The Bhiwadi Sub-station plays a strategic role in strengthening the transmission network in the northern region, supporting growing industrial and urban power demand across parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, and the National Capital Region. The commissioning of advanced equipment at this node is expected to enhance grid stability and reduce operational risks.
As of December 31, 2025, POWERGRID operates 287 substations, over 1,81,894 circuit kilometres of transmission lines, and a transformation capacity exceeding 5,94,016 MVA. Through increased automation, digital monitoring, and the deployment of advanced technologies, the company has consistently maintained an average transmission system availability of more than 99.84 percent.
Senior officials present at the inauguration included Shri G. Ravisankar, Director (Finance), Shri Naveen Srivastava, Director (Operations), Shri Burra Vamsi Rama Mohan, Director (Projects), Shri Naveen Kumar, Chief Vigilance Officer, Shri Shiv Tapasya Paswan, Independent Director, and Shri Alok Sharma, Executive Director (NR-I).
Industry observers see the commissioning as a benchmark for future transmission projects, signalling a shift towards safer, greener, and more resilient power infrastructure in India. POWERGRID is expected to expand the use of synthetic ester oil-based transformers across critical substations as part of its long-term sustainability strategy
