The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), through its notification dated 31.08.2025, has introduced the 3rd Amendment to the General Network Access (GNA) Regulations, 2022. This landmark reform is a game-changer for renewable energy (RE) integration, energy storage deployment, and grid connectivity. It not only streamlines processes but also ensures optimal utilisation of India’s transmission network, taking the country a step closer to its net zero and decarbonisation goals.

What is General network acess 

General Network Access (GNA) is a framework in the power sector that allows electricity consumers, such as industries, commercial establishments, or open access consumers, to use the transmission and distribution network of a utility to receive or transmit power from sources other than their local distribution company. 

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🔑 Key Highlights of the CERC GNA Amendment

1. Bank Guarantee & Application Fees

• Transparent provisions for refund or forfeiture of bank guarantees (BGs) and application fees.
• Promotes financial discipline and reduces ambiguity in the connectivity process.

2. BBMB Recognised as ISTS

• Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) officially included under the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS).
• Special framework for RE projects (≥5 MW & <50 MW, with/without storage) to connect via the BBMB network.

3. Wind & Storage Flexibility

• Wind projects and energy storage systems (ESS) ≥50 MW can now opt for non-solar-hour access or round-the-clock (RTC) access.
• Strengthens integration of firm, reliable, green power into the national grid.

4. Connectivity Quantum Linked to Capacity

• RE generators with Letter of Award (LOA) or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) can apply for GNA up to their installed capacity.
• Excess capacity installation permitted, provided no augmentation of ISTS is required.

5. Auxiliary Power & Charges

• For auxiliary/start-up power drawl, applicable T-GNA or TDR charges will be payable under the Sharing Regulations.

6. Standalone ESS Connectivity

• Standalone ESS developers must apply for connectivity equal to their maximum injection capacity.

7. Phased Connectivity for RE Parks

• RE parks above 500 MW are eligible for phased connectivity, enabling large projects to be commissioned in stages.

8. Terminal Bay Provisions for Wind/ESS

• Wind-based REGS (≥50 MW, with/without ESS) can connect via:
  • A dedicated transmission line, or
  • An existing allocated bay, shared with solar-hour projects.

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⚡ Why This Matters for India’s Net Zero Goals

This CERC amendment reflects a progressive vision for India’s energy transition. By enhancing the GNA framework, it enables:

• ✅ Optimised evacuation of renewable energy without expensive transmission upgrades.
• ✅ Cost savings, by deferring high-capex network expansion.
• ✅ Faster renewable energy integration, supported by flexible storage solutions.
• ✅ 24×7 green power delivery, boosting reliability and investor confidence.

It ensures that grid connectivity is no longer a bottleneck, but rather a catalyst for clean energy growth.

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🌟 Conclusion

With this amendment, CERC has reinforced its role as a future-ready regulator, striking a balance between:

• Seamless renewable energy integration
• Efficient transmission system utilisation
• Robust financial prudence

This bold step makes India’s GNA framework smarter, more flexible, and aligned with the nation’s net zero roadmap. The message is clear: CERC is powering India’s clean energy revolution.

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