BHEL develops India’s first indigenous 1200 kV ultra-high voltage transformer
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New Delhi, July 20: In a major milestone for India's power sector, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has successfully developed the country's first indigenous 1200 kV ultra-high voltage (UHV) AC transformer, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in advanced power transmission technology.
The transformer, rated at 333 MVA and 1150/400/33 kV, has been designed, manufactured and type-tested entirely in-house at BHEL's Bhopal facility. The technology, which was previously available only with a handful of global manufacturers, places India among a select group of countries capable of producing ultra-high voltage transformers.
The transformer will be installed at Power Grid Corporation of India Limited's (PowerGrid) National Test Station in Bina, Madhya Pradesh, India's first experimental 1200 kV test facility. It is also the largest equipment to be deployed at the substation.
Developed Through Two Years of Indigenous R&D
BHEL said the transformer was developed after nearly two years of intensive research and development by its engineering teams, without any external technology transfer. Manufacturing was carried out in a controlled environment using advanced infrastructure at the company's Bhopal plant to meet international quality standards.
The achievement builds on BHEL's earlier successes, including the development of India's first indigenous 500 MVA, 765 kV transformer for a PowerGrid project and a 1200 kV, 180 MVA testing transformer for its own research facility.
Strengthening India's Power Transmission Network
Ultra-high voltage transformers play a crucial role in transmitting electricity over long distances while reducing transmission losses and improving grid stability. The new 1200 kV transformer is expected to support India's future expansion beyond the existing 765 kV transmission network, enabling more efficient movement of electricity across the country.
The technology is also expected to facilitate the integration of large renewable energy projects with distant demand centres, supporting India's clean energy transition and growing electricity requirements.
Boost to 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'
Industry experts believe the achievement could also open opportunities for India to emerge as an exporter of advanced power transmission equipment in the future, further enhancing the country's position in the global power sector.