Gandhinagar: Gujarat has notified the Gujarat Electricity Grid Code, 2026, introducing an updated framework for planning, operating and managing the state’s intra-state electricity network. The Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) issued the new regulations through Notification No. 09 of 2026, replacing the grid code notified on July 16, 2013.
The new code covers power transmission, scheduling, dispatch, grid coordination and the integration of renewable energy sources. It also establishes requirements for energy storage, system security, frequency management and long-term resource planning.
The regulations came into force upon publication in the Official Gazette. They aim to provide a common operational framework for entities connected to Gujarat’s intra-state electricity network as the state manages changing power demand and a growing mix of energy sources.
New Framework Replaces Gujarat’s 2013 Grid Code
The Gujarat Electricity Grid Code, 2026, has been issued under the Electricity Act, 2003, and the Gujarat Electricity Industry (Reorganisation and Regulation) Act, 2003.
It applies to entities operating within Gujarat’s intra-state electricity network. Inter-state transmission systems will continue to follow the Indian Electricity Grid Code issued by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC).
The updated framework sets out responsibilities for transmission planning, real-time grid management, power scheduling and coordination among connected entities. These functions are important for maintaining a stable electricity supply and managing the movement of power across the state.
By replacing the 2013 code, the regulations update the operating requirements for Gujarat’s evolving electricity system.
GETCO and SLDC to Lead Grid Management
The new code retains the existing institutional structure for transmission and system operation while defining the responsibilities of key bodies.
The Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation (GETCO) will continue to serve as the State Transmission Utility. Its responsibilities include transmission planning, coordination, open access and infrastructure development.
The State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC) will remain the apex body for real-time monitoring, scheduling, dispatch, system control and energy accounting. It will exercise operational authority over connected generating and distribution entities.
Regional Sub-State Load Despatch Centres (Sub-SLDCs) will support the SLDC in carrying out its functions.
The regulations also establish two coordination committees. The State Operation Coordination Committee will handle system planning and outage coordination, while the State Level Protection Co-ordination Committee will address protection systems and related operational requirements.
This division of responsibilities is intended to strengthen coordination among grid operators and other electricity-sector entities.
Ten-Year Plans for Transmission and Power Demand
The Resource Planning Code introduces a requirement for rolling 10-year transmission development plans. It also covers integrated resource planning and demand forecasting across different time horizons.
Long-term planning helps utilities assess future electricity demand, identify infrastructure requirements and prepare for changes in generation capacity. It also supports coordination between transmission development and the availability of power from different sources.
As renewable energy projects expand, grid planning becomes increasingly important because generation patterns can change with weather conditions and the time of day. Better forecasting and coordinated infrastructure development can help the state prepare its network for these changing requirements.
New Rules for Solar, Wind and Energy Storage
The Gujarat Electricity Grid Code, 2026, contains specific provisions for solar power, wind energy, wind-solar hybrid projects, standalone Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and Pumped Storage Plants (PSPs).
These provisions address technical and operational requirements, including testing, trial runs and the declaration of the Commercial Operation Date (COD).
The code also establishes connection requirements for facilities joining the electricity network. These cover network interfaces, telemetry, communication systems, protection equipment and cybersecurity.
Such requirements help grid operators monitor connected facilities, exchange operational information and respond to system disturbances. Standardised technical requirements also support the safe connection and operation of different types of power projects.
For renewable energy developers and storage operators, the framework sets out requirements that must be met before and during grid-connected operations.
Thermal Plants Must Support Grid Flexibility
The regulations introduce provisions requiring thermal power plants to operate at minimum turndown levels of up to 55 per cent of their Maximum Continuous Rating (MCR), with compensation for part-load operation.
Minimum turndown requirements allow thermal plants to reduce their output while remaining operational. This flexibility can help the electricity system accommodate changes in renewable generation and electricity demand.
Solar and wind output can fluctuate depending on sunlight, wind conditions and other factors. The ability to adjust conventional generation can help grid operators balance supply and demand while maintaining system stability.
The provision for compensation recognises the operational implications of running thermal units at reduced output. The specific application will depend on the relevant regulatory provisions and operating arrangements.
Fifteen-Minute Scheduling and Tighter Frequency Management
The code provides for scheduling and dispatch in 15-minute blocks for long-term, medium-term, short-term and real-time electricity transactions.
It also specifies a frequency range of 49.900 Hz to 50.050 Hz, supported by primary, secondary and tertiary reserves. Maintaining grid frequency within the prescribed range is essential for stable electricity-system operation.
The reserve mechanisms help the system respond to imbalances between electricity generation and consumption. Clear scheduling and dispatch rules can also help coordinate power flows and manage changes in demand or generation.
The regulations further provide for the settlement of deviations and reactive power exchanges through state pool accounts. Persistent non-compliance may lead to disconnection and legal penalties under the applicable provisions.
These requirements strengthen accountability among grid-connected entities and establish consequences for continued failure to meet operational standards.
Why the New Grid Code Matters for Gujarat
The Gujarat Electricity Grid Code, 2026, updates the rules governing the state’s power network at a time when grid operators must manage conventional generation alongside solar, wind and energy storage.
Its provisions cover the entire operational chain, from long-term transmission planning and technical connection standards to real-time dispatch, frequency control and settlement of power deviations.
For utilities and power producers, the code clarifies operational responsibilities and technical requirements. For renewable energy and storage projects, it provides specific provisions for connection, testing and commercial operation.
A stable and well-coordinated grid is also important for electricity consumers because it supports reliable power delivery as demand and generation patterns change. The effectiveness of the new framework will depend on implementation, coordination among stakeholders and compliance with its requirements.
By replacing the 2013 framework, Gujarat has updated the regulatory foundation for planning and operating its intra-state electricity network while addressing the technical needs of a changing power sector.
Read also: Bhupendra Patel Visits ‘Viksit Gujarat to Viksit Bharat’ Exhibition in Ahmedabad
