Electronics Era: As the Indian Government is offering various rebates under new Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges for transmission of electricity generated from solar and wind sources. How will this affect the current demand for energy in India?
Saurabh Patawari: The government’s move to offer rebates on the transmission charges for solar and wind-generated electricity is a pivotal step toward making renewable energy more accessible and affordable. This policy will significantly reduce the overall cost of energy produced through these sources, making it increasingly attractive to both consumers and producers. In turn, we can expect a surge in investments, particularly in solar and wind infrastructure, as this will lead to cost-effective energy alternatives. As more players enter the market, the demand for solar and wind energy will rise. This also aligns well with
India’s broader renewable energy goals, such as the target to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. Additionally, we may see conventional energy sources, like coal and natural gas, gradually losing their share in the energy mix as renewable sources become more dominant. While the transition is beneficial for reducing carbon footprints, we need to address challenges related to grid infrastructure to accommodate intermittent renewable sources, especially the need for reliable storage solutions. As the landscape changes, India is not just looking at meeting energy demand but doing so in a more sustainable and economically viable way, setting the stage for long-term growth.
Electronics Era: With the objective of improving the quality and reliability of power supply to consumers through a financially sustainable and operationally efficient Distribution Sector, the Government of India launched the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in July 2021. The scheme aims to reduce the Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses across the country. What is your take on this initiative?
Saurabh Patawari: The RDSS has been a crucial initiative by the government, aiming to address the underlying issues plaguing the distribution sector in India. By targeting reductions in Aggregate Technical & Commercial losses, the scheme is not just an investment in infrastructure, but also in efficiency. For too long, DISCOMs (distribution companies) have been burdened by outdated systems and operational inefficiencies. RDSS offers a comprehensive framework to modernize these systems, improve grid reliability, and reduce losses.
One of the most important outcomes will be an improvement in the financial health of DISCOMs, which is essential for the long-term sustainability of the power sector. However, the success of the RDSS will depend on effective implementation across all states, as local challenges can vary significantly. If these initiatives are rolled out correctly, we could see a more robust and resilient distribution system that can support the increasing demands of both urban and rural consumers. Ultimately, this could help achieve a more reliable, equitable, and sustainable power supply for all.
Electronics Era: Under DDUGJY/Saubhagya/IPDS, the Government is attempting to strengthen the distribution system. How effective are these initiatives in supporting the PM’s vision of ‘One Grid, One Nation’?
Saurabh Patawari: The ‘One Grid, One Nation’ vision is fundamentally about creating a unified, reliable, and stable electricity grid that serves every corner of the country. Initiatives like DDUGJY, Saubhagya, and IPDS are vital pieces of the puzzle. They focus on strengthening rural and urban infrastructure, which ensures that energy is not just available but also distributed efficiently. The electrification of rural areas, especially through DDUGJY and Saubhagya, reduces the regional disparities in energy access, making the national grid more inclusive. When rural regions are better connected to the grid, it supports a more balanced and unified power supply, which is essential for the ‘One Grid, One Nation’ vision. Upgrades under the IPDS program, such as modernizing substations, reducing technical and commercial losses, and integrating IT systems for grid management, further bolster this vision by making the grid more intelligent and responsive. The focus on balancing power loads, integrating renewable sources, and ensuring reliable access to power, even in remote areas, makes these schemes a solid foundation for achieving national energy security and efficiency.
Electronics Era: DISCOMs are facing significant threats from cyber-attacks. How can an efficient supply be ensured in the face of such challenges?
Saurabh Patawari: Cybersecurity in the power distribution sector is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. As more DISCOMs adopt digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency, they become vulnerable to cyber threats that could disrupt services or lead to data breaches. An efficient supply in the face of these threats requires a multi-layered approach to security.
First and foremost, DISCOMs need to invest in advanced cybersecurity infrastructure such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption protocols to safeguard sensitive data and control systems. Regular security audits should also become a standard practice to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Furthermore, integrating smart grids can help mitigate risks by enabling real-time monitoring and isolation of compromised systems. This technology allows for more proactive management of cyber threats, minimizing downtime and preventing widespread disruptions. DISCOMs also need to train their workforce and enhance awareness about cybersecurity risks, as human error remains one of the most significant vulnerabilities. Lastly, adopting a public-private collaboration model where DISCOMs work with cybersecurity experts will help them stay one step ahead of emerging threats. A comprehensive and proactive cybersecurity strategy is essential to maintain an efficient, uninterrupted power supply in today’s increasingly digital world.
Electronics Era: The peak demand continues to be a concern, with a growth rate of nearly 10 GW per year. What steps do you think need to be taken to overcome this challenge?
Saurabh Patawari: As the energy demand continues to rise at such a rapid pace, India needs to adopt a multi-pronged strategy to manage peak demand effectively. Demand-side management (DSM) programs should play a key role here, encouraging consumers to shift their usage to off-peak hours through dynamic pricing and smart appliances. Smart meters and other technologies can help track consumption patterns in real-time, offering better insights into demand spikes and enabling more effective management.
On the supply side, a strong focus on integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind can help reduce reliance on conventional energy sources during peak hours. Battery storage and pumped hydro solutions are becoming increasingly important in this regard, as they can store surplus energy generated during off-peak hours and release it when needed.
Another aspect is grid modernization, particularly the adoption of smart grid technology that can respond dynamically to fluctuations in demand and supply. Building a more resilient infrastructure and expanding transmission capacity across regions can help prevent bottlenecks and improve overall efficiency. Finally, consumer awareness is critical; educating the public about the importance of reducing demand during peak hours and adopting energy-efficient practices can go a long way in easing the pressure on the grid.
Electronics Era: What kind of infrastructure is required for an efficient power supply?
Saurabh Patawari: An efficient power supply is built on a combination of modern infrastructure, smart technology, and robust processes. First, investing in smart grid technology is crucial. These grids enable real-time monitoring of energy usage, better management of supply and demand, and enhanced communication between grid operators and consumers. Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) is also necessary to support dynamic pricing and optimize consumption patterns.
To make this work, infrastructure for renewable energy integration must be prioritized, including robust systems for managing solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources. Energy storage solutions like large-scale battery systems and pumped hydro plants will help ensure grid stability and provide a buffer against fluctuations in supply. Additionally, upgrading transmission lines with high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems can improve long-distance energy transfer while reducing losses.
The modernization of substations and the incorporation of automation and digital controls will improve fault detection and grid reliability. Finally, as electric vehicles (EVs) become more widespread, developing charging infrastructure that is integrated with the grid is also essential. Building resilient distribution networks that are protected from natural disasters and cyber threats will also be critical in ensuring a stable and efficient power supply.
Electronics Era: What steps should be taken to prevent power theft?
Saurabh Patawari: Power theft continues to be a major issue in India, and addressing it requires a combination of technology, regulation, and public awareness. One of the most effective tools for tackling power theft is the implementation of smart metering systems, which allow for real-time monitoring of consumption patterns and can detect irregularities. Alongside smart meters, regular energy audits can help pinpoint areas where losses are occurring and act as a deterrent.
Feeder segregation, particularly for agricultural and residential use, allows for better monitoring and more accurate billing. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can also be utilized to map distribution networks and identify unauthorized connections. Public awareness campaigns are essential in educating consumers about the legal and financial consequences of power theft. Strengthening the legal framework and ensuring swift prosecution of theft cases will act as a deterrent, while task forces dedicated to monitoring and investigating theft will improve enforcement. Finally, remote disconnect features and third-party audits can help ensure that only legitimate consumers are connected to the grid.
Electronics Era: How do the latest technologies such as IoT and AI work efficiently in the power distribution industry?
Saurabh Patawari: The integration of IoT and AI into the power distribution industry is transforming the way energy is managed and distributed. IoT devices, such as smart meters and sensors, enable real-time monitoring of energy consumption and grid performance, providing operators with the data needed to optimize supply and demand. AI plays a significant role in predictive maintenance, using data from IoT sensors to identify potential equipment failures before they occur, thereby minimizing downtime and extending the lifespan of critical assets.
In terms of energy distribution, AI helps balance loads across the grid by forecasting demand patterns and optimizing the allocation of energy resources. IoT devices also help detect and isolate faults quickly, improving grid reliability and reducing outages. Additionally, AI can be used to monitor energy theft, analyzing consumption patterns to identify discrepancies that may indicate unauthorized use. The combination of IoT and AI makes the power distribution network more intelligent, responsive, and efficient, leading to significant cost savings and enhanced service reliability.
