TNEB to adopt IT to strengthen distribution network, reduce transmission losses
Vivek Narayanan, TNN 13 August 2009,

CHENNAI: In the years ahead, there may be no power outages because of faulty Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) transformers. For, TNEB will soon
implement an online system that will monitor distribution transformers in the city and state as part of the Restructured Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Programme (RAPDRP).

The project will be implemented in two phases - Part A and Part B. The first phase will include projects for the establishment of baseline data and IT applications for energy accounting /auditing and IT-based consumer service centres. The second phase will focus on strengthening the distribution network based on the results of the first phase.

TNEB has appointed a consultant to plan online implementation and will soon float tenders to select an IT company to computerise the entire system. IT-enabled systems meters will be installed in distribution transformers across Tamil Nadu.

"The equipment will help us understand the power demand in a particular area . We will also be able to know if the transformer has enough capacity to bear the electricity load. If not, then necessary steps to repair or replace the transformer can be taken. This will help reduce power cuts due to overloads," said a TNEB official.

Installation of the new meters is also expected to reduce the 18% transmission loss that TNEB is currently facing. "Using the meters, we will record the energy input in a particular area as well as the actual demand. The difference will point to the line loss; necessary steps can then be taken to strengthen the network," said the official.

The Union ministry of power launched the RAPDRP scheme under the 11th Five Year Plan, the objective being to provide quality and reliable power supply to consumers and to bring down transmission losses by adopting IT. The project area will be towns and cities with the a population of more than 30,000. Rural areas with heavy electricity loads requiring feeder segregation will also be included.

Initially, the government of India will provide 100% funds for computerisation and 25% for the second phase. The entire loan amount and interest for the first phase will be converted into a grant once the establishment of the required baseline data system is achieved and verified by an independent agency.

During 2009-10, TNEB has proposed to avail about Rs 648.85 crore under Part A for preparing baseline data for the project areas, including consumer indexing, Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping, and metering of distribution transformers in 110 cities and towns. The total cost of works to be executed under the RAPDRP schemes for Part A and Part B will be around Rs 1,500 crore.

State energy secretary PWC Davidar told TOI that a lot of groundwork had gone into the project. "This is a massive IT-enabled programme and is expected to yield numerous benefits for TNEB and its consumers," he said.