EPR April 2014

MAHENG/2012/47805

Vol 2 Issue 6 • Pages 52 • April 1, 2014 • `100/- • www.eprmagazine.com

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS ON ELECTRICAL & POWER

EPR PERSONALITY M G Raoot, PXIL Industry Analysis Stable pricing and regulatory mechanisms critical to energy security and efficiency: Montek GREEN ZONE Solar power for residential buildings: technology options & market potential

Getting smarter with

smart grid An I-Tech Media Publication

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editorial A Smart Move Thanks to the poor and inadequate infrastructure, the electricity sector in India has the highest transmission and distribution losses in the world. It is estimated that the country losses around one-third of electricity generation during the transmission and distribution phase. www.eprmagazine.com

I-Tech Media Pvt Ltd, 15/2, 2nd Floor, Chandroday Co-Op Society, Swastik Park, CST Road, Chembur, Mumbai - 400071. (India) Tel.: +91-22-32682214 / 15 EDITOR* Subhajit Roy Email: editor@eprmagazine.com EDITORIAL Dibyendu Roychowdhury ADVERTISING Leeyen Francis Email: leeyen@i-techmedia.com Call: +91-9987375673 SUBSCRIPTION subscribe@eprmagazine.com Telephone: +91-22-3268 2214/15

In a fast developing country like India where requirement of electricity is increasing indiscriminately, it is essential to maintain reliability within the power infrastructure.

Improvement in the availability and reliability of power supply and reduction in AT&C losses can be achieved through the introduction of technology in the existing power networks.

Here smart grid comes into the picture.

Smart grid facilitates efficient, reliable end-to-end intelligent two-way delivery mechanism through optimal integration of energy sources and T&D network.

With an aim to reduce the AT&C losses and improve the power distribution sector of state utilities, the Indian Government has launched the R-APDRP. However, uncertainties surrounding policy implementation is one of the prime challenges in deploying smart grids.

Experts believe that the development of a dynamic regulatory environment is a pre-requisite to stimulate the market toward smart grids in India. According to Praveer Sinha, CEO and ED, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd., “Providing clear signals to different stakeholders such as utilities, investors and technology providers of the direction of the market and thus providing some certainty and confidence for the necessary investments.”

*responsible for selection of news under PRB Act

In this issue, Vikram Gandotra of Siemens Ltd. outlines the concerns which can affect the projects implementation and guidelines to address them suitably whereas Reji Kumar Pillai, President, India Smart Grid Forum, observes that forming a political and economic framework will help.

Considering the challenges associated with building new lines and upgrading existing lines, the use of high-capacity, low-sag and energy-efficient ACCC conductor offers numerous important economic advantages. Dave Bryant, Director Technology, CTC Global, reveals that project delays, resistance to new technologies, financial constraints and limitations of skilled manpower are common challenges in adapting ACCC technology in India.

Hope you will enjoy reading this ‘smart grid’ special issue. Please do send me your comments at editor@eprmagazine.com

Printed and published by Subhajit Roy on behalf of I-Tech Media Pvt Ltd. and printed at Print, Process Offset Printers, B-23, Royal Industrial Estate, 5-B, Wadala, Mumbai-400031 and published from I-Tech Media Pvt Ltd. 1, Gayatri, Karumari Amman, Chheda Nagar, Chembur (West), Mumbai - 400089. Editor: Subhajit Roy All rights reserved. While all efforts are made to ensure that the information published is correct, Electrical & Power Review holds no responsibility for any unlikely errors that might occur. The information on products and services / technology on offer is being provided for the reference of readers. However, readers are cautioned to make inquiries and take their decisions on purchase or investment after consulting experts on the subject. Electrical & Power Review holds no responsibility for any decision taken by readers on the basis of information provided herein. Tel.: +91-22-32682214/15, +91-9821667357

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Electrical & Power Review

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Cover Story

Getting smarter with smart grid

Smart grid is the key solution to country’s decade-long energy issues, and the time has come for India to upgrade

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20 22 24 6

Interview

“Smart metering solutions should be scalable”

Dr Shean Cochrane, Cyan Technology, discusses scope, technology upgradation and long-term plan for smart grid and smart meters in 12th Plan

feature

Smart grid roadmap for India challenges in project implementation Vikram Gandotra of Siemens Ltd. outlines the issues which can affect the projects implementation and guidelines to address them suitably

Special Report

Smart grid plugs renewables in to electric vehicle fleet

A report on how researchers are incorporating a mix of renewables into the design of a smart grid for Germany’s largest charging station

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EPR PERSONALITY

PXIL: consolidating position in power trading

An interview with M G Raoot, PXIL, who elaborates the power exchange scenario in India and explains his business outlook and growth strategies

GUEST COLUMN

Optimising transmission capacity allocation among market participants Rajesh K Mediratta, Indian Energy Exchange, details the means of optimising transmission capacity allocation and its benefits

Interview

HPL sets ambitious export market growth

An exclusive interview with Gautam Seth, HPL, who talks about HPL’s growth strategy

ONE-ON-ONE

CTC Global: bringing reliability in power transmission

An interview with Dave Bryant, CTC Global, who discusses on ACCC technology and its increasing importance in India

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Power Update

tech view

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People

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Facts & Figures

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Power Brand

Smart grid for utilities in India: progress and challenges

A special feature on why the prevailing policy and regulatory frameworks must evolve in order to encourage incentives for investment in smart grid April 2014

Electrical & Power Review

Power Update CESC replaces Schneider Electric Infrastructure

ACME Solar commissions 25 MW Solar PV Plant in Madhya Pradesh

FTSE Group, the award-winning global index provider, and IDFC announced that CESC replaces Schneider Electric Infrastructure from the FTSE IDFC India Infrastructure 30 Index, following the semi-annual review of the FTSE IDFC India Infrastructure Index Series.

ACME Solar announced on the commencement of commercial operations at its 25 megawatts (MW) solar power plant in Khilchipur, Madhya Pradesh, thus increasing its generation capacity to 42.5 MW across a total of three commissioned power plants.

The growth of the Indian economy has stimulated both domestic and global investor interest in the Indian infrastructure sector.

Created in 2007, the FTSE IDFC India Infrastructure Index Series provides unique access to the infrastructure-related subsectors of the Indian market and is designed to represent the performance of those Indian companies that generate the majority of their revenue from infrastructure.

“The commissioning of the Khilchipur Solar Power Plant positions ACME Solar as the leader in the field of solar power generation.

With partners like EDF EN and EREN, ACME Solar will be at the forefront of serving the nation through higher uptake of renewable energy in the country,” said Manoj Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman, ACME Group.

The FTSE IDFC India Infrastructure Index Series utilises FTSE’s definitive global classification standard – Industry Classification Benchmark (ICB) – to classify Indian infrastructure securities accurately. The transparent and comprehensive classification system enables categorisation of individual securities across four levels of granularity: Industry, Supersectors, Sectors and Subsectors and covers a universe of 75,000 stocks worldwide, including India, in one single data source.

The power generated from this solar plant will be evacuated through a 132 KV line linked to project site and supply electricity to the state of Madhya Pradesh under the PPA signed with MP Power Management Company Ltd. in October 2012.

The series is reviewed semi-annually in accordance with the index ground rules which ensure that both the tradable FTSE IDFC India Infrastructure 30 Index and the benchmark version (FTSE IDFC India Infrastructure Index) continue to represent accurately the investable universe which is the basis of indexlinked products, such as funds, structured products and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs).

The Solar Power Plant is using Solar PV Technology and has over 1,65,000 Solar PV modules mounted on steel structures, which are erected on concrete foundations.

With the combination of the expertise of EDF EN as a world leader in the field of renewable energy, ACME Solar will be at the forefront of the renewable energy sector in the country.

ACME Solar is currently operating 42.5 MW solar power plants in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh and is in process of commissioning another 25 MW in Odisha.

American Electric Power Improves Substation Design with Bentley Substation

Bentley Systems, Incorporated, announced that American Electric Power (AEP), has chosen to enhance its electric substation design practices with Bentley Substation. By taking advantage of Bentley Substation’s integrated set of capabilities combining intuitive 3D modeling, electrical design

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functionality, and automatic bills of materials and report generation, AEP will gain from B/IM, Bentley’s advancement of the reach and benefits of “BIM” – for better-performing assets through increased depth of information modeling, and better-performing projects through increased breadth of information mobility. As a result, AEP anticipates faster design cycles and improved collaboration across physical and electrical design disciplines.

AEP selected Bentley Substation based on a careful review of commercially available alternatives, the productivity benefits demonstrated at other utilities,

and the estimated improvement the software would make in its own design processes. AEP is making Bentley Substation available to the more than 100 staff members in its transmission and engineering organisation and plans to extend the software’s use to also include its primary outsourced engineering contractors.

Richard Zambuni, Bentley industry marketing director, utilities, communications, and government, said, “AEP joins the growing number of owneroperator utilities that are benefiting from the enormous productivity advantages of intelligent substation design.”

Electrical & Power Review

Power Update CG completes supply of 30,000 ZIV meters to ANDE, Paraguay

Zayed Future Energy Prize 2015 submissions open

Avantha Group Company CG’s Automation business unit has fulfilled delivery of the final lot of 8,000 meters from an order to supply 30,000 advanced meters to monitor and boost the performance of the electricity grid of Administración Nacional de Electricidad (ANDE) in Paraguay.

Zayed Future Energy Prize, an initiative by The Government of Abu Dhabi and managed by Masdar, invites the submissions and nominations for its 2015 edition of the award from India. The Prize, an annual $4 million award, recognises individuals, organisations and schools who have made significant strides to advance the fields of renewable energy and sustainability.

CG, after acquiring ZIV, is the key provider of smart meters in Spain and an important player in the global smart grid market where it offers ZIV meters, data concentrator units (DCU) and distribution automation solutions (DAS). CG’s smart grid offerings include self-healing and adaptive restoration systems that detect and isolate faults and restore power to the maximum number of customers. Systems are self-adaptive to handle multiple cascaded fault scenarios.

CG had earlier inked its maiden deal with ANDE for supply of single-phase and three-phase power transformers worth $13.15 million. The order was aimed to strengthen the Paraguayan 220 kV electricity network and grid to address the country’s escalating power demand.

The current order is another strategic step in the expansion plans of CG’s Automation business unit, which already has interests in Latin American countries of Argentina, Chile, Mexico and Brazil. According to data from the International Energy Agency, by 2025, electricity demand in Mexico/Chile is expected to grow 56.6 per cent and 28.3 per cent for the rest of Latin America. This opens up a window of opportunities in the land-locked countries which CG aims to tap.

Submissions is open globally across five categories: large corporation, small and medium enterprise (SME), nongovernmental organisation (NGO), lifetime achievement and global high schools. In the lifetime achievement category, nominations will also be accepted.

“Throughout history, prizes have proven to be a mechanism to encourage innovation,” said Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, director general of the Zayed Future Energy Prize. “The Zayed Future Energy Prize is a commitment by the UAE’s government to incentivise people, organisations and schools to tackle today’s pressing energy and sustainability challenges.

“The world needs viable solutions that address issues such as energy access and sustainable development,” added Dr. Al Jaber.

Winners of the 2014 Zayed Future Energy Prize, announced 20 January, include ABB, Abellon CleanEnergy, Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, Wang Chuanfu, the founder and chairman of BYD Co Ltd, the Chinese auto and battery maker, and five high schools from across the globe.

Submissions and nominations will close on 14 July, 2014.

Grundfos India installs a roof top solar power plant Grundfos Pumps India Pvt. Ltd (Grundfos India) announced the successful installation of a roof top solar power plant at its headquarters in Chennai. The estimated annual power generation from this plant will be 78,000 kWh with an annual cost savings of ` 13 lakhs. This will also lead to a reduction of 25,000 litres of diesel consumption annually, contributing to a reduction of 70 tonnes of CO2 emission per year.

A total of 216 solar photo voltaic panels (EMMVEE), each of 240 Wp capacity has been used. With a capacity of 51.84 kW, this rooftop solar power plant is

Electrical & Power Review

Sudeep Jain, IAS, Chairman and Managing Director, Tamil Nadu Energy Development Agency (TEDA), inaugurated the roof top solar power plant at the Grundfos India headquarters.

a grid connected system, consisting of solar photovoltaic panels, inverters and connecting cables. As this system does not have a battery, its operation is simple and it remains a completely green installation.

Commenting on this installation, Ranganath N. K., Managing Director, Grundfos India, said “At Grundfos India, we are very passionate about sustainability and it is one of our key values. The objective of installing this roof top solar power plant is to reduce our consumption of diesel used for power generation. We took this proactive step towards becoming more sustainable by reducing our carbon footprint.”

April 2014

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Power Update Indsur Global secures major BHEL contract worth ` 30 cr Indsur Global, a member of Mumbai based Indsur Group, and India’s largest exporter of Power Infrastructure Castings has announced that it bagged an order of ` 30 crore orders for supply of Castings (metal fittings) from Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) against competitive bidding.

The Castings will be supplied to BHEL’s Banglore and Sultanpur plant.

It is pertinent to note that the group had recently undertaken to modernise and expand its capacity to manufacture various types of important critical power infrastructure castings at its Gujarat Plant. The first phase of expansion was commissioned for making Power infrastructure castings recently. The company’s various products from the new state of art facilities have been well received in the global as well as in domestic market.

The expanded capacity is almost 12,500 MT per annum that would further get enhanced to 25,000 MT by March 2015.

Schneider Electric partners with McAfee to expand Cybersecurity capabilities Schneider Electric and McAfee partner to provide cybersecurity solutions for the utility and critical infrastructure market. This collaboration will enable

Schneider Electric customers to add tested and certified application whitelisting capabilities in the management of core offerings of water, oil & gas, electric networks and transportation infrastructures. This will strengthen customers’ Operations Technology (OT) security and lower ownership costs without significantly impacting the performance of critical solutions. The supported portfolio of products includes leading SCADA and energy management solutions.

The partnership with McAfee will allow Schneider Electric customers to combine dynamic whitelisting capabilities and change control technology to ensure that only trusted applications run on critical infrastructure systems. This includes being able to monitor and manage changes to mitigate malicious or accidental system modifications, preventing execution of unauthorised code and many common malware on their systems.

These capabilities protect critical systems from zeroday attacks, reduce in-field breakage, and keep systems and devices compliant with security standards through patch cycles.

McAfee Embedded Control, Integrity Control & Application Control solutions will increase the safety, availability and reliability of critical infrastructure environments around the world.

“The expansion of our security offer to incorporate McAfee whitelisting capabilities enables Schneider Electric to serve our customers more effectively using a modern and secure critical infrastructure environment,” said Cyril Perducat, Senior Vice President Software and Digital Services Transformation, Global Solutions, Schneider Electric.

IET ties up with IEEMA for information exchange and students of engineering. With its tremendous potential to impact the engineering and technology scene in India, the agreement demonstrates the IET’s commitment to this aspect of the country’s economy”.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology Services India (IET) has joined hands with Indian Electrical and Electronics Manufacturers Association (IEEMA), the apex association of manufacturers of electrical, industrial electronics and allied equipment.

The agreement is aimed to facilitate the exchange and dissemination of technical information between the two organisations. This would cover three primary areas --joint events and activities; dissemination of knowledge, and efforts to improve the state of engineering education in India.

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Shekhar Sanyal, Director and Country Head, the IET India, said, “We believe this agreement will promote cooperation and understanding between our two organisations and will go a long way in furthering technology awareness among the general public

Commenting on this momentous occasion, Sunil Misra, Director General, IEEMA said, “We firmly believe that collaboration and cocreation is the only way forward and are confident that this MoU with IET will add significant value in IEEMA’s pursuit of making Indian electrical and allied industry a knowledge capital of the world”.

Electrical & Power Review

Power Update NTPC to setup Super Thermal Power Project in Madhya Pradesh The foundation stone of NTPC’s 2640 MW Bundelkhand Super Thermal Power Project was laid by Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister of State of Power (I/C) at Barethi, Chattarpur District of Madhya Pradesh. Comprising of 4 units of 660 MW each and with environment friendly super critical technology, the project is expected to contribute significantly to the economic and social development of the region.

Fifty percent of the power generated from the project will be supplied to the state of Madhya Pradesh. The estimated cost of the project is approx ` 18,000 crore and is envisaged to be commissioned in the 13th Plan linked to development of coal mine.

Total land requirement of the project is 2841 acres. The coal requirement of the project will be met from Banai coal block and water from proposed Majhgaon Dam and Shyamari Project for which land acquisition is in progress.

NTPC presently meets about 24 per cent of the total power requirement of Madhya Pradesh allocated from its various stations and has its largest power station in the country Vindhyachal Super Thermal Power Station of 4,260 MW installed capacity, situated in Singrauli district.

The State Energy Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Rajendra Shukla said, “The government is pro-actively taking up all energy related projects in line with the future power requirements of the state. He said that it is a matter of pride to have a professional company like NTPC contributing to the growth of MP.”

US likely to supply gas to India Days after the introduction of bill H.R.6 in the U.S. Congress that seeks to accelerate exports of U.S. natural gas, the U.S. Secretary of Energy, Ernest Moniz was in India to take part in the US-India Energy Dialogues which included discussions on gas imports by India.

Over the past year, surplus production of LNG (liquefied natural gas) in the US has given impetus to the prospect of LNG exports to countries as India, Ukraine, and Japan. The surplus is largely due to rapid advances in the technology and extraction of shale gas and oil over the past few years.

However the process of exporting LNG is complicated by the fact that U.S. law does not allow exports of LNG to countries with whom it does not have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), unless with special exceptions.

This leaves out important partners like India, which do not have a FTA with the US. It also leaves out Ukraine, a country that U.S. would like to see less dependent on Russian gas.

“We welcome introduction of the legislation H.R. 6, the ‘Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act’, to remove archaic bottlenecks on American exports.

Having pursued this matter on Capitol Hill since over a year, we shall continue to stay engaged with lawmakers such as Congressman Ted Poe to ensure that our efforts meet the desired result of heralding a new era in US-India LNG trade without restrictions”, said Sanjay Puri, Chairman of the US India Political Action Committee (USINPAC).

SunEdison sets 18MW solar park in Tamil Nadu SunEdison announced that it has commenced full-time operations at its 18 MW (megawatt) Tirunelveli solar power plant in Tamil Nadu. The park is designed to help commercial and industrial businesses easily own a solar park.

SunEdison relied on its global experience to select a site, obtain permits, design and build a unique solar park that allows businesses to procure as much solar electricity as they desire without having to become solar experts.

Commercial and industrial houses can benefit from the 2012 Accelerated Depreciation Benefit (ADB) for solar power by buying part of the

Electrical & Power Review

year. Power generated by their portion of the Tirunelveli Solar Park will be fed into the local electricity grid to offset their electricity bills. The Tirunelveli Solar Park locks in electricity pricing for 25 years, protecting owners from the rising costs of fossil fuel generated electricity.

Tirunelveli Solar Park based on their power requirement. The Accelerated Depreciation Benefit allows businesses in India to receive 100% depreciation on solar assets in the first year after purchase. Businesses that purchase part of the Tirunelveli Solar Park can typically expect payback of their equity investment as a tax credit within the first

Pashupathy Gopalan, President, SunEdison, Asia Pacific, GCC and South Africa said, “We’re offering a turnkey solution that allows commercial and industrial businesses to take advantage of renewable tax incentives with minimal effort. We’ve developed this model to make solar a hassle-free investment for businesses.”

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Industry Analysis

Stable pricing and regulatory mechanisms critical to energy security and efficiency: Montek India to reduce energy import dependence to 21 per cent by 2047 at optimal levels

I

ndia’s import dependence on the energy front can be lowered to 21 per cent by 2047 at its most optimal level from the current level of 31 per cent, provided India takes the corrective steps towards pricing that supports energy efficiency and establishes the appropriate regulatory mechanism.

Ahluwalia Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission said, “We will need to put in place the instruments including pricing and regulatory measures that support the shift in energy efficiency that we aim to achieve on the demand side.” However, this would require an integrated approach to energy that has “remained a constant battle.”

Speaking at the launch of the India Energy Security Scenario (IESS) 2047, a tool that is aimed at giving a choice to consumers and suppliers to adopt the most optimal and suitable option to meet their energy needs and goals, Montek Singh

The tool (IESS) 2047 was launched at an event organised by the Planning Commission in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry in New Delhi on Friday. It was developed by the Planning Commission in

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consultation with key stakeholders including the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change, TERI, C-Step and Prayas Energy. It shows various combinations of energy demand and possible energy supply pathways available to the country ranging from the least effort to the heroic effort.

On the supply side, stressing on the role of renewable energy, BK Chaturvedi, Member Energy Planning Commission, outlined how solar and wind capacity in India will need to expand to 600 GW each to achieve optimal energy security, even as other new fuels like bio-fuel

Electrical & Power Review

Industry Analysis take a major share in the country’s energy basket. He said, “Land and water are two important variables that will have to be kept in mind while evolving policies to reach this goal over the next three decades.”

Dr Farooq Abdullah, Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy, said that the ambitious targets of increasing the share of renewables in the Indian energy basket would need an integrated approach and uniform policies that support these initiatives at its nascent stage. “The banks will need to come forward and reduce interest rates even as the industry needs to innovate and develop better products,” he said. Highlighting how the policies often fall through, the minister said that the state governments and the

Centre need to work together and jointly evolve targets and policies that can be achieved. This would require the conventional energy producers to relook at their strategies.

Echoing a similar thought, Mr Ahluwalia said that the global debate has now moved on to sustainable solutions and that would need redrawing the energy maps. “Almost 30 per cent of the fossil fuel reserves should never be utilised if sustainable energy scenarios are to be evolved,” he said while cautioning that this will require fossil fuel producers to look beyond bottom-line.

Stressing on the need to strengthen collaborations between India and the UK, Sir James David Bevan KCMG, High Commissioner of UK said “Both India and

the UK share similar challenges in the energy domain. There is a need to work together to make both our countries energy secure and prosperous. ” In the course of his welcome remarks, Ajay Shriram, President Designate, Confederation of Indian Industry said, “This mechanism is going to be very useful in planning for the future, given the scale of action required to equip our energy economy in the 21st Century.”

Reiterating the importance of the tool, Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, Confederation of Indian Industry said, “This energy planning tool could not have come at a more appropriate time given that India is facing the twin challenges of energy security and climate change.”

Retail tariffs for the distribution utilities to move upwards: ICRA Rating firm ICRA observes, CERC move positive for power generation sector

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n view of CERC’s final order on the compensatory tariff, ICRA expects the retail tariff rate to move upwards in the five states of Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, Punjab and Rajasthan. The impact of additional tariff compensation associated for APL and CGPL is projected to be highest for utilities in Gujarat, rating firm ICRA said.

As per ICRA estimates, the average consumer tariff rate charged by the utilities is expected to increase in the range of 0.4 per cent to 1.8 per cent (i.e. 3 to 10 paisa/unit) for supply from Coastal Gujarat Power Ltd (CGPL) to utilities of aforesaid five states. While in the case of supply by APL alone, the average tariff for the utilities is estimated to increase by average 1.7 per cent (7-10 paisa/unit) in the state of Gujarat and Haryana respectively.

Electrical & Power Review

Timely tariff revision or implementation of FPPCA framework remain extremely crucial for the distribution utilities, else it could affect their cash flow position which in turn would pose increased counter-party credit risks for the IPPs, says ICRA. In ICRA’s view, CERC’s move is not only positive for APL and CGPL, but also for the generation sector as a whole.

As these IPPs would now be able to claim additional tariff compensation so as to pass on the fuel cost under recovery to the off-taking utilities and also pass on the variation in exchange rate on imported coal cost. ICRA estimates that other imported coal based projects (aggregating capacity of about 7000 MW which are under planning/implementation & having competitively bid based PPAs with fuel price risk exposure) would also be benefitted.

ICRA however notes that such projects with competitively bid PPAs still remain exposed to under-recovery in fixed capacity charges, given the steep INR depreciation against USD till date and the fact that fixed capacity charge component in tariff bid is predominantly non-escalable.

The timely implementation of these orders remains to be seen, given that there are possibilities that the state utilities could appeal against the same.

Utilities in state of Haryana have already appealed to Appellate Tribunal of Electricity (ATE) against CERC’s earlier order in April 2013 for allowing compensatory framework; while utilities in Punjab have opposed to tariff compensatory framework and utilities in other states such as Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Gujarat have given in-principle consent subject to several conditionalities and modifications suggested.

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COVER STORY

Getting smarter with smart grid Smart grid is the key solution to country’s decade-long energy issues, and the time has come for India to upgrade

T

hough it is the third major transmission and distribution network in the world, India still faces a number of challenges, be it power theft, supply shortfalls, or low metering efficiency. In order to tackle these issues, India needs a technology upgrade, and may be smart grid is the key solution to these problems.

chances for building smart grids in India are immense. Cities all over the country are gearing to adopt smart grid technology but also facing hurdles in its installation. One of the hurdles in its installation is smart grid policy and regulations. The central government is most actively involved in generation and transmission domains as well as policies.

Smart grids have been successfully installed in countries like USA, Australia and Canada. In India, smart grid may offer an opportunity to jump into a vastly improved electricity atmosphere.

Smart grid technology will not only give efficient energy security but also solve serious energy issues in the country.

Any technological advancement cannot take place in isolation. It requires a conducive regulatory climate that seamlessly integrates existing policies and creates scope for new ones in a sustainable and secure manner. Smart grid is no exception.

Being Smart

Policy and regulations considered as a barrier

are

India is a developing country; therefore,

The regulatory framework plays a key

Smart grid deployments will majorly be industry driven and policy and regulatory issues are but a minor roadblock that can be smoothened out as understanding of smart grids and its benefits grows.

- Reji Kumar Pillai, President, India Smart Grid Forum

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role in introduction and widespread implementation of the smart grid technologies in any country, and this is also applicable in India. In most countries, policies and rules are encouraging implementation of smart grid. The government should emphasise on favourable regulations so that these policies do not pose as an obstacle in implementation of smart grid technology.

According to Praveer Sinha, CEO and ED, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd., “It is a fact that the development of a dynamic regulatory environment is a pre-requisite to stimulate the market towards smart grids in India. Providing clear signals to different stakeholders such as utilities, investors and technology providers of the direction of the market and thus providing some certainty and confidence for the necessary investments. As such, policy and regulations are not to be considered as a barrier in implementation of smart grids.

Regulators and government have very much acknowledged the need for developing reliable, resilient grid which can meet the growing power

Electrical & Power Review

COVER STORY

demand and the fact that there is no hindrance as far as technology is concerned.”

He further added, “In fact, today’s policy and regulations in most countries are favourable toward implementation of foundational smart grid technologies like supervisory control and data acquisition system (SCADA), distribution automation (DA) and communication technologies etc. as these technologies give immediate benefits to improve reliability of power supply in an electricity distribution company.

However, policies and regulations need to support implementation of technologies like smart metering, demand side management, distributed energy resources etc. which involve unique complexities and considerable change management to reap short-

Electrical & Power Review

and long-term benefits of smart grid technologies.”

Reji Kumar Pillai, President, India Smart Grid Forum said, “In order to leapfrog to a modernised grid that can ‘transform the Indian power sector into a secure, adaptive, sustainable and digitally enabled ecosystem that provides reliable and quality energy for all with active participation of

stakeholders’, it is important that not only DisComs, but also the regulators and consumers are also on board and see the big picture. This needs a strong policy backing.”

The Smart Grid Vision and Roadmap for India, released in Sep 2013 by the Ministry of Power (MoP), is the main policy directive that has set on motion the pace for smart grid developments

It is a fact that the development of a dynamic regulatory environment is a pre-requisite to stimulate the market towards smart grids in India - Praveer Sinha, CEO and ED, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd

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COVER STORY in India. A model regulation is under preparation by a committee constituted

by MoP and the first draft was already presented to the Forum of Regulators (FOR) in December 2013. This is expected to be finalised soon.

political and regulatory climate which heavily influences how electricity sector is governed. Thus, smart grid deployments across the country would be chequered and would witness different pace of progress.”

Policies critical in optimising smart grid deployment

Influence on companies

Policies and regulations need to be developed in a way that deployment of smart grid becomes unproblematic. Mr Sinha believes policies and regulations are critical for smart grid deployment.

“Smart grid technologies like advance metering infrastructure (AMI), demand side management (DSM), business analytics, convergence of information technology and operational technology etc. will definitely improve productivity and efficiency and help in loss reduction and better revenue management. Also, it will be necessary to have policies and regulations in place to motivate customer to participate in demand management with the introduction of net metering, dynamic pricing for the time of the day metering etc. We will also need regulatory support to maintain grid discipline for distributed energy resource (DER) where generation is built up at the endpoint, i.e. customer bi-directional flow of power.”

Giving in his perspective Mr Pillai said, “Every new technology adoption goes through a cycle of early adopters, early followers, late majority and the laggards. Electricity being a concurrent list subject, the MoP along with CEA and CERC and other central level organisations can only play an enabling role and handhold the state utilities.

It is the state governments, regulators and discoms that have to take main responsibility.”

He further added, “The smart grid vision and roadmap for India has envisaged several aggressive targets for deployment in a phased manner.

However, it is upto the states to come up with state-specific smart grid roadmaps. Herein, lies the bottleneck - each state in India has a different

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Government creates policies and regulations and from time to time modifies these policies and regulations, forcing companies to change the way they operate. These policies also cause companies to suffer sometimes. Experts feel, policy makers will have to focus on facilitating development of standards as well as gauging the technical feasibility of large capital projects in the near term.

“Policy makers will have to ensure appropriate supply and demand resources across a much wider range of assets …,” explained Mr Sinha.

He also added, “Broadly smart grid applications can be grouped into three categories: advanced metering, grid applications and customer applications.

They will increasingly need to evaluate social benefits as part of regulatory cases and be open to supporting more innovative pricing and programs to influence customer behaviour.

Development of the smart grid and its potential value needs to be captured.

Utility needs to give more access to regulator for monitoring performance and customers for their energy consumption information.”

Mr Pillai believes policy and regulatory issues are minor roadblocks, “A good policy environment always encourages investments. Testimony to this fact is progressive states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka etc. Smart grid deployments will majorly be industry driven and policy and regulatory issues are but a minor roadblock that can be smoothened out as understanding of smart grids and its benefits grows.”

Political and economic framework While progressing toward smart grids,

forming new political or economic frameworks may help. In order to encourage incentives for investment, the existing policy and regulatory frameworks may need to change.

The new framework must meet the requirements of the consumers and strategise a business plan so that societal goals are achieved.

Mr Sinha stated, “There should be a feasibility study to draw roadmap for implementation of smart grid technologies and how to integrate with business process. It will form political and economic framework for the government, regulator and utility to build long-term business plan with capital investment strategy and disseminate the benefits to society.”

“Forming a political and economic framework will help, it is proposed to launch a National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM) which will have representation of all stakeholders and Ministry of Power is working towards the blue print of the NSGM,” Mr Pillai observed.

The responses from the Regulators from some of the forward looking states have already given in-principle approval for the smart grid pilot projects. Central and state governments are jointly developing policies with academia and non-governmental research and development organisations. These policies need transparent, simple regulatory framework that can drive smart grid development in India.

Electrical & Power Review

Interview

”Smart metering solutions should be scalable”

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“Within the next five years, technology must help to address AT&C losses and alleviate load shedding. This is possible if steps are taken in the early stages to deploy scalable technology,” says Dr Shean Cochrane, Product Director, Cyan Technology

mart grid is an important element to implement new energy strategies and optimise energy resource allocation.

In recent years, smart grid and smart meters are becoming fast evolving technologies around the globe.

Developing countries like India, South Africa and China are also aiming to make their power grids and meters smarter. And this is increasing room for both, smart grid and smart meter.

In a conversation with EPR, Dr Shean Cochrane discusses scope, technology upgradation and long-term plan for smart grid and smart meters in 12th Five-Year Plan.

How do you envision the scope of smart grid and smart meters in 12th Five-Year Plan?

With the Ministry of Power drive to supply electricity to all households through smart grid technologies as well as reduce AT&C losses in all distribution utilities to below 15 per cent by 2017 there are a number of fundamentals that need to be considered when deploying smart metering solutions.

to negotiate competitive pricing. As a result it is important that the smart metering solution is interoperable, enabling meters from multiple vendors to be incorporated into an ‘open system’.

The Indian meter manufacturer market currently has disparate communications protocols which could prove problematic when sending data across a wireless network.

The implementation of a ‘open meter protocol’ that is tailored to the requirements of the Indian utilities and optimised for real time monitoring over wireless mesh networks will keep the cost of the meter low and ensure the “intelligence” is at the enterprise level.

This standardisation is important and will support efficient communication to and from the meter. Adopting a standard has many benefits, including supporting innovation and increasing productivity. However, it is imperative that the industry does not get overly encumbered in western style standardisation when there is an urgent requirement to deploy smart meters to support the Ministry of Power’s initiatives.

The average electricity consumption per capita in India is low and therefore it is imperative that smart technologies achieve the government’s objectives in a cost effective way which is adapted and suitable for the Indian market.

What technology upgrades we can see in smart grids and smart meters in 12th five year plan?

One requirement of every utility is to procure meters from various meter manufacturers. This ensures the utility has a reliable supply chain and is able

Within the next five years, technology must help to address AT&C losses and alleviate load shedding. This is possible if steps are taken in the early stages to deploy scalable technology. Any meters 19

Electrical & Power Review

April 2014

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feature The Indian government envisages supply power to all households by 2017 through smart grid technologies. Vikram Gandotra outlines the issues which can affect the projects implementation and guidelines to address them suitably

Smart grid roadmap for India: challenges in project implementation

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he Ministry of Power’s “Smart Grid Vision and Roadmap for India” document released in August 2013 spells out the vision and steps for improvement of the power sector with timelines. This unique document has been prepared with rich inputs from various arms of government, utilities, industry and the academia.

Improvement in the availability and reliability of power supply and reduction in AT&C losses are to be achieved through the introduction of technology in the existing power networks.

Trials of the various state-of-theart technical solutions have been

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proposed through the smart grid pilots in 14 utilities. All stakeholders eagerly await the launch and completion of these pilots in order to understand the challenges and benefits of new technology.

Some of the issues which can affect the implementation and need to be suitably addressed are: • Some projects have been proposed where the bidder is expected to arrange financing for part of the project. This model has naturally not got acceptance from most of the players. Financing to be ensured by state or central government similar to the smart grid pilot projects which are coming up across the

globe. This will ensure that the state utilities ‘own’ the implemented project which is essential for ensuring its success.

There have been several instances in the past where solution providers have implemented and left their solutions in the utilities for trial ‘free of charge’ only to find that the same are abandoned after some time due to lack of ‘ownership’ of the utility.

Also for projects where financing is envisaged by the utility, the terms of payment in the RFP are highly unfavourable to attract potential bidders. These payment

Electrical & Power Review

feature terms should be improved so that there are no unfavourable cash flows to the implementing agency.

• The scope of the projects should not be limited to metering but also include other technologies such as microgrids, secondary distribution automation, storage, monitoring, integration of renewable etc. Currently most of the projects are smart metering projects.

• It is imperative that the conventional electrical equipment like switchgears are suitable for the smart grid implementation and also installed in time.

• Customer engagement and acceptance (e.g. avoid the fear of ‘fast’ electronic meters) is very essential for smart grid technology.

Only when the end consumer sees a value in adopting new technology and does not carry a fear of higher tariffs for new technology, there will be an acceptance of the initiatives.

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This is essential for success of all the stakeholders.

• Definition of clear KPIs to ensure that the success of the pilot projects can be measured and understood by all.

• Capacity building is essential as the state utilities lack the required number of staff who can build and maintain the new technical solutions. The existing staff’s skills and motivation level need to be raised so that they become confident and welcome the new initiatives.

Authored by: Vikram Gandotra, Head of Marketing & Strategy Group for Energy Automation Smart Grids, Siemens Ltd

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purchased over the next 5 years must offer an upgrade path to both AMR (e.g. efficient collection over radio from walk-by devices), and ultimately full scale AMI. Smart metering solutions should be scalable, starting with minimum investment to address the immediate requirement to reduce losses. Efficient walk-by systems can deliver accurate billing and collection, allowing the utility to reinvest in its overall infrastructure.

Any walk-by systems deployed now must, however, be fully upgradable to advanced features such as demand side management.

A reduction in AT&C losses through system efficiency is just one the benefits of smart metering technology. Cyan’s communication platform CyLec provides other benefits by enabling functionality such as demand forecasting and demand side management to manage consumption.

Electrical & Power Review

What long-term plan can we expect to see for smart grid and smart meters in 12th Five-Year Plan?

With the need for interoperable solutions it is imperative that the industry qualifies what level of interoperability is achievable to meet the objectives of the 12th five year plan and beyond.

There is a common misconception that ‘standards’ equate to interoperability, which is not the case without rigorous testing, limiting innovation or at least suffering long delays, and thorough definition of all layers of a system.

Another misconception is that proprietary technology does not equate to interoperability. This is only true if proprietary technologies remain closed. Open interfaces and technology licensing can address these issues.

Indeed, history tells us that many technologies that we today regard as standard, started as proprietary working platforms. The classic example is Ethernet, which was developed by

A reduction in AT&C losses through system efficiency is just one the benefits of smart metering technology Xerox PARC as far back as 1973. The advantage of this approach is that it allows the market to establish working solutions.

Cyan’s approach is to deliver radio technology that works today and work towards the standard IEEE802.15.4g.

Our roadmap specifies licensing the CyLec communication platform for genuine multiple sources as well as supporting standard meter protocols, notably DLMS/COSEM and open interfaces to the data concentrator unit or head end server and the meter.

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Special Report

Smart grid plugs renewables in to electric vehicle fleet Being able to charge up to 30 electric cars at once requires some ingenious energy management. Researchers are incorporating a mix of renewables into the design of a smart grid for Germany’s largest charging station

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he network of charging stations for electric vehicles is becoming more tightly meshed. In Germany, the ratio of electric cars to charging stations is currently two to one and utility companies are pushing forward expansion of charging opportunities, especially in cities and metropolitan areas. Over 2,000 charging spots have already been installed nationwide and the country’s largest charging infrastructure is at the Fraunhofer Institute Center Stuttgart IZS – where up to 30 electric vehicles (EVs) at a time can recharge at AC charge spots in the Fraunhofer Campus parking garage.

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There is also one DC fast charging spot that has a charging capacity of up to 50 kw and can fully charge a car’s battery in just 20 minutes. Up to 340 kw of electricity are consumed when all charging spots are occupied – equivalent to around 20 per cent of the load of the entire Institute Center, which has a staff of 1,500.

“Charging an electric vehicle fleet poses high requirements on the energy system. Setting up an EV charging infrastructure of this kind is impossible without smart charging and load management,” says Dipl.-Ing Hannes Rose, Head of the Mobility Innovation

Lab at the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO. Rose and his team are currently using their living lab to investigate the technology required to manage EV fleets. How do you maximise operational efficiency? How do you avoid short circuits occurring during peak load times? How do you design a smart grid that can meet all these requirements? Together with Daimler AG and the Institute for Human Factors and Technology Management at the University of Stuttgart, IAO scientists are developing both the charging infrastructure and the energy

Electrical & Power Review

Special Report

Up to 30 electric vehicles at a time can recharge in Fraunhofer IAO’s parking garage

management in charge@work.

a

project

called

The aim of charge@work is to design a micro smart grid (MSG) capable of supplying the EV fleet with electricity produced exclusively from renewable sources. This year will see the installation of a photovoltaic unit and a small wind power system at the IZS to provide power to the fleet. In addition, a lithium-ion battery storage unit will be added to the basement and a redox flow battery to the roof as temporary storage of energy. The 30-metre tall wind turbine is delivering 10 kw. Since it operates on a vertical rather than a horizontal axis, it does not have to be oriented to wind direction. Its investment costs are low. The MSG can be run in island mode in parallel to the grid operated by the local energy provider. “If our batteries are empty, we can connect the MSG to the local grid,” says Rose.

What is special about this MSG is that it is designed as a direct current (DC) grid. “Photovoltaic facilities and battery

Electrical & Power Review

storage devices both use direct current.

We settled on a DC design for our micro smart grid to avoid the losses that occur when transforming alternating current (AC) into DC,” explains Rose. In addition to the energy management software, the IAO scientists are also setting up a simulation environment in which to lay out their MSG and play out various scenarios, such as different weather conditions.

Micro smart grids offer a more secure supply Rose sees a host of advantages in decentralised power generation, but none more significant than being able to secure supply: “As Germany continues to move toward a new energy economy, increasing demand is being placed on the country’s power grids. Wind and photovoltaic facilities generate electricity intermittently, which doesn’t always match customer demand. The grid has to compensate for these fluctuations, increasing the risk of power outages. We can counteract this risk by establishing decentralised supplies of electricity and by optimising

the way we manage our energy. And doing so also serves to increase our independence from energy price trends by largely eliminating the need to import electricity.”

In their living lab, the IAO scientists now plan to create a testing environment that will allow industrial companies, systems providers, public utility companies, communities and distributers to explore the potential of micro grids. Over the next two years, the Micro Smart Grid innovation network is to provide interested parties with an opportunity to work up new kinds of smart grid configurations and operating strategies.

Using the Fraunhofer micro smart grid demonstrator, the project partners can test their hardware and software components. They can also investigate options for allowing other consumers to connect to the MSG – whether, for example, to run a building’s air conditioning system or to integrate other production facilities. “Our longterm goal is to bring individual local grids together to form a large smart grid,” says Rose.

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ONE-ON-ONE

CTC Global: bringing reliability in power transmission

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“Currently over 150 km of ACCC is in service in India with about 600 km slated for installation this year so far,” says Dave Bryant, Director Technology, CTC Global

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onsidering the challenges associated with building new lines and upgrading existing lines, the use of high-capacity, low-sag and energy-efficient ACCC conductor offers numerous important economic advantages. CTC Global has gained experience of installing over 24,000 km of ACCC at more than 275 project sites in 28 countries. Now, the company is gradually increasing its footprint in India. In an exclusive interview with Subhajit Roy, Dave Bryant discusses on the ACCC technology and its increasing importance in India. Bryant reveals that project delays, resistance to new technologies, financial constraints and limitations of skilled manpower are common challenges in India.

The United States and Indonesia are two largest markets as far as CTC is concerned. How do you see the opportunities for

your kind of business in the Indian market?

Considering that electrical power delivery is one of the most important elements of any country’s infrastructure - as we rely so heavily on it to pump water, manufacture goods and enjoy economic prosperity.

CTC Global believes its ACCC conductor offers an ideal solution for the Indian grid in this important juncture. With a population of 1.3 billion and growing, India’s demand for electricity will certainly rise. Considering the challenges associated with building new lines and upgrading existing lines, the use of highcapacity, low-sag and energy-efficient ACCC conductor offers numerous important economic advantages.

Brief us on your current position in the Indian market.

CTC Global recently completed its third ACCC installation in India with Maharashtra State Electricity

Electrical & Power Review

ONE-ON-ONE Transmission Co. Ltd. (MSETCL). We have previously supplied ACCC conductor to Uttar Pradesh Power Transmission Co. Ltd. (UPPTCL) and are currently executing orders from Karnataka Power Transmission Co. Ltd. (KPTCL) and Orissa Power Transmission Co. Ltd. (OPTCL).

Apart from installations of UPPTCL, OPTCL and KPTCL projects, CTC Global will also be supervising installations for repeat customers Tata Power and Torrent Power in 2014. With four state utilities already using ACCC conductor, supported by CTC Global’s manufacturing partners Sterlite Technologies Ltd. and Apar Industries Ltd, the rate of deployment should continue to increase in both the transmission and distribution sectors.

India’s network technical losses account to 23.65 per cent in 2013.

Do you have any customised technology to counter such challenge?

Recognising that India suffers from both commercial and technical losses, leveraging the improved efficiency of ACCC conductor is extremely important.

First of all, the high-strength, light-weight composite core is non-metallic and therefore exhibits no magnetic hysteresis losses. More importantly, its lighterweight and high-strength core allows the utilisation of 28 per cent more - and highly conductive - type 1350-O aluminium. The added aluminium content and quality serves to reduce line losses by 25 to 40 per cent or more depending upon load level compared to any other conductor of the same diameter and weight (ACCC uses compact trapezoidal shaped aluminium strands).

Could you discuss on the ACCC technology and its potential in the Indian power sector?

While the ACCC conductor was designed to carry approximately twice the current of conventional all-aluminium or steel reinforced overhead conductors, with far less thermal sag, its ability to also reduce line losses under any load condition is hugely important. Line loss

Electrical & Power Review

reductions serve not only to reduce fuel consumption and associated emissions, they can also free up generation capacity that is wasted in supporting those losses. Essentially it is much cheaper to upgrade the conductor than to build and support new generation. On the other side, when using ACCC conductor to tie in a new source of generation, the improved efficiency can allow the generator to deliver more power to the consumer for the same upfront capital cost. This is serving to improve the economic viability of several types of renewable generators, globally.

How do you foresee the status of electricity sector in India and across the globe in 2014?

CTC has installed over 24,000 km of ACCC technology globally.

What about India?

What are your major objectives as far as Indian power sector is concerned?

Over the last three or four years CTC Global has focused on sharing its knowledge base with Indian utilities.

Much data was shared that has allowed design engineers to capture and use ACCC conductor as project demands require. Currently over 150 km of ACCC is in service in India with about 600 km slated for installation this year so far.

To date, four Indian state utilities have used ACCC conductor, along with two private entities Tata Power and Torrent Power. CTC Global is working to expand its presence to all of the transmission utilities including Power Grid. CTC Global has also begun introducing the ACCC conductor’s low loss feature to distribution utilities where we offer substantial advantages. We are also working to improve local skill sets to support ACCC installations and are working to create local hardware manufacturing. In addition, we are working to identify alternate financing sources to help our utility customers deliver more power more efficiently in the near term.

What are the major challenges you face in India?

Project delays, resistance to new technologies, financial constraints and limitations of skilled manpower are common challenges.

How do you plan to mitigate such challenges?

CTC Global and its partners Sterlite Technologies and Apar Industries continue to share their knowledge about ACCC conductor technology with Indian utilities. CTC Global provides extensive training and project support and continues to explore alternate sources of project funding.

Could you talk to us about your most significant achievement in India?

CTC completed a 22 kV line for Tata Power in a very busy suburb of Mumbai.

In spite of challenging topography, the project was successfully upgraded with ACCC conductor.

According to the Indian Electrical Equipment Industry Mission Plan 2012-22, demand for transmission and distribution investment should exceed $ 70 billion by 2022, based on capacity addition targets. This mission plan, which is very similar to other global plans, underscores the importance of leveraging advanced technology including high-capacity, low-sag and energy efficient conductors such as ACCC.

Could you discuss on your strategies in meeting these objectives?

Having the highest quality local partners such as Sterlite Technologies and Apar Industries, is probably the most important first step. The experience gained installing over 24,000 km of ACCC at more than 275 project sites in 28 countries has also helped us deal with many challenges. As the old saying goes: “Problems will always occur…

It’s your ability to overcome them that is most important.” We can also add “experience does matter” and CTC Global is very pleased and proud to be part of the Indian grid solution.

April 2014

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tech view

Smart grid for utilities in India: progress and challenges With the move towards smart grids, the prevailing policy and regulatory frameworks must evolve in order to encourage incentives for investment Need of smart grid in India Smart Grid is a modernised technology which aims at improving the efficiency, reliability, economics, and sustainability of the production and distribution of electricity. Thus smart grids associate customer to electricity by an information rich network. And also it provides utilities with valuable operational information that helps them to improve efficiency. In a layman’s term smart grid is an efficient combination of electrical infrastructure and information technology. It shall provide unparalleled capabilities in monitoring, controlling, optimising the efficiencies and automating the restoration of the energy delivery grid.

The principal focus of the utilities is to improve customer service or to ease

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workforce’s burden of repetitive work for which smart grid shall be an enabling tool. Implementation of an MDMS and integration of smart metering data with distribution management systems (DMS), distribution automation systems and other systems will provide the information and intelligent control necessary to facilitate the operation of the smart grid. Similarly, smart grid provides customers with real time information and encourages them to do online payments, thus lowering billing costs. With development of smart grid, power theft can be controlled to a greater extent, thereby improving the efficiency of our distribution system.

Thus grids will provide higher quality and reliable power supply, and there will be fewer blackouts.

Smart grid Initiatives taken by MoP Ministry of Power created the India Smart Grid Task Force (ISGTF) and the India Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) with an objective of accelerating development of smart grid technologies in the Indian power sector. The Ministry of Power has sanctioned 14 Pilot projects in 2012, for improvement of the degrading condition of power sector in India where unscheduled load shedding is a common feature. Below is the list of the sanctioned projects:

Role of Medhaj Techno Concept Pvt. Ltd. in smart grid Medhaj Techno Concept Pvt. Ltd. (MTCPL) is an ISO 9001: 2008 and 14001:2004 certified company, incorporated in 2007

Electrical & Power Review

tech view as an integrated solution provider in the field of infrastructure development, with an initial focus in the energy sector. Medhaj is a part of the India Smart Grid Forum (ISGF), an initiative of MoP. The company is currently assisting Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd. as Smart Grid Consultant (SGC) for implementation of smart grid pilot project in Guwahati. Medhaj is also assisting the utility in consumer awareness program of smart grid and organises seminars/workshops for both the utility and the end-consumer.

Medhaj provides a full suite of services to help its clients maximise the benefits of these complementary and enabling technologies, including: • Visioning and strategic planning • Feasibility studies along with Preparation of detailed project report involving cost benefit analysis • Regulatory strategy and support • Opportunity assessment and business case development • Requirements specification, RFP issuance, vendor selection • Consultancy for system deployment and integration • Program and project management • Field testing and performance monitoring • System operations and benefits realisation.

Challenges faced during project execution and anticipated challenges in future With the move towards smart grids, the prevailing policy and regulatory frameworks must evolve in order to encourage incentives for investment.

The new frameworks will need to match the interests of the consumers with the utilities and suppliers to ensure that the societal goals are achieved at the lowest cost to the consumers. Smart Grid is broad in its scope, so the potential standards landscape is also very large and complex. Despite the challenges mentioned below, there are a number of steps that can be taken to speed up the implementation of smart grid technologies.

Electrical & Power Review

Sanctioned smart grid modules for 14 states Name of Utility

Smart Grid Modules to be implemented

CESC, Mysore

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM, OMS, MG/ DG

APDCL, Andhra

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM, PQM, OMS

APDCL, Assam

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM, PQM, OMS, DG

UGVCL, Gujarat

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM, PQM, OMS

MSEDCL, Maharashtra

AMI-R, AMI-I, OMS

UHVBN, Haryana

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM

TSECL, Tripura

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM

HPSEB, Himachal Pradesh

AMI-I, PLM, PQM, OMS

Puducherry

AMI-R, AMI-I

JVVNL, Rajasthan

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM

CSPDCL, Chattisgarh

AMI-I, PLM

PSPCL, Punjab

OMS

KSEB, Kerala

AMI-I

WBSEDCL, West Bengal

AMI-R, AMI-I, PLM

*Reference: India Smart Grid Forum

Transition of legacy equipment/ system Older/in-house developed equipment need to be replaced as they cannot be seamlessly integrated with smart grid technologies. Thus, coordination between ongoing activities that already are or are to be fed into smart grids, including R-APDRP, RGGVY, other state/ government funded projects and other activities outside R-APDRP is essential.

Lack of standard and interoperability The quest for smart grid standards to facilitate interoperability is the most complicated issue facing the smart grid industry. Smart grid deployment technology does not have any standardised approach like that of R-APDRP. One of the prime challenges faced for execution of the project is due to the delay of finalisation of smart meter specification in Indian context by the respective authorities. Hence, the participating States do not have the clarity over the technology requirement, software and middleware requirements as well. Thus, there should be business model clarity on the ability to re-use and extend functionalities under smart grids so that the Utilities become smart grid ready.

Policy and regulatory framework The current policy and regulatory frameworks were typically designed

to deal with the existing networks and utilities. Thus, the TOU/TOD tariff for all consumers (especially for Single Phase Consumers) needs to be sanctioned by respective Regulatory Commissions in order to encourage incentives for investment. The new frameworks will need to match the interests of the consumers with the utilities and suppliers to ensure that the societal goals are achieved at the lowest cost to the consumers.

Technology maturity and delivery risk Technology is one of the essential constituents of smart grid which include a broad range of hardware, software, and communication technologies. In some cases, the technology is welldeveloped; however, in many areas the technologies are still at a very initial stage of development and are yet to be developed to a significant level. As the technologies advances, it will reduce the delivery risk; but till then risk factor have to be included in the business situation.

Lack of awareness There is an imperative need to make the society and the policy makers aware about the capabilities of a smart grid.

Consumer’s level of understanding about how power is delivered to their homes is often low. So before going forward and implementing smart grid concepts, they should be made aware

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tech view The government should look into this matter because consumer’s consumption data can be misused by the utilities and the third party. Utilities have to give assurance to the consumers that their valuable information is handled by authorised party in ethical manner. If above two issues are not addressed in a transparent manner, it may create a negative impact on customer’s perception and will prove to be a barrier for adoption.

about what smart grids are? How smart grids can contribute to low carbon economy? What benefits they can drive from smart grids? Therefore: • Consumers should be made aware about their energy consumption pattern at home, offices etc.

• Policy makers and regulators must be very clear about the future prospects of smart grids • Utilities need to focus on the overall capabilities of Smart Grids rather than mere implementation of smart meters. They need to consider a more holistic view.

Things which need to be done at a strategic level in India

Cyber security and data privacy With increase in computers and communication networks comes the increased threat of cyber-attack. With the transition from analogous to digital electricity infrastructure comes the challenge of communication security and data management; as digital networks are more prone to malicious attacks from software hackers, security becomes the key issue to be addressed.

States which have not put forward their step in smart grid need to seed in some effort. A broad perspective for future need to be taken while deciding on smart grid efforts and investments as results are not immediate. There is a reluctance seen in some states who have bigger immediate issues at hand. All states need to work with ‘one foot today and one foot tomorrow’ philosophy for a technology like this which is futuristic in nature. The Utilities need to adopt more

holistic approach about Smart Grids, so that they can convey its future benefits to the customers. The policy makers need to create a regulatory framework which aligns incentives of each member in the value chain considering both utilities and customer while making policies.

Indian utilities are still lagging far behind when compared to other countries thus Consultants need to be seen as an extended team of client’s organisation so that best is achieved from Smart Grid Implementing Agency. Understanding the role of Smart Grid we have taken an initiative of creating awareness amongst utilities for the same and state like Uttar Pradesh have shown their keenness to get a better insight of the so called ‘selfhealing’ technology.

Authored by_ GunjanTripathi, Director (Operation & Business Development) and Kratika Sharma, General Manager – Smart Grid Division, Medhaj Techno Concept Pvt. Ltd.

[The views expressed in this article are those of the authors’ only.]

Konecranes launches new SLX electric chain hoists

SLX chain hoist from Konecranes speeds up the work cycle, eases maintenance work, improves security and doubles the service life of the hoist

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onecranes has introduced a cutting-edge SLX chain hoist, an advanced version of, CLX chain hoist, a proven performer in itself. Not only does the SLX chain hoist contain new technology, it also incorporates new inverter in hoisting to speed up and facilitate operations by the end-user.

The new, steel-framed and sturdy SLX chain hoist is particularly suitable for individual workstation applications, such as assembly cells, in the workshop industry. Other applications include jib cranes and EOT cranes. The particularly sturdy structure of the hoist enables a

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larger load capacity, while doubling the life cycle of the machine compared to other hoists. The durability of the lift chain was also a key element in the design. The patented chain sprocket dramatically improves the durability of the chain.

The chain sprocket’s transmission has been completely redesigned. The new, oil lubrication-based transmission reduces the operating temperature, enabling increased power. Furthermore, the new transmission is maintenancefree and much quieter to operate. The new transmission increases the speed ratio between low and fast speeds.

The new 6:1 speed ratio enables a safe

and accurate installation speed and an extremely fast movement speed.

Electrical & Power Review

Interview

OMRON: creating true partnership with customers “Our theme is ‘creating value’ where ‘value’ defines products, facilities supply chain improvement and so on which finally make our customer feel that Omron is their partner than just a supplier,” says Vinod Rapheal, Country Manager - India, Omron Electronic Components

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mron is into the business of sensing and automation. How significant is your contribution to the electrical and power sector?

have also significantly expanded our distribution network.

These are the basic two factors driving our growth in India.

So, your customer-base has been doubled during the past two years. What about turnover? How did it increase?

Could you brief us about your recent significant achievement in the components sector?

On the product front, OMRON Electronic Components has come out with lots of new products for specific markets in India. For example, we have come out with a remote on/off rocker switch which is now being promoted quite aggressively and the response so far is very positive. As for sensors, we have come out with a new range of flow sensors which go into the packaging and power industries. In relays, we have come out with latching relays which make an important part of the smart meters and prepaid meters which are going to play an important role in future in the energy sector. In connectors, we have come out with newly designed battery connectors and increased the product variants in FPC connectors which will expand our business in the mobile as well as tablet PC markets. In sensing technologies, our face detection and recognition system is getting more customer and market centric with addition of new features such as recognition of facial expression to define the mood of individuals.

Since 2012, there has been a considerable growth in our reach across the country. There is more than 100 per cent growth in our customer base. We

So, all in all, we are expanding our network and introducing new products for the specific market requirements.

Power sector is one of the industries where quality, durability and reliability of components really matters as the applications involve safety critical components for their functioning. We supply a lot of such components to many power generating and power management system companies like power sector industries.

How do you see the acceptance of Omron’s electronic components in the Indian market?

There has been a significant demand - a lot of suppliers also exist. OMRON always strives to bring in differentiation by focusing on quality and durability. To sum up, we have been quite successful and acceptable to those categories where our components are safety critical and our customers are looking for durability and reliability.

Electrical & Power Review

In terms of year-on-year growth, it’s been quite optimistic for OMRON. The figure stands at 10 to 15 per cent for the electronic components business.

Will it be possible to maintain the same kind of growth even after an extended customer base?

It’s challenging. Maintaining this growth rate demands a very aggressive expansion in the product base and a very dynamic and customised supply chain facility for different customers.

The concept of continuous generation of ‘additional value’ plays a very important role here which I think is very challenging.

Have you already started working on that?

Yes, for Omron, the period 2013 to 2016 is very significant. We are giving a lot of emphasis on emerging countries. Our theme is ‘creating value’ where ‘value’ defines products, facilities supply chain improvement and so on which finally make our customer feel that Omron is their partner than just a supplier.

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EPR PERSONALITY

PXIL: consolidating position in power trading

P

“Our average trading volumes have grown from 2 MUs per day to near 5 MUs per day. We managed to reduce our expenses and have emerged as a leaner and fitter group of motivated individuals,� says M G Raoot, MD and CEO, PXIL

ower Exchange India Ltd. (PXIL) is the first institutionally promoted power exchange in India. From a loss making entity till 2013, PXIL is transformed into a profit making entity. In an exclusive interaction with EPR, M G Raoot elaborates the power exchange scenario in India explaining his business outlook and growth strategies.

Being the first institutionally promoted power exchange in India, how do you look at the current performance of power exchange industry?

Power exchanges started functioning in India in the year 2008. PXIL is a result of amalgamation of some of the most ethical and institutional names in the market. PXIL was conceptualised and promoted under the patronage of NSE and NCDEX, leaders in the financial and commodity markets. We have some of the best names as our equity partners - PFC, GMR, MPPTCL, WBSEDCL, TPTCL and JSW Energy.

Since then it has been a growth story for power exchanges in general and PXIL in particular. From starting at few Million Units (MUs) per day, the market operated by exchanges is in the range of 85-90 MUs per day in FY 2013-14. This is expected to go further up in the coming years.

At PXIL we have grown in from strength to strength. Being a loss making entity from 2008 to 2012-13, PXIL has turned around things and have registered cash profit for the year 2013-14. All

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April 2014

this was achieved due to the innovative strategies of the new management coupled with the revamping of our software, processes and procedures to meet the requirements of the industry at large. We can certainly say today that our matching engine based on Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model is far ahead of others who still use heuristics based matching engine.

We are sure that this step of ours will soon translate into better market position for PXIL.

What would help improve the volumes traded on the exchanges?

To say the least, implementation of open access provisions in true spirit, provision of adequate transmission infrastructure, and introduction of exchange traded longer tenure contracts are few aspects which require immediate attention to improve the volumes on power exchanges. There have been positive developments like tightening of UI band with introduction of deviation settlement mechanism and provision of allowing ancillary services markets through exchanges but still the issues mentioned earlier are most important and crucial for development of exchanges in India.

How did PXIL perform during the last one year?

FY 13-14 has been a year of revelation for PXIL. As discussed earlier from being a loss making -cash starved entity, we have managed to turn around things. We are proud to

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EPR PERSONALITY say that PXIL now is not only self sustaining but a cash profit making entity. Our financial results which will be released shortly after completion of financial year will reflect the efforts of our team under new management.

To point out few achievements we successfully integrated latest MILPbased mathematical matching engine which is much advanced than our competition. We become the first and only power exchange in India to achieve ISO 9001:2008 quality certification.

market share and the sector itself.

We are confident that we would reach close to 60 per cent market share in this FY 13-14 in REC segment. PXIL will continue innovating its offerings to the REC market participants to attract more market share in the coming financial year. In regards of the REC market, we are witnessing huge waves in the regulatory and policy front pushing the cause of the renewable energy sector in general and REC in particular.

We are market leader in the REC segment; we have more than doubled our market share from 23 per cent in FY 2012-13 to nearly about 55 per cent in FY 2013-14 till February 14. Our average trading volumes have grown from 2 MUs per day to near 5 MUs per day.

We managed to reduce our expenses and have emerged as a leaner and fitter group of motivated individuals.

Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) is not being honoured by a few discoms. So, how is the road ahead?

But this is not where we stop, PXIL is determined to improve many folds in coming years and prove its worth as an organisation to all its stakeholders.

Could you discuss on your initiatives toward providing quality power at competitive rates for SMEs and MSMEs? We see a huge potential in the SME, MSME, commercial or the retail segment of the market. These entities for whom the cost of electricity is say 80-85 per cent of their operating cost always seek for options which provide quality power at competitive rates. To cater their special needs we have launched retail initiatives in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh. For the first time, we have also introduced occasional membership category which provides them an opportunity to participate on PXIL for managing their power requirements by paying a nominal fee.

PXIL has around 55 per cent market share in REC market.

What is your outlook on this niche segment?

The outlook is positive both on our

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Many states have now started to include expenditure on purchase of REC in their ARR; some other state regulators have directed the state utilities to include expenditure on purchase of REC in their ARR. Other regulators are also considering suo motu proceeding on the defaulting utilities. So yes we are confident that with introduction stringent penal provisions and regulatory intervention the REC market will revive soon.

I would like to point out that these are huge developments for enforcement of RPO and for the REC generators as it reassures them that their investments in the REC projects will not be rendered as stranded. The confidence will return and market will start performing upto the expectation of the REC scheme.

Regulators have to play a pivotal role in this aspect.

What are your roadmaps on boosting the REC trade on exchanges?

We shall innovate our offerings and offer better customer service in the coming times that is our two pronged strategy for the REC market. We are also pushing our thoughts to the CERC requesting some design changes in the REC market in order to boost the REC trade. Even efforts towards voluntary-REC purchases would be a welcome step.

Apart from power trading, what are your commitments toward optimising network utilisation?

We have already been leading the fight on optimum network utilisation with the CERC. We have submitted our petition to CERC in regards of revisiting allocation of transmission corridor among two exchanges so that congestion related problem can be better managed. Once we get positive reply on our plea from CERC, we are hopeful of getting a manifold jump in trading volumes. The matter is under consideration of CERC

�...we are confident that with introduction stringent penal provisions and regulatory intervention the REC market will revive soon�

and we are eagerly awaiting the final output.

What sort of long- and short-term plans you have?

Becoming more customer-friendly, introducing new products are our immediate goals. We would push the matter with appropriate authority on boosting the REC trade on exchanges and put our best efforts ensuring that energy efficiency certificates, longer tenure product and ancillary services come strictly on exchange platform. Even launching of evening market would help the sector. In long run we strive to remain working as the most ethical power exchange in the country.

April 2014

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GUEST COLUMN

Optimising transmission capacity allocation among market participants Rajesh K Mediratta, Director (Business Development), Indian Energy Exchange details the means of optimising transmission capacity allocation and its benefits

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April 2014

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ast decade had been stupendous for power sector in India. The regulatory reforms not only brought in investment but also boosted competition in the sector. Generation segment has outshined with these reforms. Today, we have almost doubled the generation capacity to 234 GW in a decade. Similar efforts are being made to improve efficiency of transmission and distribution segment.

Open access refined the mechanism of connectivity to power by segmenting the market into long-, medium- and shortterm open access consumers. According

to Monthly Market Monitoring Reports published by CERC, power exchanges constitute about 3 per cent of the total power transactions in the country during Apr - Dec 2013. Other modes of power transaction include long-term agreements (88 per cent), bilateral transactions - direct (2 per cent) and traders -4 per cent and unscheduled interchanges (2 per cent). A short-term power market owes huge potential to grow. At Indian Energy Exchange (IEX), the transacted volumes are growing with the CAGR of 56 per cent in span of 5 years with monthly average volume transacted in FY14 (up to February) is about 2,422 MU.

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GUEST COLUMN Direct

Trader

IEXL

PXIL

UI CAGR

40 35

Trader 9%

Volume in BUs

30

IEX 54%

25 20

UI -30%

15 10

Direct 33%

5 0

2009

2010

2011

2012

PXI 10%

2013

Growth of the Indian Power Market

short-term open access customers, the allocation priority is preceded by advanced short-term open access customers, followed by bilateral and then residual capacity is left for collective transactions. The lowest priority for allocation is for contingency short-term open access consumers.

However, CAGR of volumes traded on power exchanges is about 49 per cent whereas in bilateral it is about 15 per cent. This shows lagging sync between the available transmission network and traded volumes for different segments of market. Fastest growing segment is hit most for the transport of the commodity i.e. electricity.

Even though short-term power markets have grown and matured in a very short span, same is not reflected in the transmission planning and capacity allocation methodology. Transmission network capacity is created for longterm PPAs with some natural inherent margins. Competition which is mainstay of Electricity Act is possible only when the buyer or seller has choice in shorter timeframes. But if we do not build flexibilities in transmission capacities for these shorter timeframes, transactions and therefore competition is thwarted.

Moreover, in transmission capacity reservation methodology, long-term open access consumers have the highest priority in the transmission capacity allocation. They are followed by medium-term and short-term open access customers respectively. Within Total Generation Short Term

751 61

In order to optimise transmission capacity allocation, it is essential that common platform is provided to all

796 8%

78

10%

865 94

902

11%

97

964 11%

103

11%

40 29%

Volume in BUs

30

the participants in short-term market.

Advance Transmission Corridor Reservation (ATC) reservation can be introduced for consumers in both bilateral and collective transactions. In a scenario where requested transmission capacity exceeds available transmission capacity, e-bidding can be conducted.

This would provide a common and transparent opportunity for shortterm market participants to reserve their required transmission capacity in advance. The allocated transmission capacity will be on ‘use or lose’ basis.

Currently participants in collective transactions can only bid for energy in the market and they get scarce capacity if their energy bids are good enough in competition with others. In collective transactions, buyer or seller should be allowed to book corridor in advance.

Once booked, they will be considered on the uncongested side of the corridor for purpose of corridor to the extent of corridor booked and will pay the Average Clearing Price (ACP) of area of the other side of corridor. Remaining buyers or sellers with no prior booking will be considered in Day Ahead Market (DAM) as at present. This way, advance booking will lead to convergence of electricity flow from surplus to deficit regions and would narrow the price gap between these regions.

With introduction of competition in transmission capacity allocation, the consumer welfare would increase. It can also result in balancing out transmission charges. Consumers and Discoms in SR can take the advantage of the capacity as well as the competitive price on the exchange. This is a win-win proposal for market participants and is revenue neutral to transmission licensees.

20% 20

10

17% 10%

15%

0 2009 Summary of short term market (BUs)

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2010 Direct

2011 Trader

2012 PXs

UI

2013

Authored by: Rajesh K Mediratta, Director (Business Development), Indian Energy Exchange

April 2014

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Interview

HPL sets ambitious export market growth

“Today our penetration level in export markets is very low and we plan to grow three times in next three years in terms of export,” says Gautam Seth, Joint Managing Director, HPL

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PL is one of the leading manufacturers of electrical protection equipment, switchgears, electronic energy meters and energy management systems. After strengthening its position in the low voltage products segment, the company wants to reinforce its position in the medium voltage products category and export markets.

Gautam Seth chalks out HPL’s growth strategy in an exclusive interview with Subhajit Roy.

Established in 1956, HPL is diversified in almost every area of power transmission and distribution. So, what’s next?

For years, we have been focusing as a single solution provider for entire low voltage electrical and lighting segments. We are also the largest meter

manufacturer in the country. Our basic solutions are all around these and cater every segment like individual consumer, household, commercial, industrial, and outdoor installation. We have been in this business since 1956. Today, HPL has nine factories and around 5,400 people are working with us.

In ELECRAMA 2014, we have launched new products across electrical protection equipment, switchgears, electronic energy meters and energy management systems. We have launched a latest technology MCB ‘Bsafe’ along with a range of distribution boards. We have also introduced new metering solutions and a lot of specialty cables in ELECRAMA. In addition, we have launched a host of new switchgears and switches. Now, our endeavour is to expand these ranges.

HPL Kundali Plant

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Interview

LED and battery biz to power Eon Electric

“Our focus will be on LED lighting segment and Li-ion battery segment for the next few years.

Our strategy will be to ensure that these two segments drive the overall business of EON,� says Ved Prakash Mahendru, CMD, Eon Electric

E

on Electric Ltd, formerly known as Indo Asian Fusegear Ltd, manufactures a range of high-tech electrical products including lighting, wires and cables.

The company has recently enhanced its focus on LED-based lighting and Li-ion batteries. Ved Prakash Mahendru expects that these two segments will drive the overall business of EON.

Formed in 1958, Eon Electric emerged as one of the leading players in high-tech electrical products. How do you view the current scenario in electrical products industry in India?

Electrical energy is well established as safe and sound source of energy for use for industrial production, transmission of railway trains and even for the movement of vehicular traffic for men or materials through electric energy stored in batteries. It has established itself to be the most convenient and economic source of energy for running all facets of human life.

Thus, as the variety of end-users is multiplying and the pressure on availability of power is increasing, technology development in use of electric power is crucial.

In fact the development of safer storage batteries with longer life and larger capacity is meeting many mission critical requirements. The large

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storage capacity of Lithium Ion (Li-ion ) Batteries are today running our mobile phones, transmission towers apart from keeping transmission stations well energised and running mobikes and automobile cars. High-powered batteries will soon start running aeroplanes duly supported by solar charging.

Also, wires and cables are no longer merely carrying the electric energy from 220 V to 330 KV but also carry transmission of electric signals for communication purposes beneath the sea and where required.

It is almost 4 years passed you have sold your switchgear business. How do you analyse your performance pre- and post restructurisation?

Due to our commitment to take up innovative products such as Li-ion batteries, LED lights, special wires and cables; we have hived off our business of electrical switchgear to a French company 2010-11 onwards.

Since then, our new business of wires, cables, LED lights, Li-ion batteries and power efficient fans have grown by over five times.

The global slowdown had adversely affected the growth of Indian market. However, in view of the extensive R&D and consequent development of new designs for new products, EON is committed to double digit growth.

April 2014

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Interview How do you find your position in the electrical wires and cables market?

Eon Electric has continuously developed new range of wires and cables which are more efficient and cost effective. They are safe despite high environment temperatures in which they need to operate. These wires are fire proof thus adding further safety and security to residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

Could you outline your long- and short-term strategies?

Our focus will be on LED lighting segment and Li-ion battery segment for the next few years. Our strategy will be to ensure that these two segments drive the overall business of EON.

How much growth have you witnessed in the last fiscal?

EON has achieved a growth of around 175 per cent during the year 2012-13.

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What is your expectation for this fiscal?

The industry in general and the electrical industry in particular are passing through a difficult phase during the current year. This coupled with the subdued performance of the construction industry (which has been the major buyer of the company’s products) has put a pressure on the sales during the current fiscal. However, EON would be able to maintain its status despite difficult market conditions.

What sort of expansion plans you have in the electrical products business?

Growth through new innovative products has been the unique strength of EON and it will continue to develop new innovative products which will not only be power conservative as usual but also safe for the end-users and costeffective. EON fans because of their energy efficiency are approved under the Star Rating for fans as per BEE.

manufacturing capacity for Li-ion batteries for more than hundred varieties of mobile phones apart from 2 million battery chargers. EON has also built-up good capacity for manufacture of power banks the need for which is becoming more critical because of the high power consumption by smart mobile phones.

You have done quite a bit of progress in the Li-ion batteries business. How far you are from launching batteries for hybrid cars? Do you see markets for such products in India?

With eventual evolution, we expect hybrid cars to have a market of its own.

It depends on the car segment. We believe it will still take some time for hybrid cars to take off to have its own regular, consistent market.

EON has already established excellent

EON is always well prepared not only for existing demands for these unique products but it is also well prepared to produce these products as per changing and growing market.

How is the low voltage market growing?

newer avenue and then grow with the existing set of customers.

f

We have a large R&D team which is continuously working on new products and on upgrading the existing ranges to meet changing needs of our consumers.

What is your commitment in EPC business?

HPL has been strong in the utility segment primarily because of the metering. So it moves on as a very natural way as we started taking EPC projects after doing a few larger electrification projects including railway electrification. Presently, we are implementing a 132 kV substation project under EPC near Dehradun.

Low voltage market is growing. There are lots of opportunities in India due to overall infrastructure growth and we see the next 10 years in a very upbeat manner. There is the competition and it is going to be stronger. High efficiency in manufacturing and very good marketing strategy should give competitive edge.

We are present in Middle-East, Africa and South-East Asia. So far, we have been pretty successful in export and it has been really picking up.

Do you wish to expand your export market?

Though 2013 was very competitive, HPL has maintained around 20 per cent yearon-year growth over the couple of last year, and we should achieve a turnover of ` 1,400 crore in current financial year.

Middle-East has been very successful market for us and Africa is a big market.

We are looking to explore in these two regions. Today our penetration level in export markets is very low and we plan to grow three times in next three years in terms of export.

Do you have any plan to venture in to medium voltage segment?

What are you doing to strengthen your position in the market?

What is the target you have for 2014?

We have studied the medium voltage (MV) market. It is a highly competitive market but may be a natural progression for us. We are yet to take any final decision to get into it.

We have been looking at newer ways to grow. We have been focusing a lot in export also and getting good responses due to our quality and standards. So our strategy is to find newer customers,

We are looking at achieving around ` 1,400 crore this year. We should be looking at ` 1,800 crore in next two years. Exports will be definitely contributing to the growth.

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April 2014

How was the last year?

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www.eprmagazine.com

ONE-ON-ONE

TEMA India to join ` 1K cr club in 5 yrs

T

EMA India is one of the pioneers to bring heat exchangers to India. In an interview with EPR, Haresh Sippy talks about the latest technology, demand-supply scenario, and his company’s roadmap.

“We would be achieving a turnover of ` 500 crore in another two years.

Thereafter, we intend to take it ahead to ` 1,000 crore in the next five years,” says Haresh Sippy, MD, TEMA India

With a turnover of $ 45 million, TEMA is one of the largest manufacturers of shell and tube heat exchangers in India. How do you look at the journey of TEMA? We would be achieving a turnover of ` 500 crore in another two years.

Thereafter, we intend to take it ahead to ` 1,000 crore in the next five years.

TEMA India was one of the first companies to bring heat exchangers to India. Could you talk to us on the recent development in this technology?

Apart from just pushing through the products and technology, after- sales and servicing is becoming more important. How have you observed this trend?

Currently, we are in a process of making our own manufacturing standards that are not followed today. The existing standards are not adequate for the proprietary heat exchangers like screw plug heat exchangers and helixchangers.

Tema India specialises in aftersales as that is how we have been gaining knowledge. We gain knowledge from end-users. We help our end-users to maintain our equipment with complete efficiency throughout its lifespan. This in turn gives us knowledge to improvise.

Certainly, there would be growing demand for the heat exchangers in India. Though there is slow down, the demand does not vanish. It keeps growing. In this scenario, there would be substantial amount of investments to cater to the growing needs of the power, fertiliser, petroleum and petrochemical sectors. In the recent past, owing to the overall slowdown in

April 2014

What is the unique value proposition that TEMA brings in to the heat exchangers market and what are your key competitive differentiators in the market?

We have been working on drastically optimising and bringing down the cost of the most critical equipment thereby bringing down capital cost of the large projects. We would continue to do that.

To strengthen this process further, we would be soon having a research and development wing.

How do you view the demands of heat exchangers in India?

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the economy, these demands have not been sufficiently met.

Being an Indian manufacturer, could you mention some of your challenges of competing with overseas players?

The main challenge is to match prices with sub-standard Korean products. We have completed a lot of overseas orders under the proprietary screw-plug heat exchangers. At present, around 60 per cent of our export orders have been won under heavy overseas competition.

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tech view

Mobile broadband connectivity through smart street lighting New connected street lighting model solves two issues simultaneously: offering city officials an innovative way to afford next generation energy efficient LED lighting to meet sustainability goals, and enabling network operators to offer improved city-wide mobile broadband and app coverage Ericsson President and CEO Hans Vestberg says, “This is a tremendous solution using ICT and partnerships to address the megatrend of urbanisation.

City populations are increasing at the rate of 7,500 people per hour, but our world is not geographically expanding.

Meanwhile, our ConsumerLab research shows that internet connectivity is one of the top five factors for satisfaction in city life. This Zero Site solution is the kind of innovation that offers a way for people to succeed in the Networked Society.”

R

oyal Philips and Ericsson have jointly launched an innovative new connected LED street lighting model. The partnership solves two major issues that cities are facing today: providing citizens with improved network performance in dense urban areas as well as high quality, public lighting that is energy efficient.

Philips and Ericsson combine the benefits of mobile connectivity and LED lighting in a ‘’lighting-as-aservice’’ model for cities. It allows city authorities to offer space within their connected lighting poles to network service providers for mobile broadband infrastructure.

Philips will now offer cities LED street lighting that can include mobile telecoms equipment from Ericsson.

Mobile operators working with Ericsson for mobile broadband infrastructure

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will be able to rent space in the poles.

In this way, mobile network operators will be able to improve data coverage and capacity for citizens, resulting in enhanced mobile broadband services.

The model also accelerates the payback time for city infrastructure, by making the up-front costs of installing and managing these systems more affordable, so reducing the strain on city budgets.

Philips LED street lighting can generate energy savings of 50 to 70 per cent, with savings reaching 80 per cent when coupled with smart controls – as validated by a study conducted by The Climate Group in 12 of the world’s largest cities. The study also showed that citizens prefer the white light of LED lighting, citing a greater sense of safety and improved visibility compared to the orange glow of traditional high pressure sodium systems.

Frans van Houten, President and CEO of Philips, says, “This new connected LED street lighting model is another example of us bringing the Internet of Things to life and demonstrates the capabilities of light beyond illumination. We are offering lighting as a service that scales with a city’s needs and enables city officials to offer their citizens a more connected, energy efficient and safer urban environment, while preserving existing budgets and resources to improve the livability of their city.”

To meet the demand for coverage and capacity, mobile operators need to improve, densify and add many more radio cell sites in dense areas. The new connected street light pole, designed to house Ericsson’s cutting edge suite of small cell products, offers network operators new possibilities to find the right site location. It will also help to scale the deployment of mobile broadband technology beyond traditional sites – a key enabler for evolving heterogeneous networks.

April 2014

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GREEN ZONE

Solar power for residential buildings: technology options & market potential

This article presents the technological options for the use of solar energy - solar thermal collectors (STC) and solar PV in residential building

T

he use of solar energy (solar thermal and solar PV) for residential building is consistently gaining prominence due to price reduction. Traditionally Indian residential buildings (multistoreyed flats and cottages) do not have provisionfor using solar energy. Solar energy (thermal and photovoltaic) can be smoothly and seamlessly integrated with the energy systems of buildings in different configurations.

There are two predominant modes of solar energy usage in buildings: • Building integrated systems where the equipment are built into the structure of the building and function as energy generating and converting systems in addition to their function as structural material.

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April 2014

• S tand alone system where the systems are maintained external to the building and the energy is transferred externally.

While developments in building integrated systems have been phenomenal during the last few years, these have not quite meshed with the Indian buildings - ether multistoreyed flats or cottages. While few demonstration type units are available in use, their large scale use in Indian buildings is yet to happen.

Building integrated systems have not gained much prominence because of difficulties in retrofitting with existing buildings and integrating into new buildings. The deterrents for building integrated energy systems are: • High capital cost giving rise to cost

up gradation at the construction stage. The users would prefer to spread the cost of the building over a longer period rather than incur too high a capital amount • Difficulties in repair, maintenance and replacement in the event of malfunctioning • Difficulties in restructuring the building at a later period.

Non building integrated stand alone systems overcome the above disadvantages. For high thermodynamic efficiencies, both solar thermal collectors (STC) and solar photovoltaics (SPV) have to be used.

Based on the connectivity (paralleling) to the local electric grid the SPV system can be classified as:

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GREEN ZONE

Both grid tied and stand alone (non grid tied) systems have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Generally for critical loads, grid tied systems are useful when there is a strong utility grid. In case of weak grids, critical loads can be on stand alone mode with battery storage.

Purely stand alone systems are useful for heavy loads such as air conditioners, room ventilation fans, comfort fans, water pumps, etc.

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Building space (billion m2)

40 35

Total

30

Residential

25 20 15 10 5 0 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 Time (years)

Figure 1: Increase of building space over the years

20

Sec (kWh/m2/year)

• Grid tied systems which are micro solar roof tops which are grid tied.

They do not operate when the grid power is not available by virtue of anti islanding. The advantage of grid tied systems is that there is no necessity of battery system and the grid acts as a storage source to feed-in or draw power when the SPV is not in operation. For meeting lighting and critical loads, grid tied systems are preferable. • Stand alone (off grid systems) to meet specific tasks and not interconnected with the electricity grid. The off grid systems supply power to tasks such as air conditioning, water pumping, etc., and operate with energy storage.

Their operation is not concerned with the availability or nonavailability of the utility electric grid.

15 all india building average

10

Domestic 5 0 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 Time (years)

Figure 2: Specific energy consumption (kWh/m2/year) of non air-conditioned buildings over the years

Figure 1 gives the increase of building space over the years. The residential space is around 15 billion sq. m. which is almost 90 per cent of the total country’s building space.

Figure 2 gives the Specific Energy Consumption (SEC) (kWh/m2/year) of buildings over the years. SEC is the electrical energy consumption and does not include thermal energy consumption. The average SEC is around 16 kWh/m2/year.

Figure 3 gives a break up of the building energy in a non-air conditioned domestic residential building. The majority of the energy goes towards lighting and comfort fans.

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Break up of energy in domestic, residential building Air conditioners 0% Energy not related to buildings 32%

Lighting 40%

Lifts 32% Water pumps 8%

Electrical heaters to boost solar heaters 10%

Comfort fans 10%

Figure 3: Break-up of the building energy in a domestic residential building

April 2014

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GREEN ZONE

Solar power technological options The energy input (solar radiation) is in the range of 5-7 kWh/m2/day. There is a seasonal difference of 30-40 per cent between the fair seasons (summer and winter) and the rainy season. Solar energy is either used as hot water in STC or as electric power through SPV. Solar water heating systems Solar thermal systems are sized based on incident radiation levels or in terms of collector area. Solar water heating systems are sized based on efficiencies of around 60-70 per cent of the solar radiation.

The technologies generally available are Solar thermal heaters with or without thermal storage: • Solar water heaters (natural circulation or forced circulation) • Solar air heaters (natural circulation or forced circulation) or solar water heaters in the primary circuits and solar air heating in the secondary circuits with hot water storage.

The majority of the systems are solar flat plate collectors or evacuated tube collectors for producing hot water.

These operate in the natural circulation mode, i.e., without the aid of an active pumping system to produce flow. For large sizes over 10 sq. m. or so forced circulation systems are used to circulate the water through the systems. The forced circulation systems use dedicated SPV sources for operation of the fans or circulation pumps.

Concentrating collectors (parabolic or disk concentrators) are used mostly for cooking and steam generation (in industrial or power processes) but not in popular use for water heating in domestic systems.

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April 2014

There are two modes of usage: stand alone (non grid connected) use which are not connected with the grid and grid tied use.

Typical size of domestic solar water heaters are 4 m2 of collector area and 200 litres of tank capacity for meeting the requirements of a family of 5 persons.

The grid tied systems eliminate the use of battery systems and islanding and operate in synchronization with the grid. However they have to be constantly synchronized with the grid and anti-islanded when there is failure of the grid. When battery costs is substantial, loads are critical (such as lighting, TV, computer, etc.) and utility grids are strong, grid tied systems are preferred.

Solar photovoltaic power systems SPV systems are sized based on peak watt denoted by kWp (the solar energy reaches a peak of 1 kW/m2in the afternoon at 1,200-1,300 hours.

SPV systems are sized based on peak ratings considering efficiency (solar radiation to electric power) of 14-18 per cent. Typically 1 kW of peak solar electric power is achieved at 12001300 for a panel area of 6.0-7.0 sq. m. The all daily energy generated for a 1 kWp system is around 4.5 to 6.5 kWh/day. The generation is low during the monsoon season and maximum during the summer. A combination of 70 per cent crystalline silicon modules and 30 per cent thin film modules can be used to give better response in the rainy season. Otherwise 100 per cent crystalline silicon cells can be used. For low cost systems 100 per cent thin film cells can be used.

Stand alone or off grid mode of operation is easier from the operational point of view but involves battery energy storage. When the battery costs are substantial, loads are non-critical and utility grids are weak such as rural grids, then off grid systems are preferred.

Technically grid tied systems are more complex and stringent to operate and maintain.

Application of solar power SPV-battery-invertersystems provide AC (alternating current) electrical output using the basic conversion through: • Mono crystalline or polycrystalline silicon modules • Thin film modules sandwitched in glass sheets or glass tubes.

Generally there is a variation in energy consumption of 70 per cent to 130 per cent over the average annual value during the various months. If electrical heaters are used for water heating, this load will be very low in summer months and high in rainy season and winter.

140 % of average SEC

While ECBC (Energy Conservation Building Code) 2007 silent on SPV power, it provides a minimum of 20 per cent of thermal energy by STCs. GRIHA provides 20 per cent of thermal energy

by STC and 1-30 per cent or more of lighting load by SPV.

130 120 110 Domestic

90 80

Building 4 Location: Bengaluru Average SEC= 19.45 kWh/m2/year

70 60

1

3

5 Months

7

9

11

Figure 4: Variation of residential building load over months.

Electrical & Power Review

GREEN ZONE The fan load and air conditioning load will be very high during the summer months and low in the rainy season and winter. Figure 4 gives a variation of the residential building load over months.

Solar thermal collectors (STC) Flat plate and evacuated tube collectors for water heating Solar water heaters are the best and easiest application of solar energy through flat plate collectors or evacuated tube collectors. A 4 m2 collector area will be able to meet most of the hot water requirement of a family of 5. The hot water is stored in the insulated storage tank with an overnight drop of 5-6 ยบC.

Figure 5 gives the pattern hot water generation and extraction in a typical domestic household. Figure 6 gives the energy storage in the hot water tank.

Solar air heating in winter Solar air heating is ideal in winter during the day times. The hot air can be directly ducted into the conditioned space after passing through a filter.

Active circulation of hot air is achieved through SPV powered fans. Here the primary collection and storage is through water heaters. Air circulation is used in secondary circuits. The hot water is circulated in-between the storage tank and plate fin and tube heat exchangers inside the buildings for

5

Thermal power extracted (kW)

Hot water from STC (kW)

4 3

Generated thermal power (kW)

1 0 4

8

12

16

20

In the storeys and rooms nearest to the collectors, air heating can be used. In the rooms located at longer distances the water heating systems can be used.

Techniques for air heating through phase change materials are expensive.

Simple thermal storage in pebble beds or glass beaded storage modules do not give high charge-discharge energy efficiencies. The discharge temperatures are much lower than the charging temperatures due to slower process of release of stored heat in the storage medium. Hence storage in hot water tanks is the best option.

Solar photovoltaic systems for electrical power SPV can be used for providing general domestic electrical load. Typical non air conditioned domestic electrical load pattern is given in Figure 7. Solar PV power to provide the electrical load is also given. The energy storage requirement for meeting the all-day requirement is given in Figure 8. The energy storage requirement is almost two thirds of the total electrical energy generated.

2

0

room heating through active circulation pumps powered by SPV. A combination of 40 per cent air heating and 60 per cent water heating collectors can be used. During the summer season the hot water from the solar water heaters and hot air from the air heaters can be used for thermoelectric cooling of bottles.

24

hours Figure 5: Solar hot water generation and utilization pattern.

3

Energy storage in storage tank (kW)

2 1 0 -1

0

4

8

12

-2 -3 -4 -5 hours

Figure 6: Hot water storage in the hot water tank.

Electrical & Power Review

16

20

24

Solar-based ventilation systems The SPV based ventilation system involves ventilation fans for air change in the building. The ideal number of air changes are 2.2 air changes/h but the actual number can increase depending on the pattern of usage. AC powered ventilation fans energized by SPVinverter with AC power output will be able to provide the required energy.

Solar cooling Air conditioning involves heating when the ambient temperature is below the comfort condition (22 + 2 C, relative

April 2014

41

GREEN ZONE

Electrical power from SPV (kW)

3.0 2.8 2.6 2.4 2.2 2.0 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.2 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0.0

can be continued to be used. The excess energy stored in batteries will be able to partially meet the lighting requirements. Instead of battery storage alone, a mix of battery storage and ice based storage can be used. Cold thermal storage integral with the chiller is also feasible for air conditioning such as: • External ice build and melt systems • Internal ice build and melt systems.

Domestic electrical load (kW)

Generated electric power (kW)

0

4

8

12

16

20

24

hours Figure 7: SPV generation and domestic load curve for a single household of 3 kW (all electric) rating

3

Generated electrical power (kW)

2 2 1

Economics

1 0 -1

0

4

8

12

16

20

24

-1 -2 -2

hours

Figure 8: The extent of energy storage required for meeting the all-day requirements of a domestic household.

humidity: 50 per cent + 5 per cent, air velocity: up to 0.25 m/s)and cooling when it is above it. Optimal ventilation involves 2.2 air changes per hour.

Air conditioners are being used in allelectric households with ratings above 5 kW in capacities of 1-2 TR in individual rooms as window or split units. In winter electrical resistance heaters with or without fans are used or are connected across the fans of air conditioners and by bypassing the compressor power circuit. Normally a 1 kW SPV system provides cooling for 26.84 cubic m or 1000 cubic ft. The SEC of split ACs is generally 1.25 kW/TR. Normal AC consume around 6-8 kWh/TR/day.

42

Solar lighting systems Another application of SPV is lighting.

But lighting is dependent on grid power, the system will have to be grid tied. Off grid lighting for domestic households in urban centres may not be feasible as the SPV systems may not give the level of reliability provided by large grids. In the case of weak rural grids, the off grid lighting systems are highly appropriate.

April 2014

Since the air conditioners are loaded during the operating hours of SPV cycle, the size of the battery systems can be reduced to include only during the non-storage period. The solar thermal vapour absorption refrigeration based cooling systems are also available but their application may be more appropriate in larger sized buildings. In smaller sized buildings, SPV-compression refrigeration cycles are ideal. The stand-alone (non-grid connected) SPV- inverter with AC power output will be able to energize vapour compression based air conditioner for solar cooling applications for households.

The standard air conditioners of 1 TR, 1.5 TR or 2 TR

Typical costs of various types of solar thermal and solar photovoltaic based energy systems are given in Table 1.

SPV power plants cost around ` 1.0 lakh/kW. Normally a combination of 30 per cent thin film and 70 per cent polycrystalline silicon cells are used for energy generation in rainy and summer seasons. STC systems cost around ` 0.20 lakh/m2 of collector area and piping, storage, etc.. The water and air heating collectors differ only marginally in cost but in the water heating system the balance of system like water storage tank, water lines, etc., are required.

Conclusions Solar energy for residential building for meeting the domestic loads including HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning)is a feasible proposition as an alternative to grid electric based room heating and air conditioners. The air conditioners can be operated in the off grid mode using SPV power can energize only AC loads.

SPV-inverter powered AC supply can meet the air conditioning demand

Electrical & Power Review

GREEN ZONE Particulars

Units

STC-FPC

SPV

Final energy output capacity provided

kWh

16

16

Overall energy efficiency

p.u.

0.60

0.13

Solar radiation input

kWh

26.67

123.08

Average Solar radiation input

kW

2.05

9.47

Average radiation at site

kW/m2

0.52

0.52

Area of solar collectors

m2

3.92

18.07

Rounded off Area of collector

m2

4

18

Capital cost for STC/SPV system

Rs.L /m2

0.130

0.167

Capital cost for STC/SPV system

Rs. L

0.520

3.006

Payback period as compared to conventional power

years

1.9

4.8

Table 1: Costs of solar thermal collector systems and solar photovoltaic plants.

almost fully during the summer. The energy storage (almost 66 per cent) in the off grid mode can be either battery storage, ice based storage or a combination of these two.

Solar thermal energy (STH) is suitable for heating during the winter months. A combination of 40 per cent air heating

(with primary water heating circuit) and 60 per cent water heating systems would give the required heat energy.

Water heating systems are connected to a storage tank and the hot water is circulated between the tank and the plate fin and tube heat exchanger (popularly called as radiation) inside the building for room heating.

While phenomenal developments have taken place in building integrated energy systems, direct application to the Indian residential buildings or retrofitting them would be a medium term solution. Presently, the most favourable route is to directly use existing HVAC equipment by powering them through SPV in the stand alone or grid tied mode.

If storage requirements are high, loads are critical and utility grids are strong, then grid tied SPV is the ideal choice.

In case of weak grids and low energy storage then stand alone system are preferred.

With the building area in India touching 15 billion sq. m, there is high potential for power of buildings by SPV.

Authored by: Siddhartha Bhatt Energy Efficiency & Renewable Division, Central Power Research Institute, Bangalore

Voltas and Dow Chemical form JVC for water treatment systems

V

oltas Limited and Dow Chemical Pacific (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., a member of the Dow Group Companies, have agreed to establish a joint venture company in India, to tap the growing water and waste water treatment market in the country. The proposed new company - Voltas Water Solutions Private Limited - will be an equal partnership joint venture.

The company will market and distribute standard packaged Water Treatment Systems and Waste Water Treatment Systems of capacity up to 20 m 3/

Electrical & Power Review

hour, to residential and commercial complexes and light industrial markets in the Indian subcontinent. The entity’s operations would include designing, procuring, testing, marketing, selling and servicing of such standard water treatment systems and waste water treatment systems.

Snehal Desai, Global Business Leader for the water and process solutions division of Dow Group, commented, “Water treatment has significant business potential in India, and Voltas is an ideal partner with a strong brand reputation, and a widespread sales and service network. This

joint venture is a significant step towards further strengthening our position in mid-market water systems in India.”

Sanjay Johri, Managing Director of Voltas Ltd, said, “With its unrivalled know-how and technological leadership in the water treatment space, the partnership, will help Voltas Water Solutions cater to the growing water treatment requirements of the Indian subcontinent. The partnership will simultaneously leverage the brand and distribution strength of Voltas, along with the technology prowess of the water and process solutions division of the Dow Group.”

April 2014

43

PEOPLE

Rathin Basu new Country President of Alstom India & South Asia Rathin Basu has been appointed Country President of Alstom India and South Asia from April 1. Mr Basu, who succeeds Sunand Sharma, would be reporting to Philippe Delleur, Senior Vice-President International Network.

He would also continue to head Alstom T&D India Ltd. (ATDIL) as the Managing Director, in addition to his new role.

Rathin Basu, an Electronic Engineer, has started his career with NTPC in 1978 and later joined the Alstom Group’s subsidiary Cegelec India in 1985.

Arun Goyal takes over as CMD Delhi Transco Arun Goyal has taken over as Chairman and Managing Director of Delhi Transco Limited on 25th Feb 2014. He has also been appointed as Principal Secretary (Power), CMD Delhi Power Company Limited and Chairman, Indraprastha Power Generation Company Limited and Pragati Power Corporation Limited. This is the second occasion after restructuring of Delhi power sector that he has been assigned these responsibilities. His earlier posting with Delhi power sector was from June 2004 to March 2006.

44

April 2014

Electrical & Power Review

PEOPLE

Saurabh Chandra is new Petroleum Secretary Saurabh Chandra assumed charge as Secretary of Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. He succeeds Vivek Rae, who has retired on February 28.

An officer of the Indian Administrative Service, belonging to the 1978 Batch (UP), Mr Chandra was earlier Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) since April 17, 2012. Prior to that, he was Additional Secretary in DIPP. He is a Graduate in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur and holds a Diploma in Management.

Goa Carbon Chairman bags Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award Shrinivas V Dempo, Chairman of Goa Carbon Ltd. got the Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award India 2014 conferred by Enterprise Asia at a ceremony in New Delhi on 4th March, 2014. GVG Krishnamurthy, former Chief Election Commissioner, has handed over the award.

Asia Pacific entrepreneurship awards are part of the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Programme (APEA), chosen by Enterprise Asia, a growing non-governmental organisation promoting enterprise development and responsible business across Asia, Australia and the Pacific. Past APEA winners include enterprise owners Anil Khanna (Blue Dart), Ashank Desai (Mastek) and Phaneesh Moorthy (i-gate Patni).

Electrical & Power Review

April 2014

45

FACTS & FIGURES All India Installed Capacity (MW) as on 28-2-2014 Region -wise All India MW

Thermal

Nuclear

Coal

Gas

Diesel

Total

14,0723.39

21,381.85

1,199.75

16,3304.99

4,780.00

Hydro

RES @

Grand

Renewable

(MNRE)

Total

40,195.40

29,462.55

23,7742.94

Percentage

100.00

Source: CEA

Generating Capacity Addition for February 2014 (MW) Target

Hydro

Thermal

Nuclear

Total

(MW)

198.67

0

0

198.67

Achievement (M W)

320

2391

0

2711

% Change w.r.t. 2013

870

15

NA

28

Source: CEA

Electricity Generation for February 2014 (BU) Target

Hydro

Thermal

Nuclear

Bhutan Total (Imp)

MU

6.866

67.634

2.812

0.125

77.437

65.594

2.907

0.053

75.948

9.05

7.67

32.83

10.45

Achievement February 2014 MU

All india annual per capita consumption of electricity since 2006

7.394

# (Gross Gen.+ Net Import) / Mid year production

%age 25.98 change w.r.t.

2013

2005-06

631.4

Source: CEA

2006-07

671.9

2007-08

717.1

2008-09

733.5

2009-10

778.6

Year

Per Capita Consumption (KWH)#

All india yearly coal consumption for power generation (utilities) Year

Coal Consumption (Million Tonnes)

2010-11

818.8

2004-05

2011-12

883.63

2005-06

281

2012-13

917.18*

2006-07

302

*Provisional. Source: CEA

2007-08

330

2008-09

355

2009-10

367

2010-11

387

T&D and AT&C losses (in per cent)

278

Year

T&D Losses (All India)

AT&C Losses

2004-05

31.25

34.33

2011-12

417.56 454.60

2005-06

30.42

33.02

2012-13

2006-07

28.65

30.62

Source: CEA

2007-08

27.20

29.45

2008-09

25.47

27.37

2009-10

25.39

26.58

2010-11

23.97

2011-12

26.04

Villiages Electrified (Nos.)

563238

Pump sets Energised as on 31-1-2014

19027510

23.65 27

Source: CEA

As per PFC for utilities selling directly to consumers. Source: CEA

Power supply position in February 2014* (Provisional) Region

Average cost of power supply & average realisation (paise/kWh ) Year

Cost of Supply

Realisation (Paise/Unit)

(Paise/Unit)

Including Agriculture

Only Agriculture

Energy (MU)

Deficit

Peak Demand

Deficit

Requirement

%

(MU)

%

Northern

22,396

-5.5

37,895

-2.9

2004-05

254

209

75.68

Western

23,147

-1.2

41,184

-2.1

2005-06

260

221

76.36

Southern

22,960

-5.8

36,427

-5.2

2006-07

276

227

74.23

Eastern

8,763

-1.0

14,976

-3.2

2007-08

293

239

77.27

North Eastern

947

-6.8

2,025

-4.7

2008-09

340

263

87.13

All India

78,213

-3.8

132,507

-3.3

2009-10

355

268

88.70

2010-11

378

301

115.12

*Provisional. Source: CEA

46

April 2014

PFC reports on the performance of state utilities. CEA

Electrical & Power Review

FACTS & FIGURES Capacity Addition Targets / Achievements during April 2013 to February 2014 Schemes

Thermal

Hydro

Nuclear All India

Sector of

Target

February 2014

April 2013- February 2014

(MW) Deviation

Schemes

2013-14

Target*

Achievement

Target*

Achievement

(+) / (-)

Central

3123.3

0

500

613.3

1660

1046.7

State

4451

0

601

3051

2572

-479

Pvt.

7660

0

1290

3755

7585

3830

Total

15234.3

0

2391

7419.3

11817

4397.7

Central

914

198.67

320

740.34

578

-162.34

State

85

0

0

45

45

0

Pvt.

199

0

0

149

99

-50

Total

1198

198.67

320

934.34

722

-212.34

Central

2000

0

0

1000

0

-1000

Total

2000

0

0

1000

0

-1000

Central

198.67

820

0

2353.64

2238

-115.64

State

0

601

0

3096

2617

-479

Pvt.

0

1290

700

3904

7684

3780

Total

198.67

2711

700

9353.64

12539

3185.36

10,000 8,000

12539

9353.64

12,000 7419.3

Target and Achievement during April’ 13 to February’ 14

11817

Source: CEA

0

0

2,000

722

934.34

4,000

1000

6,000

Thermal

Hydro

Nuclear

Total

Achievement

Source: CEA

Name of the Transmission line

Type

Executing agency

Line lenth (CKMs)

765

Satna-Gwalior line (Ckt-l)

S/C

PGCIL

337

400

LILO OF Nathpa Jhakri-Nalagarh at Rampur (Loopr in portion)

D/C

PGCIL

5

765

Tiroda-Akola-II

S/C

APL

361

400

Akola-l- Akola-ll

D/C

APL

61

400

Khedamara-Raipur

D/C

CSPTCL

90

400

Kolaghat TPS-Kharagpur

S/C

WBSETCL

91

400

Kotputli-Manoharpur

D/C

RVPNL

99

220

Latehar-Daltonganj

D/C

JSEB

130

Target

Transmission Lines Commissioned During Febuary 2014 Voltage level (kV) A1 Central sector

PVT Sector

State Sector

Source: CEA

Growth of Installed Capacity Since 6th Plan Plan / Year

Thermal

Nuclear

Hydro

RES (MNRE)

Total

Coal

Gas

Diesel

Total

End of 6th Plan

26310.83

541.50

177.37

27029.70

1095

14460.02

0

42584.72

End of 7th Plan

41237.48

2343.00

165.09

43745.57

1565

18307.63

18.14

63636.34

End of 8th Plan

54154.48

6561.90

293.9

61010.28

2225

21658.08

902.01

85795.37

End of 9th Plan

62130.88

11163.10

1134.83

74428.81

2720

26268.76

1628.39

105045.96

End of 10th Plan

71121.38

13691.71

1201.75

86014.84

3900

34653.77

7760.6

132329.21

End of 11th Plan

112022.38

18381.05

1199.75

131603.18

4780

38990.4

24503.45

199877.03

End of Feb '14

140723.39

21381.85

1199.75

163304.99

4780

40195.4

29462.55

237742.94

Captive Generation Capacity in Industries having demand of 1 MW and above, grid interactive (as on 31-03-11) = 34444.12 MW

Electrical & Power Review

April 2014

47

power brand

Mobile App for one step service requests Consul Consolidated launches Android, iOS mobile and web based app for warranty registration and service requests

C

onsul Consolidated, one of the leading suppliers of power conditioning and power back-up products, services and solutions in India, launched a downloadable free mobile application that gives a quick and convenient way of making a service request as well as warranty registration for its customers.

The mobile app is available for both android and iOS users as well as a web

based version on the company website www.consulindia.com . The application is designed to strengthen and fast track the existing customer services as the app is convenient, easily accessible for customers.

With an android or an iOS mobile connected to the internet customers can instantly login from anywhere and

illustration of registering a product using the mobile app

register their product or place a request for service, a simple process to avail the benefits of the application. The mobile app is the latest tool launched by the company for its customers, apart from this a Consul customer can use the IVR based 24/7 Customer Support Centre in four languages: English, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. Customers can directly send a service request to the dedicated customer support email id – customercare@consulindia.com or log into the website. With multiple options Consul Consolidated has ensured that it comes closer to its customers.

Launching the mobile app Sriram Ramakrishnan, CEO and MD, Consul Consolidated, said, “We are looking at providing our customers multiple touch points to reach us, with mobiles becoming an integral part of people life today, the mobile app is seen as an easy and convenient touch point for service as it is available 24/7. The mobile app will complement our large pan India service network of over 70 locations.”

Base Batteries launches robust VRLA battery Longer lasting VRLA batteries backed by latest computer control battery formation technology

B

ase Batteries a leader in the power back-up industry in India, unveiled Base ‘Robust’ – power back-up battery specially designed for critical applications. Base ‘Robust’ is powered

by VRLA technology, rating from 7Ah to 100Ah are fully maintenance free and zero fume batteries. They are manufactured with the latest computer control battery formation technology, Base VRLA batteries can be used for powering ATM’s, hospitals, offices servers, railways, telecom towers etc.

48

April 2014

These batteries are designed to sustain longer duration power backups.

Girish Arora, MD and Founder Base Batteries, says, “The launch of the new, robust battery is testimony of our commitment, and has been designed keeping in mind the needs of our customers. Also, I brought this technology to India as a trader in 1987.

Finally, manufacturing at my own plant 25 years later, brings great pride to the Base family.”

Electrical & Power Review

power brand

Top awards for OMICRON products at 2014 key exhibitions

T

he quality and innovation of three of OMICRON’s latest products was recognised with prestigious awards at two major 2014 exhibitions; ELECRAMA in Bangalore and Middle East Electricity in Dubai.

“Best Product” Award at ELECRAMA 2014 ELECRAMA 2014 took place in January at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) in India. The 11th edition of IEEMA’s premier flagship event was the world’s largest exposition of electrical transmission and distribution equipment hosting 805 exhibitors from India and 165 from 25 other countries.

OMICRON was delighted to be named as the winner of the ‘Best Product’ category with its combined entry of the

new circuit breaker test system CIBANO 500 and the portable partial discharge (PD) monitoring system OMS 605.

“Best Innovation of the Year” at Middle East Electricity The Middle East Electricity Exhibition in Dubai took place in February. With over 19,000 prospective buyers from 115 countries around the world, it is the most important fair of its kind in the Middle East.

After reviewing a record number of nominations, the expert panel of judges announced the winners of the Middle East Electricity Awards 2014. OMICRON was very proud to win the award for the ‘Best Innovation or Technology of the Year’ with its new voltage transformer testing system VOTANO 100.

Happy OMICRON team with ELECRAMA award

Proud OMICRON team with MEE award

GlacialLight introduces AR111 Square Gimbal Housing Kit Double gimbal design allows for an adjustable lightning angle for AR111 LEDs

G

lacialLight, a division of Taiwanese technology manufacturer GlacialTech Inc., is unveiling the AR111 Square Gimbal Housing Kit. The AR111 Square Gimbal Housing Kit easily turns GlacialLight AR111 series LEDs into a downlight with an adjustable lighting angle.

Full control The AR111 Square Gimbal Housing Kit features a dual ring gimbal system for two degrees of rotational freedom, making it a flexible lighting solution for any room. Aluminium trim on top of a steel housing means sturdy construction and long service life. With a standard square housing, it’s designed with ease of installation in mind for your recessed lighting needs.

Electrical & Power Review

AR111 Series The AR111 Square Gimbal Housing Kit is compatible with GlacialLight’s Vega series AR111 LEDs. The Vega Series AR111 LEDs are drop-in replacements

for antiquated AR111 Halogen bulbs.

These high efficiency LEDs can be chosen for a variety of beam angles, colour temperatures, and dimming options.

As a flexible recessed lighting solution, the AR111 Square Gimbal Housing Kit is appropriate for a variety of interior lighting applications including hotels, restaurants, home lighting, and more.

Features • Double Gimbal design allows 2 axis of rotation • Square housing for ease of installation • Compatible with high efficiency Vega series AR111 LEDs • For interior lighting applications.

April 2014

49

power brand

DEIF conducts comprehensive technical training

W

ith continuous development in power management systems combined with increasingly sophisticated communication between engines and enhancement of DEIF products, emphasises the need for hands-on training. DEIF has setup training centres around the world to offer training sessions that are tailored as per the local requirements. DEIF India Pvt. Ltd. also has setup state-ofthe-art training centre in Mumbai, to impart comprehensive education and training to its customers. The training centre houses modern simulator panels with automatic genset controller and protection and power management controller.

Professional training DEIF offers in-depth courses at its dedicated training facilities for operators and technicians that help maximise the return on investment in DEIF solutions and gain competitive advantage.

DEIF has a team of highly qualified and industrially experienced faculties who train service personnel and equip them with knowledge to monitor and maintain systems and troubleshoot faults, thereby increasing system uptime. The training sessions would educate on how to fully utilise DEIF product and using the utility software.

DEIF has the quality infrastructure to carryout hands-on training on switchboard and simulator panel which boosts the confidence of service personnel before they actually work on system, thus eliminating the risk of damage to the systems.

Training sessions are conducted in small groups to facilitate individual attention and ensure that each participant gets hands-on exposure. DEIF training is

50

April 2014

carried out in a controlled setting with focus on personnel safety.

Spectrum of training DEIF provides comprehensive technical training, which comprises of a perfect blend of theory and practice. While the former enhances analytical skills, the latter enables lateral and creative thinking, in quickly diagnosing and rectifying inconsistencies, which may crop up in normal functioning of the genset.

For land applications, it is possible to run various schemes or modes of operations such as automatic mains failure, protections and power management functions, fixed power, peak shaving and load take over.

For marine applications, it is possible to simulate a power management system with upto two generators, one tie-breaker and two shaft generators. The system simulates power management with load-dependent start/stop as well as heavy consumer and non-essential load handling.

Levels of training DEIF training programme offers: • Operator level training for end users, after the completion of which the end users qualify for safe optimised operation of DEIF controllers.

• Service level advanced course of two days that enables the service personnel to install and commission DEIF controllers even in complex applications.

• Designer level training enables to identify the right products and solutions and then how to design the DEIF products into switchboard system using M-logic in the utility software.

• In addition to courses at its in-house training centre, DEIF conducts tailormade capsule courses for on-site training at clients’ premises using its own switchboards and gensets. Training courses are individually arranged according to clients’ applications and demands of knowledge. This allows training to occur at any time and any place, reduces travel costs, provides with the possibility to access the experts and share knowledge.

Electrical & Power Review

Regd. No. MH/MR/North East/290/2013-15 • Posted at Tilak Nagar PO Mumbai - 400089 on 1st & 2nd of every month.• English • Monthly • Date of Publication: 1st of every month.

s

SWT 3000 ? Teleprotection for high voltage lines Smart Grid Services

Quickly identify, isolate and resolve network failures The SWT 3000 Teleprotection system is a highly developed solution worldwide for identifying and isolating faults extremely quickly in the high-voltage grid. Combined with existing distance protection relays, it allows operators to reduce downtime to an absolute minimum. The current stage of development is based on 50 years of practical experience and adaptation to changing challenges.

As a proven technology that is continuously being refined to meet future needs; the SWT 3000 protection signaling system is extremely versatile. For example, it can use analog and digital networks as communications infrastructure. At the same time, it is ideal for establishing substation-to-substation communication via IEC 61850. The SWT 3000 also demonstrates its high degree of flexibility when existing substations are migrated to protection devices via the IEC 61850 communications standard. The SWT 3000 has all necessary command interfaces – both as binary

interfaces and as GOOSE. This always keeps investment costs economically manageable, because the substations can be updated step by step for a new network age.

The Siemens SWT 3000 with bidirectional individual channels for direct, permissive or blocking applications; offers the connection of traditional distance protection devices based on binary input and output commands.

Write to us at: service.energy.in@siemens.com

Answers for infrastructure and cities.

52