Future-proof power grids

Government-backed funding and policy support are crucial for scaling up the deployment of advanced technologies in the power sector. This is especially important in states with less developed infrastructure, where digitalisation and automation can significantly improve grid reliability and operational efficiency.

As the global energy landscape evolves towards more sustainable sources, the Indian power sector faces the dual challenge of modernising its infrastructure while accommodating the increasing integration of renewable energy into its grid. Several components, including switchgear and substations, are involved in the grid infrastructure.

Medium-voltage (MV) switchgear is essential for controlling, protecting, and isolating electrical equipment. It plays a vital role in ensuring electrical networks’ smooth and safe operation. As renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power increasingly contribute to the national grid, MV switchgear is becoming more sophisticated, incorporating features like remote control, automation, and enhanced safety.

In India, the modernisation of power infrastructure, backed by government initiatives and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, is paving the way for the next generation of MV switchgear. Innovations in this sector are essential to address the challenges posed by the rapid expansion of renewable energy, grid stability concerns, and the evolving needs of the power transmission system.

In an interaction with industry experts, EPR shares detailed insights into the power grid modernisation taking place in India. It also highlights key developments, challenges, and the role of digitalisation in shaping the future of power infrastructure.

Understanding the role of MV switchgear in power grid

Medium-voltage (MV) switchgear typically operates in the range of 1kV to 36kV and serves a crucial function in electrical distribution systems. It is responsible for switching, protecting, and isolating electrical circuits in substations, transformers, and distribution networks. MV switchgear also plays a role in ensuring grid stability and protecting equipment from faults that could disrupt the power supply or cause damage.

With the increasing reliance on renewable energy sources like wind and solar, the need for highly reliable and advanced switchgear solutions has never been more pressing. These renewable energy sources often introduce variability and intermittency into the grid, creating new challenges for grid operators. In response, MV switchgear manufacturers are integrating digital technologies such as remote monitoring, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices into their products to ensure smoother integration of renewables while maintaining safety and reliability.

According to R.S. Selvam, Vice President-R&D, Stelmec Ltd, an industry expert in MV switchgear systems, “Switchgear is playing an increasingly critical role in renewable energy integration. Without efficient MV switchgear, we cannot effectively integrate renewable energy sources into the grid. These devices are now evolving to handle remote operations and integration with SCADA systems, which allows for better control and monitoring of energy flow.”

The RDSS scheme and its role in digitalising power infrastructure

The Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) is a government initiative aimed at improving the distribution network in India, particularly in terms of digitisation, efficiency, and reliability. The RDSS is designed to enhance infrastructure, reduce AT&C (Aggregate Technical and Commercial) losses, and introduce new technologies to the power sector, including smart meters and automation systems.

While RDSS funding has primarily been directed toward smart metering projects, integrating digital technologies such as SCADA systems and IoT devices is also encouraged. Several states, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, are already implementing these technologies to improve the monitoring and operation of their electrical grids. However, as Selvam notes, “While the funds have been allocated, the full implementation of SCADA and automation is still in its early stages, and the process will take another 5 to 6 years to fully roll out across the country.”

In terms of MV switchgear, the RDSS has laid the groundwork for digital upgrades, including the integration of communication relays, which will enable remote operation and monitoring of switchgear. These capabilities are expected to improve response times, reduce human intervention, and enhance grid stability.

Challenges in RE integration

The ambitious renewable energy targets of the country necessitate the integration of large amounts of wind and solar power into the national grid. However, the intermittent nature of these energy sources introduces complexities to grid management. Solar power, for instance, often generates electricity at low voltage levels, which requires step-up transformers and specialised MV switchgear to handle the voltage fluctuations and safely integrate this energy into the grid.

In this context, MV switchgear is becoming increasingly sophisticated to accommodate the unique requirements of renewable energy integration. Prayas Gupta, Head of Operations & Reliability, IndiGrid, a power sector expert, states, “Renewable energy integration presents significant challenges, particularly regarding voltage control and energy management. Power systems are evolving to support this integration by enabling better control over energy flow, voltage regulation, and the smooth transition between renewable and conventional energy sources.”

The integration of renewable energy is further complicated by the geographical diversity of energy generation sources across India. Solar energy is abundant in some regions, such as Rajasthan and Gujarat, while wind energy is more prevalent in coastal areas like Tamil Nadu. The power generated in these regions often needs to be transmitted over long distances to areas with higher demand. This introduces challenges related to transmission capacity, grid stability, and the need for efficient switchgear that can operate seamlessly across various voltage levels.

Prayas Gupta adds, “The integration of renewable energy into the transmission grid is a complex task. The transmission lines need to be strengthened, and the voltage needs to be controlled to ensure the reliable delivery of power.”

Government support and policy initiatives

The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to modernise power infrastructure, enhancing efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Key policies like the National Electricity Policy and the Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) aim to strengthen the transmission and distribution networks, reduce transmission losses, and improve service delivery. The Smart Grid Mission promotes the integration of advanced technologies like automation, data analytics, and renewable energy sources to modernise grid infrastructure. Prayas Gupta points out, “Without government support, we cannot achieve the level of modernisation required to meet the country’s energy demands. The government has been instrumental in developing guidelines for the transmission sector, such as the capacity-based transmission line guidelines, which have helped streamline infrastructure development.”

Schemes such as the Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) provide financial support to distribution companies, enhancing their operational efficiency. The National Smart Grid Mission further fosters the development of modern grid systems. With a focus on renewable energy integration, initiatives like the Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme and Renewable Energy Purchase Obligations (RPO) drive the shift towards sustainable energy sources. These measures are designed to create a more resilient and future-ready power infrastructure in India.

Government push for smart grids and digitalisation, is evident by initiatives like RDSS, is creating a conducive environment for innovation in MV switchgear and other power infrastructure technologies. These initiatives aim to reduce technical and commercial losses, improve grid efficiency, and ensure reliable power delivery.

Moreover, government-backed funding and policy support are crucial for scaling up the deployment of advanced technologies in the power sector. This is especially important in states with less developed infrastructure, where digitalisation and automation can significantly improve grid reliability and operational efficiency. Selvam highlights the importance of government-backed funding in improving safety and operational efficiency. “By investing in automation and digitalisation, we can ensure better safety and efficiency in switchgear operation. This is especially important in rural and remote areas, where grid monitoring and maintenance can be challenging.”

Role of innovation in shaping power future

As India moves towards a more sustainable and reliable energy future, power grid components will continue to be critical in integrating renewable energy sources into the national grid. Innovations in digitalisation, automation, and remote control will drive the next phase of power sector development, helping to address the challenges of renewable energy integration, grid stability, and operational efficiency.

For India to meet its renewable energy targets and ensure the continued reliability of its power systems, the manufacturers will need to invest in research and development, exploring new technologies and enhancing existing solutions. Prayas Gupta concludes, “Digitalisation and modernisation are the future of the power sector. We are on the path to creating a smarter, more efficient grid.”

We can say that the future of Indian power grid infrastructure is bright. And yes, it depends on innovation, with renewable energy investments driving significant transformation. As the country modernises its infrastructure, Medium Voltage (MV) switchgear is crucial in ensuring renewable sources’ safe, efficient, and reliable integration into the national grid. Also, modernisation and digitalisation are transforming utilities globally, with many countries achieving significant progress. We are on this path and will soon develop similar infrastructure in India, supported by the government and regulatory bodies. We should get ready for digitalisation work and embrace the opportunities it brings.