Balaji Switchgears spearheads digital shift in utilities sector

With enhanced control and automation, digital switchgear contributes to load balancing and demand response, promoting energy conservation in the power system.

The utility sector in India is undergoing a rapid digital transformation driven by technological advancements, regulatory mandates, and evolving consumer expectations, leading to innovative changes in industries like switchgear manufacturing. Piyush Garg delves into the industry to share insights with the EPR Magazine.  

What are the key factors driving the digital transformation in the utilities sector?

The Indian Utility sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world in terms of power, water and telecoms. Factors like technological advancements, regulatory mandates, consumer expectations and the need for operational efficiency and sustainability are responsible for this digital transformation. The Indian government has been promoting digitalisation in this sector through various programmes like Digital India and Smart Cities Mission, emphasising the adoption of digital technologies to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery. 

The increase in urbanisation and population growth is unsaid pressure to modernise the infrastructures. With India’s potential for energy generation using multiple resources, Renewable Energy plays a vital role in the process. With improvisation in all aspects of life, today, consumers demand quality service, transparency, and personalised experiences from utility providers, making it essential to go digital.

How has the Switchgear industry adapted to the digital transition?

The Switchgear industry has found an opportunity to innovate in this transformation. Digitalisation has enabled switch gears for energy distribution by integrating smart technologies, allowing real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and efficient energy management. Advanced sensors and communication systems in digitalised switchgear provide valuable data, optimising grid performance and ultimately reducing energy losses. This heightened visibility allows quicker response to faults, predictive analytics, and minimised downtime.

With enhanced control and automation, digital switchgear contributes to load balancing and demand response, promoting energy conservation in the power system. Integrating digital technologies in switchgear enhances reliability, efficiency, and sustainability, aligning with conservation efforts in the evolving energy landscape.

Which government initiatives aim to boost the switchgear industry, and how has your company benefited?

The Indian government has launched several initiatives to boost the switchgear industry and support the broader electrical equipment manufacturing sector. Make in India, launched in 2014, is a flagship initiative to empower manufacturing in India to transform the country into a global manufacturing hub. With the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) launch, the government’s focus on electric mobility has increased demand for EV charging infrastructure, which requires switchgear equipment for electrical protection and distribution.

Similarly, PM KUSUM, The Smart City Mission, RDSS and DDUGJY are some of the schemes launched for the welfare of this sector. We had the honour of working with partners on these projects, and they have allowed us to be a part of this journey. The efforts being made to make electricity accessible in remote parts of the country are commendable. This has been very transformative for the agriculture sector as well.

The traditional methods of the agricultural yielding process have been changed to polyhouse greenhouse plants. These polyhouse plants are equipped with new innovative switchgear and automation products that help users in predictive maintenance and reduce downtime.

Which strategies has your company applied to compete in the evolving market?

To stay relevant in the ever-evolving market, Balaji Switchgears keeps strengthening its workforce. We ensure hiring from a talented pool of candidates in the industry who are qualified, well-trained, and enthusiastic to serve our customers well. A strong workforce can work in dynamic work environments. Our teams work closely with the customers pre- and post-sales to ensure their requirements are fulfilled, and problems are addressed timely and effectively. We are dedicated to keeping their buying experience as seamless as possible.

As an important element of their supply chain, Balaji Swithchgears understand the importance of on-time delivery. Hence, we refrain from false commitments and ensure customers are delivered timely for a hassle-free completion of their projects. The new-age technology and the emergence of e-commerce have allowed us to expand our geographical reach to our potential customers. 

Spokesperson: Piyush Garg, Director- Balaji Switchgears Private Limited