ERDA to establish a testing facility for EV charging infrastructure

Electrical Research and Development Association (ERDA) plays a pivotal role in strengthening energy security in India by advancing renewable energy integration and grid resilience. Through Power System Studies, Power Quality Measurement, and Relay Coordination Studies, ERDA enhances infrastructure design and ensures the seamless incorporation of renewables into the grid. Focused on emerging technologies, ERDA’s research in smart grids and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) contributes significantly to efficient energy distribution. This supports the transition to a modern, reliable, and sustainable energy ecosystem in India. For further details let us know more from Dr. Satish Chetwani, Director- ERDA. 

How does ERDA enhance grid stability while integrating renewable energy sources effectively?

Electrical Research and Development Association enhances energy security in India by advancing renewable energy integration and grid stability through Power System Studies, Protection Audits, and Power Evacuation Studies, which help to optimally design energy infrastructure and enhance grid resilience. Additionally, ERDA conducts power quality measurements (As per CEA guidelines) to ensure the reliability and performance of wind and solar energy systems.  ERDA also evaluates test criteria for compliance with CEA connectivity standards for renewable energy plants. ERDA’s Relay Coordination Studies further contribute to the stability and protection of the power grid, facilitating a seamless integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid.

Through these efforts, ERDA contributes significantly to the modernisation and resilience of the Indian power grid, supporting the country’s transition toward renewable energy while maintaining energy security and grid stability. 

How is ERDA advancing smart grid technologies for energy security and efficiency in India?

Electrical Research and Development Association is at the forefront of research in smart grid technologies, focusing on the seamless integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind into the grid, which is critical for grid modernisation projects. These efforts improve grid stability and energy security. In Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), ERDA leverages its state-of-the-art laboratory to evaluate smart meters, enabling more efficient monitoring and customer engagement. ERDA is also working on various IoT-based technologies for monitoring and controlling assets, including Energy management.

Electrical Research and Development Association’s advancements in smart grid technologies and AMI directly support India’s broader goals of enhancing its energy infrastructure’s reliability, management, and sustainability, ultimately strengthening the security and efficiency of energy distribution.

How does ERDA ensure compliance with evolving standards for emerging energy technologies?

At ERDA, we are committed to ensuring that emerging technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy systems, and smart inverters meet the highest standards for energy security through several strategic initiatives.

Our advanced testing capabilities are continuously upgraded to meet evolving technology demands. For instance, we are establishing a testing facility for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure while expanding our Solar PV Module facility to adhere to the mandatory testing requirements set by the Government of India.

Additionally, we conduct comprehensive onsite evaluations of existing solar PV power plants, offering due diligence assessments to enhance their performance and recommend efficiency improvements. Our collaborative R&D efforts involve partnerships with manufacturers, academic institutions, and research organisations to co-develop testing methodologies for cutting-edge technologies. This collaboration enables us to remain at the forefront of assessing and understanding new products as they emerge.

Furthermore, we actively engage with government bodies and regulatory authorities to help shape standards and guidelines for these technologies, facilitating their smooth integration into the national energy grid and aligning with India’s energy security objectives.