• 22 Jan 2025
• Power & Energy, Transformer

Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Addressing Transmission and Distribution Losses

India boasts one of the world’s largest interconnected power systems, linking neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Last year, the country achieved a major milestone with 100% electrification of all villages and an addition of 9,943 MW to the total installed capacity. With initiatives like the National Smart Grid Mission, the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, and the Street Lighting National Programme, India is spearheading the global energy transformation. However, significant distribution and transmission losses remain a major challenge in achieving energy self-sufficiency.

Understanding the Causes of These Losses

A considerable proportion of electricity generated is lost due to commercial and technical reasons, which comprise distribution and transmission losses. These losses refer to the amount of electricity generated that does not reach customers. Technical losses occur due to energy lost in transformers, conductors, and other equipment used for transformation, transmission, sub-transmission, and distribution of power. Commercial losses are caused by pilferage through hooking or bypassing meters, defective meters, meter inaccuracies, etc. The Indian power sector accounts for twice the average global transmission and distribution losses.

Economic and Environmental Implications

These transmission and distribution losses have enormous economic and environmental implications. A 1% increase in these losses results in an annual increase of Rs 200-400 crore in electricity costs, as estimated by experts. It also places financial stress on businesses that cannot provide access to electricity at an affordable cost. From an environmental perspective, these losses necessitate incremental energy production, further contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing losses in the electrical transmission and distribution system is a way forward to enhance electrical efficiency and reduce generation-related emissions.

Recent Innovations Can Minimize Transmission and Distribution Losses

Fortunately, advances in technology innovations in energy efficiency hold great promise to minimize these losses and result in more efficient supply and management of electricity.

Grid Modernisation and Upgradation

The foremost step in this regard is grid modernization and upgradation. Investment in grids that harness new-age technology will make them more responsive to anticipating, detecting, and mitigating outages promptly, improving the power supply's reliability. This initiative should be accompanied by training and capacity building for the grid management workforce to equip them to handle various kinds of exigencies.

Smart Grids

Another technology that can prove to be a game-changer is smart grids. These grids use AI to monitor and regulate the flow of electricity in real-time. This helps customers and distributors in informed forecasting about electricity requirements. The state-of-the-art technology in these intelligent grids can detect causes of transmission losses due to pilferage, inaccurate readings, or faulty meters. They can also ensure the smooth integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, leading to grid stability and resilience.

Autonomous Power Systems

The autonomous power system is another groundbreaking technological innovation that can facilitate the smooth integration of diverse energy sources into the grid. They can operate independently without relying on the primary power grid. Hence, they can play a major role in ensuring a continuous and affordable power supply that is accessible to people at all times.

Energy Storage

In the long run, investment in energy storage technology will augment backup sources of power during outages. For instance, batteries can store excess solar energy during the day, which can be used during peak demand hours to address power shortages.

Way Forward

With over three decades of legacy, NEMR Industries' expertise lies in manufacturing power transformers and conditioning solutions, including Distribution Transformers, Hermetically Sealed Transformers, Solar Transformers, Furnace Transformers, and Compact Substations. These transformers are vital in transmission networks for voltage level adjustment and minimizing energy losses. Meeting state electricity boards’ requirements, they find applications across diverse sectors, from power generation stations and mining to wind and solar projects. These transformers, equipped with cutting-edge technology, are critical to achieving the goals of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).

NEMR’s Power Transformers, with capacities up to 50 MVA and 66kV primary/secondary voltage class, undergo rigorous type testing at NABL-approved laboratories to ensure superior quality and workmanship. With its cutting-edge technology, stringent quality control, and best-in-class customer service, NEMR is proud to partner in the government’s mission to ensure an uninterrupted power supply to all.