Govt shortlists 14 discoms for taking up smart grid pilots

It has approved up to Rs 200 crore for the 14 distribution smart grid pilot projects

The government today said it has shortlisted 14 power distribution utilities for undertaking smart grid pilot projects entailing Rs 200 crore.

Aimed at benefiting consumers, the smart grid utilises digital technology that allows for 2-way communication between the utility and its customers, as well as monitoring of the transmission lines for efficient use of electricity.

"Government has approved 50% funding of projects (up to Rs 200 crore) for the 14 distribution smart grid pilot projects. Actual disbursement by the government is yet to start," Power Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

One such project in Puducherry is under implementation.

The 14 distribution Smart Grid Pilot projects are being undertaken to test Smart Grid Technologies like Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI), latest communication and automation, Scindia said.

This will help in facilitating further R&D on these technologies with reference to India specific requirements, he added.

The Power Ministry has also approved creation of Smart Grid Knowledge Centre at PowerGrid Corporation.