Steps taken for upgradation and maintenance of efficient, safe and economical Power Distribution System – EQ
In Short : Efficient, safe, and economical power distribution systems are crucial for ensuring a reliable electricity supply. Various steps are taken globally to upgrade and maintain such systems.
In Detail : The Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy has informed about the latest details of steps taken by the Central Government in coordination with various States for regular checking of the strength of high-tension electric poles / wires after some incidents of falling of high-tension electric poles/wires reported in several States.
As per Electricity Act 2003, distribution of electricity is a licensed activity and it is the duty of the respective distribution licensee to develop and maintain an efficient, safe and economical distribution system in its area of supply. Hence, it is the responsibility of the distribution utilities to take measures required for upgradation and maintenance of distribution system including checking the strength of poles/wires of HT/ LT lines to maintain quality and reliable power supply in its area of operation.
CEA (Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2023, specify safety measures for construction, operation and maintenance of power stations, sub-stations, transmission and distribution lines. It lays down the safety measures for electrical installations, overhead lines and others. These regulations are to be applied to all electrical installations, which encompass electrical plants, electric lines, and individuals or entities involved in activities such as electricity generation, transmission, distribution, trading, supply, or consumption.
CEA (Technical Standards for Construction of Electrical Plants and Electric Lines) Regulations, 2022, have provisions for strengthening of poles / wires in disaster prone areas/ coastal areas:
In coastal areas, higher strength poles like rail poles or spun poles shall be used or underground cables shall be used.
Suitable insulating paint shall preferably be provided on bare conductors in coastal areas to prevent corrosion.
CEA has prepared “Report of Task Force on Cyclone Resilient Robust Electricity Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Infrastructure in Coastal Areas” in May, 2021, which was circulated to all the States by Ministry of Power in June, 2021, to take the measures suggested in the Report for dealing with and minimizing the impact of cyclones.
This information has been given by the Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy Shri R. K. Singh, in a written reply to a question, in Rajya Sabha on December 5, 2023.
