: The power sector plans to renovate and modernize the Villianur substation in accordance with a centrally funded program. | Image source: T_Singaravelou
The electric power department has initiated a series of projects to upgrade the power distribution infrastructure in the urban area of Pondicherry.
Using funds allocated by the federal government for the power sector, the department has begun to install new transformers and replace oil-type ring mains (switching equipment for medium-voltage power distribution) with gas installations.
According to the reorganization of the center, the accelerated power development and reform plan (RAPDRP), the department will install 200 new transformers of different capacities. The center has approved Rs 84.78 crore under the power infrastructure improvement plan.
A senior official in the department told The Hindu that the installation of the new transformer will solve the low voltage and power distribution problems usually caused by transformer overload.
In addition, replacing the existing ring units and connecting them to the monitoring center will make the distribution network more efficient. The official added that the new device will have a built-in mechanism to trip in the event of a voltage surge, making the distribution network safer.
The Department plans to replace the existing electricity meters with electronic energy meters. According to RAPDRP, Deen Dayal Upadhaya Gram Jyoti Yojana and the Comprehensive Power Development Plan, approximately 150,000 electronic energy meters will be installed. He added that this will prevent electricity theft and loss, thereby generating more revenue.
Three central plans will be used to lay underground cable lines, especially in areas close to the waterfront.
Another major work proposed by the department is the modernization of the old substations in Bahour and Villianur. The substation is the receiving point of Neyveli’s power and will undergo major overhaul of the equipment under the Power System Development Fund (another centrally funded program).
The center will provide 90% of the Rs 105 crore projects to be undertaken by the two substations.
The substation will receive two new transformers and a current sensing device for measurement and protection purposes.
The official said that once the substation is put into operation, the department will stop taking electricity from Tamil Nadu and then switch to the central generating unit to take electricity.
Printable version | August 3, 2021 at 10:18:52 AM | https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/puducherry/power-infrastructure-upgrade-work-in-full-swing/article24682750.ece
Post time: Aug-05-2021
