The Hindu Business Line : IBM offers `Intelligent Grid' to check power theft, T&D losses

Called `Intelligent Grid', the IBM solution helps utility companies track power consumption and leakages through sensors deployed at various sections of the infrastructure.

Tech solutions
Grid will help track consumption, leakages
Plans broadband over power lines to retail consumers

New Delhi , Sept. 14

IBM is in talks with large power utility companies including Power Grid Corporation India Ltd, Reliance Energy and North Delhi Power Ltd to provide the technology that will enable them to cut down on power theft and transmission and distribution (T&D) losses.

Called `Intelligent Grid', the IBM solution helps utility companies track power consumption and leakages through sensors deployed at various sections of the infrastructure.

Speaking to Business Line, Mr Neil Gerber, IBM Worldwide Strategy Leader for Energy & Utilities, said: "The Intelligent Grid enables utility companies to view and respond to the health status of their network in real time and access information that can enhance customer service and improve electric grid line planning, operations and maintenance."

He added: "It contributes to fewer and shorter power outages, improved operating costs, security and higher productivity. Some of these projects involve the usage of a technology known as Automated Meter Management."

Mr Brian Daldetty, Director of Solution Development and Marketing, IBM Wireless Solutions, said that the Indian power sector offers a huge opportunity because most of power infrastructure is digitalised unlike US or Europe where a large section of legacy infrastructure is based on analog systems.

"In India almost 30 per cent of the power generated is wasted compared to just four per cent in Japan. We propose to create a smarter grid that will prevent the losses in India."

IBM is also eyeing the opportunity of offering broadband over power lines to retail consumers through tie-ups with the power utilities.

The service is likely to be launched on a trial basis by the end of the year.

Initially, the rollout will happen in rural areas.

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