TPNODL strengthens summer preparedness to ensure reliable power supply

By Amar Barik

Balasore, March 3 : TP Northern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPNODL), a joint venture of Tata Power and Government of Odisha, has undertaken proactive measures to ensure uninterrupted power supply and efficient peak demand management during the upcoming summer months. With a strong emphasis on preventive maintenance and the adoption of advanced technologies, TPNODL remains committed to enhancing power distribution reliability for its consumers.

TPNODL has reinforced its preventive maintenance strategy by integrating advanced tools such as infrared cameras, drone-based feeder audits and ultrasound scanning for predictive maintenance. These technologies enable condition-based maintenance and grid audits, ensuring timely issue identification and resolution.

A dedicated workforce of over 7,000 personnel under the Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) actively monitors substations, lines, network elements and distribution transformers (DTRs) to maintain seamless operations.

Key Summer Preparedness Initiatives

• 24×7 Power System Control Centre (PSCC): A central control room ensures real-time monitoring and swift response to any disruptions.
• Satellite PSCCs & Control Rooms: Established at division and circle levels for efficient coordination and quicker issue resolution.
• Safety Measures: Deployment of Safety Officers at division levels to ensure adherence to protocols.
• Priority Restoration: Uninterrupted power supply to critical establishments like hospitals, district headquarters and public health centers.
• Emergency Readiness: Deployment of sufficient manpower, vehicles and essential equipment such as heavy-duty torches and power saws.
• Material Stockpiling: Adequate reserves of cables, conductors, poles and insulators at key locations including Balasore, Jajpur Road, Keonjhar, and Baripada.
• Consumer Communication: SMS alerts via Urja Mitra and real-time updates on the TPNODL website.

Network Augmentation Initiatives

• Conductor Upgradation: 460.5 Ckm (11KV) and 146.6 Ckm (33KV) upgraded.
• LT Bare Conductor Conversion: 1055 Ckm of AB cable laid to enhance safety and reliability.
• Cyclone-Resilient Infrastructure: Spun concrete poles installed along coastal regions for enhanced storm resistance.
• Implementation of Ring Main Units, Auto Re-closures/Sectionalizer, Overhead Fault Passage Indicators (FPI), Underground Cables, Covered conductors & LT ACB & MCCB to fortify network resilience.

Technical Advancements for Improved Reliability

• PTR Health Indexing: A structured assessment of 550 Power Transformers (PTRs) to mitigate risks of failure.
• Project PTR Bonchao: On-site overhauling of 150 PTRs, ensuring zero PTR failures in Q2 of FY 2022-23.
• Tree-Free Feeder Certification: Extensive tree trimming on 11KV and 33KV feeders to prevent outages.
• Mega Block Initiatives: Coordinated maintenance shutdowns for network enhancements.
• Advanced Predictive Maintenance: Drone-based thermography and ultrasound scanning to preempt potential feeder failures. TPNODL has completed Aerial Survey/thermography of 95 nos. 33 & 11 kV feeders & 30 nos. of 33/11 kV PSS and corrective actions taken in this respect.
• Deployment of Smart Equipment: Installation of Ring Main Units (RMUs), Auto-Reclosers and Voltage Regulators to improve network resilience.
• Power Cable Fault Locator System: Mobile units for rapid underground cable fault detection and resolution.
• SCADA-Enabled Area Power System Control Centers (APSCs): Real-time monitoring centers operational in Bhadrak, Jajpur and Keonjhar for modernizing network operations and enhancing power supply reliability.

Speaking on TPNODL’s summer preparedness, Dwijadas Basak, CEO, TPNODL, said, “Our proactive approach, backed by advanced technology and robust preventive maintenance, ensures that we are well-equipped to manage peak summer demand. At TPNODL, we remain committed to providing uninterrupted and reliable power supply while prioritizing consumer safety and service excellence.”

With these comprehensive measures in place, TPNODL continues to strengthen its power distribution network, ensuring a seamless and stable supply throughout the summer season.