Mumbai: South Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd. (SBPDCL) has partnered with Schneider Electric to modernize the state’s power distribution network. The collaboration aims to enhance grid efficiency, reduce outages, and integrate real-time monitoring technology to meet the region’s growing energy demands.
Grid Modernization to Address Power Challenges
Bihar’s increasing electricity consumption has put pressure on SBPDCL’s existing infrastructure, highlighting the need for a more efficient and resilient distribution system. The partnership focuses on deploying Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Grid solutions, which integrate automation, remote monitoring, and fault detection to improve power supply reliability.
Schneider Electric has set up a State-of-the-Art Command-and-Control Center and a Disaster Recovery Center to enable real-time monitoring and decision-making. The project includes the installation of 305 Ring Main Units (RMUs)to enhance distribution reliability and 550 Fault Passage Indicators (FPIs) to detect and respond to faults faster.
Impact on Power Distribution Efficiency
According to Schneider Electric, the upgrades have resulted in:
A 90% increase in power reliability.
Up to 80% reduction in energy consumption.
A 60% drop in energy costs.
A 70% improvement in engineering cost and time efficiency.
Industry Experts on the Collaboration
Deepak Sharma, Zone President, Greater India, Schneider Electric, said that the project aligns with India’s broader goal of improving energy efficiency and sustainability. He emphasized that smart grid solutions will help utilities adapt to rising energy demands while reducing operational costs.
Udai Singh, MD & CEO, Schneider Electric Infrastructure Ltd, stated that integrating GIS-based network mapping and automated fault detection has improved grid stability and response times.
An SBPDCL spokesperson highlighted that the solutions will optimize operations and ensure uninterrupted power supply for consumers.
