'Digital Transformation of MPPTCL is Playing a Crucial Role in Shaping MP's Energy-Secure Future & Enabling its Socio-Economic Growth': Sunil Tiwari, MD, MP Power Transmission Company Limited

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From drone surveillance and GIS-based asset mapping to cybersecurity frameworks and renewable energy integration, MP Power Transmission Company Limited is not only powering Madhya Pradesh’s present but also shaping the energy-secure future of the state and the nation. In this exclusive interview with APAC Media, Sunil Tiwari, Managing Director of MPPTCL, offers insights into the organisation’s strategic vision and initiatives.

Could you share some of the major initiatives undertaken by MP Power Transmission Company Limited (MPPTCL) in recent years that have significantly improved operational performance? Are there any standout reforms, digital integrations, or infrastructure upgrades that you consider transformative for the organisation?

MPPTCL has undertaken several impactful initiatives to modernise its operations, enhance infrastructure, and strengthen technological capabilities, resulting in improved grid reliability, efficiency, and adaptability across Madhya Pradesh.

Key initiatives include:

Drone Surveillance of Transmission Lines: MPPTCL has adopted drone technology for patrolling Extra High Voltage (EHV) transmission lines, improving fault detection and maintenance, particularly in difficult terrains. It completed drone inspection of 3,500km of lines covering 10,000 towers—setting an industry benchmark. Expansion plans include drone inspection of an additional 7,000 km route length involving 23,000 towers. Drones proved instrumental during the September 2023 excessive floods in the Gwalior region, enabling swift assessment and restoration of damaged infrastructure in inaccessible areas.

GIS Asset Mapping: As the power sector races toward digital transformation, MPPTCL has taken the initiative to implement the GIS Asset Mapping/Transmission Asset Management Systems (TAMS), through which asset mapping of existing transmission lines and substations is being done using modern Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) survey techniques and web-based transmission asset management systems, which include surveying transmission lines & substations, geo-tagging all the assets with necessary specifications, uploading surveyed data on the TAMS web application, overall monitoring, and dynamic report generation as per requirement. TAMS also provides a mobile application for on-site patrolling, maintenance, and asset details updating with actual site photos, data, and geographical coordinates.

TAMS are redefining reliability, efficiency, and long-term planning across the grid. By integrating real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and maintenance workflows, TAMS enables us to shift from reactive fixes to proactive strategies. Beyond reducing operational costs and downtime, TAMS systems extend asset life, improve compliance reporting, and boost grid resilience. With built-in GIS mapping and IoT sensor data, MPPTCL gains a clearer view of asset health and future risks. The long-term benefits, like enhanced reliability, smarter maintenance, and better decision-making, make TAMS a cornerstone of the future-ready grid.

SCADA System Deployment: To handle growing demand and network complexity, MPPTCL implemented Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) across all the existing EHV substations. Operating since 2014 via control centres in Jabalpur, Bhopal, and Indore, SCADA enhances real-time grid monitoring, control, and reliability through integration with ADMS.

Central Protection & Analysis Cell (CPAC): To address manpower constraints and enhance grid protection, CPAC was established to centrally monitor protection systems, analyse outages, and recommend improvements. Since its inception, system tripping incidents have significantly decreased.

These initiatives reflect MPPTCL’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and future-ready infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh’s power sector.

Could you highlight key achievements or success stories from MPPTCL that reflect the company’s progress and its broader impact across Madhya Pradesh-particularly in enhancing reliability and access to power?

MPPTCL has achieved significant milestones in recent years, strengthening Madhya Pradesh’s power transmission system through strategic infrastructure development, technological upgrades, and operational excellence.

The following key initiatives have notably enhanced grid efficiency and reliability:

PMU-Based Islanding Scheme: A first-of-its-kind, MPPTCL is implementing a Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU)-based islanding scheme for Jabalpur city, in line with CEA regulations. This scheme aims to isolate the city’s critical load (particularly defence installations) during major grid failures. Under this system, 210 MW from the Amarkantak Thermal Power Station will supply essential 33 kV loads from substations like Jabalpur, Gorabazar, VFJ, and Vinoba Bhave during grid disturbances. The scheme, designed with independent data acquisition and remote control, is funded by the Power System Development Fund (PSDF) and is in the advanced stages of implementation.

Remote Operation of EHV Substations (SAS Integration): To reduce manpower dependency and incorporate modern automation, MPPTCL is transitioning from conventional RTU-based SCADA to IEC 61850-based Substation Automation Systems (SAS). Remote operation has been successfully initiated at 3 (Nos.) 132 kV substations, viz., E-8 Arera Colony GIS (Bhopal), Mahalaxmi Nagar GIS (Indore), and Madhotal (Jabalpur), and SAS implementation at 3 substations, viz., Phoolbagh (Gwalior), Ayodhya Nagar (Bhopal), and Satya Sai (Indore), is under execution. This transition marks a major step toward intelligent grid infrastructure and supports MPPTCL’s vision for a future-ready transmission network. Additionally, a few more substations across the state have been planned to operate through remote operation. In the medium term, MPPTCL is planning to convert all the existing EHV substations to be compatible with remote operation.

SCADA System Implementation & Upgradation: To manage increasing demand and grid complexity, MPPTCL implemented a SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system in 2014, integrating all the existing EHV substations through three control centres in Jabalpur, Bhopal, and Indore. This system enables real-time monitoring and control, aided by the Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) for voltage regulation and grid stability. After a decade of service, the existing SCADA system is now being upgraded to meet modern cybersecurity and performance standards. The new system, which will be aligned with CEA’s secured architecture for Load Dispatch Centres, will include :

Enhanced cybersecurity with multi-layered firewalls
Improved GUI and data visualisation
High-speed, scalable data logging
Remote substation operation for improved automation and efficiency

This upgrade, which is expected by May 2025, will also support substation automation and smart grid integration. Communication is transitioning from GPRS to a secured optical fibre network (OPGW) using the IEC 60870-5-104 protocol. Cybersecurity audits and a CERT-In-approved Cyber Crisis Management Plan (CCMP) are also in place.

Cybersecurity Framework: Recognising the critical importance of cybersecurity in the power sector, MPPTCL has implemented robust safeguards, including :

Dual-layered firewalls, network segmentation, whitelisting, and backup protocols
ISMS (ISO 27001:2013) certification at MP SLDC
CCMP implementation approved by CERT-In

Regular cyber audits, incident response training (in collaboration with NPTI, CBIP, and IITs), and awareness campaigns are ongoing to ensure preparedness against emerging threats.

MPPTCL’s strategic focus on advanced technologies, automation, cybersecurity, and resilient infrastructure has significantly contributed to a reliable and accessible power supply across Madhya Pradesh, setting a benchmark for modern transmission utilities in India.

MP Power Transmission Company plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable power transmission across Madhya Pradesh. What is your vision for the company in terms of enhancing grid reliability, and how does MPPTCL plan to address the growing demand for electricity driven by industrialisation and rural electrification?

Madhya Pradesh Power Transmission Company Limited (MPPTCL) serves as the backbone of the state’s power sector, ensuring seamless and reliable power transmission across both urban and rural areas. As the state witnesses rapid industrial expansion and widespread rural electrification, MPPTCL is aligning its strategies to meet the growing electricity demand with a resilient, intelligent, and future-ready transmission infrastructure.

MPPTCL envisions a highly available and responsive grid, targeting system availability above 99.5% and ensuring uninterrupted power delivery 24×7. Further, it intends to maintain and further minimise the present transmission loss of 2.61%. To achieve this, the company is replacing ageing conductors and transformers with higher-rated capacity, expanding EHV substations and transmission lines to remove network bottlenecks, and upgrading the SCADA system and remote substation operation for real-time monitoring and control.

To support industrial hubs and newly electrified rural areas, MPPTCL is pursuing a multi-pronged approach, planning new substations and upgrading existing ones to accommodate rising loads, especially in industrial corridors and remote tribal regions. Systematic transmission line planning ensures inclusive access to electricity across the state. The adoption of smart technologies such as drone-based inspections, GIS asset mapping, remote operation of substations, and predictive maintenance is further optimising operations and reinforcing system reliability.

The State Regulatory Commission has approved a capital investment plan for FY 2024–25 to FY 2028–29, and an additional proposal to this plan has also been submitted for regulatory approval. Most of the financial tie-ups are finalised, and tenders are in progress to ensure timely execution. Planning is also underway for transmission needs beyond this period, based on future load and generation forecasts.

With stagnating internal state generation and rising demand, MPPTCL is enhancing the Available Transfer Capability (ATC) to draw power through the ISTS network. To support this, CTUIL has approved 4 new 765 kV ISTS substations (Karera, Ishanagar, Kurawar, and Morena PS) and 1 new 400 kV ISTS substation at Handia.

MPPTCL has also planned to associate the downstream infrastructure with these ISTS substations. Additionally, the 4 new 400 kV STU substations have been planned for strengthening the intrastate system and evacuating power from Mahan Energy Ltd. (2×800 MW) and the Morena 600 MW Solar plus BESS Project (Phase I). Recently, MP Power Management Co. (MPPMCL) has floated a tender for 4,100 MW of power procurement, for which separate transmission infrastructure will be developed post-finalisation of the tender.

It is prudent to mention here that MPPTCL’s network expansion enables reliable power delivery to rural regions, supporting agriculture and improving living standards. It also boosts industrial growth, attracting investments and driving economic development. Integration of renewable energy is being prioritised through dedicated infrastructure, aligning with clean energy goals. Notably, the completion of intrastate transmission works under GEC Phase I facilitated the evacuation of 4,100 MW of renewable energy.

Driven by a vision of reliability, sustainability, and scalability, MPPTCL is transforming into a digitally empowered, technologically advanced, and environmentally responsible utility. Through strategic investments, digital transformation, and forward-thinking planning, MPPTCL is playing a crucial role in shaping Madhya Pradesh’s energy-secure future and enabling its socio-economic growth.

With Madhya Pradesh making significant progress in renewable energy, especially solar-what steps is MPPTCL taking to seamlessly integrate these energy sources into the state’s transmission network while ensuring grid stability and reliability?

India has made significant progress in integrating renewable energy (RE) into its power system as part of its broader commitment to sustainable development and climate action. With a national target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, states like Madhya Pradesh are playing a key role in supporting this transition.

Madhya Pradesh Power Transmission Company Limited (MPPTCL) is at the forefront of this shift, enabling the seamless integration of renewable energy into the state’s grid. By strengthening its transmission network and adopting advanced grid management technologies, MPPTCL is ensuring reliable and congestion-free evacuation of renewable energy.

A key milestone in this journey has been the successful implementation of the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) Phase I project. Commissioned in June 2022, this project included the construction of 3 (Nos.) 400 kV substations (Mandsaur, Ujjain, and Sagar), 7 (Nos.) 220 kV substations, and associated transmission lines. These infrastructure additions have facilitated the evacuation of around 4,100 MW of renewable energy within the state. MPPTCL has also commissioned a Renewable Energy Management Centre (REMC) at the State Load Despatch Centre (MP-SLDC), which enables accurate forecasting, efficient scheduling, and real-time monitoring of renewable energy inputs, strengthening grid stability and RE integration.

To further support the growth of solar power, MPPTCL is planning new substations near high-potential solar zones such as Morena, Neemuch, and Agra. The 400 kV substation planned at Sabalgarh was utilised to integrate 600 MW of solar plus BESS capacity from the Morena (Phase I) project of RUMSL. In addition to this, connectivity has also been finalised for the upcoming 300 MW solar plus BESS parks in Sagar/Dhar districts, and SECI has applied for grid connectivity for its 300 MW solar project in Damoh district.

MPPTCL is working in close coordination with key central agencies such as MoP, CEA, MNRE, SECI, and CTUIL to ensure alignment with national RE targets.

Through consistent planning, strategic investments, and proactive collaboration, MPPTCL is ensuring that the rise in renewable energy translates into a reliable, efficient, and future-ready grid for Madhya Pradesh.

While urban areas often receive priority in terms of infrastructure upgrades, rural regions can face persistent challenges. How is MPPTCL working to improve the transmission infrastructure in rural and underserved parts of Madhya Pradesh? Are there specific programs or investments aimed at bridging this gap?

MPPTCL is making significant investments to enhance power transmission infrastructure across both urban and rural areas of Madhya Pradesh. These efforts aim to improve grid connectivity, expand substation capacity, and reduce transmission losses, ensuring a more reliable and efficient power supply statewide.

A key focus has been the development of EHV substations in rural and underserved districts. New 132 kV substations have been commissioned in areas such as Mandla, Dindori, Baihar, Jhabua, Dhar, Kukshi, and Alirajpur, providing substantial improvements in power quality and availability for domestic and agricultural use. These substations also support lift irrigation schemes, enabling better irrigation and enhancing agricultural productivity.

In addition, MPPTCL is expanding transmission networks in remote and tribal regions, particularly in the Narmada Valley region, reducing disparities in power supply and enabling grid connectivity in previously unconnected areas. Recognising the importance of reliable electricity for farming and rural industries, MPPTCL is implementing rural-specific transmission projects such as new 400kV S/s at Kukshi and 220kV S/s at Alirajpur. These projects have been planned to improve the power supply of this tribal & rural area, which also ensures adequate availability of supply for the Lift Irrigation Scheme of the Government of Madhya Pradesh (GoMP).

MPPTCL is also actively collaborating with central and state government agencies, including WRD, NVDA, and the Industry Department, as well as private stakeholders, to improve energy infrastructure in underserved areas. The ongoing and planned projects include the construction of new EHV substations, the installation of additional transformers to ensure contingency readiness, and the expansion of the transmission network for greater reliability.

These initiatives are critical in extending the benefits of stable and sustainable electricity to all corners of the state. Through infrastructure development, technology upgrades, and coordinated efforts, MPPTCL is bridging the rural-urban energy gap and driving long-term socio-economic growth in Madhya Pradesh’s most remote regions.

As power transmission systems become increasingly digitised, cybersecurity has become a critical concern. How is MPPTCL ensuring that its transmission network is secure from cyber threats, and what kind of protocols or response systems are in place to protect against potential breaches or outages?

As the power transmission sector embraces digital transformation, cybersecurity has become a critical priority for ensuring the integrity and reliability of power systems. For MPPTCL, digitisation is not just about enhancing operational efficiency; it is also about protecting vital infrastructure from cyber threats that could disrupt power supply, compromise sensitive data, or lead to financial losses.

Recognising the growing risk landscape, MPPTCL has implemented a comprehensive cybersecurity framework to safeguard its transmission network. Key components include the deployment of multi-layer firewalls, encryption, multi-factor authentication, system hardening, network segmentation, whitelisting, and continuous traffic analysis. Regular data backup drills, EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) solutions, and strict IT-OT system isolation further strengthen its security posture.

A notable achievement is the approval of the Cyber Crisis Management Plan (CCMP) for MP-SLDC by both CERT-GO and CERT-In, making it the first SLDC in India to receive such approval. MP-SLDC has also implemented an Information Security Management System (ISMS) and is certified under ISO 27001:2013 standards. In addition, the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) has designated MP-SLDC systems such as SCADA/EMS, REMC, URTDSM, and ABT/OA/MIS as Critical Information Infrastructure (CII).

To ensure ongoing vigilance, MPPTCL has established an Information Security Division (ISD) and conducted regular cyber audits through CERT-In empanelled agencies. A Cyber Incident Response Team (CIRT) is currently receiving training from institutions like NPTI, CBIP, and IITs. In parallel, cyber awareness campaigns and training sessions are conducted at all organisational levels to foster a security-conscious culture across the company.

Looking ahead, MPPTCL is committed to continuously upgrading its cybersecurity strategies in collaboration with national agencies, ensuring alignment with evolving technologies and regulatory requirements. As it transitions toward a fully digitised transmission network, MPPTCL is taking proactive measures to protect its infrastructure from cyber threats, ensuring uninterrupted, secure, and resilient power delivery across Madhya Pradesh.

Looking ahead to the next 5-10 years, what are some of the key projects or innovations MPPTCL is focused on? How do these align with the broader vision of ensuring reliable, sustainable, and affordable power for all consumers across the state?

Looking ahead to the next 5–10 years, MPPTCL is set to execute a series of transformative projects aimed at strengthening transmission reliability and advancing Madhya Pradesh’s long-term energy goals. To support this vision, the State Regulatory Commission has approved the capital investment plan for the FY 2024–25 to FY 2028–29 period, and an additional proposal to this plan has also been submitted for regulatory approval. Most financial arrangements for the implementation of the approved works have been finalised, and tendering is underway to ensure timely execution. Simultaneously, future transmission needs beyond the plan period are being assessed based on projected load growth and available generation capacity.

Over the coming decade, MPPTCL’s strategic focus on infrastructure development, technological advancement, and renewable energy integration will play a crucial role in shaping Madhya Pradesh’s energy landscape. By modernising its transmission network, expanding access to reliable electricity, and embracing innovation, MPPTCL is not only ensuring grid reliability but also driving progress toward a cleaner, more inclusive, and resilient energy future for the state.