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Technology Development (R&D)

  • Overview

  • PARTeC

  • Flagship Projects

  • Major Technology Adoptions

  • List of Publications

  • POWERGRID Patents

Technology Development (R&D)

To develop technological leadership in power transmission sector, POWERGRID is aggressively pursuing R&D initiatives and channelizing efforts and outcome for overall benefit to Indian Power Sector. The R&D vision and objective of POWERGRID is:

Vision

Leading continuous improvements through innovation in business processes with emphasis on development and/or demonstration of the State-of- the-Art technologies and be the Global Technology Leader in power transmission.

Objectives

  • Innovate, develop, demonstrate, evaluate and absorb state of the art power transmission technologies for establishment an intelligent and smarter power grid
  • Demonstration, assessment and deployment of cutting-edge technologies and condition monitoring techniques for efficient, effective and optimal operation of the electric power grid
  • Undertaking basic and applied research for developing novel power transmission technologies to meet clean and sustainable power transmission requirements of the nation.
  • Promotion of participative/collaborative research in power sector by bringing agencies of mutual interest viz. academic institutions, national/international research bodies on the same platform.
  • Promote indigenous development of power transmission equipment and related products by Indian manufacturers and supplement the efforts under public-private partnership model.
  • Enhancement of knowledge base and dissemination of knowledge gathered among peers and stake holders.

About Technology Development (R&D)

POWERGRID’s endeavour is continuing research & development and demonstration/deployment of State-of-the-Art transmission technologies, build and maintain a robust, reliable, efficient, safe and cybersecure electric Power Grid. Efforts are also aimed towards seamless integration of Renewable Energy sources in National Grid to create environmental friendly transmission system towards sustainability. We are working in collaboration with International/ National research/academic institutions and standardization bodies like CIGRE, IEC, IEEE, EPRI,IITs etc. POWERGRID is actively working in the emerging areas of protection and automation, asset management, cyber security, power system simulation, Renewable integration, Smart Grid, energy storage system, E-mobility, mechanisation in transmission line construction etc.

Aligning with AtmaNirbhar initiative of Government of India, POWERGRID caters to the internal research, analysis, testing, calibration and efficient asset management needs of the organization through its state-of- the-art laboratories located at POWERGRID Advanced Research and Technology Centre (PARTeC)PARTeC Brochure. The Centre has been recognized as a Research & Test infrastructure facility by the International Smart Grid Action Network (ISGAN) for testing, simulation studies and research related works in Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and Smart Grid research infrastructure.

PARTeC calibration laboratory is accredited in accordance with the standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017 by NABL vide Certificate number CC-3439. For detailed scope of accreditation Click here.

Focus Areas of Research and Activities

Aiming to enhance system reliability and operational efficiency, we focus on continuous system and process improvements to strengthen overall system performance by adopting new emerging technologies. A key priority is enabling a shift towards cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions. Research and innovation are central to adapting technologies for emerging challenges. Our goal is to assess and adopt technologies that ensure uninterrupted delivery of green energy to all.

Key Focal Areas

  • Digitisation of Substation: Move towards digital substations to significantly reduce the carbon footprint
    • Design, engineering and implementation of Process Bus-based Digital Substations.
    • IEC 61850 conformance, interoperability and dynamic testing of Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs).
    • Implementation of digital substations
  • Technology advancement for Grid stability, Security and Renewable Energy (RE) Integration:
    • Modelling and simulation of the power system and Hardware-in-Loop (HIL) studies using Real-Time Simulators.
    • Studies and analysis of HVDC Control and Protection systems using Real Time Simulator.
    • IEC/IEEE 60255-118 compliance testing of Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs).
    • Wide Area Monitoring Systems (WAMS) analytics and studies for control and protection applications.
    • Simulation studies for GRID integration of Renewable resources – introduction of new elements i.e. Battery energy storage (BESS), synchronous condenser (Syncon) and FACTS devices etc.
  • Decarbonisation: Aiming to significantly reduce the carbon footprint through:
    • Adoption of SF₆ gas regeneration technology.
    • Replacement of SF₆ with environment-friendly alternatives.
  • Cyber security: Strengthening grid resilience against emerging cyber threats through advanced security measures.
    • Cybersecurity and vulnerability assessment of Substation Control & Protection IEDs.
    • IEC 61850 conformance, interoperability, and dynamic testing of IEDs.
    • Establishment of POWERGRID Centre of Excellence (PGCOE) for assessment, simulate cyber threats and establishing mitigation measures.
  • Advanced assets monitoring and Grid modernisation technologies:
    • Field Testing and Residual Life Assessment (RLA) of substation equipment.
    • Big Data Analytics using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for improved operational efficiency and asset management.
    • Asset mapping and transmission line routing using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools.
    • Development of Autonomous Substation Inspection Robots.
    • Drones for Transmission Line monitoring.
    • Development of nano-materials for Insulators.
    • Unlocking power transmission capacity of existing transmission lines using Dynamic Line Loading (DLL).
    • Image processing for transmission line health management.
    • Transmission line health assessment.
    • Structural failure and material analysis, quality assurance, and validation/testing of new and in-service materials.
    • Calibration and testing facilities for measuring equipment.
    • Fault Current limiters to limit short circuit currents.
    • Hybrid Substations combining AIS and GIS technologies for compact solutions.
    • 1200 kV UHVAC test station at Bina.

Research Activities / Project in Focus:

  • Establishing a transmission line Tower Test Station.
  • Utilization of mobile tower cranes for transmission line tower construction.
  • Autonomous Substation Inspection drones.
  • Deployment of insulated compact buckets for substation and transmission line maintenance.
  • Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Nagda, Pang.
  • Synchronous condensers for grid stability in RE rich networks.
  • 765 kV High Voltage Mobile Test Van.
  • 400 kV Mobile GIS systems for enhanced maintenance and emergency power restoration.
  • Heavy-lift programmable drones for tower material transportation in difficult terrains.
  • Sewage treatment plants for substation facilities.
  • Use of helicopters for tower material shifting in challenging terrains.
  • HVDC valve hall robot for monitoring and inspection.
  • Solid State Circuit Breaker (SSCB) development.
  • 145 kV Green gas-based circuit breakers.
  • 420 kV, 63 MVAR synthetic ester-oil filled reactors.
  • 400/132 kV, 315 MVA synthetic ester-oil filled transformers.
  • Offshore technology for wind power evacuation.
  • Development of 400 kV Insulated Cross Arms (ICA) of composite materials for optimisation of ROW.
  • 1 MW Green Hydrogen pilot project at Neemrana.
  • 5 MW Green Hydrogen pilot project at Nagda.
  • Indigenous development of 1200 kV UHVAC Transmission system for bulk power transfer.
  • Indigenous development of 400 kV Emergency Restoration Systems (ERS).
  • Hydrophobic coating for insulators.
  • 400 kV Variable Shunt Reactor.
  • Studies for exploring the development of 1100/ 765 kV ICT.

Patent Filed

  • System and method for determining parameters in an electric grid infrastructure by autonomous robotic devices

Patent Granted

  • System and method for health assessment of transformers / reactors
  • Thermal energy storage-based air conditioning system and a method to manufacture the same
  • FPGA based micro-grid control and monitoring system
  • Energy efficient all season roof screening
  • Smart socket and smart home energy manager

Copyrights

  • Copyright for TOCMS has been granted by Copyright Office, Govt. of India in Nov 2020.
  • Copyright for PALMS has been granted by Copyright Office, Govt. of India in Nov 2020.
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POWERGRID Advanced Research & Technology Centre (PARTeC)

POWERGRID had been taking Research and Technological Development works in the transmission sector through its own establishments scattered all over the country and also in collaborative mode through manufacturers. Need was felt to undertake full scale R&D activities by synergizing the expertise of various verticals to meet the challenges and face technological advancement elsewhere in the world for optimal, efficient and economic utilization of transmission system. Such R&D efforts would benefit significantly to enhance the performance, availability, reliability and efficient operation of the transmission system.

In line with the above goal, POWERGRID established the prestigious Advanced Research and Technology Centre (PARTeC) in district Gurugram, an ancient mythological town meaning a place of learning. PARTeC was inaugurated by the Minister of State (Independent charge), Ministry of Power & Energy on 18th Sep 2018.

PARTeC has been recognized as a Research & Test infrastructure facility by the International Smart Grid Action Network (ISGAN) for testing, simulation studies and research related works in Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and Smart Grid research infrastructure.Click here for details EX

PARTeC brochure (PDF)

ISO Logo

Real Time Simulation Laboratory

Real-Time Simulation (RTS) Lab at PARTeC, Manesar, stands as one of the world’s largest integrated real-time simulation facility for power system studies. Designed to simulate large-scale power grids, the lab enables advanced research, testing and validation of Control & Protection (C&P) systems of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) links, Power System Protection and Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) technologies.

Key Features & Capabilities

  • Simulation Capacity: Comprises 23 no. of PB5-based racks and 8 no. of NovaCor chassis of RTDS. Capable of simulating extensive power networks in real-time, supporting large-scale grid studies.
  • Comprehensive HVDC & FACTS Testing: Control & Protection replicas of 4 no. of LCC HVDC and 1 no. of VSC HVDC systems from three different vendors; Control & Protection replicas of 8 no. of STATCOMs from two different vendors.
  • Advanced Protection System Integration: Supports up to 8 no. of hardwired protection IEDs via amplifiers. Facilitates testing of IEC 61850-based protection IEDs through Sampled Values (SV) and GOOSE messaging. Test bed for testing of IEC61850 based Centralized and Virtualized Protection Systems.
  • Multi-Protocol Communication Testing: Equipped with Network Interface Cards supporting IEC 61850 SV, GOOSE, MMS, DNP, MODBUS, IEC 60870-5-104, and PMU protocols, ensuring interoperability across diverse systems.
  • Seamless Lab Integration for Holistic Testing: Integrated with the Protection, Automation & Control Lab and the Wide Area Measurement (WAMS) Lab. Enables co-simulation of complex grid events involving Protection Relays, PMUs, PDCs, and other critical grid components.

RTS Lab - Driving Innovation in Power System Research

  • The RTS Lab at PARTeC empowers POWERGRID with advanced real-time simulation and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) capabilities, supporting:
    • Validation of new technologies before deployment in the grid.
    • In-depth analysis of dynamic system behavior, including transient and stability studies.
    • Testing of communication-based protection schemes for improved grid reliability.
    • Research on future grid challenges, such as integration of renewables, cyber-physical security, and wide-area protection.
  • With its state-of-the-art infrastructure and unmatched simulation capacity, the RTS Lab at PARTeC reinforces POWERGRID’s leadership in power system innovation, ensuring a resilient, reliable, and future-ready grid.

Major Works

  • Dynamic Performance simulations on HVDC C&P replica for Reverse power flow scenario in Ballia-Bhiwadi HVDC link.
  • Commercial assignments of dynamic functional testing of protection IEDs for third-party vendors.
  • Hands-on training on HVDC system and RTDS to engineers of Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) and Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP).
  • Validation of protection schemes for first-time implementation of IEC61850 based digital substation.
  • Development and validation of method for calculation of fault location in Dedicated Metallic Return line of HVDC transmission system.
  • In-house development of Test Bed for validation of Virtualized & Centralized Protection Automation and Control.

Protection Automation & Control Laboratory

Facilities

  • State-of-the-art lab with capabilities to carry out design, engineering and validation studies of Digital Substations.
  • UCAIug Accredited Lab for carrying out Conformance Testing of IEC 61850 Ed.2 Server devices.

Services

  • Design and Engineering of Digital Substations.
  • IEC 61850 Conformance related testing and Interoperability Studies.
  • Parallel Redundancy Protocol /High-availability Seamless Redundancy Testing of IEDs.
  • Cyber Security, vulnerability assessment and audit of IEC 61850 systems.
  • Specialized hands-on training on IEC 61850 standard and digital substation to protection engineers.

Major Works

  • 765/400/220kV New Navsari Digital Substation
    • Design and engineering activities.
    • Facilitated testing and commissioning activities to ensure successful implementation.
  • Retrofitting of 400/220kV Kanpur Digital Substation
    • Design and engineering activities.
    • Facilitated testing and commissioning activities to ensure successful implementation.
  • UCAIug Accreditation of PAC Lab for IEC 61850 Conformance Testing of Edition 2 Server devices.

Wide Area Measurement System (WAMS) Lab

Services & Facilities

  • Advanced calibration facility enabling compliance testing of PMUs (Phasor Measurement Units) of various makes/models as per latest IEC/IEEE standard 60255.118, IEEE Synchrophasor Measurement Test Suite Specification, and customized test cases.
  • PMUs tested so far: Alstom, Siemens, Vizimax, Qualitrol, Elspec, GE etc.

Major Works

  • Development of setup for utilization of synchrophasor data for closed-loop application in wide area networks.
  • Compliance testing of PMUs conducted as per IEC/IEEE 60255.118 standard.
  • Comparative study of DR (Disturbance Recorder) and PMU readings with support from NTAMC / PAC Lab.

Electrical/Electronic Diagnostic & Calibration Laboratory (EDC)

Services & Facilities

  • EHV-AC Electric & Magnetic Field (EMF) and HVDC Electric Field Measurement and Analysis services for high voltage transmission lines.
  • Electro-Technical Calibration of field equipment viz. Capacitance-Tan δ kit, Winding resistance measuring kit, Insulation testers, Energy meters, Precision Multi-meters, Clamp-on meters, Temperature sensors, pressure gauges etc.
  • Diagnosis and minor repairs of electronic/printed circuit boards.

Major Works

  • Calibration carried out for more than 130 nos. of equipment at POWERGRID substations.
  • A detailed study for impact of environmental parameters on EMF.
  • EMF study conducted at numerous 765 kV crossings in line with the CEA directives.
  • Electric field measurements carried out in couple of HVDC lines using indigenously developed kits.

Field Measuring Instrument (FMI) Lab

The lab is equipped with advanced testing facilities and supports the testing of equipment for both internal use and other utilities.

Services & Facilities

  • State-of-the-art instruments for field testing.
  • Expert services for EHVAC/UHVAC equipment diagnosis and failure investigation.
  • Residual Life Assessment studies.

Major Works

  • Technical support and services extended to various substations for switchyard testing and EMF measurements.

Materials Engineering Laboratory

State-of-art laboratory equipped with advanced materials charcaterisation facilities for studying aging effects on materials and studies of new materials development.

Facilities

  • Residual Stress Analysis, Phase Analysis and Crystallographic texture analysis. Crystallographic texture analysis mainly for transformer and generator core.
  • Metallic Materials analysis facility for oxidation and aging evaluation using X-ray Diffraction.
  • Characterization of welding diffusion in hardware and other components.
  • Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) – Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy: A powerful analytical technique that combines the qualitative capabilities of Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) and the quantitative capabilities of Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy – Capable of Thermal Analysis of Materials up to 1000°C. Silicon content evaluation in rubber of insulator and Chemical composition of non-metallic materials.
  • Magnetism, Ultrasonic and Eddy current based NDT facilities for materials analysis.
  • Structure failure and material analysis, quality assurance, in-service performance, validation and testing of new and in-service materials.
  • Simulation facility for EMF analysis, stress/strain analysis and simulation of various new materials and optimization. Capacity Building for further analysis of various case scenarios.

Major Works

  • Evaluation of CLR insulators for enhancing ageing properties and reduction of various probable defects during manufacturing.
  • Study of environmental effect on critical electronic components of GIS and corrosion protection study of tower materials for coastal area with high salt levels.
  • Study of various steel billets and their suitability for tower members.
  • Development of facility for electric field simulation for transmission line and various components. Electric field simulation studies for multi circuit 765 kV transmission line.

Oil Analysis Laboratory

 
 

State-of-art laboratory equipped with advanced facilities for studying the early degradation of transformer and reactor oil as well as insulation paper. The laboratory also focuses on the application of nanotechnology to improve the performance of oil-filled equipment.

Facilities

  • Headspace Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC-MS).
  • Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometer.
  • Refrigerated Centrifuge.
  • Rotary Evaporator.
  • Hot Air Oven.

Major Works

  • Health indexing of oil-filled equipment based on insulation paper early aging study using methanol & ethanol as chemical indicators.
  • Thermal aging study of transformer and reactor oil and insulation paper for residual life assessment.
  • Analysis of thermal and electrical stress on transformer/reactor oil & insulation paper by analyzing degradation products and changes in color index of oil using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer.

1200kV Ultra High Voltage AC (UHVAC)

POWERGRID
  • Successfully developed 1200 kV Ultra High Voltage AC (UHVAC) technology indigenously at the National Test Station, Bina, in collaboration with Indian equipment manufacturers.
  • Established under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model involving 35 Indian equipment manufacturers and the Central Power Research Institute (CPRI).
  • Positioned India among the elite club of countries with UHVAC technology capabilities.
  • Enabled the indigenous development of manufacturing capabilities up to 1200 kV, significantly strengthening the domestic power sector.
  • Designed to meet the long-term bulk power transmission needs of the country.
  • Addresses critical challenges such as Right of Way (RoW) constraints, environmental sustainability, and reduction in transmission losses.
  • Power flow commenced in 2016, marking a major milestone in India’s transmission infrastructure evolution.

Digital Substation

POWERGRID
  • POWERGRID has been a Global leader in implementation of projects on Process Bus based Full Digital Substation Technology.
  • Paradigm shift in the way the control & protection system are tested and maintained in Full digital substations.
  • Improvement of overall availability of system by online Testing of control & protection schemes from a centralized access point.
  • Helps in advanced diagnostics, superior visualization of information flow, reduced commissioning time and reduced environmental footprint.
  • Implemented two Process Bus based Digital Substations: Greenfield implementation at 220/66kV Chandigarh Substation and 400/220kV Malerkotla Substation (Retrofit project).
  • Implementation of two Process Bus based Digital Substations in under progress: 765/400/220kV New Navsari Substation and 400/220kV Kanpur Substation (Retrofit project).

Transformer/Reactor Online Condition Monitoring System (TOCMS)

POWERGRID
  • A web-based, low cost asset analytics solution developed in-house by POWERGRID.
  • Real-time monitoring of POWERGRID’s nationwide fleet of Transformers and Reactors, mostly 400kV and 765kV class equipment.
  • Combines the data acquisition through SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) from DGA sensors.
  • Analyses the data and displays diagnostic information of Transformer/Reactor condition using various international standards viz. IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) C57.104, IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) 60599, and POWERGRID’s own interpretation technique.
  • Equipped with visual as well as audio alarm in case of any abnormal conditions, along with interpretation.

POWERGRID Asset Life Management System (PALMS)

  • An in-house asset analytics solution.
  • Automatic fetching and evaluation of the transformer test data from centralized database.
  • Segregation of the transformers on the basis of their health index values and based on the extent of deterioration using POWERGRID’s own interpretation technique.
  • Enough information about the health of the transformer to the user to take an appropriate decision for repair, refurbish or replace at the time of evaluation.
  • Reduction in the costly downtime of critical transformers and safeguarding operator/worker lives.
  • Assist in judicial utilization/allocation of resources (both financial and work force) for maintenance of the transformers and replacement planning.
  • PALMS is currently monitoring a fleet of over 3000 oil filled high voltage equipment like transformers and reactors pan India.
  • Copyright for PALMS has been granted by Copyright Office, Govt. of India in Nov 2020.
  • Patent application for PALMS has been filed at Indian Patent Office in Jan 2021.

Mobile Capacitor Bank

POWERGRID
  • Low voltage in various areas for few months in a year during paddy season is a common phenomenon in agriculture intense area due to the pumping activity.
  • Occurrence of such seasonal load varies from location to location during this period.
  • In order to compensate the reactive power requirement, capacitor banks are required to be installed at 33kV bus bar of an existing substation.
  • However, keeping a fixed capacitor may not solve the purpose as the requirement is not there throughout the year.
  • A mobile capacitor bank which can be moved from one substation to another whenever required is the needed solution.
  • A pilot project with two number of 33kV Mobile Capacitor Bank of 10 MVAR capacity each having the steps of 5MVAR have been commissioned in one of 33kV Substation in Haryana.
  • Mobile capacitor bank has a capacitor bank along with switchgear mounted on a trailer. This will utilize the capacitor bank investment optimally as it will deliver the reactive power wherever required.
  • Field trial and evaluation of its effect on distribution system have been successfully completed.

Pollution Mapping

POWERGRID
  • Pollution determination and mapping on the geographical map enables in choosing appropriate type of the insulator in a particular area to minimize the probability of occurrence of pollution flashover in lines.
  • POWERGRID had taken up the activity initially in Northern region and subsequently in Southern Region and Eastern Region along with CPRI and respective State Transmission Utilities (STUs).
  • The measurements were completed and pollution map was prepared and shared with STUs and Regional Power Committees for usage during planning state and operation phase by all stake holders.
  • Report available at NRPC (link is external), ERPC (link is external) and SRPC (link is external) website.

In-house Tower Designs

POWERGRID
  • High capacity multi circuit towers, monopole structures, narrow base towers, etc. for different wind zones, have been designed in-house and prototype tested and used in POWERGRID’s own transmission network.
  • POWERGRID owns more than 250 designs as on date, including special towers up to 1200kV Tower.
  • In-house design of tower has optimized the tower material requirement and reduced right-of-way thus minimizing environmental impact.
  • The ease of construction and maintenance are other accrued benefits from these new designs.

Dynamic Line Loading System

POWERGRID
  • Dynamic Line Loading System: First time in India demonstration and installation of Smart line Technology- DLL system on 400kV Tuticorin - Madurai D/c line to optimize utilization of line capacity.
  • The integration of DLL technology allows for a more flexible, data-driven approach to grid operation.
  • During favourable conditions, such as low ambient temperatures and high wind speeds, lines can safely carry significantly more current than their static ratings limits.
  • This capability can be particularly valuable for accommodating variable renewable energy sources and addressing peak load demands without immediate investment in new infrastructure.

Study of Strain evolution in critical members of tower using wired and wireless strain gauges

POWERGRID
  • In this study, attempts have been made to evaluate the stresses on individual members of the tower due to erection, handling, and loading.
  • Strain gauge technology was explored and successfully used on the transmission line tower during type testing to verify the designed load on individual members of the tower.
  • Stress developed during handling and erection was captured.

Digital initiatives for transmission line Construction

POWERGRID
  • Demonstration of digital dynamometer to facilitate load measurement during stringing of conductor and development of PTZ camera system for monitoring tower top activities.
  • Dynamometer is a device, which uses a load cell to measure the wire tension. Use of wireless digital dynamometer during stringing protects the conductor and tower from any possible overload during construction of transmission line.
  • Use of PTZ camera was identified as an emerging technology for use at line construction site.
  • PTZ camera can be installed at top of the tower and control/display unit may be made available to field supervisor at ground or at the same time can be used for remote monitoring of construction activities.

Substation Inspection Robot

POWERGRID
  • POWERGRID in collaboration with IIT Kanpur has been developed. It is a unique first of its kind all terrain robot for inspection of substation equipment healthiness.
  • Revolutionising the way substation equipment inspections are conducted and automating field data collection, it ensures safer operations and avoids repetitive routine inspection manually.
  • The robot is equipped with an array of sensors such as high-definition visual, infrared thermal, stereo cameras and LiDAR etc. that can automatically detect anomalies and potential faults in equipment.

Vegetation Management using Satellite Images

POWERGRID
  • Vegetation management system utilizes image processing using image data obtained from high resolution satellites.
  • The system analyzes the right-of-way (RoW) of transmission lines to detect vegetation encroachments, enabling targeted management strategies.
  • By calculating height of trees that pose a risk to ground clearance, operators can efficiently plan tree trimming activities, ensuring continuous safe operation of transmission network.
  • The project has been further taken up with NRSC for development of spatial decision support system.

River Monitoring and Vulnerability Assessment

POWERGRID
  • Software application developed to mitigate the challenges posed by river meandering, particularly in areas with unstable banks that threaten the structural integrity of transmission towers.
  • By creating a specialized spatial model that tracks changes in river courses over time using historical satellite data, a monitoring framework has been developed for assessing the vulnerability of nearby towers.
  • This proactive approach significantly mitigates the risk of tower collapse and reduces potential downtime.

Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Puducherry

POWERGRID
  • Powergrid has established a pilot project with a Advanced Lead Acid (500kW, 250 kWh) and Lithium Ion (500 kW, 250 kWh) battery energy storage system (BESS) in Puducherry to demonstrate the feasibility and various use cases of BESS in the grid. The pilot project aimed to demonstrate the potential of BESS in various grid applications, including frequency regulation, energy time-shifting, and renewable energy firming.

POWERGRID Centre of Excellence (PGCOE)

POWERGRID
  • POWERGRID has setup a Centre of Excellence (PGCoE) in Cybersecurity for Transmission and Grid Operation in collaboration with Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. The PGCoE address all aspects of cyber security of power systems, including security analytics for situation awareness, competency building, and the development of defense systems for potential future cyberattacks. The PGCoE will serve as a centre and think tank for POWERGRID’s cyber security concerns, bringing together experts from academia, research laboratories, and industry under one umbrella. More at : https://pgcoe.iisc.ac.in

Technologies adopted/implemented by POWERGRID

POWERGRID over the years has adopted latest cutting edge technologies for transmission system reliability & availability, optimization of RoW, capacity upgradation, safety and security. Some of the notable initiatives include EHV/UHVAC systems up to 1200kV, HVDC systems Bi-pole & Multi-Terminal up to 800kV, VSC based HVDC systems for bulk power transmission, High Surge Impedance Loading Lines, HTLS conductor, multi-circuit and narrow base/ mono-pole structures, FSC/TCSC in transmission systems for capacity upgradation & optimization of RoW and SVC, STATCOM, digital substations, RIP bushings, Transmission Line Arrestors, Geographic Information tools, controlled switching, advanced monitoring & analysis techniques to enhance the system reliability and availability. Some of these technology adoptions in the recent past are highlighted here.

800kV Resin Impregnated Paper (RIP) Bushings

POWERGRID
  • POWERGRID migrated to RIP bushings having superior characteristics over Oil Impregnated Paper (OIP) bushings technology in 400kV systems
  • POWERGRID is now introducing RIP bushings for 800kV Transformers and Reactors for their increased availability.
  • The chances of fire breaking out on RIP bushings are minimal and catastrophic effects of its failure on nearby equipment in switchyard are very little.

Transmission Line Arrestors

POWERGRID
  • Reduction in the risk of insulator flashover during surge events particularly in high lightning activity areas NER & ER.
  • POWERGRID has installed these arrestors as a pilot project in 220kV Birpara – Salakati transmission line in North Eastern Region and monitored the performance.
  • After observing the improvement TLAs have been installed in some more 132 kV and 220 kV lines prone to lightning activity in NER & ER.

Transformer & Reactor filled with Natural Ester oil

POWERGRID
  • POWERGRID successfully commissioned the world’s first 420 kV, 50 MVAR Natural Ester fluid-filled Reactor (Make: T&R) at Maithon Substation of Eastern Region-II in 2021, marking a significant step toward sustainability.
  • In 2023, a 132 kV, 20 MVAR Bus Reactor (Make: CGL) at Aizawl Substation of the North Eastern Region was successfully commissioned after retro-filling with natural ester fluid as a pilot project. It is the first reactor in POWERGRID to be commissioned after retro-filling an existing design (originally meant for mineral oil) with natural ester fluid, showcasing a successful adaptation of legacy equipment to sustainable practices.
  • POWERGRID successfully commissioned its first transformer (Make: BHEL, Voltage: 132/33 kV, 10 MVA) on 26.03.2025 after retro-filling with natural ester fluid at the HVDC Pusauli Substation of Eastern Region-I.
  • These initiatives align with POWERGRID’s commitment to promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies across its transmission network.

Installation of STATCOM (Static Synchronous Compensator) in RE – pooling stations

POWERGRID
  • POWERGRID successfully commissioned STATCOMs at the pooling stations i.e. Fatehgarh –II (± 600 MVAR), Bhadla-II (± 600 MVAR) and Bikaner –II (± 300 MVAR). STATCOMs are generally installed at the load centres, this installation at the generation side is a unique and strategic move aimed at strengthening the transmission system for evacuating power from the solar energy zones in Rajasthan.
  • This STATCOM forms part of a larger initiative to enhance grid stability and strengthen reactive power management in interconnected grid network.

Drone-based patrolling of transmission lines all across the Regions of POWERGRID

POWERGRID
  • In pursuit of cutting-edge innovation and advancement in the field of aerial inspection, development of programmable drone with specialized sensors (Thermal & Video) for transmission line inspection including AI/ML based analytics capable of operating in diverse topographies has been taken up as a first of its kind in India. This integrated solution represents a significant step forward in enhancing efficiency, accuracy and safety of transmission line inspections, and heralds a new era of data-driven decision-making.

Voltage Source Converter (VSC) HVDC Technology

POWERGRID
  • POWERGRID has successfully commissioned India’s first-ever ±320 kV, 2x1000 MW Pugalur–Trichur Voltage Source Converter (VSC) based HVDC system.
  • Through this project, state-of-the-art VSC technology has been introduced in India for the first time by POWERGRID. Compared to conventional Line Commutated Converter (LCC) HVDC systems, VSC technology significantly reduces footprint, making it particularly suitable for regions where land availability is limited.
  • VSC-HVDC facilitates the development of smart grids, enhances system resilience under various operating conditions, and supports the transmission of bulk power even from weak generation areas with low short-circuit levels. It allows independent control of active power (MW) and reactive power (MVAr) and also enables black start capability, thereby strengthening the grid stability.
  • This technology plays a vital role in evacuating renewable energy from resource-rich areas and supports India's transition toward a more sustainable and resilient power system.

Health Indexing of Transformer and Reactor using Methanol as Chemical Indicator

POWERGRID
  • A large-scale early aging study of 3,000 numbers of transformers and reactors insulation paper has been completed using methanol as a chemical indicator to enhance predictive maintenance strategies. This comprehensive analysis focused on insulation paper degradation and its potential impact on transformers and reactors performance. Based on the findings, a health indexing system was developed to assess the condition of the transformers and reactors
 

Awards

  • Indian Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) Innovation Awards 2025: Diamond (1st Prize) award for the project, "AI driven SFRA analysis" in the category, “Adoption of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Robotic Solutions - Utility.”
  • Indian Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) Innovation Awards 2025: Diamond (1st Prize) award for the project “POWERGRID Asset Life Management System: PALMS”.
  • CBIP Young Engineer Award 2025 awarded to Sh. Pradeep Singh Chauhan for outstanding contribution towards development of Power Sector.
  • Indian Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) Innovation Awards 2024: Diamond (1st Prize) award for the project, “Application of Geographic Information System, Remote Sensing and Image Processing in Power Transmission”.
  • Indian Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) Innovation Awards 2024: Gold (3rd Prize) award for the project “Autonomous Robotic Solution for Inspection of High Voltage Electrical Substations”.
 

Publications

  • Umesh Sen, Pradeep Tanaji Patil, Pankaj Mahata, Akhil Sundaran and M Srinivasa Rao “Design and validation studies for 1200 kV UHVAC System” GRIDCON 2025
  • Abhay Kumar, Chandra Prakash Awasthi, Umesh Sen, Pradeep Tanaji Patil, Yashwant Kodali, Sitesh Kumar Baderia, and Ritesh Kumar “Development of a Test Bed for Performance Evaluation of Centralized and Virtualized Protection, automation, and Control System” GRIDCON 2025
  • V.Diwakar, M.Srinivasa Rao, Jibin Job, P.Kishore Kumar, Pradeep Tanaji Patil “Study of DC Fault Cases in VSC and LCC HVDC Systems and Protection Zone Identification in Grounded and Ungrounded DC Systems” GRIDCON 2025
  • Deo Nath Jha, Maganti Siddhardha, Akash Trivedi, Aakash Khandelwal, Keshav Gupta “AI-Driven Intelligent Objective Analysis of SFRA Signatures for EHV Power Transformers and Shunt Reactors” in CIGRE Paris session 2024 held on 25-30 August 2024.
  • Abhishek, Gulab Aabaji Shinde, Pradeep Tanaji Patil, Maganti Siddhardha, Pankaj Mahata, Chetan S “Validation of Generic Models for Stability Analysis of VSC based STATCOM in Renewable Energy Complex using DR Data” in CBIP conference held on 08th & 09th February 2024 at IIT Roorkee.
  • P. S. Chauhan, Abhishek, P. Seervi, “Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System Tools for better O&M of Power Transmission Infrastructure”, 8th International R&D Conference on Global Trends in Water Resources, Power & RE Sectors at IIT Roorkee, India, 08-09 February 2024.
  • S. Sen, V. K. Bhaskar, N. K. Bhaskar, P. S. Chauhan, S. Dubey, P. Seervi, “Vegetation Management in RoW of Power Transmission lines using Image processing of satellite imagery”, CIGRE 2023 Sendai Colloquium, Japan, 3-7 October 2023.
  • Abhishek., P Ravi Shanker Yadav, Dr Arun Prakash Upadhyay “Residual Life Assessment of Oil-Filled Reactor via Methanol and Ethanol as Chemical Indicators”- CBIP International Conference-2024.
  • Abhay Chaudhary, Dr Subir Sen, B.B Mukherjee, Abhishek., Dr Satish Kumar, Dr Arun Prakash Upadhyay “Model To Estimate Solid Insulation Ageing in Power Transformers via Alcohol Based Chemical Indicators”- CIGRE Paris Session 2024.
  • Dr Subir sen , B.B. Mujkherjee, Abhishek, Pradeep Tanaji Patil, Ashish Kumar Soni, Pankaj Mahata “Selection Criteria of NGR Value Based on Measurements and Simulation of Actual Fault Events” CIGRE Paris Session 2024.
  • Dr Subir sen, B.B MUKHERJEE, Abhay KUMAR, Abhishek, C.P. AWASTHI, Yashwant K, Sitesh BADERIA, Pradeep PATIL, Ritesh KUMAR “Impact of IEC 61869-9 Based Sampled Values on Network Optimization and Protection System Performance in a Process Bus Based Digital Substation” CIGRE Paris Session 2024.
  • Dr Subir Sen, B.B. Mujkherjee, Abhishek, G. A Shinde*, Pradeep Patil “Resonance in 765 kV Overcompensated Transmission Lines” CIGRE Paris Session 2024.
  • Abhay Chaudhary, Dr Subir Sen, B.B Mukherjee, V. K. Bhaskar, Abhishek. N.K. Bhaskar, Dr Satish Kumar, Dr Arun Prakash Upadhyay “Model to Estimate Solid Insulation Ageing in Power Transformers via Alcohol Based Chemical Indicators” CIGRE Paris Session 2024.
  • Indra Singh Rouriya, Satish Kumar, Nitesh Kumar Sinha, Raj Kumar Singh, Abhay Kumar, Vamsi Rama Mohan Burra, “Evaluation of Stresses in Critical Members of Transmission Line Towers During Prototype Testing Using Wired and Wireless Strain Gauges” CIGRE Trondheim Session 2025.
  • Seema Gupta, Dr Subir Sen, B. R. Rao Sunkara, C. P. Awasthi, Yashwant K, Ritesh Kumar, Vikender Singh, Joydip Ghosh, “Implementation Experience of India’s First 400kV, IEC 61850 Process Bus Based Full Digital Substation”, B3-10458_2022 , CIGRE Paris, August, 2022.
  • B. N. De Bhowmick, Sudhir Agarwal, Abhay Kumar, Sunkara B R Rao, Umesh Sen, Pradeep Tanaji Patil “Study of impact of exclusion of line reactor current on distance protection function and fault locator for an IEC 61850 process bus compliant IED using hardware-in-loop simulation”, CIGRE Paris, August, 2022.
  • Abhay Choudhary, Dr Subir Sen, Sudhir Agarwal, Abhay Kumar, C. P. Awasthi *, Sitesh Baderia, Yashwant K., Ritesh Kumar “Intelligent Monitoring, Testing & Diagnostics in a Process Bus Based Full Digital Substation – A Utility’s Experience”, CIGRE Paris, August, 2022.
  • P. S. Chauhan, N. K. Bhaskar, V. K. Bhaskar, S. Sen “Asset mapping & vulnerability assessment using GIS tools - POWERGRID experiences”, CIGRE Paris, Ref D2-10501_2022 August, 2022.
  • R. K. Chauhan, B. N. De Bhowmick, V. K. Bhaskar, S. B. R. Rao, D. R. Shah, Shalini, P. Seervi "Development and Implementation of Intelligent Condition Monitoring System for Transformers and Reactors", Ref A2-319_2020, CIGRE Paris, 24th-31st August, 2020.
  • B. N. De Bhowmick, V. K. Bhaskar, S. B. R. Rao, C. P. Awasthi, Dhyeya R Shah, Pradeep Seervi, “Experience on Electric and Magnetic field induction under 765/400kV power transmission lines", Ref C3-209_2020 , CIGRE Paris, 24th-31st August, 2020.
  • R. K. Chauhan, B. N. De Bhowmick, Abhay Kumar, C. P. Awasthi, Sitesh Baderia, Yashwant K., Ritesh Kumar "Engineering and Management of Communication Networks in POWERGRID's Full Digital Substations", CIGRE Paris, 24th-31st August, 2020.
  • B. N. De Bhowmick, V.K.Bhaskar, C P Awasthi, Dhyeya R Shah, Shalini, Pradeep Seervi, "Online Condition Monitoring of Transformers/Reactors for Improved Asset Management", CIGRE Chengdu 2019 Symposium, 20th-26th September, 2019.
  • P. S. Chauhan, B. N. De. Bhowmick, V. K. Bhaskar, S. B. R. Rao, P. Patil, Shalini "Use of GIS Tools and Space Technologies for Optimal Transmission Line Routing and Asset Mapping", CIGRE Canada Conference 2019, 16th-19th September, 2019.
  • B.N.De Bhowmick, S B R Rao, Umesh Sen, Ritesh Kumar, Raghu Joshi, Vaibhav Kulkarni "Mobile Capacitor Bank – A solution to seasonal loads for utility and large industries for different locations", CAPACIT 2019 Ninth International Conference on Capacitors, 14th -15th February, 2019.
  • B. N. De Bhowmick, Sunkara B. R. Rao, Chandra Prakash Awasthi, Umesh Sen, Yashwant K. "Operational Experience of IEC 61850 Process Bus Systems Deployed in POWERGRID, India", Ref B5-211_2018, Protection and automation (B5), CIGRE Paris Session 2018.
  • B. N. De Bhowmick, Sunkara B. R. Rao, Chandra Prakash Awasthi, Yashwant K, Ritesh Kumar, Arnab Ghosh, "A Novel Approach for Transformer Control, Protection and Monitoring through Application of IEC61850 Standard", TRAFOTECH 2018, 4th-5th October, 2018.
  • B.N.De Bhowmick, V K Bhaskar, C.P.Awasthi, Dhyeya Shah; Shalini, Pradeep Seervi "Intelligent approach towards online condition monitoring of transformers reactors", TRAFOTECH 2018, 4th-5th October, 2018.

EMF Measurements

  • EMF Measurements

    EMF Measurements

     
     (19.33 MB)
 

International Conferences/Journals

  • “Implementation Experience of India’s First 400kV, IEC 61850 Process Bus Based Full Digital Substation”, CIGRE Paris, August, 2022

  • “Study of impact of exclusion of line reactor current on distance protection function and fault locator for an IEC 61850 process bus compliant IED using hardware-in-loop simulation”, CIGRE Paris, August, 2022

  • “Intelligent Monitoring, Testing & Diagnostics in a Process Bus Based Full Digital Substation – A Utility’s Experience”, CIGRE Paris, August, 2022

  • “Asset mapping & vulnerability assessment using GIS tools - POWERGRID experiences”, CIGRE Paris, August, 2022

  • "Development and Implementation of Intelligent Condition Monitoring System for Transformers and Reactors", CIGRE Paris, 24th-31st August, 2020

  • "C3-209: Experience on Electric and Magnetic field induction under 765/400kV power transmission lines", CIGRE Paris, 24th-31st August, 2020

  • "Engineering and Management of Communication Networks in POWERGRID's Full Digital Substations", CIGRE Paris, 24th-31st August, 2020

  • "Online Condition Monitoring of Transformers/Reactors for Improved Asset Management", CIGRE Chengdu 2019 Symposium, 20th-26th September, 2019

  • "Use of GIS Tools and Space Technologies for Optimal Transmission Line Routing and Asset Mapping", CIGRE Canada Conference 2019, 16th-19th September, 2019

  • "Operational Experience of IEC 61850 Process Bus Systems Deployed in POWERGRID, India", CIGRE Paris Session 2018

National Conferences/Journals

  • "Mobile Capacitor Bank – A solution to seasonal loads for utility and large industries for different locations", CAPACIT 2019 Ninth International Conference on Capacitors, 14th -15th February, 2019

  • "A Novel Approach for Transformer Control, Protection and Monitoring through Application of IEC61850 Standard", TRAFOTECH 2018, 4th-5th October, 2018

  • "Intelligent approach towards online condition monitoring of transformers reactors", TRAFOTECH 2018, 4th-5th October, 2018

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF TRANSFORMERS / REACTORS

The present invention relates to a centralized monitoring and diagnostics of large fleet of Transformers / Reactors. It involves system and method for acquiring the...

  • Patent No. : 553057
  • Date of Grant : 24-10-2024
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THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE BASED AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM AND A METHOD TO MANUFACTURE THE SAME

The objective of the invention is improvement in overall heat transfer rate and ensuring maximum energy conservation (TES) without compromising the comfort level....

  • Patent No. : 516615
  • Date of Grant : 28-02-2024
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FPGA BASED MICRO-GRID CONTROL AND MONITORING SYSTEM

A micro-grid controller integrating the output from multiple types of renewable energy conversion systems, namely, wind and solar along with diesel generator as well as battery...

  • Patent No. : 448560
  • Date of Grant : 30-08-2023
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ENERGY EFFICIENT ALL SEASON ROOF SCREENING

In this newly invented process, 45% of the total length of roof is coated with reflective screen, from about 45 to 85% of total length of roof is screened for white and glossy paint...

  • Patent No. : 418166
  • Date of Grant : 16-01-2023
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SMART SOCKET AND SMART HOME ENERGY MANAGER

This smart socket along with the home energy manager application can be used to manage household appliances efficiently so as to achieve optimum energy consumption...

  • Patent No. : 411380
  • Date of Grant : 14-11-2022
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For any commercial interest in the patents, you may please contact

Sh. Akhil Sundaran, Chief Manager (Technology Development), POWERGRID
E-mail : partec[at]powergrid[dot]in