Thermal Power's Digital Leap: India's Path to Energy Security
The state's energy surplus status and 'One Nation, One Grid' initiative are expected to mitigate these issues. The planned data centres will require significant energy, with the state's AI engine and ecosystem development also in the works.
- •Summary Box: SEIL Energy India Limited's 'C&I Connect 2026' conference in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, highlighted the need for intelligent systems and robust cyber defences in thermal power plants.
- •The event showcased advanced technologies like Industrial IoT and OT cybersecurity, predictive maintenance using AI/ML, and Automatic Generation Control (AGC) implementation.
Summary Box: SEIL Energy India Limited's 'C&I Connect 2026' conference in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, highlighted the need for intelligent systems and robust cyber defences in thermal power plants. The event showcased advanced technologies like Industrial IoT and OT cybersecurity, predictive maintenance using AI/ML, and Automatic Generation Control (AGC) implementation.
What is Thermal Power's Digital Leap?
Thermal power plants have long been the backbone of India's energy security. However, with the increasing focus on renewable energy and digitalisation, the sector is undergoing a significant transformation. The 'C&I Connect 2026' conference brought together experts from across the country to discuss the latest advancements in control, instrumentation, and automation in thermal power plants.
How is Digitalisation Transforming Thermal Power?
Digitalisation is revolutionising the thermal power sector by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and improved efficiency. Advanced technologies like Industrial IoT and OT cybersecurity are being implemented to protect against cyber threats and ensure the reliability of power supply. Predictive maintenance using AI/ML is also being adopted to reduce downtime and increase plant efficiency.
India's Position on Renewable Energy
India has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, with a commitment to generate 160 GW of power from non-fossil fuels by 2022. The country has made significant progress in this area, with solar and wind power contributing to a substantial portion of the country's energy mix. However, thermal power still plays a crucial role in meeting India's energy demands.
Key Provisions / Legal Framework
The Electricity Act 2003 provides the framework for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in India. The National Solar Mission aims to promote the use of solar energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy aims to promote the use of wind and solar energy together.
- ▸The Electricity Act 2003 provides for the regulation of electricity supply and distribution.
- ▸The National Solar Mission aims to promote the use of solar energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- ▸The National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy aims to promote the use of wind and solar energy together.
The Numbers That Matter
India's installed solar capacity has crossed 85 GW, and the country aims to reach 500 GW by 2030 under the National Solar Mission. The country has also made significant progress in wind power, with an installed capacity of over 38 GW.
Did You Know? India's thermal power plants are being transformed by digitalisation, with the adoption of advanced technologies like Industrial IoT and OT cybersecurity. This will not only improve efficiency but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security.
Way Forward
As India continues to transition towards a low-carbon economy, thermal power will play a crucial role in meeting the country's energy demands. The adoption of digitalisation and advanced technologies will be key to improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The government's policies and initiatives, such as the National Solar Mission and the National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy, will also play a crucial role in promoting the use of renewable energy.
CATEGORY: national TAGS: thermal-power, digitalisation, renewable-energy, energy-security, india SOURCE: The Hindu
Tags
Concepts Mentioned
National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy
The National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy aims to promote large grid-connected wind-solar hybrid systems. It is significant for renewable energy development. India targets 10 gigawatts of hybrid capacity by 2022.
National Solar Mission
The National Solar Mission is India's initiative to promote solar energy. It aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Launched in 2010, it targets 100 GW of solar power capacity.
Electricity Act 2003
The Electricity Act 2003 is a legislation governing India's power sector. It aims to promote competition and efficiency. The act allows multiple distribution companies in a single area.
Log in to like, comment, and join the discussion.