State Power Minister Attends Crucial Meeting for Advancements in Power Infrastructure

Kolkata, December 9, 2023: In a significant move toward bolstering the state’s power infrastructure, Shri Ratan Lal Nath, the esteemed Minister of Power, actively participated in the 25th Northeastern Regional Power Committee (NERPC) meeting held in Kolkata on December 9, 2023.

The meeting, held under the guiding principles of NERPC, delved into crucial discussions about electricity-related issues prevailing across Northeastern India. Shri Ratan Lal Nath’s attendance emphasized the state’s commitment to advancing its power distribution and management systems.

Key Developments:

1. Surya Maninagar Power Hub: A pivotal resolution was made during the meeting to expedite the establishment of a 400 kV substation in Surya Maninagar. This initiative aims to streamline the direct connection from the Palatana Power Generation Center to the substation through a 400 kV transmission line, significantly enhancing power transmission reliability and stability.
2. Infrastructure Improvements: The meeting underscored the speedy completion of the 132 kV double circuit line from Manarchak to Surya Maninagar, a crucial step in fortifying the power transmission network. This development ensures an uninterrupted flow of electricity from the Manarchak Power Generation Center to the Surya Maninagar Substation through a double circuit line.
3. Surge Arresters for Resilience: Emphasis was placed on the installation of Surge Arresters on high-capacity power transmission lines to safeguard against thunderstorms. This initiative is designed to prevent damage and ensure the normal flow of electricity during adverse weather conditions.
4. Emergency Restoration Systems: Acknowledging the need for swift response during faults, the integration of high-capacity mobile substations equipped with Emergency Restoration Systems was highlighted. This measure facilitates rapid restoration of power during emergencies, contributing to the overall resilience of the power distribution network.
5. Technological Integration: The meeting discussed the integration of modern technologies, including Cover Conductors, High Voltage Distribution Systems, Fault Passage Indicators, Ring Main Units (RMU), and Transformer Testing Labs. These technologies are aimed at enhancing the efficiency and reliability of power distribution.
6. Sustainable Energy Initiatives: Minister Nath reiterated the state’s commitment to sustainable and green energy projects. Ongoing efforts, including the installation of solar power projects, solar street lights, solar pumps, and solar rooftop systems, align with the government’s goal of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2070.
7. Solar Power Facility at Dombur: The establishment of a 130 MW solar power facility at Dombur in the Gomati district, under the guidance of the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), was highlighted. This facility is expected to significantly contribute to meeting the state’s peak load demand and storing renewable energy for future use.
8. State Load Dispatch Center Expansion: Plans for the establishment of an additional State Load Dispatch Center (SLDC) in Kumarghat were disclosed. This center will serve as a backup for the existing SLDC in Agartala.
9. NERPSIP Projects: The ongoing Northeastern Regional Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP), under the guidance of the Indian government and the World Bank, is actively working on the construction of new transmission lines and substations. Power Grid Corporation has been instructed to expedite these projects.
10. Cybersecurity Measures: Acknowledging the era of digital transformation, the meeting highlighted the importance of cybersecurity in the power sector. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has mandated cybersecurity measures, and steps have been taken at the State Load Dispatch Center to ensure cybersecurity in the state’s power sector.

Minister Ratan Lal Nath expressed optimism about the state’s progress in the power sector, applauding the collective efforts to enhance power distribution management and meet the growing demand for electricity. The developments discussed during the meeting mark a significant stride toward a robust and resilient power infrastructure in the state.