Power Minister Launches Powerthon-2022 for Enabling Advanced Technology in Power Distribution

What is the news?

The Union Minister for Power has virtually launched Powerthon-2022.

What is Powerthon-2022?

Powerthon-2022 is a hackathon announced by the REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) in collaboration with IIT Bombay.

The hackathon is being organized under Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme(RDSS).

Aim: To find technology driven solutions to solve the complex problems in power distribution and to ensure quality and reliable power supply.

The nine themes for the hackathon are: demand/load forecasting, AT&C (Aggregate Technical and Commercial) loss reduction, energy theft detection, prediction of DT (Distribution Transformer) failure, asset inspection, vegetation management, consumer experience enhancement, renewable energy integration and power purchase optimization.

What is Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS)?

RDSS is a Reform-based and Result-linked Scheme introduced by the Ministry of Power.

Objectives of the scheme: a) Reducing AT&C losses to 12-15% by 2024-25 b) eliminating the ACOS-ARR gap by 2024-25 and c) improving the quality & reliability of the power supply to build a robust power sector.

Components: The scheme has the following components:

– Part A – Financial support for Prepaid Smart Metering & System Metering and up-gradation of the Distribution Infrastructure.

– Part B – Training & Capacity Building and other Enabling & Supporting Activities.

Note: The Scheme also lays special emphasis on using Advanced tech to analyze data generated through IT/OT devices to increase operational efficiency & financial sustainability of DISCOMs.

Source: This post is based on the article “Power Minister Launches Powerthon-2022 for Enabling Advanced Technology in Power Distribution” published in PIB on 9th Feb 2022.