Randhir Verma

AMI Can Contribute Towards Reduction of Carbon Footprint and Promoting Net Zero: A Perspective on Indian Context As the world grapples with the mounting challenges of climate change, India stands at a critical juncture where it must balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. One innovative approach to achieving this balance is through the adoption of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). By leveraging AMI, India can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and advance towards its ambitious net-zero targets. Understanding AMI Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) refers to systems that measure, collect, and analyze energy usage data, and communicate this data to consumers and utility companies in real-time. Unlike traditional meters that record energy consumption at set intervals, AMI provides continuous and granular insights into energy usage patterns. This technology encompasses smart meters, communication networks, and data management systems, forming an integrate...

Introduction Electric meters are vital devices used to measure electricity consumption in homes, businesses, and industries. Accurate meter readings are essential for fair billing, effective load management, and energy conservation. In India, where power supply can sometimes be inconsistent, low voltage is a common issue that can significantly affect the performance of these meters. This article explores how low voltage impacts meter performance, with a focus on the Indian context. Types of Electric Meters In India, electric meters are generally of two types: 1. Analog Meters: These are the traditional meters with a rotating disk that measures electricity consumption. They are mechanical in nature. 2. Digital Meters: These modern meters use electronic components to measure power consumption more precisely. They often include features like real-time data monitoring and remote communication capabilities. Voltage Levels and Meter Performance Electric meters are designed to work be...

  Introduction to ADMS Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS) are integrated platforms used by utilities to manage and optimize the performance of their electrical distribution systems. ADMS combines various functionalities to enhance the reliability, efficiency, and safety of power delivery. Key functionalities include power flow analysis, Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR), VOLT/VAR control, and outage management, among others. This article delves into these functionalities and their importance for utility companies. Key Functionalities of ADMS Power Flow Analysis Power Flow Analysis is a critical function within ADMS, enabling utilities to monitor and control the distribution network in real-time. This analysis helps in understanding the current state of the network, including voltage levels, power flows, and load conditions. Real-Time Monitoring : Provides operators with a live view of the electrical distribution network. Load Forecasting : Pre...

India is increasingly adopting smart meters to tackle widespread power theft and inefficiencies in its energy infrastructure. A study published in the International Journal for Legal Research and Analysis highlights that Aggregate Technical and Commercial Losses in India range from 15-65%, with an average annual loss of 34%. These losses result in significant economic impacts and have long been a source of financial drain for energy companies due to illegal tapping into the power supply. To address these challenges, the Indian government launched the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) program, which aims to modernize the country's energy grid. This program focuses on introducing prepaid metering and enhancing the profitability of energy companies. The Smart Meter National Programme, introduced in July 2021, is a key part of this initiative, targeting the installation of 250 million smart meters across the country by 2025. The program aims to improve the financial and operationa...

Introduction India, also known as Bharat, is on the verge of a major transformation in its energy sector. By leveraging advanced technologies like smart metering, AI, and ML, the country can become both prosperous ( Samriddh Bharat ) and strong ( Sudridh Bharat ). Embracing innovation now will help India address its unique challenges and unlock vast opportunities for growth. The Promise of Smart Metering and Advanced Analytics Right now, only a few utilities in India are using smart metering and advanced analytics, and even then, not extensively. However, these technologies hold great potential for improving efficiency, grid management, and consumer experiences. Here’s how India can use these technologies to become a Samriddh and Sudridh Bharat: Smart Meters and Data Analytics : Current State : Limited use of smart meters and advanced analytics. Future Vision : Widespread use of smart meters with AI and ML for real-time data analysis and monitoring. Impact : More reliable grids, less e...

Safeguarding the Future: Cybersecurity Challenges and Solutions in Smart Metering, RDSS, and AI Integration Introduction As the electricity distribution sector embraces smart meters, advanced billing systems, and AI-driven technologies, cybersecurity becomes a paramount concern. The integration of these modern technologies with legacy systems introduces new vulnerabilities, making the sector a potential target for cyber threats. This article explores the cybersecurity challenges faced by IT companies and utilities, and outlines strategies to safeguard the infrastructure. The Intersection of Smart Meters, RDSS, and Cybersecurity Smart meters and the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) represent a leap towards a modernized and efficient electricity distribution network. However, the transition brings significant cybersecurity challenges, including: 1. Data Security • Smart meters collect and transmit vast amounts of consumer data, which, if compromised, can lead to privacy...