AI integration and emerging technologies redefining Indian power infra

Digital substations are being adopted, reducing reliance on traditional copper wiring with advanced fibre communication protocols like IEC 61850.

- Prayas Gupta

Speaking of IndiGrid, established in 2017, it has grown into a significant player in the energy sector in India, with a low-risk, semi-regulated investment model and a market capitalization of ₹1.5 billion. Operating across 20 states and two Union Territories, it manages 41 projects, including 49 transmission lines (132 KV to 765 KV), 15 substations, and a solar portfolio exceeding 1 GW DC across 19 projects. IndiGrid's assets boast an average residual contract life of 26 years for transmission and 19.5 years for solar. The company leverages advanced technologies like thyristor-controlled series capacitors, GIS-IS hybrid substations, and PMU-based Wide Area Monitoring Systems to enhance grid efficiency and stability. Innovations include an 800KV HVDC system, BESS exceeding 2,000 MWh, and pumped hydro storage. Remote access systems centralize real-time data, streamlining fault mitigation. IndiGrid's focus on optimizing energy transmission and storage aligns with growing energy demands in India, delivering reliability and efficiency across its operations.