WHY INDIA'S DIGITAL TRANSITION FACES UNEXPECTED DELAYS?

The future of automation and digitalisation holds immense potential for improving transmission network efficiency, reducing operational costs, and enhancing grid stability, ultimately reshaping the country's power infrastructure.

- 

Implementing digital substations in the power sector has sparked widespread debate, primarily due to technical challenges and the slow pace of integration. While the standard promises enhanced interoperability, communication, and automation within substations, utilities often face difficulties in adapting legacy systems to new digital technologies. One key hurdle is the lack of skilled professionals who are well-versed in both the standards and the intricacies of digital systems. This shortage hinders the smooth transition to a fully digital environment.

Another concern is the gap between the intentions of standardisation and real-world applications. Many utilities face issues in aligning their existing infrastructure with IEC 61850, leading to delays in implementation and increased costs. Additionally, the complexity of integrating protection, control and automation systems from various vendors poses further obstacles.

Industry leaders emphasise the need for greater collaboration among equipment manufacturers, system integrators and utilities to ensure seamless integration. They also advocate for comprehensive training programmes to bridge the skills gap and accelerate adoption. In India's power sector, the future of automation and digitalisation holds immense potential for improving transmission network efficiency, reducing operational costs and enhancing grid stability, ultimately reshaping the country's power infrastructure.

Automation in Substations