N-UNMS spurs innovation as we prepare for peak demand surge

To meet India’s projected 388 GW power demand by FY32, the industry is leveraging N-UNMS, edge computing, and digital twins to enhance grid monitoring, simulate behaviour, and pinpoint faults with exceptional accuracy.

Modernisation of the power grid is on the right track, and the implementation of Next-Generation Unified Network Management System (N-UNMS) is emerging as a game-changer. Centralised real-time grid monitoring is paving the way for rapid innovation in the testing and measurement (T&M) industry. This, in turn, ensures that the evolution will support utilities in maintaining grid stability amid rising power demand, renewable integration, and complex load dynamics. Reshmi Goppi shares her thoughts with EPR on the evolving sector, which aims to achieve 388 GW of peak demand by FY32.

With the implementation of N-UNMS set to enable centralised and real-time grid monitoring, how is the T&M industry innovating to support utilities in delivering predictive diagnostics and faster fault localisation across transmission and distribution networks?

The implementation of N-UNMS (Next-Generation Unified Network Management System), which enables centralised, real-time grid monitoring, has initiated rapid innovation in the testing and measurement industry.  

The stakeholders are developing advanced sensor technologies for high-fidelity data collection across transmission and distribution networks. This data feeds into AI and machine learning algorithms within T&M solutions, allowing sophisticated pattern recognition and predictive diagnostics of potential equipment failures. Furthermore, the industry is focusing on edge computing for faster, localised data processing and integrating digital twins. This will simulate grid behaviour and identify fault locations with unprecedented accuracy and speed. Such innovations empower utilities to transition from reactive to proactive maintenance, significantly reducing downtime and improving grid reliability.

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Advanced testing and measurement (T&M) solutions are crucial for managing grid stress and integrating renewables, particularly with a projected peak demand of 388 GW by FY32. These solutions provide real-time data from across the grid, enabling precise monitoring of voltage, current, and frequency. This granular visibility, combined with AI-driven analytics, allows utilities to accurately forecast demand, predict renewable intermittencies (such as solar and wind), and identify potential grid imbalances. Testing and measurement tools facilitate dynamic load balancing by optimising power flow, leveraging energy storage systems and enabling demand-side management. This proactive approach ensures grid stability, minimises power losses and enhances overall reliability in a complex and evolving energy landscape.

As India aims to become a global benchmark in next-generation T&D infrastructure, what are the key challenges and opportunities for the T&M sector in scaling up indigenous innovation, localisation and export competitiveness?

India’s ambition to become a global benchmark in transmission and distribution (T&D) presents both challenges and opportunities for its testing and measurement (T&M) sector. Speaking of challenges, it includes the need for significant research and development (R&D) investments to develop cutting-edge, next-gen solutions that match global standards. It also includes overcoming the reliance on imported components for localisation and establishing a robust testing and certification ecosystem. Fierce global competition and intellectual property protection also pose hurdles for export competitiveness. Opportunities abound with strong government support through initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and PLI schemes, which are boosting domestic manufacturing. The massive internal demand for smart grid and renewable energy integration is propelling indigenous innovation, creating a fertile ground for developing tailored testing and measurement solutions. By focusing on R&D, strategic partnerships, and quality standardisation, India can build a globally competitive, export-ready testing and measurement (T&M) industry.