India’s T&D market will envisage a tremendous growth

With the introduction of Electricity Bill 2020, there are path breaking recommendations which will help in improving our capacity utilisation and sustainability and thereby reviving the industry in a massive way.
Atul Agrawal, Managing Director, Uttam Bharat Electricals Pvt. Ltd.

What have been the top distribution transformers technology trends during 2020?
The transformer industry has evolved considerably in recent times to meet the emerging requirements. With the changing paradigm, companies are more focusing towards new designs and features which help in lowering the costs and improving the asset life. The new framework of modernization in transformer also includes improvement in core material without hampering the safety level. The penetration of digital technology is also another step undertaken to meet the emerging requirements of utilities and adapt to the changing grid.

The latest ongoing or upcoming technologies in transformer segment are energy efficient transformers, smart transformers, 3D core transformers, dry type transformers, slim transformers, skid type transformers, ester oil transformers, amorphous core transformers, bigger rating transformers up to 10MVA in aluminium winding etc. A smart design mix of permutations and combinations of the above shall be required to enhance the efficiency of the distribution transformers while maintaining the quality and cost trade intact.

There has been a considerable improvement in the quality and types of raw material being used, along with changes in the process which are leading to minimising losses and expediting the production process.

How future technology inventions in power sector could shape up for distribution transformers industry?
Significant efforts are underway by the Indian government to accelerate technology innovation in the transformer distribution industry. In recent years, notable success stories have also emerged in India’s innovation system in this regard. India’s energy research, development and demonstration (RD&D) landscape is dominated by the public sector, specifically the central government, and involves a broad range of ministries and related agencies. The power and distribution industry is on a steady growth with positive outlook. With the advent of new technology, progression of new energy efficiency level and strict quality checks, the business is expected to increase substantially. Proper distribution and infrastructure system in both rural and urban areas is acting as a catalyst in keeping the demand momentum high in India. Increase in generation capacity of both conventional and non-renewable sources and new avenues like electric vehicle charging stations etc. will also become the major growth drivers for the transformer industry.

As transformer act as mediator for the smooth passage of electricity, a small efficiency improvement in the transformer result in significant electricity savings. With an increase in residential and industrial applications, transformer is playing an important role in the distribution and regulation of power across long distances.

What can the distribution transformers industry expect in 2021?
Energy is a critical enabler of prosperity and economic growth, and the stability of global energy markets is essential to sustain and nurture modern industry and society. According to market research company 6W, India’s power and distribution transformer market is projected to grow with a CAGR of 3 percent during FY 2020-26. Seeing the current situation, the demand for power in India will further foster due to increase in capacity utilization, industrialization, urbanization and population. However, due to lockdown and excessive infrastructure development in the last 5-Year Plan has caused some hiccups in the regular demand.

India has the fifth largest installed capacity in the power sector worldwide. Reforms such as “Power for All” and plans to add 175 GW of capacity by 2022 will further boost the demand for power transmission and distribution equipment. Thus we can say India’s T&D market will envisage a tremendous growth due to increase in demand for sustainable and affordable 24×7 electricity and strengthening of transmission network pan India.

With the introduction of Electricity Bill 2020, there are path breaking recommendations which will help in improving our capacity utilisation and sustainability and thereby reviving the industry in a massive way.