Latest regulations transforming the Indian wire and cable industry

Sustainability transforms the Indian cable industry with eco-friendly materials, green production, and recycling initiatives.

In the ever-evolving landscape of India’s electrical industry, regulatory standards, material choices, and technological advancements are ushering in a new era of efficiency and sustainability. Industry experts, including Shalin Sheth of Advait Infratech, Vinay Rathi of Gloster Cables Limited, and Satyam Khamar of WAA Cables Pvt Ltd, shed light on the impact of these changes. From the choice between copper and aluminium conductors to the adoption of smart and fibre-optic cables and the growing emphasis on eco-friendly design and disposal practices, the industry is adapting to meet the demands of a greener, more connected future.

Evolving regulatory standards

Shalin Sheth, Founder & Managing Director of Advait Infratech, highlights how these changing regulations have pushed producers and distributors to adapt to the manufacturing and distribution of products. Companies have had to invest in cutting-edge technology and modify their production methods to ensure efficiency, quality, and safety. Distributors, on the other hand, have had to adjust their distribution strategies and inventory management systems to ensure they offer compliant products to customers. Despite the challenges, these regulations have spurred innovation and raised the quality of wires and cables in the Indian electrical industry.

Vinay Rathi, Director of Gloster Cables Limited, further elaborates on the impacts of regulatory standards. These standards have improved product quality and safety while increasing compliance costs, which can affect pricing. However, they have also driven innovation, fostered fair competition, and encouraged environmental sustainability. Moreover, meeting international standards enhances global competitiveness, but it also necessitates adjustments in material sourcing and logistics, as well as continuous investment in testing and certification.

Mr. Satyam Khamar, Head of BD & Planning at WAA Cables Pvt Ltd, adds that manufacturers must now comply with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms and obtain BIS certification. Distributors play a crucial role in ensuring that only certified products reach consumers, and educating customers about the benefits of certified products is essential. Consumers, in turn, need to be aware of BIS standards and look for the ISI mark, even if it means paying a slightly higher price for products that offer better safety, performance, and durability. Regulators must monitor and enforce compliance, taking action against violations and keeping standards up to date with technological advancements.

In summary, evolving regulatory standards are reshaping the Indian electrical industry, driving improvements in quality and safety, fostering innovation, and benefiting consumers through safer and more reliable products.

Copper and aluminum conductor impact

Shalin Sheth from Advait Infratech highlights that copper is the superstar regarding efficiency. It’s highly conductive, which means less power is lost as heat when electricity flows through it. That translates to better overall performance and durability. But copper tends to be pricier upfront and heavier, making installation more challenging. However, the long-term energy savings and the robustness of copper cables often outweigh the initial cost.

Vinay Rathi from Gloster Cables Limited indicates that aluminium is more cost-effective for larger projects. It’s lighter and cheaper than copper, which can be a game-changer for massive installations. However, aluminium could be more efficient in conducting electricity, so you might need bigger cables to do the same job. It’s also prone to corrosion, which is something to watch out for, especially in certain environments.

Satyam Khamar of WAA Cables Pvt Ltd adds that copper is a champ in electrical conductivity. It can carry more current with less power loss compared to aluminium. But, aluminium can be a budget-friendly choice, especially when dealing with large cables and overhead power distribution.

The choice depends on a mix of factors like the project’s size, budget, climate, and long-term cost analysis. If one is looking for peak performance, copper is the solution. For large-scale projects on a budget, aluminium is to be considered. In this quest for a dependable, economical, and efficient power supply, stakeholders are required to evaluate specific needs to attain a reliable and cost-effective energy solution.

Smart and Fiber-Optic Cables

Advait Infratech’s Shalin Sheth highlights big changes in how we share information and use communication networks, calling them transformational. For manufacturers, this means a chance to improve efficiency and reliability in electrical systems through smart technologies. But it also comes with a demand for cutting-edge products and process upgrades.

Vinay Rathi from Gloster Cables Limited breaks it down further: They get a shot at technological advancement, increased demand, export potential, and R&D opportunities. There are hurdles like high initial investments, quality, competition, and regulatory compliance. Better connectivity, smart infrastructure, and innovation are on the table. Initial costs can be a roadblock, technical expertise may be needed, and there are concerns about security and privacy.

Mr. Satyam Khamar at WAA Cables Pvt Ltd adds Smart cables allow real-time monitoring of power grids, reducing faults and losses. Fibre-optic cables offer high-speed data transmission, perfect for broadband services and smart grid integration. Plus, they’re tough against interference, corrosion, and weather. High investment and a skilled workforce are necessary, and regulatory and cyber attack concerns exist.

In essence, manufacturers have the chance to thrive in a growing market while consumers can enjoy improved services and even engage in the smart energy revolution. However, there are hurdles, from initial costs to security issues. It’s an evolving landscape changing how we power and connect India.

Design, Production, and Eco-Friendly Disposal Impact

Shalin Sheth from Advait Infratech stresses that the demand for sustainability is pushing manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient production processes. The focus isn’t just on making cables work and reducing their environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. Plus, there’s a heightened attention to proper disposal to minimise environmental harm.

Vinay Rathi at Gloster Cables Limited breaks down the impact: Eco-friendly materials like lead-free and PVC-free insulation are gaining popularity. Designers also prioritise energy efficiency and durability to reduce replacements, saving resources. Green manufacturing practices are in play. Manufacturers use renewable energy, clean tech, and waste-reduction methods to lessen their environmental footprint. Recycling programmes are rising to prevent cables from ending up in landfills. Recovering materials like copper or aluminium for reuse is becoming standard.

Mr. Satyam Khamar of WAA Cables Pvt Ltd adds that sustainable design means using biodegradable or recyclable materials, optimising efficiency, and making cables easier to recycle. Clean technologies and waste management systems are being adopted to reduce resource consumption and pollution. Circular economy principles are being embraced, with collection, sorting, and recycling efforts in place.

In summary, the demand for sustainability drives a fundamental shift in the electrical sector. It’s not just about powering up; it’s about doing it in a way that’s kind to the planet. From design to disposal, the industry is stepping up to the green challenge, aligning with eco-conscious consumer preferences and government regulations.

Overhead and underground cables

Shalin Sheth from Advait Infratech emphasises that this surge in eco-friendliness is pushing manufacturers to embrace change. They’re shifting toward eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient production processes, and recycling initiatives. Also, now, design isn’t just about functionality; it is about minimising environmental impact from the cradle to the grave. Even disposing of old cables is done carefully to reduce environmental harm. Advait Infratech is committed to weaving these eco-friendly practices into their cable production, ensuring they follow environmental regulations and meet the growing demand for sustainability in India’s electrical sector.

Vinay Rathi, Director at Gloster Cables Limited, breaks it down: Eco-friendliness starts with material choices. Lead-free and PVC-free materials are gaining traction. There’s a focus on crafting wires and cables for energy efficiency, reducing losses and greenhouse emissions. Also, they’re making them last longer to cut down on waste.

It’s all about green manufacturing now. Efficient resource use, fewer emissions, and waste reduction are the name of the game. Some manufacturers even incorporate recycled materials, helping the planet further. Recycling programs are cropping up to prevent old cables from filling up landfills. Valuable materials like copper and aluminium get a second lease on life.

Mr. Satyam Khamar of WAA Cables Pvt Ltd adds that this demand is shaking up the entire lifecycle of wires and cables: Think biodegradable or recyclable materials, designs that optimise efficiency, and features that make reusing, repairing, or recycling cables at the end easier. Manufacturers are turning to renewable energy sources and clean tech to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduce water and chemical use. Circular economy principles are the new normal. Collection, sorting, and recycling of old cables are gaining momentum.

Quotes:

Shalin Sheth (Advait Infratech)

“Evolving regulations drive innovation, enhancing quality and safety in India’s electrical industry.”

Vinay Rathi (Gloster Cables Limited)

“Material choices and green manufacturing reduce environmental impact while improving cable performance.”

Mr. Satyam Khamar (WAA Cables Pvt Ltd)

“Sustainability demands biodegradable materials, renewable energy, and circular economy principles for the greener cable industry.”