Powerthon-2022 launched for Enabling Advanced Technology in Power Distribution

• Union Minister for Power and MNRE Shri R K Singh virtually launched today Powerthon-2022, a hackathon competition under Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
• It aims to find technology driven solutions to solve the complex problems in power distribution and to ensure quality and reliable power supply.

About Powerthon

• It is an initiative of REC Limited in collaboration with SINE, IIT Bombay.
• In the hackathon, Technology Solution Providers (TSPs), start-ups, educational institutions, research institute, equipment manufacturers, state power utilities and other state and central power sector entities, shall be briefed on the current challenges/problem statements faced across the power distribution sector.
• After brief, they will be invited to participate and showcase their technology driven solutions to solve the complex problems.
• The hackathon will task participants to find innovative solutions based on advanced emerging technologies like AI/ML, Blockchain, IoT, VR/AR etc on nine (09) themes that have been identified after various discussions & consultations with 14 DISCOMs across 9 states.
• The themes have been categorized across 9 broad aspects for pilot testing:

1. Demand/Load Forecasting
2. AT&C (Aggregate Technical & Commercial) Loss Reduction
3. Energy Theft Detection
4. Prediction of DT (Distribution Transformer) Failure
5. Asset Inspection
6. Vegetation Management
7. Consumer Experience Enhancement
8. RE (Renewable Energy) Integration
9. Power Purchase Optimization

Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS)

• RDSS was introduced by the Ministry of Power as a Reform-based and Result-linked Scheme.
• The key objectives of RDSS are Reducing AT&C losses to 12-15%, eliminating the ACOS-ARR gap by 2024-25 and improving the quality & reliability of the power supply to build a robust power sector which can amplify the development opportunities in the nation’s quest for a thriving economy.

Components of RDSS

• RDSS has 2 major components:

1. Part A is Strengthening & Upgradation of Distribution infrastructure under which Smart prepaid metering, Communicable feeders for DTs & Unified software is of focus.
2. Part B – Training & Capacity Building and other Enabling & Supporting Activities.

• It is pertinent to mention that a framework for promoting advanced technologies across power distribution sector has already been approved under the RDSS Scheme.
• Under this, a two-pronged strategy i.e. leveraging the existing network of Technology Solution Providers (TSPs) to test and scale up use cases at DISCOM(s); and creating power distribution focused incubators for continuous innovation in the sector has been adopted.
• REC has been entrusted as Designated Agency (DA) to search for Advanced Technologies in the Power Sector.