Tata Power-led Odisha Discoms transform power distribution with smart technology and automation

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, SEPTEMBER 5, 2025

Tata Power-led Odisha discoms are spearheading a major technological transformation in the state’s electricity distribution network by deploying automation, smart devices, and advanced digital tools. This shift is significantly enhancing fault management, enabling predictive maintenance, and ensuring a more reliable power supply for nearly 10 million consumers across Odisha.

A central thrust of the initiative has been the automation of substations and Ring Main Units (RMUs), which allow remote fault detection, isolation, and swift restoration of power. The adoption of devices such as Fault Passage Indicators, auto reclosers that automatically clear temporary faults, and remote-controlled breakers has already reduced outage durations, particularly in urban areas, expediting recovery whenever failures occur.

To further strengthen the network, the discoms are employing state-of-the-art monitoring technologies. Drone-based inspections, thermoscanning, and ultrasonic scanning are being used to detect weaknesses before they escalate into major problems, thus shifting maintenance practices from reactive repairs to predictive, data-driven interventions. Preventive maintenance has also taken center stage with widespread use of drone surveys spanning thousands of kilometres, thermovision cameras for hotspot detection, and diagnostic tools for monitoring transformer health. These efforts are extending the lifespan of assets while minimizing breakdowns and disruptions.

Given Odisha’s vulnerability to severe cyclones and Nor’wester, building a resilient power infrastructure remains a key priority. The discoms are strengthening the grid with cyclone-resilient features such as stronger poles, covered conductors, underground cabling in critical urban pockets, and automated systems that enable rapid power restoration even during extreme weather events.

These advancements are collectively shaping a smarter, more robust, and future-ready power distribution system for the state. By embracing cutting-edge technology and digital innovation, Tata Power-led Odisha discoms are setting new benchmarks in reliability, resilience, and technology-driven electricity distribution.