IIT Bhubaneswar study flags TPCODL as a national template for power distribution reforms

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, FEBRUARY 2, 2026

A comprehensive study released by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar on the evolving performance of Tata Power-led TP Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL) has underscored that the transformation underway at the utility demonstrates how sustained capital investment, high-tech automation and a strong safety-first work culture can together deliver long-term public service improvement. Emphasising that Odisha’s power distribution reform model is increasingly drawing national attention, the study notes that institutionalising disciplined operational practices has helped narrow the urban–rural service divide while building a resilient, modern grid that directly benefits consumers.

IIT Bhubaneswar on Monday released an in-depth study here in the presence of TPCODL CEO Aravind Singh, examining the power distribution performance of TP Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL), a joint venture between Tata Power and the Government of Odisha.

The study, prepared by Prof. Chandrashekhar Bhende, Professor; Dr. Chandrasekhar Perumalla, Associate Professor; and Dr. Abhineet Prakash, Assistant Professor from the Department of Electrical Engineering, School of Electrical & Computer Sciences at IIT Bhubaneswar, analyses how network reliability, operational efficiency, technological interventions and customer service delivery have progressed over a five-year period following distribution sector reforms. It highlights the outcomes of sustained capital investment, network modernisation and the progressive adoption of digital technologies across the distribution system.

The study provides a detailed assessment of TPCODL, which caters to a population of 1.36 crore spread across 29,354 square kilometres in Central Odisha. The analysis draws on extensive field inspections, validation of system data and a close review of operational practices and consumer service mechanisms across both urban and rural geographies, offering a comprehensive picture of performance improvements and remaining challenges.

One of the most significant findings of the study is the marked improvement in network reliability, evidenced by an approximately 50 per cent reduction in the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) over the review period. This improvement points to a more stable and resilient distribution network, supported by enhanced fault detection systems, faster fault isolation and quicker restoration processes. These measures have also contributed to a decline in transformer tripping incidents and transformer failure rates, indicating improved asset health, preventive maintenance and lifecycle management practices.

The study records substantial gains in operational efficiency as well, with Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses declining from nearly 30 per cent at the beginning of the reform period in FY’21 to 18.94 per cent in FY’25. This improvement has been driven by stronger operational control, more accurate and efficient billing processes and tangible enhancements in network efficiency. Key contributors include a 44 per cent increase in 33 kV feeders, a 42 per cent increase in 11 kV feeders and the integration of 250 substations into a centralised control centre. Over the five-year period, capital investments exceeding ₹1,500 crore have been channelled into strengthening substations, expanding automation coverage, deploying digital monitoring platforms and reinforcing overall network resilience.

A notable aspect of the study is its focus on disaster preparedness and resilience. It highlights that targeted efforts to develop a cyclone-resilient distribution network, through infrastructure strengthening, redundancy planning and improved emergency protocols, have enabled restoration of power within 24 to 48 hours in cyclone-affected areas. This reflects a significant enhancement in preparedness and response capability in a state frequently exposed to extreme weather events.

Commenting on the findings, Prof. Chandrashekhar Bhende said, “This assessment of Tata Power-led Central Odisha Discom serves as an objective diagnostic for long-term public service improvement. As the Odisha distribution reform model gains national attention, our findings highlight how high-tech automation, combined with a strong safety-first work culture, can support sustainable outcomes. We observed a clear shift toward greater operational discipline. Institutionalising these practices is helping the discom narrow the urban–rural service divide and build a more resilient, modern grid that benefits consumers.” Noting that the study had identified certain areas where further progress is possible, Bhende remarked that improvement is a continuous journey

Prof. Chandrasekhar Perumalla added that the independent study, supported by extensive field assessments ranging from centralised control centres to remote rural locations, confirms a consistent upward trajectory in TPCODL’s operational efficiency. He noted the tangible impact of smart infrastructure investments, particularly in enabling rapid service restoration through mobile and digital platforms. While urban areas have seen a sharp reduction in power interruptions, the study also points to opportunities for further strengthening networks in remote regions to achieve comparable reliability standards.

Strong emphasis has also been placed on consumer centricity and the evolution of service delivery mechanisms. The study highlights the expansion of consumer service channels, including a 24×7 call centre and 20 Customer Care Centres, alongside the availability of multiple digital payment options and the growing use of digital platforms for complaint registration, service requests and information dissemination. Improvements in billing accuracy, a sharp reduction in provisional billing and proactive customer communication have together enhanced transparency, customer trust and overall service quality.

Decentralised fault response emerges as another critical enabler of improved service delivery, particularly across geographically dispersed areas. The presence of 131 Fuse Call Centres in urban areas and 811 Fuse Call Centres in rural locations supports first-level fault response throughout the licence area, while remaining digitally integrated with centralised monitoring and grievance redressal systems. The expanded rural reach of these centres has helped address historically longer response times, contributing to a customer satisfaction score of 96 per cent in FY’25.

When asked about the biggest operational challenge facing TPCODL, Chief Executive Officer Aravind Singh pointed to the Nor’wester storms, which pose a formidable test for swift power restoration. Explaining the difficulty, Singh noted that while the India Meteorological Department provides advance alerts for cyclonic storms at least two to three days in advance — allowing ample time for planning and deployment — the warning window for Nor’westers is often limited to just two to three hours. This sharply reduced lead time, he said, significantly constrains preparedness and makes rapid response far more demanding for the power distribution utility.

The study places TPCODL’s performance within the broader national power sector reform framework, noting its strong alignment with the objectives of the National Electricity Policy on efficiency, consumer centricity and financial sustainability, as well as the intent of the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act, particularly in areas of accountability and distribution efficiency. This alignment is further reflected in TPCODL’s A+ rating in the 14th Annual Integrated Rating and Ranking by the Ministry of Power, marking three consecutive years of top-tier recognition for excellence in operational, financial and consumer-centric performance.